When it comes to home flooring, few finishes can transform a space quite as beautifully as wood. A classic and sophisticated look that lends itself just as well to modern abodes as it does country kitchens, it’s a versatile choice that can be sanded, polished and stained to achieve all manner of desirable effects, and with parquet flooring and unique, abstract designs enjoying a moment in 2021, they are now more highly sought-after than ever.
There are many reasons that wood flooring has become the home flooring option of choice for many renovators, and some go far beyond the aesthetics alone. These days, flooring must withstand the demands of daily 21st century use, which, given our typically fast pace of life, means they often have a lot to contend with.
Durability and longevity, then, are key factors when deciding what flooring will work for you, and in areas of high footfall, even the most luxurious thick-pile carpets can begin to look tired and worn. Wood, on the other hand – particularly when working with original or freshly-laid wooden floor boards – can be spruced up time and again without the need to be replaced.
If you’re planning on having new wooden flooring installed, you can pick up free flooring samples to work out the aesthetic and design you like the best. These are widely available to help you choose, compare, and visually place your flooring options in the decision-making process, giving you the chance to decide on the finer details – like stain waxing polish and finish – before you commit.
If you’re still undecided between wood, tiling and carpets, then there are plenty of reasons why wood comes out on top. So, how will wood flooring both reflect and complement your flooring visions? Here, we take a look at the main benefits.
Easy to maintain
One of the biggest advantages of wood flooring over carpet is the ease of maintenance. While spilling a glass of your favourite vintage on your brand new cream shag pile could spell disaster for your home aesthetic, should the same occur on a wood floor then it can simply be wiped or mopped up – no harm done.
Daily maintenance and care is quick and easy, too. All you’ll need is a broom to sweep up any dust and dirt, and a mop once or twice a week to give it a good clean. If a spillage occurs on a wooden floor, it’s wise to avoid harsh, industrial cleaners, as these can strip your varnish or stain and can damage untreated wood. Instead, use a damp cloth to wipe and then dry the surface with absorbent kitchen roll.
Enhanced air quality
Wood flooring is a breathable type of flooring that is well adapted to all environments when exposed to elements such as moisture and heat. Better air-quality is delivered to your home when installing wood flooring, as it does not trap dirt or allergy inducing elements like fibre carpets may do so – something that, let’s face it, none of us want to have to deal with in our homes.
If you have pets, then you might also find wood to be your preferred choice, since dog and cat hairs can be quickly swept up instead of sitting in the carpet pile. In the latter situation, they can be notoriously difficult to remove even with a vacuum cleaner, and can quickly spoil the luxurious and well-maintained aesthetic you were hoping to create.
Long-lasting investment
When it comes to wood flooring, you can rest assured that it will last the distance, and will still be looking just as wonderful in years to come. A timeless choice that lends itself to all kinds of interior design trends that may come and go over the years, it suits all colour schemes and can be tweaked and adapted with different coloured stains to change things up a bit as required.
Subject to being properly maintained and cared for, wood flooring can last a lifetime, and its reinforced durability as an authentic, natural material makes it a stable surface that is resistant and hard-wearing. General-wear and usage will not depreciate your wood floor but will instead add a rustic charm to your space. Like a fine wine, many believe that it actually gets better with age – and there certainly seems to be some truth in it.
Make a statement
Wood flooring is a stylish and classy choice. This organic material has a natural beauty to it, and with a variety of unique shades, knots, swirls, and grains visually embedded in the wood, no two pieces are the same – which means nobody will ever have exactly the same flooring as you do.
Providing a timeless look to your living space that will ultimately elevate the value and appeal of your home, it’s a flooring type that will be at the centre of conversation amongst your admiring guests, and will win you compliments on your home’s aesthetics for all the right reasons.
The bottom line
When it comes to choosing the right type of flooring for your home, wood is a no brainer – ticking all of the right boxes when it comes to both aesthetics and practicality. Before choosing your style, take some time to collect samples so that you can physically place your ideas in your home and see how they look. It’s a great way to visualise the end result and ensure that you’ll be happy with your final choice.
