Since decades, hardwood flooring has been gracing homes worldwide. Because of its durability, this kind of flooring has gained immense popularity and is now a coveted choice for those looking for nothing but the best. Yes, in different ways, these floor coverings are gaining mileage in comparison to traditional carpets, and other kinds of flooring options. So, if you have been looking for the best carpets online, or waiting for the right opportunity to get home a winner in the form of a robust and stylish floor pattern, then, the right time to go about the task is now. Here, we introduce you to some old and new facts about these floors.
Types of Hardwood Flooring
In the contemporary scene, with numerous hardwood floorings available on the racks, buyers usually end up getting confused as to what they should get for their house. If you happen to be one among them, then do know that hardwood floors are categorized into two types: solid and engineered.
Solid hardwood flooring is cut from unfinished planks with grooves and tongues grinded on all sides. Solid wood floors are available in different lengths and widths. Since natural solid hardwoods are sensitive to moisture and humidity, they are installed above or at the ground level. Natural beauty of authentic wood in such flooring types is alluring and appealing. They boast of finishes that are suitable for houses or commercial places that require more additions to their glamour quotient ,without trying too hard.
Cost: Solid wood floors are among the most expensive of hardwood flooring selections. These may cost 2-3 times the cost of other flooring selections; and are generally not preferred by those with a restricted budget. However, as the installation of this kind of flooring benefits owners for a lifetime, it becomes essential to understand the long- term returns that are in store after making an investment in the same.
Engineered flooring is similar to solid hardwood floors and it is nearly impossible to distinguish this flooring from natural hardwood after installation. Engineered hardwood floor covers consist of several layers of plywood; with the top layer being actual hardwood. Approximately 2-10 plywood layers are used to make an engineered hardwood floor.
Cost: Engineered floor covers are less expensive than solid or natural hardwood surfaces. People with limited budget can go for such flooring. Though less expensive, they offer alluring beauty and elegance to all kinds of interiors. The cost of engineered hardwood floors depends on the thickness of the plywood layers, selection of the top layer, and overall materials used for the composition of their thickness.
Yes, as this kind of floor justifies its expenses, it makes for an impressive home installation option. Given below are some more reasons to install hardwood flooring:
1. It is beautiful. There are very few flooring options that quite match the beauty of this type. Whether you select glossy maple flooring or a pale one, muted oak or dark oak, or even matter hickory flooring, this wood floor appropriately complements and highlights the décor of every room.
2. It increases the curb appeal. While constructing a house, contractors charge more if you want hardwood floors. Similarly, while selling, appraisers calculate the value of your house after considering the hardwood flooring. Therefore, installing hardwood is a long-term investment.
3. Easy to maintain and durable, this type of flooring lasts for years if maintained properly. Wood floors don’t absorb dirt or easily wear out. However, constant foot traffic can scuff the floor but will not wear it out completely. Besides, cleaning these floors is easy; a simple dust mop and light scrubbing can do the job very nicely.
4. Sometimes, this flooring is made using renewable resources. Cork flooring and bamboo flooring have gained popularity as they both have their origin from sustainable resources. Bamboo floorings are amazingly hard and provide numerous designs that are very similar to hardwood. Cork floors are softer than other regular wood floors, but they also offer a unique springy feel and magnificent look.
5. These floors are available in an array of wood grains, colors, patterns and textures. Traditionally, only oak and maple flooring was available. However, today, you can install hardwood floors made from different kinds of woods like cypress, walnut, and teak. Besides, every wood has a different stain that can highlight different finishes, from high-gloss to rough-hewn and more!
Dos and Don'ts of Caring for your Hardwood floor
Dos:
Place a breathable or natural colorfast mat outside the entrance of the rooms (where you have hardwood floors) to catch moisture and tracked-in dirt.
Avoid indentations with wood floors with felt floor protectors placed under furniture and other items that can leave behind scratches and other tell-tale marks.
Immediately wipe off wet feet stains or spills with a sponge or a cloth.
Clean using a laminate floor cleaner or a microfiber mop.
Don’ts:
Never use soap or oil based cleaners; they may leave the floor dull.
Abstain from steel wool or abrasive cleaners; they may scratch the floor.
Do not polish or wax the floor.
Certain renovations are capable of changing the entire look of your house; hardwood flooring serves to be one of them. You can find a wide range too; from sleek dark-stained teak to rustic rough-finished oak with tons of gradations. Thus, there is definitely a wide range of hard wood floors & wood flooring available to match the décor of your house.
Go for the best!
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