Wood floors bring warmth and elegance to any space, but selecting the right type for high-traffic areas requires careful consideration. Durability and maintenance are key factors to ensure your floors withstand the demands of a busy household.
Let’s explore three popular wood flooring options which are ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Engineered wood flooring: Engineered wood offers a perfect balance of beauty and durability. It features a real wood veneer on top, providing the authentic look and feel of hardwood, with a plywood base for added stability. This makes it less susceptible to warping and expansion than solid hardwood, making it ideal for areas prone to moisture or temperature fluctuations.
- Hardwood flooring: A timeless classic, hardwood flooring adds value and sophistication to any home. Oak, maple, and hickory are popular choices known for their durability and ability to handle heavy foot traffic. Hardwood is relatively easy to clean and maintain and can be refinished multiple times to restore its original beauty.
- Hickory flooring: If you’re looking for exceptional durability, hickory flooring is an excellent choice. It is one of the hardest domestic wood species available, known for its resistance to wear and tear. Hickory features a distinctive grain pattern with a variety of color variations, adding character and visual interest to your space.
Factors to Consider
- Hardness: The Janka hardness scale measures the resistance of wood to denting and wear. Choose a species with a higher rating for high-traffic areas.
- Grain pattern: The grain pattern affects the appearance and durability of the wood. Tighter grain patterns tend to be more resistant to wear.
- Finish: The finish protects the wood from scratches and stains. Consider a durable finish like polyurethane for high-traffic areas.
- Lifestyle: If you have pets or children, choose a harder wood that can withstand active households.
Maintenance Tips
- Regularly sweep or vacuum to remove dirt and debris.
- Clean up spills immediately to prevent staining.
- Use furniture pads to protect floors from scratches.
- Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with cleats on wood floors.
Come visit our large showroom at Enterprise Wholesale Flooring and Lighting, and explore the variety of wood flooring options we carry. From floor to ceiling, we’ve got you covered! Our expert team is excited to help find the perfect flooring for your project.