In the world of wood flooring, people tend to get caught up in the types of wood, and rightfully so. But one of the things that tends to get lost in the mix is the color. It is understandable; after all, most people are concerned with the quality of the wood flooring, as well as how durable it will be. Many people might not even be aware that a lot of their favorite wood floors come in a lot of different shades, but there is a vibrant symphony of color options waiting to perfectly match your business or home. Nearly the entire color spectrum is represented, so no matter what color or look you have in mind, it can be found. Luckily, we here at Ozburn-Hessey are professionals when it comes to floors, especially in hardwoods.
Light on the Feet, Light on the Eyes
The gold standard when it comes to lighter floors is maple, of course. One of the reasons it is used in so many homes and businesses is the sheer versatility of the product. Maple has a lighter tone, but it can range anywhere from a very light, yellow-tinged ivory to a deep honey color. The color you can get from maple also depends on the type of finish used on it, but by using the stain, you make the floor a little less durable than if it were the natural finish.
A lighter floor has a lot of benefits. For one, it will show dirt and scratches less than its darker cousins. Another benefit is that it tends to make the room it is in look larger. That being said, using something like maple or oak or other wood flooring in large room runs the risk of making it look a bit like a gymnasium, since those woods are commonly used in such cases.
Come to the Dark Side
In recent years, dark color flooring has seen a rise in popularity. It provides a distinguished look to any home or office, commanding the respect of all who walk in. It also makes the wood look older, especially in the case of pines. One reason for the rise in popularity might be because that dark floor tends to look pretty nice against any color scheme, relieving you of any design anxiety on that front. There are a lot more woods available in the darker shades of the spectrum, including cherry, walnut, and more. Everything that is true for light flooring, the opposite is true for dark floors, so keep that in mind. They will show scratches and dirt more, and they will make whatever room they’re used in look smaller. That can be a good thing if you’re looking to make your home look cozy, but it can make things look cramped in a smaller room.
When it comes to flooring, the sheer number of options just for the material can be overwhelming, which is why it helps to have a professional, like the kind working here at Ozburn-Hessey, help. If you want to know more, our flooring experts are happy to help you with any questions you might have, so call us today!