Wood Flooring Types
Wood Flooring Types Explained
When purchasing wood flooring you must do your homework and learn about the type of flooring in the market. The knowledge will help you to make an educated decision about what floor is best for your needs. Many people are are under the belief that hardwood floors are simply solid hardwood, but in reality there are different kinds of hardwood floors.
Solid Hardwood
Solid hardwood flooring is the most common form of hardwood flooring and it consist of 100% wood. This form of flooring comes in various species of wood, about 40% of the hardwoods use in the United States is Oak among the domestics species and Brazilian Cherry,(Jatoba), Brazilian Teak,(Cumaru) and Tigerwood among the imported species. The hardness of the wood can foretell how susceptible it is to scratches and digs. The harder the wood the less susceptible it will be to dents. The solid hardwood can be sanded and finished 2 - 4 times during it's life span depending on the wear layer. Solid Hardwood floors adds value to your home and it's cost depends on the species chosen to be installed.
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood floors are a combination of solid hardwood flooring on top and unfinished plywood underneath. The benefits of engineered hardwood flooring are its increased strength, range of styles and finishes, and because engineered floors come prefinished there is no wait time for sanding and sealing. Engineered wood flooring also works well in kitchens, basements, and bathrooms where light moisture might be present. When installed by a professional, engineered wood can be re-finished four to five times in its lifetime. This option is better for the environment and uses four times less of each log than solid hardwood floors.
Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring originates from the bamboo grass stalks in Asia by pressing fibers together under high pressure. This form of flooring is very resistant to moisture because it originates form tropical grass and these floors are created in a variety of styles to match your décor. Not only is bamboo esthetically appealing but also it is appealing to the “Green” community because the plant grows faster and does not take as long to re-grow then a typical hardwood tree. Bamboo flooring is softer therefore less resistance to damage and easily dent.
Cork Flooring
Cork flooring is harvested from the cork oak tree bark and since it is a renewable resource is it a viable option for the “Green” community. Similarly to bamboo flooring, cork flooring is comfortable for its softness, reduces noise, and is also a great shock absorber. This material s favorable for families because it resistant to insects but also hypoallergenic. On the other hand this form of flooring is less resistance to damage and easily dent.
