Hardwood flooring has been around for centuries, and it isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. There are a number of reasons that hardwood has endured, so let’s explore the pros and cons of what it can offer.
Why Choose Hardwood Flooring?
Hardwood floors are known for their durability and timeless beauty. There’s a reason everyone is crossing their fingers when tearing up the nasty shag carpeting in a fixer-upper—they’re hoping to see hardwood flooring. No matter how long they’ve been hidden under carpet or linoleum, hardwoods can usually be restored to their former glory. Hardwood has staying power, and it’s not just style. Hardwood floors offer a high level of durability and can survive in high-traffic areas. Hardwood can be cleaned relatively easily, and if maintained, it can last for years before needing refinishing. Hardwood floors aren’t just easy to clean—they’re hypoallergenic, too. With no fibers to trap allergens, these floors are great for people with seasonal and dust allergies.
Hardwood flooring goes with everything and provides versatility that other types of flooring don’t. Want to warm the room up with an area rug? It’s going to look great on hardwood. You can match the tone of your hardwoods with furniture like couches and tables, making sure that your room has the aesthetics you’re looking for. Selling a home? Well-maintained hardwood floors boost housing value too. Hardwood floor installation only takes a bit longer than other flooring types when in the hands of a professional.
What Are the Cons of Hardwood?
If hardwood flooring was perfect, there would be no need for other flooring options. So what issues are common with hardwood flooring that make some people avoid it? Even though hardwood flooring provides a good return on investment for the future, installing or refinishing it can be more costly than installing other types of flooring. Hardwood flooring installation is best left to professionals, and it does take time to get things looking just right. While hardwood floors are easy to clean, they aren’t exactly invincible to spills and scratches. Moisture can damage hardwood floors, causing warping or staining that leads to costly repairs. While hardwood is durable, care must be taken not to gouge or scratch the wood with heavy furniture. But accidents do happen, and it isn’t always easy to replace a plank if necessary.
The Bottom Line
There is a reason for hardwoods enduring, but also for them going out of fashion in the past. If you want a floor that is easy to maintain with pets, kids, spills, and heavy furniture, hardwoods may not be for you. But hardwoods are versatile, hardy, and adaptable. Hardwood floor refinishing makes it the most environmentally friendly flooring because it can outlast plastics and other floors. For many people, it is the height of interior decorating—a centerpiece to design the whole home’s aesthetic around. Hardwood floors need expert installation and careful maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t cut out for it. Hardwoods are a great option for people who want to make a statement or like a rustic, classical feel for their home. If you’re in the market for hardwood floor refinishing or installation in the Nashville area, look no further than Ozburn-Hessey. With decades of experience in flooring, we are well-equipped at providing you with the best advice on your flooring needs and expert installation.
At Ozburn-Hessey, we strive to provide our customers with everything they need to make an informed decision on their flooring. If you’re still not sure hardwoods are right for you, don’t hesitate to give us a call for a free consultation and estimate.
