How Long Does It Take to Sand Hardwood Floors

Understanding Types of Wood Floors

Adding a wood floor to your home can increase its value and elevate your style. Best of all, it goes with every design theme, ranging from modern to rustic. There are many different types of wood floors to choose from. Learn more about them with this guide.

Wood Species

Many different wood species are used to make wood flooring, though oak, hickory, maple, walnut and cherry are usually the most popular species of wood used in homes, according to Bob Vila. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Cherry tends to be expensive, but it's durable and attractive, according to Home Stratosphere. Walnut is resistant to light damage and fading, and it's best for low- to medium-traffic areas. Oak scratches easily, but it blends well with any style of decor. Maple is affordable, and it's considered a durable option for people with pets and kids. Hickory is the hardest type of flooring, making it durable, but because of its hardness, it's more expensive to install. Other types to consider include bamboo, ash, teak, Douglas fir, birch, pine, poplar and mahogany.

Finished Vs. Unfinished

Wood flooring either comes prefinished or unfinished. Prefinished is sealed and sanded at the factory, and it arrives at the store or your home ready to install. It's quick, easy and inexpensive to put in, but it does cost more. It's also harder to find exactly what you want if you're seeking a custom shade. It typically comes with a warranty for the finish and color.

Unfinished flooring is cheaper initially, but it costs more to install which can really eat into your budget. It's also more time-consuming, and the finishing process can potentially add toxic fumes to your home. However, it does allow you to get the exact style or shade you want, and there is little room for error when it comes to board height.

Solid Wood Vs. Engineered

You can also choose between solid and engineered wood flooring. Solid wood is just that: a solid piece of wood but into boards. It's typically five-eights to three-fourths of an inch thick, according to the DIY network, and it's made from the type of wood species it advertises from top to bottom. You can refinish it as needed, though it isn't recommended for basements or bathrooms. Engineered wood is a veneer from the species of your choice glued to a cheaper wood, like plywood. It's usually more resistant to humidity than solid wood, but may not be able to be refinished more than once if that.

Styles

Naturally, your style will also dictate what type of flooring you choose. Beyond the species, wood grade, saw cut, angle at which the wood was cut and finishes can all help determine how a certain type of wood will look. You can also choose from different textures, like distressed or hand-scraped.

Considerations

When you're adding wood flooring to your home, there is more to consider than the style and type of wood you choose. If you have pets or children or the floor will be in a high-traffic area, you want something that is durable. Some types need more maintenance after installation than others, so keep that in mind. Of course, your budget will also play a role in the flooring you choose.

More From QuestionsAnswered.net

How Long Does It Take to Sand Hardwood Floors

Source: https://www.questionsanswered.net/article/understanding-types-wood-floors?utm_content=params%3Ao%3D740012%26ad%3DdirN%26qo%3DserpIndex

Share this post