Whether you want to replace your old and damaged flooring, renovate your apartment, or build a new home, choosing new flooring is one of the most important decisions you have to make. 

However, making the right decision is not an easy task. There are so many options available and things to consider that the whole process could be overwhelming.  

We will give you some information and pro tips to help you find what you’re looking for. But let’s start with the basics first.

Why you should choose wooden flooring

If you’re considering wood flooring, we completely understand why. But if you’re still wondering if it’s the right one, let’s discuss some of its advantages. 

First of all, it’s a delicate option that can transform any home into a luxurious and aesthetic yet warm and loving place. 

Anyone should know that wood flooring is an investment. Yes, it could be a more pricey choice compared to vinyl, carpet, or laminate flooring (which, by the way, is not a wood flooring option, as many believe). 

However, its durability is beyond comparison. A wooden floor may endure for many years, even decades, especially with appropriate care.

It’s simple to clean, requires low maintenance, and doesn’t get dirty or dusty as readily as other floor types. These make it a practical choice for busy families and great, especially for pets and children, as wood floors are tough and scratch-resistant.

Many people also might not know that anyone who deals with allergies will benefit from wooden flooring since it does not retain allergens as carpets do. 

Lastly, wood is an excellent insulator that will help you keep your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It will increase the value of your home while also saving you money on your power bills.

So, we just broke down the essential benefits that anyone will enjoy if investing in wood flooring for their home. Let’s evaluate all these things you should consider before buying your floor.

6 Things to consider when choosing your floor

The style of your home

Try to picture your floor; how will it blend with the rest of your home as well as your ideal style, current decor, and personal taste before deciding. There are many different types of wooden flooring to choose from, so don’t worry; you’ll find the one that best fits your home.

The type of wood flooring 

There are many misconceptions around this topic, and many people ignore or find it hard to understand the differences. 

First, you should decide between solid or engineered wood flooring. Their main difference is due to the way they are constructed.

Solid is entirely made from a solid wood piece and usually from hardwood species, while engineered has multiple layers with a 100% natural wood top layer, called veneer.

Another separation you should understand is the one between hardwood and softwood. 

Although there are some exceptions to this rule, the two types are distinguished from their reproduction and not their characteristics.

For example, softwood products usually come from conifer trees (like pine, redwood, cedar, spruce, yew), while hardwood comes from deciduous trees (like oak, mahogany, maple, mvule, walnut). 

The options here are plenty, and for a better understanding, you should find and advise an expert in the wood industry to help you. 

The type of finish 

There are a few options available based on their substance, and we wouldn’t want to dive into many details. However, you should remember that the type of finish you pick is essential.

It will safeguard the wood and provide additional layers of strength, but it may make a huge difference in how natural, glossy, or distressed your floor appears. 

A wood flooring finish can also slightly change the surface texture of your floor. But, of course, you could also opt for an unfinished floor. 

The color of the wood

The color choices are plentiful and usually depend on the types and species of wood that you’re considering. 

If you’re not in the process of building your home, you should always keep in mind that the color of your wood flooring should complement the rest of your house’s decor and the colors in your walls and doors, your cabinets, and even your furniture.  

Keep in mind that dark woods (like mahogany) can make a room feel smaller, while light woods (like pine) will brighten up the space.  

Light colors might have leverage when it comes to dirt and scratches. If you choose a light color, all these might be less obvious. 

On the other hand, if you choose a premium quality hardwood floor that is damaged-resistant, the dark colors could be an ultimate and timeless choice. 

The type of pattern 

From horizontal or diagonal strips, blocks, or mixed-width patterns to some of our favorite choices like herringbone and chevron parquet, wood flooring patterns are many, and all look stunning. You can check out our flooring options and our gallery if you’re looking for inspiration.

However, some designs may be more complex and challenging to install. In addition, these patterns need a high level of knowledge and skill to be cut appropriately and then installed correctly.

The installation process

The installation process can involve nails, staples, glue, or an easier method, especially for DIY installation, like floating (no attachments). The process depends on the type you choose, and our advice is to trust an expert for this job so that everything will be and look perfect.

If you’ve read so far, you understand that the options are numerous, color variations can be uncountable, and designs vary. 

You should advise an expert to help you find the best choice for your needs. You can also visit our website to explore more options or send us a message to help you, especially if you’re still uncertain.

Let’s say that you did find what you’re looking for, but still, there is one significant thing to consider. 

How to care for a wooden flooring

The number one rule you should follow is to clean your floor regularly. Sweep or vacuum the dust or dirt every day or two. 

Also, remember to deal with any spills immediately and wipe them to prevent future problems.

Please do not use any cleaners or chemicals, as this may damage its finish. Instead, try to clean them with appropriate wood cleaning products and never steam your floors!

Water is one of the most damaging elements when discussing wood (even if it is sealed). Use a damp mop rather than a soaking wet one. If your floor has a wax or oil finish, stick to a dry mop.

Lastly, remember to avoid pulling any heavy furniture without some kind of protection underneath them, like rugs or pads. 

Well, this is it. We tried to spread some of our expert knowledge and advice to help you learn about wood flooring. 

If you’re dreaming of a beautiful, long-lasting, and reasonably-priced flooring option for your house, wood flooring is an excellent choice. For further information and details, contact Wood Products Kenya right away, and one of our professionals will assist you!