RD HOMES's profile

The Complete Guide to Hardwood Floors

The Complete Guide to Hardwood Floors
When compared to plywood or other engineered flooring materials, real hardwood stands out in almost every way. It has a long lifespan, it is durable, and it is available in a wide range of grades that fit the budget of almost any home improvement project. The best way to buy hardwood floors is to visit a local retailer who specializes in this kind of flooring and can guide you through this important decision.

Determine This Before Getting Started
The first step to buying hardwood is determining what type of wood you want. While some people prefer the look of a solid hardwood floor (one that is made from a single piece of lumber), others prefer engineered wood that has been laminated together in order to create an even more durable surface. Engineered woods are typically less expensive than solid woods because they're made from scraps or sawdust that is glued together into one board.

Choose Your Hardwood Flooring Type
The Different Types of Hardwood Flooring

Hardwoods come in many different species, each with its own characteristics. The most common types of hardwood flooring are:

Oak - Oak is one of the most popular types of wood used for furniture-making and flooring. Oak has a rich yellow color that varies from pale blonde to reddish brown, depending on how much exposure it has had to light over time. Oak also has a very strong grain pattern that can make it difficult to install correctly if you aren't experienced in laying wood floors.

Maple - Maple is another popular wood species that are often used for furniture-making due to its attractive grain patterns. It has a red or light brown color and often features dark streaks running through the grains that give it an elegant appearance. Maple is also less prone than oak to warping or splitting when exposed to changes in humidity levels, making it easier to install in areas where there are wide swings in temperature from season to season or year to year.

Choose Your Hardwood Flooring Color
The first step in installing hardwood floors is choosing the right color for your room. If you're unsure about which color will work best in your home, consider hiring a professional designer or interior decorator to help you choose the right hue. You may also want to ask friends and family members for their opinions on potential colors before making a final decision.

Choose Hardwood Flooring Species (and Weight)
Hardwood floors come in three main categories: solid wood, engineered wood and laminate hardwood. Solid wood is made from one piece of wood; engineered wood is made from several pieces bonded together; and laminate hardwood has an appearance similar to solid wood but is actually plastic with a top layer of veneer printed on it. While solid or engineered floors may seem like better options than laminate ones, they can be more expensive and require more upkeep over time due to their construction.

Choose Your Hardwood Installation Method
Hardwood floors are beautiful, durable, and timeless. When you're shopping for hardwood, you'll find that there are many different ways to have it installed. The most common methods include:

Glue-down installation is the most popular choice among homeowners because of its durability and ease of maintenance. You can also choose to have your floor sanded before installation, which will give it a more rustic look. Glue-down installation works well on uneven subfloors, but it can be difficult to install on concrete or other hard surfaces that may require additional tools or materials.

Nail-down installation is another popular option for homeowners who wish to preserve their subflooring and do not want to pay the cost of sanding their floors prior to installation. Nail-down floors are often less expensive than glue-down installations because they use less material and there are no special tools required for installation. However, nail-down floors are not as durable over time as glue-down installations because nails can come loose over time causing boards to warp or split apart easily.

Takeaway: Before you think about picking out new hardwood floors, you should learn as much as you can regarding what's available. Before you are even in the position to pick out which type of hardwood flooring is the best for your own needs, it is a good idea to consider the importance of not just the appearance, but also the price.

Are You Looking for a Hardwood floor refinishing Contractor in Santa Barbara, CA?

Are you looking for a Hardwood floor refinishing contractor in Santa Barbara, CA? If so, look no further! Our company has the skills and expertise to help you with all your hardwood floor refinishing needs. We’re dedicated to providing our customers with high-quality service at reasonable prices.

If you want to learn more about our services or schedule an estimate, give us a call today!

RD HOMES
590 E Gutierrez St Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
805-684-7583
The Complete Guide to Hardwood Floors
Published:

The Complete Guide to Hardwood Floors

Published:

Creative Fields