Especially if you have been spending more time at home, you may be seriously considering installing hardwood floors.  This is a good investment for personal enjoyment and added value at resale.  However, you may be wondering which type of wood will be best for you.

Oak

This is a classic choice.  It is very durable and comes in a variety of colors and can also be stained. 

Maple

Maple has a grain pattern that is more subtle than other hardwoods.  That makes it a popular choice for either large or small areas.  It is durable so is very appropriate for high-traffic rooms and hallways.  Because it is less porous, it won’t absorb a stain as well as other woods.  So, if you don’t like the original color, you may want to go with something else.

Pine

Pine is not a hardwood.  While it is classified as a softwood or character wood, it is still very durable.  It ages well over time and will offer a classic appearance for many years.

Hickory

If you prefer something a little more rustic than urban, hickory is a good option.  In its natural state, it has a distressed appearance.  It also can take a lot of foot traffic and still hold up over time.

Ash

With somewhere between 45 and 65 different types of ash trees to choose from, you will have a lot of samples to look at.  Each variety has its own advantages and disadvantages, so carefully research before you make the final decision.  It is usually less expensive than other types of wood.

Bamboo

This is one of the hot options around.  It is a sustainable product because a bamboo plant will grow to maturity within 90 days.  It is actually a grass and is available in many colors and shades.  Since it is not a hardwood, it can scratch or dent easily but can also be sanded and refinished.  It does not deal well with humid or damp climates.

Walnut

This is one of the strongest hardwoods available.  That makes it ideal for high-traffic rooms or homes with small children and pets.  There are different varieties of walnut but most finishes will be dark.  It is a versatile choice.

Cherry

This will provide an elegant finish to any room.  When first installed, it will have a more reddish or pink tone and will deepen in color over time.  They are more susceptible to scratches but proper upkeep and periodic refinishing will fix the problem.  Brazilian cherry is more reddish brown and somewhat more durable.

Mahogany

Definitely at the top of the elegance scale, mahogany is a darker, classic wood that only gets better with time.  It is near the top price wise but it also offers a great value for the money spent.

Rosewood

You will find this has one of the greatest range in colors depending on the species, ranging from yellow to a purple.  Its unusual grain pattern has made it popular for furniture for decades but is now making it appearance in flooring.

When you work with a flooring specialist, you will be better able to narrow your preferences. If you need help choosing your Ottawa hardwood floor, check out Continental Flooring. Specialists in hardwood flooring, olympia tile, euro tile and much more, serving Ottawa, Nepean, Kanata, Barrhaven and Orleans areas since 2000.