Four tips for choosing the perfect hardwood

Wood flooring adds timeless beauty to your home and, when you choose it, you're also making a significant investment because it will increase your property values. But, of course, you want to make the best decision, so we've compiled a list of the four things you should consider when shopping for hardwood floors.

What’s your overall style?

Don't worry–we're not telling you it has to match, but you want your home to have a cohesive look, so make sure the colors and styles don't clash! Be sure also to discuss this with your flooring expert, primarily since some textures and finishes work better than others with certain types.

What’s the room like?

This is an essential consideration for many reasons. First, water is the public enemy #one of solid hardwood flooring (or any wood, for that matter). If the room you plan to install is humid or prone to excess water or humidity, you may consider another hardwood version: engineered wood floors.

While the two hardwood versions look similar, the difference is underneath where you can't see it. Engineered is layered with a combination of genuine wood with a bit of resin and placed in a crosswise position, giving it more stability and a better ability to handle water.

You also need to think about size and sun exposure, affecting plank size and color.

Do you want a domestic or exotic species?

Like oak or maple, domestics are harvested within North America and are more traditional and warmer. Exotics from locations like Brazil, Indonesia, Southeast Asia, and Africa are darker, more dramatic, and, some say, more contemporary. Your choice will depend upon your style and budget.

Do you plan to stain the floors?

Some hardwoods accept stains better than others; generally, the more open the grain, the more porous and receptive to stains. However, there's always an exception, so be sure to discuss this with your flooring professional.

Let's help you select the right hardwood flooring. Smitty's Floor Covering, a family-owned hardwood flooring company that first opened its doors in 1958, has a well-known reputation for quality products and superior service. (We also offer free quotes.) Our showroom is in Denton, TX, and we work with homeowners and businesses in Corinth, Hickory Creek, Krum, and Ponder.