Hardwood floors are a stunning addition to any home and can be made from several materials. Choosing the right one isn’t always easy, especially if you aren’t familiar with home renovation or flooring installation. Each has its advantages, so use the guide below to ensure you select what’s best for your budget and needs.

Types of Hardwood Flooring Materials

Oak

Oak is the most common material for hardwood floors. It’s cost-effective since oak is abundant across the country and highly customizable. It absorbs stains well so you can create the best color for your rooms, and its large grains make it scratch-resistant. This is why many homeowners install it in high-traffic areas or if they have pets. You should consider white oak or red oak—the two most popular options.

Maple

Maple wood if harder and lighter in color than oak, and is usually resourced from Canada and the Northern U.S. Homeowners choose it because its light grain appears smoother than other materials, making it a perfect fit for ultra-modern and contemporary interior design. It’s more expensive and can yellow under sunlight, so it needs to be sealed well during installation. It also comes in several grades that vary in price, with the clear grade being one of the most expensive.

Hickory

If you want an oak alternative that looks similar, hickory is your best bet for hardwood floors. It’s slightly harder than oak and maple and comes with natural color variation, which is why homeowners often use the natural color as opposed to staining it. It covers scratches and dents well because of its hardness and is more expensive than most materials. It’s wise to use hickory in areas with a lot of foot traffic, like your dining room or living room.

If you’re ready to add hardwood floors to your home, W&W Flooring & Design of Foley, AL, has all the products and services you need. Voted No. 1 for flooring in the greater Baldwin area, these professionals stock carpet, laminate flooring, hardwood products, ceramic tile, and more—all of which you can explore on their website. They also provide comprehensive installation services, so call (251) 970-5244 to speak with a sales associate. For news and updates, connect on Facebook.