When it comes to hardwood flooring, it can be hard to know which type to choose. A great way to narrow down your selection choices is to figure out the square footage you will need, ensure the availability of the material, and decide where in your home it’s going to go. Since selecting the right hardwood floor is a big commitment, durability is also a huge factor; it’s important that you pick the right hardwood flooring for your home that will last for years and look great.
If you’re having trouble navigating the world of hardwood floors, and you need a little extra direction on how and what types of material to choose, here are five of the best types of hardwood flooring for your home, so you can make an informed decision when it comes time to purchase.
Oak
Oak is one of the most popular types of hardwood flooring because of its durability and classic, timeless style. Oak is a strong wood that can stand up to wear and tear, making it suitable for homes with high foot traffic. Oak comes in two varieties: red oak and white oak. Red oak has a more traditional look while white oak has a more contemporary look. There are also plenty of laminate styles that imitate this popular option, if you’re looking for the style but don’t have room in the budget.
Maple
Maple is another popular type of hardwood flooring, known for its light color and smooth texture. Maple floors are easy to clean and maintain, making them a great choice for busy households or those who want low-maintenance floors. Maple floors also have a unique grain pattern that adds visual interest to any space, which is why it’s commonly replicated in a hardwood floor laminate version, which is widely available and very affordable.
Cherry
Cherry is a beautiful type of hardwood flooring with its rich reddish-brown hue that deepens over time as it ages. Cherry adds warmth and elegance to any room, making it ideal for living rooms or formal dining rooms. Cherry floors are slightly softer than other types of hardwood, so they may need more frequent upkeep to stay looking their best over time. If this more delicate wood seems like too much maintenance for you, keep in mind that you can attain all the warmth and a third of the cost with hardwood floor laminate.
Walnut
Walnut is an elegant type of wood known for its dark brown color and distinctive grain pattern. Walnut floors add sophistication and class to any space, making them ideal for bedrooms or home offices where you want a peaceful atmosphere without too much noise or distraction. As with cherry, walnut is on the softer side and may need extra care when being cleaned or maintained over time.
Hickory
Hickory is known for its strength and durability as well as its distinctive grain pattern that adds interest and character to any room in your home. Hickory also comes in various shades from light tan to dark brown depending on the type you choose, so you can find one that suits your decorating style perfectly, no matter what kind of look you’re going for in your home. Furthermore, hickory stands up well against wear and tear which makes it ideal if you have children or pets at home who may be prone to spills or scratches on your hardwood floor.
Final Thoughts
When selecting the right hardwood flooring for your home, there are many factors to consider. Once you have the technical information, like square footage and the area you plan to cover, you should also take into consideration concepts such as cost, installation requirements, maintenance needs, and style preference. By addressing these concerns, you will be able to narrow down what you need, and how it will suit your home and budget.
Regardless of what you decide, these five types of hardwood flooring will provide your home with something unique while still being durable enough to last you many years into the future. So, if you’re planning to re-floor multiple rooms, why not give more than one variation a try? With so many options available, it’s easy to find something perfect for any space.
