Are you looking to install hardwood flooring throughout your home? Hardwood floors are not only beautiful and durable but they also increase the value of your home. However, before you dive right in and move forward with hardwood floor installation it’s important to know all of your hardwood flooring options so that you can make the best decision for your family, home, and budget.
Board Width:
The width of hardwood floors ranges in size. Generally, anything under three inches is considered narrow while anything over three inches is classified as wide. The choice between narrow or wide board width usually just simply comes down to personal preference and aesthetics.
Board Shape:
Rectangles, squares, strips, and geometric shapes of all sorts are available hardwood floor board options for you to choose from. Strips are the traditional choice and will give your home the illusion of more space. All of the other shape options are a great option for any homeowner who is looking for something unique and modern.
Wood Species:
The species of wood vary in durability, color, and grain pattern. The most common species of hardwood floors are oak, cherry, and maple while mahogany and Brazilian cherry are categorized as exotic. Another hardwood flooring option is bamboo installation. Bamboo floors are durable, eco-friendly, and the cheaper option.
Texture:
Is your home modern and clean? Consider choosing hardwood flooring options that are shiny and new. Is your home full of rustic charm? Choosing hardwood floors that have an antiqued feel may fit your home’s aesthetic the best.
Engineered versus Solid:
Deciding between engineered wood installation or hardwood floor installation is usually dependent on the location and type of subfloor in your home. If your home has concrete subflooring you will have to install engineered wood floors, unless you choose to install plywood on top of the concrete.
Tip: If given the choice hardwood floors are easier to fix if your floors become damaged, scratched, or dinged since they can be sanded and restained.
Hardness:
Harder wood, like red oak, is more resistant to scratches versus softer woods, like oak, that scratch more easily. It is important to consider your lifestyle why choosing the hardness of wood to install throughout your home. If you have children or pets it may best to choose a harder type of wood.
Stains:
Polyurethane is the traditional option when it comes to hardwood floor stains. This type of stain has a high sheen and is great at hiding dings and scratches since the semi-gloss finish bounces light. Another type of hardwood floor staining option is oil. Oil creates more of a matte finish, costs more, but lasts longer and is more durable. Our team of expert hardwood floor installers can even apply a hand-scrape or wire-brush treatment on the stain to create a rustic, worn look that is great at hiding future scratches, dings, or dents.
Now that you know all of the different types of hardwood flooring options available it’s time to consider hardwood floor maintenance. We recommend that you sweep or vacuum your floors at least two times a week and mop with a pH-neutral cleaner once a week. It is also important that you apply a new coat of finish every seven to ten years or when your floors look worn, lost its color, or has lots of gouges. A proper hardwood floor refinish will include sanding of the top layer and re-staining. Here at FloorGem Services, Inc we provide hardwood floor installation, hardwood floor maintenance, hardwood floor refinishing, and much more!