Hardwood is the flooring of choice for many homeowners, but often, it’s the high cost and added maintenance that prevents them from installing them. You may be surprised to learn that hardwood flooring is in fact very economical compared to other floors and is easy to care for. Unlike other types of flooring, hardwood is designed to last a lifetime. Once installed, you don’t have to replace it like you would with laminate, carpeting or vinyl. Regular vacuuming will keep dust and debris off the floor, while cleaning them with a simple solution on occasion will kill germs. Even more exciting is that wood floors are an investment that pays off, as those houses with wooden flooring have a competitive edge in the housing market and sell for more money.
Wood floors are versatile and can be used in almost any room of the home. There are some restrictions however, as wood is vulnerable to moisture. Wood is recommended for all above-grade applications, except for rooms with a full bath. Only engineered wood can be used on below-grade applications, such as basements. Traditionally, wood floors are used in formal areas, such as dining rooms, living rooms and foyers. Yet with the popularity of hardwood, as well as its return investment, many homeowners are choosing to install this type of flooring in bedrooms, family rooms and kitchens. To help maintain the wear on hardwood, use area rugs in high-stress spots.
An additional advantage to choosing hardwood is that it is a healthy flooring option that doesn’t harbor dust and allergens. This makes wood suitable for those with allergies and asthma. Also, hardwood doesn’t trap mold and harmful chemicals that can be brought into the home from gardening or other outdoor activities. Being able to keep the floors clean also contributes to better air quality and makes hardwood an excellent choice for creating a healthy living environment.
When shopping for hardwood, there are two options to choose from: Solid wood and engineered wood. Solid wood is made from a total wood construction and is available as planks, parquets and strips. Since they are made from solid wood, they are not recommended in areas that are high in moisture. For these reasons, engineered wood is the more popular choice. It is made from several layers of laminated construction, with a hardwood top. Engineered wood is available in planks and strips and is more durable, making it suitable for both above-grade and below-grade uses. Another perk is that the inner construction doesn’t have to match the top layer, so you can enjoy the durability of oak with a beech wood exterior.
In addition to the type of hardwood flooring you choose, you’ll also want to consider a prefinished or unfinished option. Prefinished selections are most common and featured in home improvement stores. They feature many coats of polyurethane or aluminum oxide coating, making them strong, durable and easy to maintain. And since you can skip over all the sanding and staining, prefinished floors can be installed in a day. Unfinished selections may be less common, but they are ideal in situations where it’s undecided what color the floor will be. This is a frequent occurrence in new construction homes or remodels, where an unfinished floor can be laid first, then stained later with the appropriate color.
The installation method you choose will also impact how quick the floor is installed. Installation always depends on where the floor is being installed, as well as which type of floor you are putting in. Wood floors can be installed using glue or nails or they can be installed over a subfloor, also known as floating installation. Glues can be messy and are used less often than nailing down the planks, while floating floors are installed over existing floors or subflooring. Floating floors have a snap-and-lock system where the planks fit together. These types of floors are stable and resistant to temperature changes, making them suitable for basements.
At first glance, it may appear that Hardwood Flooring is a pricier option compared to other types of flooring. Yet when you consider the do-it-yourself installation options, engineered wood selections that can be laid anywhere and the longevity of hardwood, you can feel confident knowing that this type of floor is one to be cherished.
Nice blog. You have a very interesting topic. Most people want the best for their home. They want luxurious and comfortable living. And having carpet in our floor is the best idea because it provides comfort, it is stylish also. Your article is very useful. Keep on posting for more and I’ll keep on following.