Beyond Oak: Other Hardwood Flooring Options for Toronto Homes

Beyond Oak: Other Hardwood Flooring Options for Toronto Homes

Due to its sturdiness, beauty, and classic appeal, hardwood is a preferred flooring option among Toronto homeowners. While oak flooring has long been the standard, there are many other hardwood species with distinct advantages and characteristics.

When planning to install hardwood flooring, it is important to explore all your options before making a decision. At AA Floors, we understand how essential it is to make the right decision when it comes to flooring, so here are our top recommendations.

Let’s get started.

Exploring Different Species of Hardwood Flooring to Install in Your Toronto Home

Choosing the right flooring material can make a big difference to your space and lifestyle, so it’s essential to pick the right one. Here are a few options other than standard oak to consider when planning to install hardwood in your Toronto home.

 

Considerations for Solid Hardwood Flooring Installation in Toronto

Here are a few things you need to keep in mind when shopping for solid hardwood flooring.

• Climate and Environmental Factors

It must be kept in mind that hardwood floors are susceptible to changes in the environment. Toronto’s climate, including its humidity levels, vary throughout the year. So, make sure you have a dehumidifier and air conditioner to maintain a stable environment for your hardwood. Consult with a professional installer to help you make an informed choice.

• Care and Maintenance

As a conscientious homeowner in Toronto or Etobicoke, it is important to consider the level of maintenance you are willing to undertake for your wooden floors.

Solid hardwood requires daily maintenance to maintain hygiene and periodic sealing to ensure the longevity and beauty of your hardwood floors.

• Budget and Cost

This is a critical decision that needs to be considered with care. Solid hardwood flooring is not as affordable as laminate or vinyl flooring, so make sure to have the budget for it. Consider the cost of installation and additional materials like transitions and moulding.

Hardwood Flooring Materials Besides Oak

Now let’s have a look at some other hardwood species.

1. Maple

Maple is a well-liked domestic hardwood species. It is a durable option with a 1450 Janka hardness scale rating. It is known for being tough and long lasting, making it resistant to dents and scratches. The subtle grain patterns and light, creamy colour of maple give any room a clean, modern appearance.

The width of your maple hardwood flooring is also going to play a role in the overall appearance of your space. Speak with our experts if you are unsure whether wide or narrow planks will work best.

2. Hickory

Hickory flooring offers a special fusion of toughness and rustic appeal. Rich, warm colours and eye-catching grain patterns make for a visually-appealing floor. Hickory is rated 1850 on the Janka scale and is an exceptionally hard choice for high-traffic areas.

This quality makes it resistant to wear and tear. When choosing any hardwood flooring in Etobicoke, Toronto, or anywhere else, it is important to consider your lifestyle and area of installation. That way, you can make the best choice for your space.

3. Birch

Do you love light wooden floors that create bright contemporary spaces? Then birch is a good idea. With a Janka hardness scale of 1260, it is a good option for low to moderate-traffic areas of your home.

Please note that birch hardwood flooring has a tendency to become yellow with prolonged exposure to sunlight. So, make sure to use carpets or area rugs and heavy curtains to protect your birch floors.

4. Brazilian Cherry

A popular hardwood variety with a Janka rating of 2350, this excellent solid hardwood flooring is extremely durable. Among all the exotic hardwood varieties, Brazilian cherry is the most affordable choice thanks to secondary forests providing a greater abundance of material.

5. White Ash

Ash is another great choice for homes, with a 1320 rating on the Janka scale. This durable and affordable option is available in shades of light brown. White ash has exceptional shock resistance, just like hickory. Whether you install narrow or wide planks will determine the overall look of your space.

 

While homeowners in Toronto have traditionally chosen oak flooring, there are many additional hardwood species worth exploring. Brazilian cherry, birch, maple, ash, and hickory all have special qualities and advantages that can improve the look and performance of your floors. By considering elements like climate, maintenance, and budget, you can choose the ideal hardwood flooring to satisfy your needs and improve your Toronto home. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us to solve your flooring problems.