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| Chicagoland Pro |
With so many choosing to invest in hardwood floors this spring we wanted to give a little insight to help consumers make the right choice when it came to their hardwood floor!
In 2014 people are adding wood floors to increase property value but they are also getting creative with their floor of choice. From the kitchen and bathroom, to wall's with wood installation, many are choosing to not only add wood, but are also refinishing old wood and modernizing the look of their home or office.
Creativity is driving people to think outside the box & we thought it would be helpful to provide some current insight into trends along with offering a few good tips for those choosing wood floors for the first time.
In 2014 people are adding wood floors to increase property value but they are also getting creative with their floor of choice. From the kitchen and bathroom, to wall's with wood installation, many are choosing to not only add wood, but are also refinishing old wood and modernizing the look of their home or office.
Creativity is driving people to think outside the box & we thought it would be helpful to provide some current insight into trends along with offering a few good tips for those choosing wood floors for the first time.
Some people may go for a modern & luxurious look while others may choose for a warm & natural look. Regardless of the style, both groups should consider all the options available to them and talk to a professional to ensure they are making the right choice for their space.
Things to consider when choosing Wood Floors
Major consideration should be placed on the finish, style, design, and location as well as the use of space where wood floors are being installed or refinished.
Engineered Wood: More resistant to moisture & humidity. Quality of wood can be different from one manufacturer to another.
Solid Wood: Durable and long lasting while offering options for refinishing for future remodeling.
One of the most important factors to consider is location of wood flooring. The location can affect the type of wood and it's durability. Certain wood is better placed above ground while others are better for lower level installation.
On Grade: Flooring installed on ground level.
Above Ground: This implies that the floor is installed on the second level or above.
Below: Below ground level, usually applies to basements.
- Size: Measure the space to get accurate quotes and prices for wood.
- Color: Use a color wheel or a color book to match colors & find the desired color your space.
- Texture: Depending on the style of the room, textures can vary and provide effects to compliment the style or furniture of the room. 2014 trends include textured distressed & antique looks for wood floor.
- Width: Wide planks are gaining in popularity. Reclaimed wood can come in wider lengths & offer less seams. There are multiple styles and colors to choose from.
The Species of the wood is important to consider and with so many options, it's good to decide on the use and intention of the space first. While consumers might like the look of a specific species based on appearance they may come to find that it is not functional for the space they choose to remodel. It is also good to consider how much moisture and traffic the floors will get after installation. Wood grains are all different and adapt differently to the environment they are put in.
- Oak: Most Popular choice for consumers. Red Oak is a great choice for high traffic areas of the home or office. White Oak offers similar benefits but in a softer look with light brown and gray tones vs. pink and red.
- Walnut: Softer than Oak and is consistently a popular choice for consumers.
- Maple: Harvested in North American and Canada.
- Beech: Imported from Sweden, Denmark, Norway. Colors tend to be warm browns with some red pigment.
- Cherry: Varieties offered for color. American Cherry offers soft, warm colors. Others can be more exotic looking. Example: Brazilian Cherry wood provides mosaic looks.
- Ash: Suggested for use in bright spaces with light.
For more information on Wood Floor Species visit the National Wood Floor Association for a visual gallery.
Learn more about our New Green Stain Options at Chicagoland Pro
- Reclaimed Wood This wood is often taken from older homes and sites. It can be salvaged from an antique home and provide many more years of enjoyment once refinished.
- Cork : From "Cork Oak Trees' Trees are striped of bark and hand harvested. Great choice for people with allergies or looking for a truly sustainable option as trees are never cut down in harvesting methods. These trees usually are grown in the Mediterranean region and are imported into the United States.
- Bamboo - Often imported from Asia but local manufacturers are becoming easier to find. Bamboo is the fastest growing plant in the world and can offer a more sustainable option for the green home owner. The negative side of bamboo is it dents easily so rooms with high traffic are not ideal for bamboo installation. The United States Green Building Councils offers LEED points for bamboo installation.
- 100 % Green Stains: Many Green stains are available these days & for best results contact a professional for consultation to ensure your are making the best choice for your new floors.