Choosing the Right Type of Hardwood Flooring for Your Home
Hardwood flooring is a practical and stylish choice for any home that can add value to your property and improve its aesthetic appearance. It also offers a warming effect and can reduce allergens in the air if maintained well. However, with so many options available on the market, choosing the best one can be overwhelming.
First, consider the grade and type of wood. Hardwood can come in varying grades, from clear grade, which has minimal knots, to rustic grade, which is marked by burls and knots. The type of wood used also affects the look and durability of the flooring. If you want to learn more about the subject, Mayflower Floorings, to supplement your reading. Uncover worthwhile perspectives and fresh angles to enhance your comprehension.
Oak, Maple, and Ash are the most popular domestic hardwoods in the market, while exotic hardwoods such as Brazilian Cherry and Teak are known for their unique grain patterns.
Once you have settled on the type of wood, you’ll need to decide on the finish and texture. You can either choose pre-finished hardwood floors with factory-applied finish or unfinished hardwood floors that can be customized on-site with a stain or oil coating.
For the texture, choose between smooth or textured. Textured surfaces can hide scratches and dents, making them a better option for high-traffic areas. Smooth surfaces, on the other hand, offer a sleeker and more formal look.
Solid Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood Floors
When choosing hardwood floors, you may also have to decide between solid hardwood and engineered hardwood floors.
Solid hardwood floors are made from one piece of lumber and provide a classic, timeless charm, while engineered hardwood is a layer of real wood on top of high-quality plywood.
Engineered hardwood can be more stable and less prone to fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels; however, they may not offer the same level of authenticity and durability as solid wood.
Essentially, the type of flooring you choose will depend on the room, foot traffic, and design preferences.
Longevity and Maintenance of Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors can last for decades, up to 50 years, if cared for properly. However, keeping it in pristine condition requires consistent maintenance.
Regular sweeping and dusting will prevent debris and dirt from scratching the hardwood surface. A soft-bristled vacuum attachment can be used to quicken the process. Be sure to clean up spills and stains immediately using a damp cloth to prevent the hardwood from warping or staining.
Placing doormats at the entryways of your home or in high-traffic areas can also reduce the wear and tear of your floors. Finally, be sure to have your floors refinished every 3-5 years to bring back its original luster and protection.
Cost and Availability of Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors come in different styles and price points, so you can find the perfect hardwood floor to fit your budget.
Unfinished solid hardwood floors, for example, can be installed at a lower cost than pre-finished hardwood or engineered hardwood floors. Be aware though that to get the desired look, you may have to sand, stain, and apply a protective coating to the flooring, which may add extra labor costs.
Hardwood flooring is widely available across the United States in physical showrooms and online. But, be careful of the quality when purchasing online as it may not match up to your expectations.
Conclusion
Making the choice of hardwood flooring for your home requires careful consideration. From choosing the type and grade of wood to the finish and texture, and finally to the maintenance and cost.
When all is said and done, hardwood flooring provides an excellent ROI, improving the overall look and feel of your home while simultaneously increasing the value of your property. Don’t miss out on Read this detailed content valuable external Read this detailed content we’ve prepared for you. Explore it to gain further knowledge about the topic and discover novel aspects. Mayflower Flooring and Remodeling, expand your comprehension of the subject.
