Hardwood flooring – the timeless classic.

Hardwood flooring is a type of flooring made from real wood that is designed to be installed in indoor spaces. It’s one of the most popular and enduring flooring options due to its durability, timeless aesthetic appeal, and the warmth it adds to a room.

The low down on hardwood flooring:

Material: Hardwood flooring is made from a solid wood or engineered wood. Solid hardwood is milled from a single piece of timber and is typically thicker than engineered hardwood. Engineered hardwood consists of multiple layers of wood veneer, topped with a hardwood layer. Both types offer unique benefits and can be chosen based on factors like budget, climate, and installation method.

Species:
Hardwood flooring comes in a variety of wood species, each with its own characteristics in terms of colour, grain pattern, and hardness. Common species include oak, maple, cherry, walnut, and hickory, among others. Each one adding their own quirky pattern to the finished product.

We have some wonderful hardwood flooring brands on display in our showroom including our very own ‘French Collection’ with 52 different designs, finishes and textures available, the luxurious Ted Todd and innovative brand Quickstep.

Durability: Hardwood flooring is known for its durability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, it can last for decades and even centuries. The hardness of the wood, determines its resistance to dents and scratches.

Installation: Hardwood flooring can be installed using different methods, including nail-down, glue-down, or floating installation. The method chosen depends on factors such as the type of subfloor, the wood species, and the personal preference. Professional installation is always recommended to ensure proper fitting and longevity. We’re lucky enough to have trained expert hardwood floor fitters, as part of our team here at Floor Coverings. You can install hardwood flooring over underfloor heating systems, but be aware that heating the wood can sometimes cause the boards to shrink and the joints to open up.

We would recommend to avoid using hardwood flooring anywhere where moisture can occur, such as kitchens and bathrooms to avoid any damage to the floor.

Finishes: Hardwood flooring is typically available with different finishes, including oil-based, water-based, or UV-cured finished. These finishes can protect the wood from moisture, stains and wear while enhancing its natural beauty. Some finishes provide a glossy look, while others offer a more matte or satin appearance.

We would recommend you take a look at the different colours, and finishes in person so you can see and feel the difference in texture.

Maintenance: Proper maintenance is essential to keep hardwood flooring looking its best. This includes regular sweeping or vacuuming to remove dust and debris, promptly wiping up spills and using appropriate cleaning products. Additionally, hardwood floors may require occasional refinishing to repair scratches and restore their original lustre.

Cost: Hardwood flooring can vary significantly in cost depending on factors such as the wood species, quality and installation method. Generally, solid hardwood is more expensive than engineered hardwood, and exotic wood species tend to be pricier than domestic ones. However, hardwood flooring is often considered a worthwhile investment due to its durability and aesthetic appeal, and ability to sand back and rejuvenate.

4 great benefits of hardwood flooring

• Durability
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Timeless classic
• Sustainable flooring choice

Overall, hardwood flooring is a timeless and versatile option that adds value and elegance to any home or commercial space. Its natural beauty durability, and ability to be refinished make it a popular choice among homeowners and designers alike.

Come and check it out for yourself, open Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm.