Home improvement projects can often get overwhelming even before they are started. A good place to begin with any project is with the floor. The floor sets the tone of the room, and makes it easier to work with the rest of the decor. A popular choice for many is a wood look floor. Hardwood flooring exudes a warm ambiance, and can range from cozy comfort to extreme elegance. It also works well with almost any choice of décor. There is a lot to learn about hardwood flooring, and this is knowledge that should not be refined to flooring experts exclusively. Consumers should know what they are getting into before choosing a hardwood floor.
Wood Grains and Patterns
Hardwood flooring comes in a vast array of different wood grains and tones, and they can be laid in different patterns and designs. For a more rustic look, hand-scraped wood floors are the way to go. This technique lends the floor an aura of a painstakingly restored antique. Some examples of the different types of wood available in hardwood floors are white oak, maple, pine, Brazilian cherry, teak, mahogany, and others. Aside for the floor itself, the finish that is used also contributes to the look of a hardwood floor. The general finish used today is a surface finish. Surface finishes are available in high-gloss, semi-gloss, satin, and matte. All of these are suitable for use in a kitchen.
Solid and Engineered Hardwood
Hardwood flooring generally comes in two varieties, solid hardwood flooring, and engineered. Solid wood floors are meant to be refinished many times over the years, and are very durable. Because they are all natural wood, the floors tend to expand and contract based on changes in humidity and temperature. Therefore, solid hardwood flooring should be laid with a gap around the perimeter of the room that is covered by the baseboard molding. It is important to use an experienced installer who will do the job right.
Engineered hardwood flooring consists of three to ten planks of wood, each known as a ply, that are compressed and glued under high pressure. Engineered wood floors are considered more stable than solid hardwood, as they are less susceptible to expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature and humidity. The choice of wood will usually determine whether the floor is engineered or solid hardwood, but if it is for an area of extremely heavy traffic, it is wise to go with an engineered hardwood floor.
Care for the Floor
After it has been chosen and laid, the floor may look pristine and perfect, but this probably won’t last long. Hardwood floors do get nicks, scratches, and dents from high heels. This may add to the character of the floor, but measures should be taken to protect the floor. Area mats should be used in entryways, and felt pads should be placed under chair legs and heavy furniture. Heavy objects should not be dragged across a hardwood floor. When cleaning, mats and rugs should be picked up to remove dirt and grit that may scratch the floor.
After making an educated purchase, the hardwood flooring chosen is sure to bring out the best qualities of any area.
Tom Foley is a flooring expert who works with affordafloors.com. Affordafloors offers a wide selection of hardwood flooring from various brands, as well as other flooring options.