Hardwood is a classic flooring material that offers beauty and durability to your home. You can enhance your floors with hardwood staining, which will alter the color of the wood. There are numerous color options available, but homeowners often struggle over choosing a light or dark stain. If you’re unsure which direction is best for your home, here is a brief guide discussing the pros and cons of both categories. 

Dark Hardwood Staining

Dark stains are excellent for hiding problems with an older floor, such as fading from sun exposure and water stains. It will give the floor a uniform appearance that is almost impossible to replicate with filler colors. Once the hardwood staining is complete, the darker floors will be a stunning contrast to lighter colored walls, furniture, and cabinets. 

One of the most significant drawbacks to dark hardwood stains is that it is difficult to keep clean. Dirt and pet hair are much more noticeable, so this staining option may not be ideal if you don’t want to sweep or mop your floors often. Shallow scratches can also be more visible because of how the stain reflects light, but you can combat this by using a satin finish to minimize imperfections. A semigloss sheen would highlight the problem.

Light Hardwood Staining

Light-colored floors tend to look cleaner since crumbs, dirt, and hair are less visible on lighter surfaces. Scratches and dents are also not as noticeable, so this option works well with pet owners. With this flooring option, your home will feel more spacious, which is highly beneficial for smaller houses. A significant benefit of light-colored hardwood floors is that they offer a contrast to most area rugs and furniture, helping those with poor vision to avoid trips-and-falls.  

Lighter stains complement most furniture styles and wall colors; however, you’ll want to be mindful of your home’s color scheme. With light-colored walls, floors, and furniture, the room can look monochromatic and dull.

Hardwood staining is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your old floors. The professionals at Hardwood Rescue offer a variety of services, including hardwood refinishing, staining, repairs, and custom installations. Serving the greater St. Louis, MO, area, for more than 17 years, their trained team works closely with clients to create impeccable floors for their rooms. Call (636) 532-5476 for a free estimate. You can also learn more about this Better Business Bureau accredited company by visiting their website.