Fairfield Contracting Choosing Oak Hardwood Flooring
Choosing Oak Hardwood Flooring
One of the most classic flooring options for your home is hardwood floors. This quintessential building material is popular again, and many homeowners are choosing to refinish the original flooring in their old homes. If you’re considering oak hardwood flooring for your home, here are some important decisions to make.
Widths
Flooring can be cut into a wide range of widths, which can dramatically change the overall look and feel of your flooring. Many older homes have flooring planks that are only 2 inches wide, but newer styles can range up to 10 inches. Your floor can even include a mixture of widths for a more eclectic or rugged look.
Oak Type
Red oak and white oak are both used for hardwood flooring but don’t get too caught up in exact species. There are many diverse colors naturally available in oak, so choose carefully. The number of knots, growth rings and other features can also dramatically affect the look or feel of your oak flooring. Oak is a popular option because of its strength. As a hardwood, it’s more durable than other flooring options but isn’t as rare as other hardwoods.
Finish
In order to keep a long-lasting and water-resistant surface, hardwood floors must be finished. From oils and waxes to shellac, varnish or polyurethane, there is a wide range of finishes available. Each one has its own pros and cons depending on the application, so it’s best to discuss your preference with a professional.
Installation Method
While some homeowners choose to install their own hardwood flooring, it can be difficult to match a professional. If you don’t leave enough spacing around your flooring, it could buckle as it expands. Some minor imperfections in flooring thickness are sanded out after installation, so your floor may not be perfectly smooth if you install it yourself. For a stress-free and long-lasting flooring option, it’s best to let a professional installation team help you get the most out of your stunning oak flooring.