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There are a few important things to know about hardwood flooring. Hardwood flooring has several facts that are worth understanding.
For any type of home, hardwood floors provide a classic and sophisticated appearance. They are a long-lasting, eco-friendly, and practical choice for flooring that has the potential to increase the value of your home by 2.5%, according to this source.
Wood is a highly adaptable material that can bring a unique charm and coziness to your living areas. It presents a wide range of options in terms of designs, types of wood, and methods for installation and upkeep.
Wondering if wood is the ideal material for your upcoming home project? Keep reading to discover seven crucial traits you should be aware of before choosing hardwood flooring.
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A Diverse Range of Wood Species and Styles are Available for Selection
Wood floors play a significant role in the overall design of a home. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully select the appropriate type and style of wood that will enhance the desired aesthetic for your living area. It is also essential to consider your lifestyle, especially if you have pets.
When considering different types of wood, it is important to take into account their unique characteristics, such as thickness, hardness, and visual appeal.
Hardwood, also known as hardwood, is a type of wood that is distinct from softer woods. It is characterized by its greater durability and longer lifespan. Examples of hardwood species include oak, maple, and hickory.
Some types of wood that fall into the mid-level hardness category are cherry, walnut, birch, and ash. On the other hand, cedar, fir, and pine are considered softer woods, which are more susceptible to scratches and dents and require more upkeep.
Wood Flooring Trends Around the Globe
The wood variety of Oak is still highly favored for traditional or homey flooring. However, more and more homeowners are now choosing distressed wood options, which may come with a hand-scraped coating.
Sustainable living options can be found in renewable materials such as cork, bamboo, and reclaimed wood. While exotic woods like Acacia, Jatoba, Merbau, and Cumaru may be more difficult to come by, they can add a distinct style to any home.
To choose between solid or engineered hardwoods for your home, refer to this article and understand the key distinctions between the two types of flooring.
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The Character of Hardwood is Shaped by Its Grain and Grading
A wooden floor provides a naturally designed feature with distinctive attributes, such as shades, classification, and texture.
The grain patterns of wood species are responsible for creating a distinctive design. These patterns are visible in the cutting method used for the wood. Each style of cutting, such as plain-sawn, rift-sawn, and quarter-sawn, provides a distinct appearance.
Color differences can be seen in grading levels, with some woods having minimal defects for a sleeker appearance. However, a decrease in defects may result in a higher cost when completing a flooring project.
The presence of knots is a common occurrence in wood and adds a unique character to it. This particular grading level is suitable for home designs such as rustic or farmhouse styles.
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Designing a Distinctive Layout through Installation Techniques
One can customize the installation of hardwood floors in their home according to their preferences. This type of flooring is suitable for various areas such as living spaces, dining areas, bedrooms, and kitchens. Additionally, wood is also a suitable choice for home offices, fitness studios, and libraries.
Wooden flooring has the option of being installed in either wide planks or narrow strips. By playing around with various lengths, widths, and patterns, you can create a distinct and individualized design.
Various installation methods also involve utilizing alternate edging styles, such as square or beveled edges.
When choosing a board, the thickness should also be taken into consideration. Thicker boards are in high demand due to their ability to be refinished multiple times. On average, a standard-sized board can withstand approximately seven refinishing sessions.
In addition to installation services, installers provide specialized coatings, sealants, and finishes for floor protection and creating varying surface textures. Flooring options may already be finished or can be finished on location.
A flooring finish is typically composed of either polyurethane or oil. The use of polyurethane is effective in preventing stains, but it may require more effort to reapply the finish.
The use of an oil finish results in less visible scratches and also makes it simpler to repair without having to apply a new coat to the entire wooden piece.
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Choosing Wood for Your Home is a Budget-Friendly Option
Investing in high-quality wood flooring may require a significant initial cost. However, the durability and longevity of this option make it a worthwhile investment.
The price of hardwood flooring can vary depending on the type of wood you select. On average, you can expect to pay between $3 and $14 per square foot, as stated in this resource.
It is recommended to hire a professional installer to ensure that the job is completed correctly. Additionally, many installers provide warranties for their work.
One can consider faux wood as a more affordable choice. High-traffic spaces or areas that experience high levels of humidity, such as mudrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and bathrooms, can benefit from the use of luxury vinyl tiles.
Compared to real wood, the tiles have a lower chance of getting stained or scratched. Additionally, LVTs require less maintenance and are resistant to water.
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Wood Flooring Provides Extra Comfort and Convenience
While wood may not possess the plush and noise-reducing properties of carpet, there are still numerous ways to enhance its comfort and make it a suitable option for homes.
To minimize noise, installers have the option to include an underlayment. Additionally, implementing insulation methods can provide increased warmth within the household. Furthermore, these suggestions can also assist in preventing floorboards from squeaking, as outlined in this guide on squeaking floorboards.
Maintaining a Cleaning Schedule is Essential for Maintaining Floors in Optimal Condition
It is crucial to keep hardwood flooring clean to maintain its quality. Regular sweeping and vacuuming should be done to remove dirt and debris. To prevent scratches, use the hard floor setting on your vacuum cleaner.
To prevent water damage, it is important to immediately clean up any spills. It is best to avoid using harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners that can potentially damage the floors. Instead, opt for these safe and simple DIY cleaning solutions that are specifically designed for wood floors.
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Enhance the Longevity of Wood Floors with Adequate Maintenance
Wood floors can experience significant damage from both pets and humans. Utilizing maintenance methods can effectively prolong the quality and lifespan of your floors.
Protect your flooring by placing area rugs underneath heavy furniture. Additionally, it is advisable to utilize floor mats in areas with high foot traffic, such as near entryways, to prevent debris from being tracked inside your home.
One way to shield the floor from the sun’s rays is by using window treatments. Another measure to prevent damage is implementing a rule against wearing shoes indoors, particularly high heels which can be harmful to the floor.
A professional should be hired for the best outcome when it comes to refinishing floors to eliminate scratches and dents.
Enhancing Your Home’s Functionality and Aesthetic Appeal with Hardwood Flooring
Installing hardwood flooring can greatly enhance the aesthetic and practical aspects of a home’s design. By following proper installation and upkeep methods, your floors can remain in excellent condition for many years to come.
Expert floor installers guarantee high-quality materials and skilled workmanship. They can collaborate with you in selecting the perfect type, color, pattern, and quality of wood to achieve your desired aesthetic.
