How to Choose the Right Hardwood Flooring for Your Home
Hardwood flooring has long been the first choice of home owners and builders alike who want a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing floor material that was right for any style home. Today, there are even more choices to select from based on appearance, price, ease of installation and impact on the environment. Homeowners may install hardwood flooring throughout their new home or replace old flooring with a durable, good-looking wood floor that will increase their home’s value while improving its appearance.
Hardwood VS Engineered Wood
Traditionally, hardwood floors were made from oak, black walnut and maple woods, which were abundant in the U.S. Today, there are also exotic species and regional varieties of wood that are sought out for their unique beauty. Installing solid wood floors requires the installation of a sub-floor and should be installed by a professional who understands the nature of hard woods and the special requirements to keep the floors looking their best for years to come.
Engineered wood, on the other hand, is made with a layer of real wood over multiple layers of plywood or fiber backing. Do-it-yourselfers often feel confident to install engineered wood floors themselves. Not only does engineered wood flooring give the same appearance as a real wood floor, it is also easier to maintain and can be used in rooms like the kitchen where using real wood floors is not advised.
The Beauty of Bamboo
Bamboo flooring continues to grow in popularity. Although bamboo is really a weed, it is just as strong and traditional hardwood. Bamboo grows quickly, making it a sustainable material that is also good for the environment. There are many patterns and finishes that make bamboo a good choice for any room or home.
Maintaining Your Hardwood Floor
If your choice in flooring material depends on ease of maintenance, then hardwood is a better choice than you might realize. Keeping dust and dirt off the surface will prevent damage to the finish later on. A microfiber mop and occasional damp mop will keep your hardwood floor looking new.
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