Well hey there fellow homeowner! My name is Patrick, and I'm thrilled to be guiding you through the fascinating journey of choosing the perfect hardwood flooring for your home. Selecting the right flooring can seem overwhelming with so many beautiful options out there. That's why I've put together this quick but detailed guide to help you navigate these choices with confidence and ease. So, grab a cup of coffee and let's get into this wonderful world of hardwood flooring!
Understanding Hardwood Flooring
Installing a White Oak hardwood floor mid-process
As a passionate advocate for the timeless beauty of hardwood floors, I believe in the transformative power they hold. They're not just floors; they're a canvas for your life's memories. In this post, I'll explain what makes hardwood an outstanding choice, delve into its benefits, and show you the main wood choices that are available for a new hardwood floor.
Choosing the Right Hardwood Flooring Species
Each species of hardwood flooring has its own unique story, texture, and character. Let me walk you through some of my favorites, and the main options I’d recommend considering for your own home:
Oak: Classic Elegance
Close up of a raw Red Oak floor after just freshly being sanded with the Lagler Trio
Oak is a personal favorite of mine for its versatility and strength. Its grain patterns range from subtle to bold, making every Oak floor uniquely charming. Ideal for both contemporary and classic interiors, it's as resilient as it is beautiful, perfect for any area of your home. Oak also has incredible sanding and staining qualities. This wood looks beautiful whether you finish it naturally, or apply a stain to it.
Keep in mind, that with this wood, you have another subset of options to choose from. If you choose Oak for your home as most people do, you will still be left with the choice of deciding whether you’d like Red Oak floors or White Oak floors. I’ve got a blog post that can help you figure out exactly which type of Oak you need right here!
Maple: Light & Modern
Maple hardwood floor finished with Loba Invisible
For those who love a clean, modern look, Maple is a top contender. Its smooth grain and light color bring a bright and airy feel to any room. Don't be fooled by its delicate appearance; Maple is incredibly durable, standing up well to the daily hustle and bustle of most homes. Maple is by far harder and more durable than Oak.
Another key point to consider about Maple, is that it does NOT stain well. Sure, you can apply stain to Maple, and we have many times before. But, it is a very unique look that most homeowners do not care for. Maple can appear to be “blotchy” when stained, so if you are leaning in this direction, please take the time to research exactly how your Maple will look after the stain color you choose.
Fully stained & finished Maple floor (I chose a stained Maple picture so you can see the “blotchy” that everyone describes)
Brazilian Cherry: Bold and Exotic
Freshly finished Brazilian Cherry hardwood floor, finished with Loba Supra 2k
If you're looking to make a statement, look no further than Brazilian Cherry. Its deep, rich hues and intricate grain patterns are absolutely mesmerizing. Perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, it's as sturdy as it is striking. This wood is extremely tough & durable, it will hold up perfectly to any occasion.
The main drawback of this wood, however, is that it is very RED. The longer that the floor sits after being finished, whether it be with a water or oil based finish, this wood floor species will continue to turn a deeper and deeper red color.
Walnut: Timeless Sophistication
Preparing a Walnut floor for the final coat of floor finish
There's something undeniably luxurious about Walnut. Its rich, dark tones and swirling grain patterns add elegance and depth to any space. It's a superb choice for those seeking sophistication and durability in equal measure.
Usually, this wood tends to be a bit softer than the other ones that I listed here today. Walnut is still plenty durable, just simply not as hard as some of the others. The trade off for the higher price and softer floor, though, is a floor that will surely be a conversation started for anybody that enters your home. This wood looks very unique, very high end, and is very difficult to source in large quantities.
Other Considerations for First-Time Buyers
At the end of the day, choosing the right hardwood flooring species involves considering various factors such as durability, aesthetics, and personal preferences. Oak offers classic elegance and versatility, while Maple provides a modern and clean look. Brazilian Cherry brings exotic charm, and Walnut delivers timeless appeal. By understanding the characteristics of each hardwood flooring species, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your home, budget, and lifestyle.
Conclusion: Making Your Decision
Take your time, explore samples, and consider factors like durability, maintenance, and color compatibility with your existing decor. Ultimately, the perfect hardwood flooring species will not only enhance the beauty of your home but also provide long-lasting comfort and value.
If you ever have questions or need some advice, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you find that perfect hardwood flooring that you'll love for years to come.