Facts About Exotic Wood Hardwood Flooring
There is a reason why hardwood flooring is one of the most sought after options. If you are looking for a flooring option that combines durability and stylish looks then this is an option to consider. It is also a flooring option that compliments any room décor and decorative theme.
ARE THEY WORTH THE EXTRA EXPENSE?
Here are several advantages of hardwood flooring:
- Its durability means with proper care it can last a lifetime without losing its appeal
- You get a wide variety in terms of wood species, stains, finishes and patterns giving you a chance to get a unique look
- For those who suffer from allergies, this is a great option due to its hypo-allergenic property
- You do not have to worry about emissions or poisons in the house coming from the floor
- With proper care you get an increased value for your home
These advantages make hardwood flooring worth every penny spent and a long lasting investment.
ARE EXOTIC HARDWOOD WORTH THE EXTRA COST?
Many home owners looking for hardwood flooring will always face the question of whether to use the domestic hardwood or go for exotic ones like Tiete rosewood, Brazilian teak and Brazilian oak. They usually cost more and if you can afford them, they do offer a couple of advantages over their domestic counterparts. Overall they tend to have a better aesthetic look; the varied colors and finer grains add to their lustrous beauty.
It is not just looks alone. Even the buyer on a budget may want to consider the higher Janka hardness rating the exotic hardwood trees get to have over the domestic counterparts. Brazilian teak and cherry for example have several times over the hardness of the domestic hardwood trees. This gives them extended durability making them great options for homes and places with lots of traffic and pets.
WHY YOU MAY STILL CONSIDER DOMESTIC HARDWOOD
This is not to mean that there is lesser value in domestic hardwood. For homes that will not be undergoing heavy traffic and not be subject to frequent scratching and playing, it is very cost effective to work with domestic hardwood. Your consideration should be on the wood grade and the character grading.
FACTORY FINISHED HARDWOOD
Another option for hardwood flooring is factory finished hardwood. This offers time and cost saving convenience. You do not require sanding and finishing prior to installation. They also move independently with weather changes reducing the stress on the floor.
Another option that is becoming popular is the use reclaimed used hardwood. This is hand-scrapped and offers a classic look since it is loved for the character flaws. You no longer have to worry about scratching and it is a cheaper option.
HARDWOOD AND UNDERFLOOR HEATING
The biggest challenge to the maintenance of your hardwood floor is moisture and pests. Floor heating helps eliminate both these factors. Heated floors are also comfortable and easily allow people to walk bare footed further decreasing the wear and tear on the wood.
You will need the right contractor for proper installation of the floor. Should you require floor heating a radiant heating company should also be hired. Such a company can help you also install driveway heating systems to add convenience and protection to your driveway surface. The snow melting systems installed ensure the surface is not placed under snow pressure and the base is not washed away by the moisture.