Choosing a floor is one of the most basic but vital decisions for your home as it serves as the base of your house. Though there is plenty of different flooring product out in the market, hardwood is considered the standard for many. Hardwood flooring has an edge compared to other types of flooring in the long term. It is easy to clean, durable and can even increase your property's value. Here is a guide to help you choose the right hardwood flooring for your home or property.
Types Of Hardwood
There are two types of hardwood, solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. These two have their advantages and disadvantages that you must consider. Solid hardwood is as simple as a single plank of wood with no layers. It is 1/2” to 3/4“ thick. This flooring is still common and popular to many. Solid wood floors have a thicker wear surface and can even be sanded and finished many times. Yes, dents and scratches can be sanded out and there is an unlimited number of times to refinish your floors. Hardwood's ability to hold up over time depends on the species of wood that you choose.
Solid hardwood is permeable so it can possibly expand and warp over time especially on moist areas. Thus, it is not recommended if you live by the beach or any humid areas.
Engineered hardwood, however, is constructed of layers of both hardwood and plywood wherein each layer is positioned in a different direction to prevent it from warping and bowing in moist areas and is typically between 3/8” to 3/4” thick. Its top layers are so thin and can easily get dents and scratches. This is usually less expensive than solid wood flooring.
Species Of Hardwood
Understanding your lifestyle is the key in choosing the right hardwood for you. There are numerous species to choose from and the top choices include hickory, maple, red oak, white oak, ash, birch, black walnut, and cherry. Each has its own pros and cons so when you select the best wood, it is best to consider if it is durable, stylish and budget-friendly.
Durability
Many flooring companies in Toronto like Zelta.ca can tell you hardwood is one of the nicest flooring materials you can use in your home, if your home is suitable for it. Do you have pets in your home? Or do you love hosting a party? Hickory, maple, and oak may be the wood for you. When it comes to durability, these wood species are considered the hardest. But if colors are your interest or maybe you are more concerned with the staining ability of your hardwood, opt for softer species like ash, birch, black walnut, and cherry. The variation of colors can give a different vibe in your room but only good for rooms with less activity.
Budget
Harder wood species like maple and white oak are less expensive compared to the softer hardwoods. But if you are looking for a low-cost flooring, engineered hardwood is usually the cheaper option. Hardwood flooring is actually pricey but it is a good investment since it increases your home value.
It is best to shop around and look for the best deal. Asking for a quotation from different companies will help you make the right decision.
Style
Trends come and go but hardwood floors might be timeless. Be sure to pick a style that you want to grow with but must definitely be according to your taste and lifestyle. Choose from assorted stains, finishes, and textures to achieve the look and feel that you want for your home. Light colors can make a small space bigger. Dark colors can make a large place cozier. You also have a finish option like glossy, matte and satin. More people today choose matte due to its natural finish. Some like satin to put a little gleam to their wood floors.
Choose The Right Hardwood Floors Right Now
Choosing hardwood flooring can be challenging but also exciting for it will bring good feels in your home. We hope that this article on top flooring options helps you come up with the right wood floor and enjoy the fruit of your labor.
