Personally, I love the look of hardwood but the maintenance is just not practical for our family. We have had stunning hardwood floors in our previous homes, yet decided to go with LVP flooring throughout in our new build. In fact, LVP flooring has taken over as the number one flooring choice for homeowners!
Having said that, I get the love of hardwood and I’m here to help you through the design process.
With so many options for hardwood flooring in today’s market it’s best to have all of the details in order to make the best decision so here we go! Keep in mind that as with all finishes, your lifestyle, wants/needs, and budget are driving factors and flooring is no different.
Some of our clients like hardwood floors for environmental reasons and others just simply like the look and feel. Let’s face it, they are “green”, beautiful, and can last for generations. Let’s explore some of the pros and cons.
The Look
This is the number one reason clients choose hardwood over any other flooring for the main living areas of their home. Express yourself with the species, grain pattern, texture and color that suites your style.
Environmental Impact
Hardwood floors are crafted from natural wood and can be considered a renewable resource depending on if the manufacturer is environmentally responsible. However, lacquers and sealants needed to finish and maintain the porous material, not so much.
Maintenance
Hardwood floors are well-known for their high-maintenance upkeep. Regular sweeping and dusting help keep floors clean and prevent the wood from scratching from dirt and dust particles. If a cleaner is needed, then check that the product used is specifically designed for wood since moisture can cause damage. Always refer to manufacturer instructions and talk with the installer about safe cleaners.
Remember that things like high heels and pet claws can wreak havoc on your hardwood, so lifestyle is something to keep in mind when making this high-dollar budget decision. However, hardwood can be refinished if damaged and appear like new.
Resale
Now this is a tricky one. Personally, I would not depend on hardwood as a predicator for ROI. Predicting resale value may be challenging since it could come down to the future buyer’s individual wants. And it truly depends on the overall home. Some homeowners may justify the higher price tag of their natural hardwood floors because it’s supposed to add value to the home. However, prospective buyers, such as an active family with young kids or a household with pets, might not want to deal with the maintenance costs and moisture woes of real wood.
Hardwood flooring makes an excellent addition to any home. Its beauty, durability, and timeless style make it a great long-term investment for your custom new home.
Want to know more? Let’s talk about it!
