Top 7 Types of Hardwood Flooring You Need to Know Today
Choosing the right types of hardwood flooring can transform the look and feel of your home. Hardwood floors offer unmatched beauty, durability, and value, making them a lasting investment. In this article, we explore the top hardwood flooring options you should consider, along with their benefits.
1. Oak Hardwood Flooring
Red Oak
Red oak is the most popular choice for hardwood flooring due to its warm tones ranging from creamy pink to rusty brown. It features distinct grain patterns that add character to any room.
White Oak
White oak is harder and more durable than red oak, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. It has a subtle grain pattern and varying shades that complement both classic and modern decor.
2. Hickory Hardwood Flooring
Known as the hardest domestic wood, hickory is prized for its durability and shock resistance. Its distinctive color contrasts, from deep brown to creamy white, create a rustic yet sophisticated look. Hickory’s hardness helps it withstand scratches and wear over time.
3. Maple Hardwood Flooring
Maple offers a smooth, consistent grain and light color that brightens spaces. It is moderately hard and resists shocks well, making it an excellent option for families and busy households.
4. Walnut Hardwood Flooring
With a rich, dark brown hue and fine grain, walnut adds elegance and warmth. It is somewhat softer than oak or hickory but provides a luxurious appearance ideal for formal living spaces.
5. Cherry Hardwood Flooring
Cherry wood is celebrated for its natural reddish tone that deepens with age. Its smooth grain and fine texture add distinctive charm to any room, though it is softer and more susceptible to wear than harder woods.
6. Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood features a real wood veneer over a stable plywood core. This construction enhances dimensional stability and allows installation in areas prone to moisture. It combines the beauty of hardwood with greater versatility, although some types cannot be refinished as many times as solid wood.
7. Exotic Hardwood Flooring
Exotic woods like Brazilian cherry, teak, and mahogany offer striking colors and high durability. These woods often have unique grain patterns and darker tones that create a bold statement but come with a higher price point.
Benefits of Choosing Hardwood Flooring
1. Longevity and Durability
Hardwood floors are designed to last decades when properly maintained. Their dense structure resists everyday wear, making them suitable for high-traffic rooms.
2. Timeless Aesthetic Appeal
Hardwood adds warmth, elegance, and a natural element to any interior. It complements diverse home styles, from rustic to contemporary, enhancing resale value.
3. Improved Indoor Air Quality
Unlike carpets, hardwood does not trap dust, allergens, or pet dander, contributing to a healthier living environment.
For a detailed overview and options tailored to your space, explore comprehensive resources about hardwood floor wood species and flooring styles. Additionally, user reviews and guides on home hardwood flooring choices can help refine your decision.
With this knowledge of the top types of hardwood flooring, you can confidently select the perfect style for your home that combines durability, elegance, and long-term value.