Your Complete Guide to Hardwood Floors
There are many flooring options, but hardwood floors have always been one of the most popular because of their many benefits. If you bought a house with hardwood floors, or you're considering installing hardwood floors, you may have a lot of questions. If you would like to know more about hardwood floor benefits and maintenance, keep reading.
What Are the Benefits of Hardwood Floors?
One of the leading benefits of hardwood floors is their beauty. Hardwood floors have a timeless and versatile look. Hardwood is a neutral option, so you don't have to worry about making sure the floors, walls, and the rest of the room fit together cohesively.
In addition, cleaning the floor is incredibly easy because you can simply use a broom or cloth to remove debris. However, if you have pets, especially dogs with long nails, they may scratch the flooring. Other causes of dents may include chairs and dropping heavy items like pots or pans on the floor. Overall, however, hardwood floors are a durable option. In fact, with good care, hardwood floors can last between 30 and 100 years.
Finally, besides being easier to clean than other options like carpet, hardwood floors are better for indoor air quality. Carpets trap and hold onto irritants, which can get into the air, causing allergies and breathing complications. Poor indoor air quality can cause:
- Coughing/sneezing
- Itchy eyes
- Running nose
- Itchy skin
- Irritated throat
- Breathing difficulties
- Asthma attacks
With hardwood floors, you can reduce the above symptoms often caused by dust and allergens trapped in the carpet.
What Type of Wood Is Best?
Naturally, hardwood floors are made from hardwood trees. Wood from softwood trees may be too weak, making it easier to chip, dent, and scratch the wood. However, there are many types of hardwood species to consider.
Some common hardwood choices include oak, maple, and hickory, but you can get more exotic choices for a more unique look. Of course, since they are less common and harder to obtain, exotic woods may cost more. 5-5 Ultimately, the best wood for you depends on many factors, including:
- Price of the wood and installation
- Wood hardness
- Wood color
- Woodgrain/design
- Level of maintenance
How Do You Maintain a Hardwood Floor?
Naturally, part of maintenance is keeping the floor free of debris, but make sure to clean your hardwood floor properly. You should not use water or mops on your hardwood floor. Hardwood floors are good at resisting water, but they are not waterproof. If the hardwood starts to absorb water, it will swell. Once the wood dries, it shrinks and may crack or become more brittle.
For this reason, you should also clean up any spills as soon as possible. Failure to clean up spills right away may also lead to stains in the wood. You can, however, use a wood floor cleaner for stubborn grime or debris.
Finally, about every 5-10 years, you should refinish the floor. By adding finish, you better protect the wood from damage, especially moisture damage. Before applying the new finish, experts will buff the top layer of the floor. This removes many types of small scratches. If you would like the floor to look like new again a complete sanding and finishing is needed.
If you have a hardwood floor and it's looking a little worn, it may be time to consider having it refinished. With skilled technicians, your floor can look amazing again. If you would like to know more about hardwood floors and maintenance, or if you want to schedule an appointment, contact us at Sandmasters Hardwood Floors.
