Floor coverings worth more than $9.3 billion get imported into the U.S. every year. Of all this, hardwood flooring accounts for about $872.9 million dollars.
Wood flooring has become quite popular thanks to its numerous benefits including the ability to increase your property’s value, ease of cleaning, and durability.
But selecting the right floor can be a daunting task for any homeowner, especially if you’re a wood floor newbie. Choosing a hardwood product that fits your home isn’t merely picking your preferred color. Products with different hardwood floor colors aren’t made the same.
So how do you pick a flooring material with the right color to accent your home’s aesthetics?
Read on to find out.
Start With the Basics
There are two primary factors that determine the colors of wood floors: the grain composition and the stain or finish.
The grain emanates from the type of wood used and provides the undertone. The finish, on the other hand, gives the product its final color. To find the most appropriate wood floor color, start by choosing a finish that complements your space and lifestyle.
Then, you can sift through the various surface treatments and grain patterns within that range to find a product that works best with your home’s décor elements.
Picking a Stain or Finish That Fits Your Space and Lifestyle
While hardwood floors are considered timeless, they undergo different trends. Eye-catching styles and contrasts designed for longevity characterize this year’s hardwood flooring and color trends.
To choose the most appropriate wood floor finish, consider your lifestyle and preference.
If you’re installing the floor in a small space, it’s advisable to go for lighter stains such as whitewash or blonde. These stains will make your room appear larger. On the other hand, a dark floor finish would be great for anyone who wants a classic, modern look.
Here are a few trending stains and their appropriate applications:
1. Dark Wood Finishes
Dark tones are mostly from espresso-colored hardwoods.
The dark stain can easily amp up the contrast inside your home, especially when paired with light-colored cabinetry and shelving. The result is an interior that looks and feels warm and luxurious.
You can also use dark color stains to upgrade outdated spaces and give your rooms a sleek, modern design.
2. Light-Colored Stains
Light-colored tones are an extremely versatile category of stains.
You can pair them with contrasting tones to create a visual interest in your space. What’s more, light stains painlessly brighten indoor spaces when paired with light-colored décor.
This stain will also give you an illusion of a larger indoor space. They, however, require constant maintenance because dirt is easily visible on them.
3. Greige Finishes
The term “Greige” refers to the color between beige and grey. It’s a neutral finish that goes with pretty much every interior home design. This is the stain to go for if you want to bring more life into your space.
Other cooler greys are also available. However, if used wrongly, they can inadvertently make a room feel cold and uninviting.
4. Matte Stains
These finishes are quite popular thanks to their ability to mask imperfections and annoying light glares.
Matte stains look more stylish and modern than most of their high-gloss counterparts. They also don’t form the infamous yellow clear coat after years of use. Matte stains will keep your home looking new, clean, and appealing for a long time to come.
How to Choose the Best Undertone
According to professionals from Empire Floors, your final flooring color also depends on the type of wood you choose.
Keep in mind that different wood types come with different grains, each with a unique undertone. Some of the top wood types in the market right now include:
- White Oak
- Red Oak
- Maple
- Mockery
- Birch
- Ash
- Cherry
- Black Walnut
Most designers warn against wood that’s too orange or red as they make the floor look dated. Thus, consider other warm undertones, like grey, that can create an on-trend look in your space.
Note that each wood type has its own unique qualities, strengths, and weaknesses. This means that you must also consider factors such as the wood’s costs, durability, and style when searching for the best floor color.
Tough hardwood species like Oak, Maple, and Hickory are more durable, making them best suited for homes with a lot of foot traffic and pets. On the other hand, softer hardwood floors like Black Walnut, Birch, Cherry, and Ash are relatively brittle but can provide distinct color variations that create sophisticated spaces.
What About Painted Floors?
Paint is ideal for upgrading old hardwood floors. Painted wood floors bring out a beachy, rusty look into your outdoor space.
For best results, use deck or true floor paint as they resist the wear and tear that comes with daily foot traffic.
Key Takeaways When Choosing Hardwood Floor Colors
When it comes to hardwood floor colors, there are two major categories: dark wood floors and light wood floors. All other colors fall within the precincts of either of these two categories.
For darker wood floors, try not to use them in small rooms as they might appear even smaller. Also, consider contrasting the dark floor with lighter colored furniture, instead of matching it with similarly darker décor. Dark interiors may make your indoor space look boring.
Lighter wood flooring goes with almost anything and can create the impression of more room. The only significant concern with this kind of floors is maintenance and cleaning. It’s easy to see debris and dirt on lighter floors, which can be both good and bad depending on your outlook.
Thus, consider your lifestyle, preference, and space before selecting a wood floor color.
For more home-upgrade ideas, explore our blog.
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