Solid Wood Flooring Offers Many Fantastic Benefits

By Author: Vikram Kumar
Total Articles: 9687
Comment this article

When it comes to your home's flooring, you may have considered engineered wood flooring, which is often called laminate flooring. However, there is really nothing that can compare to solid wood flooring in terms of durability, general beauty, and value. It can quickly increase the overall value of your home, but it's worth far more than that. The inherent beauty of solid wood flooring is exceptional, many times becoming the main focal point in the room.
You have a number of choices for wood flooring and one of the most important will be the type of hardwood. From oak to ash to walnut, each type has its own specific characteristics that make it unique. Some are harder than others are, resisting wear and scratches, while others have a more intricate grain. There are also many color variations, even within the same types of wood. Some are stained, but many are only sealed, leaving the true beauty of the wood. You will find different sizes of wood flooring, such as narrow strips to wider planks. The best way to determine what is best for your needs is to look at all the different variations and see which kind really catches ...
... your eye.
Solid wood flooring that comes from an environmentally sound growing operation is best. Natural timber wood flooring that is harvested in the winter months is best, as this is when the sap content is lowest. You also want wood that is well seasoned in order to get the right moisture content. If the wood isn't seasoned correctly, there could be several different problems after the flooring is installed. Cupping and crowning is quite common in wood that isn't dry enough, as the wood will contract and expand with the moisture levels in the home. This often results in gaps in the flooring and while some gapping is normal, wood that is not seasoned properly can results in gaps that do not correct themselves when the moisture levels even out.
The internet is a fantastic place to start your search for the prefect wood flooring. You can see the various hardwood types, sizes, colors, and pricing. Remember that installation should only be done by an experienced craftsman. If not, there could be several issues later and the amount of waste from improperly cut boards is always a possibility. There are generally three types of installation, including glue, nails, and floating floors. The decision as to which type of installation is best will depend on the type of subfloor and the type of solid wood flooring you choose.
In closing, a wood floor is one of the best ways to add beauty and value to your home. Solid wood flooring can last several decades when installed properly and it adds a warm, inviting feeling to any room. Do a bit of research ahead of time to ensure that you understand all the specifications of the wood and the type of flooring it is. This will eliminate many of the common problems encountered later on.

Authro Bio

French Timber Direct is a reputable source for some of the finest Wood Flooring in the world. This company offers beautiful Solid Wood Flooring direct from forests in France, Germany, and Belgium.