If you’re interested in updating your home, consider starting with the floors. Though hardwood flooring will always be a classic feature, it can be modernized in several ways to better suit your current interior design. Here are five trending ideas to consider using in your house.

5 Hardwood Flooring Trends to Use in 2020

1. Bleached Wood 

Though dark colors may be more representative of hardwood, this year’s interior design movement leans toward elegant bleaching, whitewashing, or gray staining. This process will not only refresh your floor’s color but also remove old stains and sealants.

2. Creative Patterns

Skip the usual horizontal hardwood pattern that places plank ends together. Instead, create visual interest in the room with patterns like a zig-zag herringbone or a chevron style featuring contrasting colors.

3. Large, Wide Planks

Contractors typically install hardwood flooring in long planks that are three to four inches wide. For 2020, consider selecting wide, short planks instead. This style features fewer joints, making it easier to clean. Plus, this flooring option is less likely to form gaps over time due to dirt and dust buildup, as there are fewer joints to host debris. 

4. Texture

People typically choose smooth finishes that leave hardwood floors looking glossy. However, today’s designers are interested in creating texture through unique hand-scraping and wire-brushing. Whether you want a country-chic whitewash kitchen or a contemporary bedroom, distressing your wood flooring will bring out the natural knots and patterns in the material.

5. Flat Finishes

The shiny hardwood floor finish of the past is phasing out as homeowners move on to flatter looks. Refinish the old floors to sand away glossy layers and reseal them with a matte finish. Or have your contractors use satin for a pearly finish or oil to enhance the natural wood markings.

If you’re interested in upgrading your hardwood flooring, contact American Floors. The family-run company in Riverside, RI, has specialized in installing, repairing, and refinishing hardwood floors for over 40 years. Call (401) 433-0530 to get a free estimate for your flooring project, or check out their previous work on their website.