For the last century or so, wooden flooring has been an exceptionally popular choice – especially in affluent homes. The luxury that hardwood floors introduce leaves this product a sought-after display of grandeur. If you have thought about hardwood floors or other forms of wooden flooring solutions, then we are here to answer all your questions.
While hardwood floors certainly make a statement in any home, they come with many characteristics that some may find undesirable or unsuitable. It is crucial to do ample research before purchasing and installing hardwood floors in your home.
1. What Is Wooden Flooring?
Wooden flooring is a product that is manufactured from real wood timber planks and used as flooring. Common types of wood used include oak, maple, mahogany and many more. Softwood floors, on the other hand, are made from wood is which considered lightweight or “soft”, such as pine or cedar. Wooden flooring is generally quite expensive and requires more care than other kinds of flooring, which is why engineered wooden flooring is the best alternative. You get the same look, at a more affordable price, but without the hassle of making sure it stays in mint condition.
2. Why Is It So Popular?
Wooden floors are still a favourite flooring choice because of the classical elegance they embody, and homeowners love the feeling of nostalgia in them.
3. Is It Hard to Maintain?
The short answer is that yes, real hardwood floors are hard to maintain. Wet mopping should be avoided due to the effect excess moisture has on the finish of the wood. A damp cloth or mop once in a while won’t hurt but using a broom or microfibre mop is preferred. Once the finish on the wood begins to dull, you will need to use a specialised wood floor cleaner (according to the type of wooden floors you have). Heavy furniture should never be dragged across hardwood, as deep scuff and scratch marks can only be removed by replacing the damaged plank. Pets with long nails and even certain types of shoes can do damage to wooden floors too, so it’s best to think carefully about where you install hardwood floors.
4. What Are the Alternatives?
Not everyone is a fan of how finicky hardwood floors are, but the good news is that there are several alternatives to wooden floors that still look just as authentic, such as:
- Laminates: An affordable flooring solution that emulates hardwood. Laminate flooring is durable, scratch- and stain-resistant, and much easier to maintain.
- Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP): A moisture-resistant, hard-wearing flooring solution made from layers of PVC vinyl that offers resilience in any room of the home.
- Engineered wood: This type of flooring doesn’t warp or buckle as easily when faced with moisture. Installation of engineered wood is a more straightforward process than installing hardwood.
If you would like to create the opulent look and feel of real wooden floors without the cost, high maintenance and time-consuming installation, feel free to contact us at Top Carpets and Floors. Our range of laminates, LVP floors, and engineered wood is sure to interest you.
