When you are on the lookout for the perfect solid wood flooring, you already have your own priorities and preferences in mind. Perhaps it is the design or finish. Or maybe it’s the installation cost.
However, many homeowners have one priority in common. And that’s practicality and ease of maintenance. No one really wants to put too much hard work and break their back, trying to keep their solid wood flooring looking new.
With the multitude of choices out there for solid wood flooring, it may be overwhelming to pick wood floors that are relatively easy to keep. In today’s post, let us take a look at the aspects you should be looking for when choosing the right solid wood flooring for your home.
Wood flooring: color
Even if you already have a preferred design in mind for your wood floors, the color of the timber will play a significant role when it comes to functionality and practicality. The darker the wood’s color, the more visible any stains or dirt will appear if it is not finished correctly.
Darker colored solid wood flooring is better suited for rooms in the house without a lot of traffic. You can also install it in areas where there’s not a lot of furniture you need to move around.
Lighter colored wood floors, on the other hand, can obscure dirt exceptionally well. The grain patterns and tone of the wood allow you to hide dirt and stains easily. Homeowners with pets or little children prefer this type of wood floors.
Another option you can consider is a multi-tone solid wood flooring. This type of flooring already has a “stained” appearance to it that adds to its design and character.
Humidity resistance
When you want anything made of wood, you have to prepare yourself to deal with humidity affecting it. Humidity can lead to wood expanding and contracting, which can quickly wear it out. When it does, the wood loses its shape, color, and form.
While there are types of wood available that are resistant to humidity, some of the best options for homeowners are engineered hardwood flooring.
The interior of engineered wood is created to withstand any warping brought by humidity. However, it’s essential to pick a wood option that has to wear layers thicker than normal. This feature makes them more resistant to any scratches.
Janka hardness scale
The janka hardness scale was created for the identification and classification of a wood’s density. This scale is vital to ensure the thickness and durability of the wood. When wood passes the janka hardness scale, it means it’s suitable for most commercial and residential spaces.
Finish of the wood
The type of finish on solid hardwood flooring can help with their longevity. When it comes to looks, you have the following options: glossy, matte, and satin. A glossy finish, while not as trending anymore, is excellent for upkeep and maintenance.
Another method in classifying hardwood floor finishes is to know what base was used. An oil-based finish adds a certain glow to the timber. It also helps the wood to resist its natural movement, preventing warping.
On the other hand, acrylic or water-based finish allows the resin to be more resistant to scratches. However, it can’t withstand solvents or heat as much. Therefore, oil-based finishes help for more extended maintenance of solid wood flooring.
Taking care of solid wood flooring
Here are some tips on how you can make sure your wood floors are in excellent condition.
However, many homeowners have one priority in common. And that’s practicality and ease of maintenance. No one really wants to put too much hard work and break their back, trying to keep their solid wood flooring looking new.
With the multitude of choices out there for solid wood flooring, it may be overwhelming to pick wood floors that are relatively easy to keep. In today’s post, let us take a look at the aspects you should be looking for when choosing the right solid wood flooring for your home.
Wood flooring: color
Even if you already have a preferred design in mind for your wood floors, the color of the timber will play a significant role when it comes to functionality and practicality. The darker the wood’s color, the more visible any stains or dirt will appear if it is not finished correctly.
Darker colored solid wood flooring is better suited for rooms in the house without a lot of traffic. You can also install it in areas where there’s not a lot of furniture you need to move around.
Lighter colored wood floors, on the other hand, can obscure dirt exceptionally well. The grain patterns and tone of the wood allow you to hide dirt and stains easily. Homeowners with pets or little children prefer this type of wood floors.
Another option you can consider is a multi-tone solid wood flooring. This type of flooring already has a “stained” appearance to it that adds to its design and character.
Humidity resistance
When you want anything made of wood, you have to prepare yourself to deal with humidity affecting it. Humidity can lead to wood expanding and contracting, which can quickly wear it out. When it does, the wood loses its shape, color, and form.
While there are types of wood available that are resistant to humidity, some of the best options for homeowners are engineered hardwood flooring.
The interior of engineered wood is created to withstand any warping brought by humidity. However, it’s essential to pick a wood option that has to wear layers thicker than normal. This feature makes them more resistant to any scratches.
Janka hardness scale
The janka hardness scale was created for the identification and classification of a wood’s density. This scale is vital to ensure the thickness and durability of the wood. When wood passes the janka hardness scale, it means it’s suitable for most commercial and residential spaces.
Finish of the wood
The type of finish on solid hardwood flooring can help with their longevity. When it comes to looks, you have the following options: glossy, matte, and satin. A glossy finish, while not as trending anymore, is excellent for upkeep and maintenance.
Another method in classifying hardwood floor finishes is to know what base was used. An oil-based finish adds a certain glow to the timber. It also helps the wood to resist its natural movement, preventing warping.
On the other hand, acrylic or water-based finish allows the resin to be more resistant to scratches. However, it can’t withstand solvents or heat as much. Therefore, oil-based finishes help for more extended maintenance of solid wood flooring.
Taking care of solid wood flooring
Here are some tips on how you can make sure your wood floors are in excellent condition.
- Clean any spills immediately using a slightly damp cloth.
- Add furniture pads to the legs of your tables, sofas, chairs, etc.
- Sweep the floors daily.
- Vacuum weekly.
- Use cleaners suitable for wood floors.