Finding Your Perfect Hardwood Floor Type in Urbandale, IA with Royal Flooring

From Species to Style, Finding Your Perfect Hardwood Floor Type

Hardwood flooring is a timeless and beautiful addition to any home. It brings warmth, durability, and a sense of sophistication that is hard to replicate with other materials. But the term "hardwood flooring" is a broad one, encompassing a wide range of options that differ in species, color, and finish.

 

Understanding the different types of hardwood flooring is essential for making an informed decision that will fit your lifestyle and your home's unique design.

 

Your Perfect Hardwood Floor Type in Urbandale, IA with Royal Flooring

 

Hardwood Flooring by Species

 

The species of wood you choose will determine the floor's hardness, grain pattern, and color.

 

Oak

 

  • Characteristics: Oak is the most popular hardwood flooring in the United States. It is a very durable and affordable wood with a distinct, prominent grain pattern. It comes in two main varieties: Red Oak, with a reddish-pink hue, and White Oak, with a more neutral, golden-brown tone.
  • Best for: High-traffic areas, homes with pets, and traditional to modern design styles.

 

Maple

 

  • Characteristics: Maple is a very hard and durable wood with a fine, subtle grain. It has a light, creamy color that can make a room feel more open and airy.
  • Best for: Modern and contemporary spaces where you want a clean, minimalist look. It is also a great choice for areas with heavy foot traffic.

 

Hickory

 

  • Characteristics: Hickory is one of the hardest and most durable domestic hardwoods. It has a beautiful, natural color variation and a dramatic grain pattern that adds a rustic and unique look to a room.
  • Best for: Rustic, farmhouse, and traditional design styles. It is also an excellent choice for homes with pets or in high-traffic areas.

 

Walnut

 

  • Characteristics: Walnut is a beautiful, luxurious wood with a rich, dark brown color and a straight, elegant grain pattern. It is a softer wood than oak or hickory, but it is known for its beautiful, dark tones.
  • Best for: Low-traffic areas like bedrooms or formal living rooms. Its dramatic color is perfect for a high-end, classic look.

 

Cherry

 

  • Characteristics: Cherry is a beautiful wood with a warm, reddish-brown color that darkens over time. It has a smooth, fine grain and a classic, elegant look. It is a softer wood than oak or maple.
  • Best for: Formal and traditional spaces where you want a classic, luxurious look.

 

Hardwood Flooring by Style

 

The style and finish of a hardwood floor can transform its look and feel.

 

Solid Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood

 

As discussed in last month’s blog post, this is a major choice that affects durability and where the floor can be installed. Solid is a single piece of wood, while engineered has a real wood veneer over a layered core.

 

Prefinished vs. Unfinished Hardwood

 

  • Prefinished: This hardwood is sanded and finished in the factory. It is a faster and less messy installation process.
  • Unfinished: This hardwood is installed and then sanded and finished on-site. It gives you more control over the final stain and finish.

 

Different Types of Hardwood Flooring Finish and Textures

 

  • Matte/Satin Finish: A low-sheen finish that hides scratches and wear and tear. It gives a floor a natural, modern look.
  • High-Gloss Finish: A shiny, reflective finish that makes a bold statement.
  • Hand-Scraped: A rustic, textured finish that gives the floor a vintage, custom look.
  • Wire-Brushed: A process that removes the soft grain, leaving a subtle texture that mimics the look of an aged floor.

 

See all the Different Types of Hardwood Flooring at Our Urbandale, IA Showroom 

 

With so many different types of hardwood flooring available, from classic oak to a modern hand-scraped hickory, there is a perfect floor for every home and every lifestyle. By considering the species, construction, and finish, you can make an educated choice that will bring warmth, beauty, and value to your home.

 

Call or visit Royal Flooring at our Urbandale, IA showroom or our Des Moines, IA warehouse. For 20 years Royal Flooring has proudly served the Des Moines Metro. Known for high quality products, installation and top-of-the-line customer service, we're confident that we'll fit right in. Veteran owned and operated, we have expertise, knowledge and professionalism to offer anyone walking through our doors.

 

Along with our passion for this industry, hard work and grit have propelled us to where we are today. Going the extra mile for our customers is what we do best, and we firmly believe in taking care of customers through the finish line.

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