Finding the Perfect Hardwood for Your Home: An In-Depth Guide

When it comes to selecting the perfect hardwood for your home, the choices can be overwhelming. Hardwood floors add beauty, warmth, and value to your space, but finding the right type involves more than just picking a pretty finish. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of hardwood flooring and choose the best option for your home.

1. Understand Your Hardwood Options

There are two main types of hardwood floors: solid and engineered.

Solid Hardwood: Made from a single piece of wood, solid hardwood floors offer a classic look and can be sanded and refinished multiple times. They’re ideal for areas where you can maintain consistent humidity levels. Solid hardwood is not as common today and is harder to find.
Engineered Hardwood: Consists of a top layer of real hardwood over a core of plywood or high-density fiberboard. Engineered hardwood is more stable and less prone to expanding or contracting with changes in humidity, making it a great choice for basements or over concrete slabs.

2. Choose the Right Wood Species

Different wood species have varying levels of hardness, colour, and grain patterns. Some popular choices include:

Oak: Known for its durability and classic look. Red oak has a warm tone, while white oak offers a cooler, more modern aesthetic.

Red oak showcases natural color variation and features a coarse grain. If you appreciate wood with pronounced grain patterns, then red oak is the perfect choice for you. Northern red oak boasts the most extensive selection of colours among all wood species.
White Oak, also known as American White Oak, embodies the qualities of density, strength, and resiliency. Its closed cellular structure makes it the ideal choice for furniture, martial arts weapons, and interior finishes, including hardwood flooring.

Maple: Consistent grain and a lighter colour, giving it a clean, contemporary look. If you prefer minimal grain and desire a smooth, even tone for your floor, maple is the perfect choice. Hard Maple has a variety of grade combinations in different colors, offering endless possibilities for creating a beautiful and consistent look.
Hickory: Very hard and with a distinctive grain pattern, hickory offers a rustic, textured look that’s ideal for high-traffic areas. It also comes in a wide variety of colour because the sapwood is a white, creamy colour, and can be easily stained. Hickory has a tendency to take on moisture quicker than other species and therefore must be installed on delivery.
Ash: The resilient Ash wood flourishes, concealing imperfections while displaying a mesmerizing array of natural colors, from a soft straw hue to a deep brown, giving it a vibrancy that surpasses even maple.

The Janka hardness test measures the resistance of wood to denting and wear. If you have pets, children, or high-traffic areas, you might want a harder wood species. For instance, hickory and oak score high on the Janka scale and are well-suited for these conditions.

4. Select a Finish and Color

Hardwood floors come in various finishes and colors. The finish can be pre-applied or finished on-site. Pre-finished floors are easier to install and come with a durable factory finish, while site-finished floors allow for customization and can be refinished more easily.

Gloss Level: High-gloss finishes are shiny and reflect light, while matte finishes offer a more subdued, natural look. Consider how much maintenance you're willing to undertake, as high-gloss finishes can show scratches and dust more readily.
Colour: Currently, pale, warm, and natural hues are in but it's best to choose a colour that complements your home’s decor and lifestyle. Lighter colours can make a room feel more spacious, while darker hues add a touch of sophistication. Remember that hardwood can change colour over time due to exposure to light. Colour trends for hardwood flooring are constantly evolving.

5. Match the Wood to Your Home’s Style

Your choice should also reflect the style of your home. For traditional settings, classic woods like oak or walnut work well. For contemporary spaces, sleek options like maple or cherry can provide a modern touch. Consider the overall aesthetic and how the wood will fit with your existing furnishings and decor.

6. Plan for Maintenance and Care

Different hardwoods require different levels of maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional refinishing will help keep your floors looking their best. Make sure to use appropriate cleaning products and avoid excessive moisture, which can damage wood floors.

7. Budget Considerations

Hardwood flooring varies in cost, depending on the species, quality, and finish. It’s essential to balance your budget with your preferences. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality hardwood floor can be a long-term benefit for your home. Our suppliers often have sales and promotions!

8. Consult a Professional

We can offer personalized advice based on your home’s specific needs and your personal preferences.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hardwood for your home is a significant decision that can enhance the beauty and value of your space. By understanding your options, considering your lifestyle, and planning for maintenance, you can select a hardwood that will provide both aesthetic appeal and lasting durability. Take your time to explore your choices, and don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance to make the best decision for your home.