Hardwood flooring in London, Sarnia, and Chatham, ON adds a touch of natural beauty and warmth to any home. However, with a myriad of wood species available, each with its unique characteristics and charm, selecting the perfect one can feel overwhelming.
This guide delves into the world of hardwood flooring species, helping you make an informed decision based on your style, budget, and lifestyle.
Domestic and exotic hardwood species
Domestic hardwood floors
Red oak: A popular choice known for its warm tones, ranging from light brown to reddish-brown. It features a prominent grain pattern and offers excellent durability.
White oak: Similar to red oak in terms of hardness, white oak boasts a lighter color palette with grayish or yellowish undertones. Its subtle grain pattern lends a classic elegance to any space.
Maple: Valued for its light, creamy color and subtle grain, maple offers a clean and modern aesthetic. It's a durable choice, but its lighter hue can show scratches more easily than darker woods.
Hickory: Known for its dramatic color variations and pronounced grain pattern, hickory brings a rustic charm to any room. It's one of the hardest domestic hardwoods, making it highly durable.
Cherry: This elegant hardwood features warm reddish-brown tones that deepen with age. Its smooth grain pattern and rich color make it a timeless choice for traditional and contemporary homes.
Exotic hardwood species
Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba): Renowned for its deep red color and striking grain patterns, Brazilian cherry is a durable and exotic option.
Brazilian Walnut (Ipe): This dense and extremely hard wood boasts rich brown tones and excellent resistance to wear and tear.
Tigerwood: With its distinctive striped grain pattern resembling tiger stripes, this exotic wood adds a touch of drama and warmth to any space.
Bamboo: Technically a grass, bamboo offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional hardwoods. It comes in various colors and styles, including hand-scraped and strand-woven options.
How to choose the right hardwood floor species for your home
Consider these factors when selecting a hardwood species:
- Lifestyle: If you have pets or children, prioritize harder woods that can withstand scratches and dents.
- Traffic: High-traffic areas require durable species like oak or hickory.
- Desired Look: Choose a species that complements your overall design aesthetic.
- Budget: Exotic hardwoods tend to be more expensive than domestic options.
Find the wood floor species that speaks to you with Sacwal Flooring Centres
The vast array of hardwood flooring species allows you to create a truly unique and personalized look in your home. By understanding the characteristics of different woods and considering your lifestyle and budget, you can select the perfect species to enhance the beauty and value of your space.
Ready to explore the world of hardwood flooring? Visit Sacwal Flooring Centres in Chatham, London, or Sarnia, ON! We have proudly served Southwestern Ontario communities for over 35 years, providing a wide selection of hardwood flooring species and expert advice to help you find the perfect fit for your home.
