Hardwood Flooring Trends to Consider for Your Home

Homeowners tend to put hardwood floors at the top of their wish list when undergoing renovations. Hardwood is loved for its durability and ability to make any space look elegant. Their durability makes them particularly ideal for those who love to entertain or have young children.

While hardwood flooring can be costly upfront, it’s a long-lasting option. With proper care and maintenance, they can outlast vinyl, carpet and other flooring options. And there are so many beautiful styles to choose from! If you’re considering making a big renovation, take a look at these hardwood flooring trends and ideas to draw some inspiration for your home.

Types of Wood for Hardwood Floors

Oak is the most popular type of hardwood flooring (red and white). Oak is well-loved by homeowners, because it’s versatile and fits any décor style. It’s a classic option that can easily appeal to homebuyers down the line. Hickory, birch and maple are also popular options that come with their own benefits. 

Bamboo is another flooring option that has increased in popularity. However, it’s technically a grass and not a type of wood. Unlike wood flooring, it can’t be sanded down or refinished. Some experts advise against using bamboo, because it’s more affected by moisture than other flooring options. Compared to hardwood flooring, bamboo flooring is more likely to crack in environments that are high or low in humidity.

Hardwood Floor Colour & Stain

Now you’ll need to choose the colour and stain of your hardwood floors. While there are many options to choose from, it is advisable to stick with a classic choice that can be enjoyed for years to come. Refinishing hardwood floors is a costly and disruptive project, so choosing the right look and style is important. To get an idea of what’s available, see this quick overview of popular trends in hardwood flooring colors and stains:

• Dark brown with cool undertones, or even black stains, is great for households without pets or children. This option suits higher budgets since it requires more maintenance than other colours.
  
  
• Grey is a very trendy option, and experts predict it will only continue to rise in popularity. It’s considered a go-to neutral, because it bridges other colours well and works with a wide range of design styles.
  
  
• Light or natural stains typically complement contemporary design styles. This choice is a foolproof option, because it never goes out of style.

Tip: All design and residential hardwood floor experts report that flooring that is red (or has hints of it) is declining in popularity. This is because homeowners now view cherry or red flooring as out-dated. It’s best to lean towards cool undertones; they’ll stand the test of time in terms of style and sustainability.

Hardwood Floor Layout & Design

The final decision to make regarding your hardwood floors is related to its layout and design. The way that your flooring is laid out sets the overall tone of a room. With homeowners craving less clutter, they’re ditching busy flooring (think multiple plank widths, chevrons and other patterns) and choosing simpler, more minimalist designs.

The latest trend is the rustic or farmhouse style. This style features wider planks and simple layouts. Rustic wood flooring can also be made from reclaimed hardwood, which is a bonus for those who love owning unique pieces with character or backstories. This style instantly adds a warm, “live-in” feel to any space.

Installing hardwood flooring is a big undertaking. While the time and costs involved may be intimidating, the end results are well worth it. Hardwood floors bring a sense of warmth and luxury that can’t be matched. They are the foundation of your home and help dictate the style and décor of your home. We hope these wood flooring ideas helped narrow down some of your options. Visit Sarana Tile, your local hardwood flooring supplier to learn more about your options, and to consult their experts to find the right style, colour and layout for your home.