Due to its classic good looks and extended lifespan, hardwood flooring has been a favorite among homeowners for quite some time. However, with various options in terms of plank width, finishes, and materials, choosing the best hardwood floor that complements your home's style can take time and effort.
Tip: Determine Your Preferred Plank Width
When choosing hardwood flooring, it is vital to consider how plank width can affect a room's overall appearance. Wider planks tend to create an illusion of space and work well in larger rooms, while narrower planks can make a small room appear more expansive. Moreover, wide planks offer fewer seams and less visual interruption across the floor surface.
While plank width is essential from an aesthetic perspective, it is equally important to balance style with practicality. For instance, narrower planks may be more suitable for homes with active households or pets due to their increased resistance to wear and tear.
Tip: Learn About Different Finishes
Hardwood floor finishes play a crucial role in determining not only the look but also the maintenance requirements of your flooring. Matte finishes are ideal for modern or contemporary spaces as they provide a subtle sheen without drawing too much attention. Satin finishes balance matte and gloss by offering moderate reflectiveness while masking minor scratches or imperfections better than high-gloss finishes—perfect for busy households or homes with pets. Glossy finishes deliver an exquisite shine that complements traditional interiors but may show scratches more easily.
When selecting a hardwood floor finish, consider your lifestyle and maintenance preferences. If you want low-maintenance flooring that is easier to keep clean, a matte or satin finish might be the best option. Yet, people who want a luxurious feel without the hassle of regular upkeep might consider glossy finishes.
Tip: Consider Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring offers numerous advantages compared to solid hardwood. Engineered hardwood floors are more durable than solid hardwood floors because they are constructed from many layers of wood fused together under heat and pressure. This makes them suitable for installation over radiant heating systems or in basements where moisture levels are much higher.
For homeowners living in humid climates or installing hardwood flooring in below-grade spaces like basements, opting for engineered hardwood may be an ideal choice due to its increased resistance against moisture-related issues such as warping and buckling. This can be an invaluable benefit for kitchens and bathrooms due to the higher humidity these rooms can experience.
For more information, contact a company such as Rejuvenation Floor & Design.
After tearing out all of the old carpet from our home, I realized that we needed something a little better. I began looking around at alternatives, and I found a really nice laminate that worked well with our budget and that looked really nice. I talked with the installers about putting it in, and they were more than happy to work with us. Within a few weeks, we had a new floor, and it made all the difference in the world. I decided that it would be fun to start an entire blog about flooring, so read more here if you have questions.