Choosing the best hardwood flooring for high-traffic areas is crucial for maintaining both durability and aesthetics over time. High-traffic areas in homes, such as hallways, entryways, and living rooms, require hardwood that can withstand constant use without showing signs of wear too quickly. Today, we at Mike’s Custom Flooring would like to share a comprehensive guide to help you select the right hardwood flooring for these demanding spaces.
Durability of Hardwood Flooring Matters
When selecting hardwood flooring for high-traffic areas, durability is paramount. Hardness is measured on the Janka hardness scale, which rates the resistance of wood to wear and denting. Hardwoods with higher Janka ratings are more resilient against scratches and dents.
Best Hardwood Floor Species
1) Oak: Oak is one of the most popular hardwood choices for high-traffic areas due to its excellent durability and reasonable cost. It’s available in red and white varieties, with white oak generally being harder and more resistant to moisture.
2) Maple: Maple is another durable option known for its hardness and resistance to abrasion. It has a smooth, fine texture and can handle heavy foot traffic well.
3) Hickory: Hickory is incredibly tough and resilient, making it ideal for areas prone to high traffic and potential abuse. Its distinctive grain patterns add character to any space.
4) Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba): Despite its name, Brazilian cherry is not a cherry wood but rather a dense, durable hardwood with a rich, reddish-brown color. It’s exceptionally hard and scratch-resistant.
5) Bamboo: Although technically a grass, bamboo flooring is exceptionally durable and suitable for high-traffic areas. It’s also eco-friendly, as bamboo is a fast-growing renewable resource.
Choosing the Right Hardwood Flooring Finish
In addition to the wood species, the finish of the hardwood plays a crucial role in its durability. Opt for a factory-applied finish with aluminum oxide for maximum protection against scratches and wear. This finish is highly durable and helps maintain the hardwood’s appearance over time, requiring less maintenance than traditional site-applied finishes.
Consider Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood is another option worth considering for high-traffic areas. It consists of a real hardwood top layer bonded to several layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard. This construction makes it more stable and less prone to expansion and contraction due to changes in humidity and temperature. Engineered hardwood can often be refinished once or twice, depending on the thickness of the top layer.
Hardwood Floor Maintenance & Care
Regular maintenance is essential to prolong the lifespan of hardwood flooring in high-traffic areas. Place doormats at entryways to trap dirt and grit, use furniture pads to prevent scratches, and clean spills promptly with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh cleaning products that can damage the finish.
Hardwood Floor Installation, Repairs, Refinishing & More in Charles Town & Eastern Panhandle of Berkeley & Jefferson Counties in WV | Winchester & Frederick County | Round Hill & Loudoun County | Berryville & Clarke County | Herndon & Fairfax County VA
Choosing the best hardwood flooring for high-traffic areas involves balancing durability, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements. By selecting a hardwood species known for its hardness, opting for a durable finish, and considering engineered options where appropriate, you can ensure your flooring withstands the rigors of daily life while enhancing the beauty of your home for years to come. Investing in quality hardwood flooring tailored to your specific needs will pay off in both longevity and visual appeal, making it a worthwhile investment for any homeowner. Call Mike’s Custom Flooring when you need hardwood flooring services.