There is no such thing as perfect but you can always make it the best out of many options. Just like hardwood flooring, it comes with its own share of pros and cons. If you are someone who is just about to decide what type of flooring you should use for your residential or commercial space, this is the best read for you. Know hardwood flooring better and keep in mind these things you should consider.

Hardwood Flooring- Pros

Hardwood floors are durable and have stood the test of time. Buyers are willing to pay dollars for homes with hardwood floors. Not to mention homes with hardwood floors tend to sell faster than homes with wall-to-wall carpeting. Hardwood flooring works with all styles of decorating, from traditional to modern. It is available in several types of woods and can be sanded and stained to suit the home owner’s taste.

A long-term investment

Wood flooring tends to last for more than a hundred years if it is maintained well. They might seem like a big investment initially, but you don’t need to replace them every 10 or 20 years like the other types of flooring. It is an expense that is of good worth in the end, as wooden flooring can outlive you and increase the market value of your residence.

Variety

When opting for wood flooring you will be presented with a wide array of choices. Not even a single plank has the same shade or color,  which makes it more authentic while enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The different types of wood flooring that are available include:

• Brazilian cherry
• Tigerwood
• Australian Cypress
• Brazilian Walnut
• Teak
• Brazilian Chestnut
• Hickory
• Oak (Red and White)
• Santos Mahogany

Healthy air quality at home

Wooden flooring prevents from attracting any type of allergens, animal dander, or molds, which causes allergies. Therefore the indoor environment is kept safer than what is usually prevalent with other types of flooring. It is a healthy choice due to its hypo-allergic nature and does not trap unpleasant odors.

Better for babies

One of the popular choices for kids’ rooms is usually wooden flooring. It is harmless and non-toxic, which is best for babies who have just learned to crawl. There is an improvement in their motor skills when they are exposed to wooden flooring.

Hardwood Flooring- Cons

Wood floors are a costly option. The flooring must be installed over sub-flooring and installation is a bigger job than most homeowners can handle. In addition to installation, scuffed and scratched floors will need to be refinished. The softer the wood, the easier it will scratch and blemish. 

Hardwood flooring can be noisy when walking across it and can be a nuisance to your downstairs neighbors if you live in an apartment complex. Placing an area rug over the floor can help muffle the sound and provides added warmth to the room. Adding a rug is also a good idea for families with children or adults who are prone to falls since it acts as a cushion.

Cost

The cost of wooden flooring is much higher than our regular carpets or tiles. So, this might not be an affordable option for all. Hardwood flooring is usually installed over sub-flooring this makes the installation a complicated process. But with Charlotte Flooring Installation, we can always talk over budget and stick to that while providing quality hardwood.

Prone to termite attack

Such infestations are common with spruce and southern yellow pine along with many others. Therefore, choosing the right type of wood is important to avoid such problems. Try tapping the floor with a screwdriver and if you hear some hollow sound, then they are caused by cavities that have been made by the termites. 

Avoid water contact

You can clean the wooden flooring with a mop, but it should not be dripping with water. Harsh detergents should be avoided while cleaning the surface. The hardwood flooring will be destroyed in the occurrence of a seepage. 

Noise

Once the hardwood flooring is completed, it will be providing you with noise-free and solid ground. But after a few decades of use the constant wear and tear, and excessive movement can alter certain sections of the wood flooring. This can cause clicking and creaking sounds as you walk on the surface.

High maintenance

You will be required to polish them quite frequently like every 3-4 years, especially the areas that are frequently used. The floor needs to be mopped only by using a microfiber mopping cloth and sprays which are meant for wooden floors.