Hardwood floors are the epitome of luxury and comfort, which is why they are so popular with homeowners and buyers. They can give a room a more rustic feel and can be found in all sorts of varieties.
With that being said, hardwood floors are not perfect and they do not work for all applications. This is why you need to understand the drawbacks and limitations of hardwood flooring before you decide to have them installed. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of hardwood flooring.
Pro – They Will Instantly Add Value to Your Property
One of the main benefits of hardwood floors is that they can significantly increase the value of your home. Things like carpeting or vinyl aren’t always a winner with buyers, but most of them will love new hardwood floors. This will also give them the impression that you’re someone who cares about their property. So, if you are thinking of putting your home up for sale soon, consider the option.
Con – They Can’t Be Used Everywhere
One of the main issues with traditional hardwood floors is that they can’t be installed anywhere. They usually can’t be installed in places that deal with a lot of humidity like a bathroom or a below-grade basement. They are also not the best option for the kitchen.
One thing you could do, however, is go for engineered hardwood floors. These are made of multiple plywood layers with a thin hardwood layer on top. This would allow you to use them for below-grade applications and other areas where traditional hardwood wouldn’t work.
If you want to learn more about engineered hardwood flooring, you should check out Ottawa Diamond Flooring. They offer both regular and engineered hardwood floors and will be able to give you a clear rundown of the differences between both. They also have a variety of other flooring options you could go for if engineered hardwood wouldn’t work in your case.
Pro – Low Maintenance
Hardwood floors demand very little maintenance, and when they are maintained properly, they can easily last for over 20 years. All you need is a broom and a mop to keep them clean. You’ll then need to polish them about three times per year which is something pretty much anyone can do. Hardwood floors are a much better option than something like carpeting if you have pets or children too. This is because hardwood floors are less vulnerable to spills and won’t get musty like carpets will.
Con – Can Be Expensive
Hardwood flooring is more expensive than other options like vinyl or carpeting. The cost will depend on the variety you get. So, if your goal is to increase your home’s value, you have to make sure that the addition will not end up eating into your margin.
Now that you know a bit more about hardwood floors, you are free to speak with a few suppliers and ask any questions you may have. A good one will give you honest answers and will give you the best option for your needs and budget.
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