How to Select Hardwood Flooring: A Comprehensive Guide
How to Select Hardwood Flooring?
When selecting hardwood flooring, it is important to consider both durability and aesthetic appeal.
With the wide variety of hardwood flooring styles available, it is recommended to try a sample of the flooring in your home before making a decision.
This is because lighting can affect the appearance of the flooring.
Samples can be obtained from retailers or ordered online for this purpose.
Key Points:
- Consider durability and aesthetic appeal when selecting hardwood flooring
- Try a sample of the flooring in your home before making a decision due to the wide variety of styles available
- Lighting can affect the appearance of the flooring, so it is important to see how it looks in your own space
- Samples can be obtained from retailers or ordered online for this purpose
Did You Know?
1. In ancient Egypt, hardwood flooring was reserved exclusively for the Pharaoh and the high-ranking nobles. Commoners were prohibited from having hardwood floors in their homes.
2. The process of selecting hardwood flooring is known as “Ebonisation.” This term refers to the task of choosing between different wood species based on their color, grain pattern, and overall aesthetic appeal.
3. The richness and depth of color in hardwood flooring can be affected by the orientation in which the wood is cut. Plain sawn wood, for example, displays a wider grain pattern and a more traditional look, while quarter sawn wood showcases a straighter grain and a distinctive flecking effect.
4. The hardness of hardwood flooring is measured using the Janka hardness scale. This scale rates the resistance of different wood species to indentation and wear, with Brazilian walnut (Ipe) being one of the hardest woods available.
5. The practice of installing hardwood flooring originated in Europe during the 16th century. It was initially used in royal palaces and wealthy estates, but eventually became more accessible to the general population as production techniques improved.
Importance Of Durability And Aesthetic
When it comes to selecting hardwood flooring for your home, two primary factors should be taken into consideration – durability and aesthetic appeal.
Durability is crucial as you want your flooring to withstand the test of time, especially in high-traffic areas. Hardwood floors excel in this department, as they can withstand heavy foot traffic, resist scratches, and endure wear and tear. With proper maintenance, they can last for decades, making them a worthwhile investment.
Not only do hardwood floors offer durability, but they also bring a sense of elegance and timeless beauty to any room. The natural warmth, richness, and unique grain patterns of hardwood can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home.
Wide Variety Of Hardwood Flooring Styles
One of the significant advantages of hardwood flooring is the incredible variety of styles available. There is a wide range of species, finishes, and colors to choose from, allowing you to find the perfect flooring to suit your personal taste and complement your home’s overall decor.
Popular hardwood species include:
- Oak: known for its durability and versatility, it is a popular choice due to its classic and timeless appeal.
- Maple: with its light and clean appearance, it is a great option for contemporary or minimalist designs.
- Cherry: offers a warm and rich hue.
- Walnut: features deep colors and distinctive grain patterns.
Additionally, hardwood floors come in different finishes such as matte, satin, and glossy, allowing you to achieve the desired look and feel for your space. Whether you prefer a traditional, rustic, or modern style, there is a hardwood flooring style that will complement your interior design perfectly.
Try Samples In Your Home
Selecting the perfect hardwood flooring can be a daunting task, especially when faced with numerous options. To make an informed decision, it is highly recommended to try out samples of the flooring in your home before making a final choice.
Bringing samples into your home allows you to see how the flooring will look in your specific lighting conditions and against your existing furniture and decor. Natural and artificial lighting can significantly impact the appearance of hardwood floors, making it essential to observe how the samples react to your home’s unique lighting conditions.
Whether you choose to visit a flooring retailer or order samples online, having physical samples in your space will give you a clearer understanding of how the flooring will complement your home’s overall aesthetic.
Lighting’s Impact On Flooring Appearance
Lighting plays a profound role in the way hardwood flooring appears in a room. Natural light emphasizes the flooring’s natural grain patterns and hues, while artificial lighting can change the perceived color and overall ambiance.
When selecting hardwood flooring, it is crucial to take into account your home’s lighting conditions. If your space receives a lot of natural light, lighter hardwood species such as maple or white oak may work well, as they can help brighten up the room and create an airy atmosphere. Darker hardwood species like walnut or mahogany, on the other hand, can add warmth and depth to spaces with limited natural light.
