Choosing Wood Flooring
We know that with so many quality products and options available, it can be difficult to decide which wood flooring solution is best for your home or office. To help you get started, we've compiled our customers' most frequent questions below. Still have questions? Contact Neal's today and get expert help on how to choose wood flooring that's right for you!
Why should I choose wood flooring for my home?
Wood floors instantly enhance the beauty of any home or office while adding to its value. They help to provide an interior environment that is free from allergens. Wood floors are also renewable and recyclable, helping the global environment as well.
What factors should I consider when choosing a wood floor?
The factors that influence your decision will vary, but the "big three" factors that we recommend considering are:
1. The Room To Be Floored
Selecting a wood floor will depend largely on the room that you are flooring. Wood finish and plank size should be determined by the room's size: Choose lighter colors and a narrow-width board to visually expand smaller rooms. To make larger rooms feel warmer and more appealing, choose darker wood tones and a wider board.
2. Colors and Design
Once your selection has been narrowed down based on the room itself, your next decisions should be based upon coordinating or contrasting with the room's existing color and wood schemes (or new schemes, if redecorating). The wood finish you select should complement but not dominate the room. The style of the wood flooring and its planking should also be consistent with your decorating styles (e.g., contemporary, country, formal, casual).
3. Traffic and Light
The quality of the wood flooring you select should meet or exceed your expected traffic flow for the room. You may also consider having the floor's pattern match the natural traffic flow of the room. Finally, both the amount of natural light a room gets and the type of processed light in a room will effect the floor's appearance. It is important to view your wood flooring selection in relatively the same lighting that your room produces.
Are there any structural factors to consider when choosing a wood floor?
Suitable flooring types can be determined by looking at a room's grade and moisture levels. For example, engineered wood flooring is a better choice than natural hardwood for rooms that are below ground level (such as a basement), as well as in high-moisture areas (such as a bathroom). The room's sub-floor will also play a role in determining your flooring options, although "floating" hardwood floors can be installed over any type of sub-floor.
Are wood floors recommended for people with allergies?
Absolutely. Hardwood floors provide convenient maintenance and cleaning, allowing you to avoid the dust build-up that often occurs with carpeting. The clean-up of pet hair and spills is also more convenient with hardwood floors.
What is “character” in wood?
“Character” is defined as naturally occurring mineral streaks, knots, and pin holes.