The Beginner’s Guide to
How to Choose and Install Hardwood Flooring
Adding hardwood flooring to your home will add warmth and a natural look to any room. It also increases the value of your home and makes it more desirable to potential buyers. Hardwood floors come in a wide range of styles and colors to match your home’s decor. They’re a great way to add a distinctive element to your home, and they’re very low maintenance.
There are dozens of different wood species. Some of the most popular hardwood species include cherry, maple, oak, and hickory. Each of these species has its own unique properties. However, there are certain characteristics that are common among all of these species. Some of the most notable characteristics of wood are its color, graining, and texture.
The most common way to install hardwood floors is through a tongue-and-groove plank system. These planks are nailed to the tongue of the floor, and then the floor is nailed to the subfloor. This allows for greater durability and better sound absorption. This is also a great way to ensure that your floor will last for a long time.
Wood floors are also available in a variety of shapes and cuts. They can be square, or they can be cut into wood tile or planks. Some hardwoods come with a beveled edge. This creates a rustic look, and it also helps to hide uneven planks better. Another option is to have the planks laid in a geometric pattern. You can also get wood floors that are distressed to create an aged patina.
Many homeowners believe that hardwood floors make their rooms look bigger. However, this isn’t always the case. As the wood expands, the seams may become more visible. Another common problem with hardwood flooring is that it can be loud. Some homeowners use a foam or cork underlayment to help alleviate noise issues. If you have pets, you may want to invest in a floor that is scratch-resistant.
Some of the best hardwood floors are made with wood species that are readily available. These are generally less expensive than exotic woods. These species are also more durable. Unlike exotic hardwoods, domestic species tend to have less prominent grains and color variations. In addition, they usually have a higher hardness rating.
If you are looking for a hardwood floor that is easy to install, look for one that is made of solid wood. You can also opt for engineered wood floors, which are made of planks milled from one piece of timber. The cost of engineered hardwood is generally higher than solid hardwood, but it’s worth it for its durability and longevity.
The most popular finish for solid hardwood is a polyurethane with an oil or water base. This finish is easy to find at big box stores, and is the least expensive.
You can also sand solid hardwood more often than engineered wood floors. Professionals will use metal gouges and chisels to sand the wood. The sanding process helps to highlight the wood grain. This can create an interesting texture that breaks up the monotony of a room.