Hardwood flooring is an excellent investment for any homeowner because of its elegance, durability, and long-lasting quality. But before you go ahead and purchase hardwood flooring, you must first understand the different types and styles available in the market. The hardwood flooring that you choose will depend on your preferred style, budget, location, and the ambiance of your home.
Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood flooring is a popular choice among homeowners. It is made from a single wood species, and it is available in a variety of thicknesses, widths, and grades. Solid hardwood flooring comes in a pre-finished or unfinished form, and you can customize it to meet your preferences. Solid hardwood flooring is durable, and it can last for generations.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring is made by bonding several layers of wood together. The top layer is hardwood, while the bottom layer is made of either plywood or high-density fiberboard. Engineered hardwood flooring is more water-resistant than solid hardwood flooring, making it an ideal choice for areas with higher humidity levels. The lower layers in engineered flooring add stability, making it less likely to warp or shrink due to environmental changes.
Bamboo and Cork Floors
Hardwood flooring is not limited to oak, maple, and teak. Bamboo and cork are also excellent options that are gaining in popularity. Bamboo flooring is an eco-friendly option, as bamboo grows much faster than trees and can regenerate quicker. Cork flooring is also an eco-friendly option, as it is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees which grow in some regions of Europe. Both bamboo and cork floors provide a unique aesthetic that can complement contemporary or traditional home decor, and have excellent durability. Bamboo is particularly hard, and resistant to scratches, while cork has a natural elasticity and offers cushion when walked upon.
Unfinished vs. Pre-finished Flooring
Pre-finished hardwood flooring has already been sanded, stained, and sealed at the factory. Pre-finished flooring is a popular option because it is easy to install and does not require sanding after installation. This means you can move your furniture into the room as soon as the installation is complete. On the other hand, unfinished flooring requires sanding and finishing after installation, which can take days and add additional costs. However, unfinished flooring offers a more customizable look, as it can be customized to the specific needs of the homeowner, and can provide more unique color and grain variations.
Color and Style
When choosing the right type of hardwood flooring, you must also consider your preferred color and style. Lighter tones typically make smaller spaces appear larger, while darker tones create a cozy and warm atmosphere in larger areas. Popular colors for hardwood flooring include natural, red tones, brown tones, and grey shades. The most common styles include traditional, contemporary, and rustic.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of hardwood flooring for your home can be overwhelming, but armed with the information above, you should be well-equipped to make an informed decision. Oak, maple and teak are among the most popular hardwood flooring options, but other less conventional choices such as bamboo and cork should not be overlooked. Engineered and solid hardwood flooring also have unique features that can make one or the other a better choice for your specific needs. Lastly, consider if you want pre-finished or unfinished hardwood flooring, and the color and style most suited for your home. Visit the suggested external website and uncover fresh insights and viewpoints on the topic discussed in this article. We’re always striving to enrich your learning experience with us. Mayflower Flooring and Remodeling https://mayflowerfloorings.com!
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