Solid wood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners for its durability and style options. It is also a premium flooring material that can increase a home?s value when it comes time to sell. However, not everyone is aware that solid wood floors can also improve air quality in a home and reduce the number of allergens found in a house.
Unlike carpet, which traps dirt particles, solid wood is naturally anti-allergenic and has the ability to repel dust mites. Additionally, hardwood floors are easy to clean and will not require regular vacuuming or sweeping. They are also less prone to scratches and scuffs than other types of floors. Additionally, wood floors can be refinished as needed to restore their appearance and extend their lifespan.
Solid hardwood flooring is available in many different species of wood, providing a wide range of color and design options for your home. It can complement a modern, rustic, or traditional style home, and can be combined with almost any type of furniture.
The natural beauty of solid wood flooring will add warmth and elegance to any space. Additionally, it can help to create a more open feeling in a room by creating a visual connection between the walls and ceiling. Solid wood floors are durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic and constant use. They are also an excellent choice for homes with children and pets.
One of the primary reasons why solid wood flooring is so popular is because it is easy to maintain. This type of flooring requires little maintenance other than sweeping and occasionally mopping with a damp cloth. When properly maintained, wood floors can last for decades and will look beautiful throughout the lifetime of the homeowner.
Hardwood floors can also be sanded and refinished to renew their appearance. This allows the floors to be refreshed over time and will give them a new lease on life, making them an attractive selling point for any home. This feature is especially important when it comes to resale, as potential buyers will likely be looking for well-maintained and updated floor coverings.
In addition to sanding and refinishing, solid wood floors can be customized with a variety of techniques such as brushing and distressing. These effects can enhance the grain of the wood and create a more rustic, worn look. In some cases, these effects are used to create unique patterns that would be difficult or impossible with other flooring materials such as carpet.
Unlike engineered wood, which uses layers of real and manmade wood, solid wood is a single piece of wood from top to bottom. It is a more expensive option, but it is also able to withstand moisture and humidity better than other types of flooring. Generally, solid wood is not recommended for below grade rooms such as basements, as moisture can cause the wood to swell. In these situations, an expansion gap must be used around the perimeter of the room to account for moisture levels.