Every year, millions of Americans decide to give their house the long overdue upgrade to begin the process of turning it into a home. Many of these renovation projects start with different areas, but the most common among homeowners is to begin with the flooring. As such, many choose to upgrade their carpeting or vinyl flooring to hardwood. But do you know the differences between the different strains and species? Today, you’re going to find out.
White Oak
Known for its light-colored consistency and its common use among many homeowners, white oak is considered one of the most affordable strains of hardwood. If you’re operating on a budget, it might be a good choice. If you’re looking for something that’s more unique and less common, you might want to consider other options.
Red Oak
Unlike white oak, red oak, as you can probably deduce from its namesake, has a much darker consistency in its appearance. Easily the most popular of hardwood species that get used, red oak is also cost-effective and is relatively inexpensive to maintain.
Hickory
If you’re looking for the most durable material for your hardwood floor and don’t mind spending more, hickory is certainly your best option. It’s been used for hundreds of years and provides a great deal of character to any home. Very minimal upkeep is needed, but humidity levels must remain consistent in the room where it’s installed all year long.
Maple
If you’re planning on doing a DIY flooring job in your home, maple is one of your best choices. It offers a unique look that many homeowners love, and the material is relatively inexpensive. However, if you plan on installing it in a room that gets a lot of traffic, be wary. Maple is durable but susceptible to abuse over time.
Walnut
Much like hickory, walnut is one of the most durable strains of hardwood and also tends to be on the pricier side of the spectrum. It hides wear and tear extremely well and is resistant to water damage. Scruffs and scratches can still occur, so upkeep is still a requirement.
Much like certain strains of hardwood, it’s easy to deduce what we’re about just from our name. Here at Flooring.org, we’re experts in all things related to flooring and can help you select the perfect strain for your home. Give us a call at 800-689-9006 for more information.