It is also important to consider the direction of the light sources in your room. Light coming from a single direction, such as a window, can create shadows and highlight plank seams, adding visual interest to the flooring. Conversely, evenly distributed light can create a more uniform appearance.
Samples Available From Retailers
When selecting hardwood flooring, it is crucial to obtain samples in order to visualize how the flooring will look in your space. Many flooring retailers offer samples for customers to take home, allowing them to see firsthand how the flooring will interact with their environment.
Visiting a flooring retailer provides the opportunity to touch and feel different flooring options, gaining a better understanding of their textures and finishes. Additionally, knowledgeable staff can guide you through the selection process, answering any questions you may have and helping you choose the most suitable hardwood flooring for your home.
Take advantage of sample availability from flooring retailers to ensure that the hardwood flooring you select meets both your durability and aesthetic requirements.
Online Ordering For Flooring Samples
In the digital age, ordering flooring samples online has become increasingly popular and convenient. Many reputable flooring retailers offer online ordering options, allowing you to explore a wide range of hardwood flooring options from the comfort of your own home.
Online platforms often provide detailed descriptions, high-resolution images, and virtual room visualizers to help you envision how the flooring will look in your space. These tools can assist in narrowing down your options and making a more informed decision without physically visiting a showroom.
When ordering samples online, ensure that the retailer offers the option for you to receive physical samples to assess the color, texture, and quality of the flooring before making a final decision.
Durability and aesthetic appeal should be the primary considerations when selecting hardwood flooring for your home. With a wide variety of styles available, it is crucial to try samples in your home to understand how lighting conditions and your existing decor can impact the flooring’s appearance. Whether you choose to visit a retailer or order samples online, the ability to physically see and touch the flooring will aid in making an informed decision that suits your preferences and enhances your home’s overall aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of hardwood flooring is best?
While oak is undoubtedly a popular choice for hardwood flooring, it is essential to consider individual preferences and specific needs before determining which type is ‘best.’ For those seeking a classic and versatile option, oak hardwood flooring provides a reliable combination of durability, color options, and reasonable prices. Its resistance to scratches makes it suitable for high-traffic areas, ensuring longevity. However, for those who prioritize different characteristics like exotic aesthetics or extreme durability, exploring alternative hardwood options may lead to a more favorable choice for their specific requirements. Ultimately, the best type of hardwood flooring depends on personal taste, lifestyle, and budget.
What is select or better hardwood flooring?
Select or Better hardwood flooring is considered the top-tier option in terms of quality. This grade exhibits a consistent grain texture and only slight variations in color, which are typically caused by the contrasting heartwood and sapwood of the wood. While unlimited sound sapwood and occasional small burls may be present, the flooring maintains a high level of uniformity. It’s worth noting that any light brown streaks in the wood are not expected to extend throughout the entire length of a piece. Consequently, select or Better hardwood flooring is an excellent choice for those seeking a flooring option that boasts exceptional visual appeal, while maintaining a consistent and elegant appearance.
Why choose hardwood flooring?
Hardwood flooring offers numerous advantages that make it an attractive choice for many homeowners. Firstly, its ease of maintenance and resistance to damage set it apart from other flooring options. With wood floors, cleaning becomes a breeze as they can be easily swept or vacuumed, saving you time and effort. Moreover, their durability ensures they can withstand heavy foot traffic and remain in excellent condition for years, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements. This longevity makes hardwood flooring a cost-effective investment that can be enjoyed for generations, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
Which hardwood floor is most durable?
When it comes to durability, hickory takes the lead among domestic hardwood species with an impressive rating of 1820. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a long-lasting hardwood floor. Following closely behind are maple and white oak, with ratings of 1450 and 1360 respectively. It’s worth noting that Dogwood, known for its quality flooring options, utilizes hickory and white oak for their majority of offerings, further emphasizing their durability. Additionally, walnut and red oak are also viable options to consider due to their durability for hardwood flooring.