Hardwood Floors Add Warm, Sophisticated Appeal

by Allison E. Beatty

Hardwood floors have become a hot option in many homes, as consumers look to bring a warm, traditional look to their living space. If you're thinking about buying new floors, consider the many benefits of hardwood floors.

Hardwood--Cost-Conscious Options
Hardwood floors come in a wide variety of wood species and stains. A light colored wood can be stained to replicate cherry wood, for example. By contrast, a clear satin stain on 100-year-old oak floor creates an old fashioned look. Many hardwood floors are priced in the same range as ceramic or porcelain tile--$3 to $6 per square foot. The cost increases by 10 to 20 percent for specialty woods, such as Brazilian cherry or walnut. Those two woods add darker tones to the floor, with Brazilian cherry bringing in a unique mix of browns and red.

Use Wood Flooring for a Unifying Look
When selecting flooring, a common guideline is to use the same material throughout the main rooms on the first floor. This means that red oak wood floors would start in the foyer and run through the hallway and into the kitchen, dining room and family room. This continuity helps make the spaces flow well together. There are exceptions to that guideline, however. Some people like to switch to a bold tile or stone for the foyer, as it adds a unique element in that important focal point. Others may use more formal flooring in the dining room, perhaps adding in a border of mahogany wood or a unique medallion pattern.

Hardwood Floors That Last
When selecting hardwood flooring, remember that wood will show scratches over time. Ask the contractor to add an extra coat of sealer to protect the floor. Darker woods also can fade with the sun, so consider window treatments that can block the sun in key spots. Wood flooring also can warp from water damage, so it helps to clean spills right away. With the right installation and care, your new wood floors can last a lifetime.

About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years