Wood flooring has been in vogue throughout the years. It comes in a variety of styles and colors, making it a designer favorite in floors. Although it may be more expensive than many other types of flooring, its durability makes it more economical over time. Design options are vast with wood flooring. Leave it bare or cover it with area rugs.
Types of Wood Flooring
Wood flooring is available in a variety of types of wood. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages based on durability, color and uses. Certain types of wood are more available in specific geographical areas, which can affect price and quality.
Some of the most popular wood flooring types:
- Ash – typically lighter in color and brightens up a room
- Maple – durable and scratch resistant but can be expensive
- Oak – rich looking and warm but requires frequent maintenance
- Hickory – durable but difficult to install due to its hardness
- Cherry – smooth and warm but easily scratched
- Walnut – naturally dark, durable and easy to install
- Cypress – comes in a variety of tones and easy to match to décor
- Pine – warm and rustic as well as economical
- Exotic hard woods – mostly imported for a unique decorating accent
- Bamboo – strong, durable and environmentally a good choice.
Wood Flooring Styles
Wood flooring comes in a variety of styles to suit different decorating needs. Before choosing a style, take certain factors into consideration, such as the room usage, the amount of traffic in that area and the size of the room.
Popular styles of wood flooring:
- Parquet – pieces of wood put together in a geometric pattern
- Strip – narrow, linear flooring that makes the room appear larger
- Plank – typically wider than strip flooring.
Advantages and Benefits of Wood Floors
Wood floors add a sense of quality, style and permanence to a home. There is a wide variety of wood flooring to choose from to suit personal needs, tastes and décor. It is easy to maintain and clean on a daily basis, making it an excellent option for people with allergies. Wood is a natural resource that is recyclable, making it a good ecological choice. Long term, wood flooring is economical because it rarely has to be replaced. Because of wood's ability to fit in with most décor and its durability, it may add resale value to the home.
Wood Flooring Disadvantages
Although wood flooring will work for most people, there are some disadvantages. It can be pricy to purchase and install. Wood isn't necessarily the best type of flooring for houses in sandy areas because sand tracked in may nick or scratch the surface, requiring frequent maintenance. Excess moisture may cause the wood to swell, buckle or stain. Sound echoes in a room with hardwood floors, which may annoy people who are sensitive to noise.
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Debby Mayne - Debby Mayne is a published author of more than 30 novels and novellas and former fashion writer for the Home Shopping Network.
