Wood Floor

An attractive wood floor can increase the beauty of any room. It can make a room look rich. Many people are choosing a wood floor over a carpeted floor when building a new home or remodeling an existing home.

The Appeal of a Wood Floor

A home with a wood floor is very attractive, but that is only part of the appeal. A wood floor is very versatile. It goes with either a contemporary or a traditional décor. A wood floor never goes out of style. It is also very durable. With proper care, a wood floor will last a long time.

A wood floor is also a good ecological and environmental choice. It can be made from recycled wood and can be recycled itself in the future. Also, a wood floor will not collect dust and allergens like a carpeted floor can. This makes a wood floor a good choice for those with allergies and other health problems.

The Value of a Wood Floor

A wood floor can also increase the value of a home. Real estate agents believe that a home with a wood floor holds it value. They also believe that a home with a wood floor may sell more quickly and may command a higher selling price than a home that is carpeted.

Types of Wood Floors

There are many species of trees that are used to create a wood floor. The following are some of the most popular choices for a wood floor.

Oak: There are two popular types of oak used for a wood floor—red and white. Red oak is highly diverse because it is very hard and moisture resistant. It can be used in high-traffic areas. It is also easy to stain, making it very versatile. White oak, a light colored wood, is very strong and durable. It is very moisture resistant and is a good choice for kitchens or bathrooms.

Cherry: Cherry is a beautiful wood that is a deep burgundy color that darkens over time. It is a softer hardwood and is not recommended for high-traffic areas.

Maple: Hard maple is very strong and tough to wear out. It can be found in shades of light or dark brown and has a uniform texture. Hard maple makes a durable wood floor that can be used in heavy traffic areas.

White Ash: White ash is a very light colored wood and is often chosen for many of today's contemporary homes. It can be a creamy color or a light brown and is highly durable.

Walnut: Walnut is a very popular hardwood used for floor. It is highly decorative and takes to staining easily. It is however, a soft hardwood, and should not be used in high-traffic areas.

By Robin Shreeves