Articles By Syndicated Columnist
Dan Thomas
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Improvement Inside And Out
Designing With Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are the most versatile flooring out there. They
are suitable for both casual and
formal rooms. They are traditional yet can have
a very modern look to them. With all the different types of wood hardwood floors
can be country, jazz, rock or classic and yes even hip hop. With all the stains,
finishes, styles and designs along with the best state of the art technology
make hardwood floors not only affordable but very practical especially with our
active lifestyles today.
Hardwoods such as oak with all the growth ring patterns and knots is ideal
for traditional , country or rustic looking hardwood floors. If you want the
rustic to look formal just add a high gloss finish and your rustic hardwood
floors will be elegant enough for any formal dining room.
For contemporary and modern design hardwood floors I suggest Maples, Walnut
and Birch which contain very little graining.
When classifying hardwood for hardwood floors the aesthetic appeal is
influenced to a large extent by the appearance of knots, streaking which is
caused by minerals and also the shade and color difference.
You have different types.
Clear - This has no defects but may have some imperfections. here you will
find mineral streaking and knots making it the expensive grade of hardwood
floors.
Select - This is classified as almost clear but has some natural
characteristics like knots and color variations.
No 1 and No 2 Common Grades - These have more markings than clear or select
and bring character to the hardwood floors in any room.
No 1 Common - has light and dark colors along with flags, worm holes and
knots.
Common grades (No. 1 and No. 2) have more markings than either clear or
select and are often chosen because of these natural features and the
character they bring to a room.
No 2 Common is your rustic hardwood floor.
The less porous the wood the harder and less susceptible to staining. Keep
this in mind when choosing your hardwood floors.
Also keep in mind that factors such as what type of sub floor and the
relative air humidity you have in that room will also help to determine the
best hardwood floor for your needs.
If you choose the correct Hardwood floor and maintain it properly you
should never have to replace it again.
