Hardwood floors have become one of the most popular flooring options among homeowners today due, in large part, to their versatility, durability, high-quality appearance and easy maintenance. However, deciding between the different types of hardwood flooring styles can be difficult.
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Hardwood floors have become one of the most popular flooring options among homeowners today due, in large part, to their versatility, durability, high-quality appearance and easy maintenance. However, deciding between the different types of hardwood flooring styles can be difficult.
When it comes to choosing wood species and flooring type, homeowners must ensure they invest in the product best suited for their specific needs. Before installing hardwood floors, it is important to first understand your options, as well as the pros and cons of each.
Solid versus engineered: Pros and cons
The two main options of hardwood flooring are solid and engineered. Solid offers a natural look that is durable and easy to repair. But while this option is nice because it can be refinished or sanded, it also tends to be on the pricier side. Also, because it can warp, it is not ideal for rooms that receive a lot of moisture.
"Oak and maple hardwood flooring are ideal for high-traffic areas."
Engineered wood flooring is made with laminate construction and uses real wood over a plywood base, a multi-layer system that makes it extremely stable and sustainable. It does not require a particular type of sub-flooring for installation and tends to be more affordable then solid wood, making it an appealing choice for homeowners on a budget. It is also great for homes that experience fluctuations in climate and weather conditions. And because it is moisture-resistant, durable and comes in a wide range of styles and finishes, it is ideal for using in high-traffic areas of the home such as kitchens, living rooms and hallways.
Best types of hardwood flooring materials
When it comes to choosing between the different types of hardwood flooring, there are a number of factors to take into consideration. The first, of course, will likely be the appearance. However, it is important to also consider the environment in which the floor will be used. Below are some different types of wood you may want to consider for your home and why.
The type of hardwood flooring you choose for your home will be based on your personal tastes and stylistic preferences. Aesthetic is a crucial component to consider, but also look at the functional and maintenance requirements of the room as well.
Oak: Oak flooring is one of the hardest options and, according to Improvenet.com, the
most popular type of hardwood floor in North America. Because these surfaces are scratch-, dent- and stain-resistant, they are great to use in spaces of the home you don't plan to protect with a rug and expect to leave largely exposed. One of the things that makes oak so appealing is that it comes in a variety of stains and finishes.
Maple: The grain pattern of maple hardwood floors tends to be on the lighter side, offering a softer and more subtle appearance that can be used throughout the home. However, because it is also one of the hardest options available for wood flooring, it is a good choice for areas that get a lot of traffic. While most maple floors are light brown in tone, they can easily be stained to fit a variety of styles and preferences.
Hickory: Hickory is an incredibly flexible flooring option that can infuse the home with a rustic atmosphere. These boards often feature a distinct, time-worn personality.
Pine: Pine wood flooring tends to be a softer option, offered in one of two different types of wood: old heart or new heart. Homeowners looking for a darker, more authentic and antique look should go with old heart pine, whereas those who want to achieve a brighter, more polished and refined surface would be best served by new heart pine.
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