Wood floors are one of the most desirable features home buyers seek when shopping for a new house. They’re timeless, beautiful and durable – all things that add to a home’s overall value. Wood floors are also easy to clean and can hide dirt, dust, pet dander, and mold more effectively than carpets.

There are many different species of wood that can be used as flooring. Popular choices include hickory, oak, maple, cherry, and more. Each has its own unique properties and visual characteristics, but they all work well with a variety of design styles.

Choosing the best wood floor is all about finding what works with your design aesthetic and lifestyle. Hardwood is available in both solid and engineered wood formats. Solid wood is milled from a single piece of timber, which is typically kiln or air dried before sawing. Then the timber is cut into boards, which can be finished in the factory or left unfinished and installed on-site.

A wide variety of finishes are available for wood floors, including stains and lacquers. Stains are generally a darker shade and bring out the natural color of the hardwood, while lacquers provide a smooth surface that’s great for high-traffic areas.

Solid wood floors can be sanded and refinished several times throughout the life of the floor. This refinishing process removes scratches and dents, bringing the floor back to its original sheen. The refinishing process also restores the finish to a higher level of durability.

The grain pattern of the wood is another important factor to consider. Oak and hickory, for example, have more dramatic grain patterns that are better able to camouflage marks and scratches. However, all woods are susceptible to damage from moisture, and it’s always best to protect your floor with a water-resistant sealant or polyurethane.

Unlike carpets, which can lose their color and look outdated within a year or two, wood floors stay in style for years to come. They are an excellent option for commercial spaces, as they can match the branding or ambiance of any business. Wood floors are also easy to maintain, with routine sweeping and occasional damp mopping.

Wood floors are a healthy choice for families, as they minimize the accumulation of dirt, dust, and allergens like mold and bacteria. In addition, they are easier to clean than carpets and can be sanded down and refinished multiple times during the lifespan of the floor. This minimizes the amount of time and money you’ll spend on cleaning and maintenance.