The perfect hardwood floor needs to complement your style and withstand the rigours of daily life. Hardwood floors, in particular, can dramatically enhance the beauty and value of your home.
But with so many options available, how do you know which hardwood is right for you?
Some types offer unparalleled durability and elegance, while some last longer than others. Let’s look at nine types of hardwood floors that hardwood retailers in Toronto recommend installing… and avoiding.
Hardwood Flooring to Install and Avoid: What Hardwood Floor Retailers Suggest
We’ve asked hardwood floor retailers in Toronto for expert advice on which hardwood to install and which to avoid. Let’s explore their insights.
Types of Hardwood to Install
1. Oak: The Classic Choice
Oak is the go-to choice for many homeowners. Its timeless appeal, strength, and durability make it a favourite among hardwood retailers.
Oak’s grain patterns and variety of stains allow for a wide range of aesthetic options, ensuring it fits seamlessly with any home decor. This is undoubtedly one of the most installed hardwood flooring species in Toronto.
2. Maple: The Durable Option
Maple is renowned for its strength and resilience. This type of hardwood floor is less porous than other varieties, making it resistant to stains and spills. Its light, creamy colour and subtle grain pattern provide a clean, contemporary look perfect for modern homes.
3. Hickory: The Hardwearing Beauty
If you’re looking for something that can handle heavy foot traffic and still look stunning, hickory may be your best bet. Known for its distinctive, contrasting grain patterns and incredible hardness, hickory is a top choice for busy households and commercial spaces alike.
4. Walnut: The Luxurious Selection
Walnut exudes a sense of luxury and sophistication. Its rich, dark tones and smooth texture add a touch of elegance to any room. While it is not as hard as oak or hickory, walnut is popular for living rooms and bedrooms thanks to its beauty and warmth.
5. Cherry: The Elegant Touch
Cherry is prized for its smooth grain and rich, reddish-brown colour. Over time, it darkens to an even deeper hue, adding to its charm and elegance.
While it is softer than some other hardwoods, its striking appearance makes it a worthwhile investment for lower-traffic areas.
6. Ash: The Flexible Favourite
Ash is known for its excellent shock resistance and appealing light colour. Its distinctive grain patterns, which can range from straight to curly, offer a unique look.
Ash is also relatively hard and durable, making it versatile for various applications.
Types of Hardwood to Avoid
1. Pine: The Softer Choice
While pine is appealing due to its rustic look and affordability, it is generally too soft for high-traffic areas. It dents and scratches too easily, making it impractical for busy households. Pine might be suitable for a cozy, low-traffic bedroom but not for areas with heavy use.
2. Birch: The Brittle Choice
Despite its attractive appearance, birch is known for being brittle. This can lead to splintering and cracking, especially in fluctuating temperatures and humidity. Birch’s maintenance demands and susceptibility to damage make it an undesirable option for long-term use.
3. Bamboo: The Misleading Myth
Bamboo flooring is often marketed as a sustainable and durable alternative to traditional hardwoods. However, not all bamboo is created equal. Lower-quality bamboo is prone to scratches and dents, and its production process sometimes involves harmful chemicals. It is essential to research and select high-quality bamboo if you choose to go this route.
FAQ
1. What is the best type of hardwood for high-traffic areas?
Hickory and oak are excellent choices for high-traffic areas due to their hardness and durability.
2. How do I maintain my hardwood floors?
Regular sweeping, mopping with a damp cloth, and using furniture pads can help maintain your hardwood floors. Avoid using too much water and harsh cleaning agents.
3. Is bamboo flooring a good alternative to traditional hardwood?
While bamboo is a sustainable option, it is important to choose high-quality bamboo to avoid issues around durability and chemical processing.
4. Can I install hardwood floors in a kitchen or bathroom?
Hardwood floors can be installed in kitchens, but it is crucial to manage moisture levels. Bathrooms are generally not recommended due to their high humidity and water exposure.
5. How does the colour of hardwood change over time?
Some hardwoods, like cherry, darken over time, enhancing their natural beauty. It is important to consider this when choosing a wood type for your home.
Selecting the right hardwood floor ensures your home looks beautiful and stands up to daily wear and tear. By considering the advice of hardwood floor retailers in Toronto, you can make an informed decision that balances aesthetics, durability, and maintenance. Remember, while the perfect hardwood floor can transform your space, the wrong choice can lead to unnecessary stress and expense.
AA Floors & More Ltd.
524 Evans Ave Etobicoke ON M8W 2V4
TELEPHONE : (416) 201-9611
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Monday-Friday 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
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