Hardwood flooring is not the latest trend in interior home design, but it is one of the most timeless design choices a homeowner can make. Hardwood has everlasting beauty and is something that homes in the New England region have embraced for centuries; hardwood adds a little touch of nature into your home.
One of our favorite hardwood flooring features is that it can go with any style, taste, or practical need. Whether you’re installing brand new flooring or beginning a floor restoration project, there is a style and a look for everyone. At JJ Hardwood, we’ve been installing custom wood floors for almost four decades, and we’ve seen many home design trends come and go, but hardwood flooring is always desired.
One of the questions we hear most is, “what are the best types of hardwood flooring?” We get it; people want to get the best and see value in the flooring they install, but asking which wood flooring is “the best” is like asking “what’s the best movie ever made” or “what’s the best food?” There is no right answer, and it’s going to be different for each person and each property.
The best wood flooring type will be contingent on the property owner’s tastes, needs, and budget. It all depends on preferences, interior design plans, and style.
Considerations for Installation
When deciding on hardwood floor installation, you have to consider a lot more than color. It’s important to think about location, budget, and durability. For example, a large family should have a strong/durable wood floor that’s capable of withstanding a lot of foot traffic, like hickory or oak wood. Be prepared to keep maintenance in mind, especially if you want the floor to last a long time.
Learn About Hardwood Floor Sanding and The Dustless Floor Sanding Techniques Used To Keep Homes Clean!
Prefinished vs. Unfinished Wood Flooring
As the name implies, prefinished hardwood flooring comes ready to go. Sanding is unnecessary, and the wood has already been sealed. The wood is factory-made and capable of being installed immediately, with only minor adjustments made on site. The installation process is less time-consuming, and your floor will be ready to use right away.
Unfinished flooring is used on every custom flooring job. It is appropriate for homeowners installing new floors or require hardwood floor refinishing or hardwood flooring restoration. Unfinished flooring allows installers to apply a custom stain or match the existing flooring. After the hardwood flooring is installed, we will apply several polyurethane sealants to ensure the beauty and durability of the wood lasts as long as possible.
Types of Wood Flooring
There’s no such thing as the best hardwood flooring. But, there is the best hardwood flooring available for different homeowners and their needs. Depending on budget, durability, and style, one type may be better suited than another. To help homeowners get started, here are some of the most popular types of hardwood flooring we install on our projects.
Popular Wood Species for Hardwood Flooring
Cherry
- Very hard and durable, especially Brazilian cherry
- Great for lots of foot traffic
- Comfortable and shock absorbent
- Beautiful red colors
Oak
- Durability is flexible depending on the subspecies of oak
- Long-lasting
- Minimal time to repair and restore
- Lots of colors and species to choose from
Maple
- Trendy, popular, and moderately durable
- Easily accessible
- Can handle minor damage like scrapes and scratches
Mahogany
- Durable and water-resistant
- Gorgeous and matchable design
- Affordable and valuable
To learn more about hardwood flooring options, wood species, and custom installations, please contact us!