If you have the luxury of upgrading your flooring, hardwood is a difficult contender to pass up. After all, this elegant material won’t just level up your interior design scheme, it can also raise the value of your home should you decide to sell it down the line. If you’re ready to make the switch but want to know more about hardwood floors in general, consider the following answers to these frequently asked questions.

4 FAQ About Hardwood Floors for Homeowners

1. How should I choose the type of hardwood?

If your concerns are purely aesthetic, you might want to consult a professional designer who can help you coordinate a color scheme. Not all wood is plain brown — you can choose from light birch wood to the reddish hue of mahogany. It’s necessary to consider durability as well, especially if you have children or pets. Some woods are more resistant to scratches than others, such as hickory.

2. What rooms are best for hardwood floors?

In most cases, you won’t be replacing the flooring throughout your entire home, and when it comes to hardwood, that’s often the best choice. Be hesitant about installing wood flooring in rooms that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and laundry rooms, as the water can cause wood to warp and buckle. If you have your heart set on putting hardwood floors in the kitchen, make sure they’re sealed with a protective coating to keep moisture out.

3. How should I take care of hardwood?

It’s important to sweep or vacuum hardwood flooring on a regular basis so that abrasive particles don’t dull the finish. If you have pets, you may need to do so every few days. However, you don’t have to pull out the mop and bucket for this flooring material. Instead, use a dry mop with microfiber tassels to pick up finer pieces of dirt. If you spill something, you can use a damp mop to remove stickiness.

4. How can I prevent fading?

If you’re worried about your floors becoming vulnerable to discoloration, it pays to have them sealed with a protective coating. Also, if your house receives a decent amount of natural light, close the blinds whenever you can to prevent UV rays from deteriorating the wood.

If you’re interested in outfitting your home with hardwood floors, get in touch with Accent Flooring of Cincinnati, OH. You can see the beauty of natural hardwood in person by visiting their showroom, as well as a variety of other materials like carpet, vinyl, and tile. For more information on their selection, visit the website. You can also speak to a friendly team member by calling (513) 481-8600.