See what we mean? The same type of wood floor might look perfect in one space, but in another, not so much. Our team can certainly help you narrow down the best options for your space, but for now, let’s look at four key considerations when choosing your wood floors.

1. Overall Look and Style

If you’re designing the interior from scratch, what kind of design style are you looking for? Are you leaning toward modern/trendy or traditional/timeless? If you’re installing the floors into an already-decorated space, what type of furnishings and wall coverings do you have? As a general rule of thumb, darker floors tend to create a rich, elegant or sophisticated vibe, while lighter floors exude a more casual or modern feel. Beyond that, you want to select a flooring style that matches or complements your existing décor, or at least won’t clash with it.

2. Expected Use or Wear-and-Tear

The next consideration is this: how much durability do you need from your wood floors? Are you installing the flooring in an area that’s going to see a lot of foot traffic? Will there be small children and/or pets? If your new floors need to stand up to a lot of abuse, a harder wood like oak, maple or hickory will be more resistant to scrapes and scratches. If it’s just you living in the home and you tend to have a light touch, you can probably get away with a softer wood like pine or walnut. Another tip: Distressed or hand scraped wood floors can mask scratches and scrapes quite well.

3. General Maintenance and Upkeep Habits

Certain types of wood floors require a bit more attention than others to keep them looking their best. High-polished dark floors, for example, will show dust and dirt more easily than lighter woods or textured finishes. If you don’t mind keeping up with the housework, you’ll probably enjoy a polished, elegant look for your wood floors. If you prefer more casual living habits, look for colors and finishes that are lower maintenance.

4. Lighting

A fourth consideration, one that often goes overlooked, is the available lighting of the room. Dark hardwoods placed in rooms with plenty of natural light can look quite elegant, especially if they’re offsetting light colored furnishings or décor. On the other hand, if dark floors are placed in dark spaces, they can make the room look downright bleak. In most cases, the “offset approach” can work quite well—choose dark woods for light spaces, and light woods for dark spaces. And if you want to create an extra sunny, almost beach house-type of look—try placing light woods in light spaces.

We know it’s a lot to think about, but if you take the time to look at these different factors and really evaluate which type of wood flooring might look best in your space, you’ll be happier with your choices overall. Of course, our team is more than happy to talk you through your options and let you view samples to help you make a qualified decision. Give Renaissance a call today at 918-298-4477.

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1. Oak Hardwoods Are Very Durable

Oak is one of the “hardest” hardwoods available on the market, and because it is in abundant supply, it’s also one of the more affordable hardwood choices. Its density means it holds up well over time—in fact, it’s not uncommon for oak floors to last for more than 100 years with proper care.

2. Oak Is Very Versatile

Oak is available in a wide array of styles, shades and finishes, so it enhances both modern and traditional designs equally well. Its attractive grain is also very conducive to color and staining, so oak hardwoods are available in a nearly unlimited palette of shades and colors. Whatever your home calls for, chances are we can prepare an oak floor to match it.

3. Oak Offers Timeless Appeal

With all the varying home design trends that change with the seasons, the great thing about oak is it never goes out of style. A new oak floor today will be just as popular in 10-20 years as it is now—just as it was 40-50 years ago. For that reason, homes with oak flooring tend to hold or increase their value better. (Hint: If you’re planning to sell, oak floors are a great way to add value.)

4. Oak Is Resistant to Damage

Not only will your oak hardwoods hold up well against heavy foot traffic—they’ll also hold up well against “nature” itself. Oak is naturally resistant to common enemies like termites and fungus, which means with proper care, you’ll spend less money on repairs and replacement in the long run.

5. Oak Improves with Age

Think of oak as the “wine” of hardwoods—it mellows and looks richer as it ages. This is not only why a well-cared for oak floor can last for more than a century—it’s also why 200-year-old reclaimed oak floors can easily cost more than new hardwoods! If you want a floor that just gets better over time—oak is your best bet.

Of course, there are many other great hardwoods from which to choose, and each has its own set of advantages. But if you’re looking for an excellent all-around flooring choice that will stand the test of time, you can’t do much better than quality oak hardwoods. If you’re a homeowner or builder in Tulsa, Glenpool, Sand Springs, Catoosa or other parts of Green Country, we’re here to meet your hardwood flooring needs. Give Renaissance a call for a free estimate at 918-298-4477.

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