Mention wood floors and many people instantly think of oak. There are many other wood species, however. While shopping, take some time to look through all the selections.

 

People like wood because it:

 

·         creates a warm, natural  feeling

·         adds a sense of character

·         evokes the nostalgia of older homes

 

 

When selecting look to blend or contrast it with:

·         your kitchen cabinets

·         your wood trim

·         furniture pieces

 

Here are the pros and cons of various woods:

 

Oak

Oak is a mainstay in home design. It has a nice rich look and interesting graining. Oak has been used in homes for many years, making it a top choice for those who like tradition and nostalgia.

 

Maple

Maple is a lighter wood than oak and has fewer variations in the grain. It is a harder wood than oak and it also expands and contracts more, said Mark Dittmer, general manager for the Chicago region of The Bahr Company, a flooring company based in Romeoville, IL. Those who live in humid climates should be careful about using maple.

 

Pine

Pine is a yellow wood that is associated with a more informal look. It is a soft wood and often is painted when used as trim. Knotty pine is a big seller for those who like a true rustic look.

 

Cherry

Cherry is available in several shades, ranging from light red to reddish brown. American cherry, for example, has a light red color and blends well with the popular shades of cherry kitchen cabinets on the market. It is similar to pine in its softness. Brazilian cherry is darker than American cherry, has black and red tones, and is harder than oak.

 

A natural cherry finish has a warm, honey color, as opposed to the dark, mahogany look that most people associate with cherry.

 

Birch

Birch is a popular selection, as it is similar in appearance to oak and can be less expensive. It blends easily with other light colored woods because of its tone and the many  variations in the wood.

 

Costs

Oak is more expensive than birch and pine, but can be less expensive than maple and cherry. In general, wood floors are priced from $7 to $18 per square foot, depending upon the type, size, quality and use of decorative elements, such as inlays.

 

Determining Wood Quality

Also, there are different levels of quality. Look at:

 

·         the length of the boards -- 3 to 4-foot boards are of higher quality than 2 to 3-foot boards

·         the number of imperfections

·         the color variations

 

Lower quality grades of wood will have shorter boards, more knots and other imperfections, and less color consistency. The wood should:

 

·         have a smooth finish

·         be free of cracks in the boards

·         not have bubbles in the finish.

 

Woods with plainer grains, such as maple and birch, will show scratches more easily than those with more detailed grains, such as oak.

 

The Disadvantages of Wood

·         can become scratched and dented over time

·         is not a perfect seamless product

·         does not like water - use care when using it in a foyer or bathroom