When trying to decide how to improve the flooring in a room, the first step is to select the type of flooring that is right for you. Sometimes plush rugs work best; other times, mosaic more than fills the bill. If you’ve reviewed all the available options and decided on a hardwood floor, your decision-making isn’t over. Wood flooring involves more than just strips of generic wood; Today, there is a dizzying array of options, styles, configurations, and designs available. While some people prefer to look around at random until they find something that piques their interest, there is a measured approach that can be applied to the process; the following tips may help.
Deciding Between Dark and Light
Chances are, you’ve already envisioned what your finished project will look like. Would the room in question look better with dark or light floors? Hardwood floors are available in many shades and colors, so finding a shade that works is pretty simple. In many ways it can be divided into lighter and darker woods; By making this decision early on, you will save a lot of time later. Of course, the right floor may not fall firmly on either end of the scale; there are plenty of medium-tone hardwood flooring options, too.
Is Solid or Engineered Wood Right for You?
As you start shopping for your hardwood floor in earnest, you’ll quickly learn that there are two main categories at play: engineered wood and solid wood. As its name implies, engineered wood is a wood floor that has been processed to improve its strength, durability, and uniformity. One of its biggest advantages is that it is generally much more affordable than solid wood. However, solid wood brings a classic style and undeniable elegance to the table. If your budget can handle it, you can be very happy with solid wood. In the end, the decision is purely yours.
Narrow planks or wide planks: which is right for you?
For the most part, this decision will depend on your aesthetic preferences. In some cases, narrow tables work especially well; in others, wide planks look more flattering. There are also some practical points to keep in mind. Hardwood floors that are made up of wide planks can be a bit more expensive and upkeep in the long run. If you need to replace one of the tables, for example, you’ll have to pay extra for it; after all, it is a larger piece of wood. Narrow planks are also less likely to warp or damage. However, as long as you stick with a high-quality wide board, you shouldn’t have to worry.
Considerations to make about the texture
These days, hand-scraped, weathered hardwood floors are all the rage. Most of the time, this style fits perfectly into the overall design scheme of a room. It goes without saying, however, that it is not correct in all cases. Once again, this decision comes down to your own personal tastes. Don’t rule out either one from the start; You never know, a look you would never consider might end up surprising you. Keep an open mind and consider several different looks, including scuffed and distressed, to find just the right texture.
A note on wood species
In addition to all the considerations we’ve already mentioned, you should pay attention to the species of wood you select. Some species of wood are exceptionally strong and durable; others, like pine, are softer and may be more susceptible to scuffs, dents, and other forms of damage. Do some research on the pros and cons of the different types of wood. Be sure to also look into exotic wood species, as they can add a bit of flavor and style to a room.
What wood is right for you?
After making all of the above decisions, you should be able to narrow your roster down to some great contenders. The last step, which is making the final decision, will depend on your general feelings about each candidate. Do your best to visualize the room in question with each style of hardwood flooring; note the furniture and walls in the room. The right option will not only look amazing, it will be something that will stand the test of time. Most importantly, it will add a great deal of value and elegance to your home.