They are known for their warm and luxurious feel. Hardwood floors remain a favorite amenity on the must-have list of most home enthusiasts.
You may not realize how appropriate, well-conditioned flooring subtly affects the overall look of a home. Hardwood floors spruce up any room and change it from looking drab and average to sleek and professionally designed. No other flooring provides the same warm and cozy yet polished atmosphere that this option does.
This style stood the test of time and remained a widespread renovation among homeowners. Many interior designers agree that hardwood floors still prove to be a favorite among homeowners looking to renovate their homes.
Benefits of Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood floors come in a variety of styles for those with specific preferences. From wide to skinny planks, scraped to smooth, reclaimed to distressed, hardwood floors offer a personalized array of colors and shades to meet any homemaker’s style and design.
Today’s modern hardwood floors come in extra-wide and extra-long planks. Some customized planks even fit the entire length of a room for a natural, seamless look. Hardwood floors require very little maintenance to keep clean compared to a choice like a carpet, which becomes very expensive to keep in good-looking condition.
Drawbacks of Hardwood Flooring
Although hardwood floor maintenance seems more manageable than other floors, they show wear and tear signs and require refinishing. When a homeowner factors in the costs associated with hardwood floor treatments and tools or labor for subcontracting this process, it turns out to be quite costly.
Hardwood floors are also subject to damage if installed in wet areas. Expensive to install, hardwood floors should not be installed directly over a slab as the concrete’s moisture damages the wood. This type of installation often results in warping of the material, leading to a possible tripping hazard over time. In a worst-case scenario, the wood itself molds.
Installation Process
The proper installation of hardwood over concrete involves more than just selecting the suitable materials. The installer prepares the floors and fills the cracks. Then, a moisture barrier is applied over the concrete. This barrier prevents any of the issues described above. Sheets of plywood are then installed directly over the moisture barrier. Finally, the hardwood floors are installed over the concrete using the proper adhesive. This process creates a space between your beautiful hardwood flooring and concrete, which in turn protects the hardwood from moisture damage.
Are Hardwood Floors Worth It?
If you aren’t fortunate enough to find a space with beautiful wood floors already in place, most of the money you spend goes toward the initial installation procedure. The phrase “you get what you pay for” rings true in this case.
Hardwood floors turn out to be a pricey flooring option; however, they bring warmth and richness to a home. Make no mistake in assuming, hardwood floors transform a living space. You impress visitors and family with your gorgeous flooring choice.
