Solid hardwood floors bring a touch of natural beauty to any room and can last for decades with proper care. However, for those thinking about installing them in your home, the myriad of options available can seem overwhelming. The guide below looks at some of the most popular varieties, so you can decide if they will fit in with your aesthetic and lifestyle.

A Guide to Hardwood Floors

1. Cherry

American cherry has a gorgeous red color and tight grain. Because it is a soft kind of wood, it is often used to make furniture and cabinets; therefore, if you have several cherry pieces in your living room, choosing the same wood for the floor could help tie the space together seamlessly. However, that same softness means that it is more prone to denting and scratching under the weight of a heavy couch or your dog’s nails. Over the years, you may also notice it darkening in response to sunlight. 

2. Hickory

By contrast, hickory floors are made for durability—capable of withstanding the effects of heavy foot traffic. However, its strength is also a weakness because it makes it more difficult to install and sand down, which, in turn, drives up installation costs. Ranging in color from whitish to tan, it can also be hard to stain due to having such a tight grain, so make sure its natural beauty suits your style before arranging for installation.

3. Oak

Oak comes in a variety of options, including red and white. The first has a warm brownish hue, while the latter ranges from pale brown to grey. While soft like cherry, scratches can be fairly easily buffed out with hardwood floor sanding. Furthermore, this is usually a more affordable option. 

4. Mahogany

Mahogany is more resistant to water damage and, therefore, warping than other hardwoods. It also demonstrates its durability in other ways—such as not scratching easily. However, it can be more expensive than some other hardwoods and, like cherry, will likely darken with time—making it smart to install boards a few shades lighter than the intended end result.

While hardwood floors last a long time, they can show signs of wear and tear within a few years. When that happens, turn to Carl Bohlmeyer Floor Sanding in Lincoln, NE, to keep your flooring looking pristine. For over 50 years, this locally owned and operated wood floor contractor has provided residents and business owners with floor refinishing and resurfacing services. This company is known for its competitive prices, top quality workmanship, and beautiful natural and stain finishes. Call (402) 423-7225 for a free estimate or visit their website to view a gallery of their past work.