The Versatility of Hardwood Flooring

rnHardwood flooring is always a popular floor choice, no matter what the current trends are. Instead of following the fads, hardwood floors evolve with the trends and are continuously complemented by different styles of furniture. This type of flooring is so prized; many families who live in older homes have restored the wood floors that were long hidden underneath carpeting. With the popularity of hardwood, manufacturers are offering a wide variety of these floors that are available in different species and colors. With more options, you can find flooring that is both attractive and affordable. There are many reasons why hardwood flooring remains a popular option. It’s beautiful, warm and aesthetically pleasing, and with proper care, can last a lifetime. Although this type of floor costs more upfront, its ability to last an extended lifetime is what makes it an economical choice. Other floors may cost less, but will need to be replaced in a few short years. Of course, if the floor needs to be refreshed or updated, a simple coat of stain can do the trick. This also gives the floor the versatility it needs to appeal to new homeowners or move along with the trends. With advancements in technology, you can now install wood in more places than ever. This type of flooring is still not recommended for below grade applications, including basements or rooms with full baths. Yet wood looks exceptionally beautiful in bedrooms, entryways and kitchens. Of course, if you must have a wood-type floor in these rooms, opt for laminate that is more suitable. With an absorbent underlayment that absorbs moisture, you can keep the look of hardwood throughout the home, while having more appropriate flooring in rooms prone to moisture. One of the biggest decisions in choosing hardwood is the type of wood selection that will be installed in your home. Solid wood floors are naturally beautiful and available in such choices as oak, maple and yellow pine. These wood floors can be sanded and refinished a number of times and are available in both finished and unfinished varieties. There are some drawbacks to solid wood however, such as their limitations on where they can be installed and how they must be installed. Since solid wood does not float over a subfloor, it needs to be hammered and nailed down. This generally calls for professional installation, unless you are an experienced DIY-er. With these limits, many people opt for engineered wood that is easier to install and more affordable. Engineered wood is a thin wood veneer over plywood. Although it is not a solid wood, engineered wood is highly popular and looks almost identical to solid wood. Since it is not solid however, it can be installed in basements or directly over a concrete slab. The flooring is installed much like laminate, with a tongue-and-groove installation. This makes it possible for a savvy DIY-er to install the floor on his or her own. If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for in solid or engineered woods, you may find something with exotics or reclaimed products. Exotic wood selections are being offered by more manufactures as hardwood flooring is soaring in popularity. The interesting part to exotics is that they may actually be cheaper than more traditional hardwood selections. Exotics include leopardwood and purpleheart that come from South Wales and South America. Exotics can also be purchased in laminate form, making them more affordable and easy to install. Reclaimed wood floors are made from recycled materials and are the perfect solution for those looking for Eco-friendly flooring choices. By expanding your boundaries in what hardwood flooring can offer, you’ll find many choices that fit your lifestyle and budget.