Questions to Consider When Choosing Wood Flooring

Choosing home flooring can be a complicated process, especially when we’re left to our own devices without the guidance of an interior designer or expert. We’re here to help you.

It’s not just about choosing your favourite colour; many factors come into play when choosing the perfect flooring for your space. It’s important to note that not all wood is created equal, so here are some questions to ask yourself before taking the plunge.

SOURCE: architecturaldigest.com

There are two types of wood flooring, solid and engineered. Solid wood (second picture above) is just like its name implies, a solid slab of wood from top to base. Engineered wood (first picture above), on the other hand, is manufactured using multiple layers of wood veneers.

The layer of wood can be of similar or varying types and are arranged with the grains running in opposite directions on every alternate layer,  forming a more stable structure.

This is an important question to note because the durability and make of wood play crucial roles in the location they are placed in. Decide if your flooring will be exposed to high levels of moisture, will be used by children and animals, or come into contact with heavy duty materials.

Different species of woods react differently to these factors, so it’s best to note the use and wear of your flooring before making your choice. For instance, if you’re keen on having wood flooring in your bathroom, try engineered oak wood as it can withstand moisture. Have pets or need sturdy floors? Consider maple or exotic wood like Brazilian Walnut as they are hard and dense.

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If we were to start listing every species of wood available, we would be here for quite a while. Wood species vary in colour, grain pattern, durability, and price. The most commonly used species in Southeast Asia are Kempas, Merbau, and Walnut due to their hardness and finish. But if you have the budget, exotic woods like Burmese Teak and Mahogany are prime examples of durable and pristine flooring.

SOURCE: freewtc.com

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With the varying number of species, colours, and textures, it’s fairly easy to find one that blends into your space. A particular species of wood can come in various different shades ranging from dark to light, and if you can’t find a colour that suits you,you can stain the wood. Textures also vary as some planks have very fine knots and grains like pinewood while oak planks have more prominent indentations and grains.

To get a finish and texture that suits your space, ask for wood samples or present reference images to your interior designer or supplier.

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Your wood flooring can look completely different with a clear gloss finish when compared to a distressed finish. A gloss finish gives your space a polished, put-together look while the latter provides a more rustic feel to the space.

Cover image from katwillsonphotography.com