Have you been considering installing new hardwood floors in your home but aren't sure where to start when it comes to the types of wood available? With many options to choose from, it can get overwhelming fast. According to a report by Grand View Research, the market size for engineered flooring was valued at approximately $22.1 billion in 2020. By 2028, it's expected to reach $41.3 billion. Read on to learn more about some of the most common options for hardwood flooring to consider for your property.

1. Maple

First up is maple, one of the hardest wood species available. Its dense structure makes it extremely durable for high-traffic areas in your home. Maple resists heavy wear and scratches well over time. The trade-off is that maple is more expensive than other woods. However, if you want floors that can stand up to pets, kids, and parties, maple is a solid choice. It comes in various stain colors too, from nearly white to reddish brown.

2. Red and White Oak

No hardwood flooring guide would be complete without covering oak. This classic wood species is known for its attractive grain patterns and natural beauty. This material is also quite durable. Though it's not as hard as maple, it is sturdier than pine. Oak floors lend a timeless, sophisticated look to homes with traditional architecture. This type of flooring also complements modern spaces nicely. There are two primary types of oak used for wood floors. Red oak has more pink or salmon undertones while white oak skews towards mellower brown hues.

3. American Cherry

American cherry wood flooring stands out for its vibrant, reddish-brown coloration and its ability to deepen and darken beautifully over time with exposure to light. The coloring has an eye-catching richness and visual warmth suited for any style of home. American cherry ranks high for strength and hardness among wood species, making it a very durable flooring solution that can withstand heavy residential traffic. Yet, it still has a smooth grain pattern that creates an elegant, refined look. The smoothness also makes cherry wood easy to clean and maintain over decades.

4. Pine

Now, let's shift gears to pine. What pine lacks in hardness, it makes up for in affordability. We're talking seriously budget-friendly here, folks! Pine is fairly soft and porous, too soft for high-traffic spaces. However, if implemented in an occasional-use room, such as a guest bedroom or storage space, it's fantastic. Pine stains nicely and the soft grain absorbs stain color evenly. Pine also has a casual, relaxed vibe perfect for cottages or cabins.

5. Douglas Fir

Douglas fir is one of the most popular choices for flooring due to its attractive visual appearance and durability. The wood has a distinctive and eye-catching reddish-brown color with visible black streaks and tight grain patterning. The dense grains make it very resistant to normal wear and tear. Douglas fir rates very highly for stability, meaning it resists swelling and shrinkage even in changing moisture conditions. This prevents those unsightly cracks between boards over time. Ultimately, Douglas fir is prized for flooring because it combines beauty, strength, and stability for long-lasting performance underfoot. The rich coloring and interesting grain make for an elegant yet practical flooring option.

6. Walnut

If you're looking for a rich, dark wood with flowing grain patterns, take a look at walnut floors. Prized for centuries in European furniture-making, walnut has a warm and elegant look. The rich brown color can have chocolate, purple, or even blackish streaks, creating visual depth and interest. While not as hard as oak or maple, walnut is still quite durable. Its luxurious looks lend an air of sophistication without feeling too formal or stuffy. Walnut looks fantastic with a simple clear coat to showcase its natural color variations.

The world of hardwood flooring offers tons of variety, from pine to maple. Keep practical factors like room traffic, budgets, and visual style in mind when deciding. Whatever you choose, take your time and enjoy this exciting process of envisioning beautiful new floors for your home. If you're ready to find the perfect floor solutions for your home, visit Boston Wood Floor Supply Inc today to get started. We look forward to speaking with you!