In the minds of many homeowners, nothing beats the look and feel of solid hardwood flooring–and in many senses, that’s true. However, in recent years, advances in technology and manufacturing have made engineered wood floors a strong alternative option, often even surpassing solid wood on affordability and general durability. Both options offer unique benefits and have distinct characteristics that suit different environments and tastes. This sets up a dilemma, though: how do you choose? Is there an advantage of one over the other? Let’s delve into some of the key aspects of solid wood floors versus engineered floors to help you make an informed decision.

Construction and Durability

Solid Wood Flooring

Solid wood flooring is exactly what it sounds like: each plank is made from a single, solid piece of wood. It is traditionally about 3/4″ thick and can be sanded down and refinished multiple times over its lifespan. This type of flooring is known for its longevity and can last generations if properly maintained.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood flooring consists of a top layer of real hardwood affixed to several layers of plywood or other wood-based materials. These layers are oriented in different directions to create a stable core that is less susceptible to expansion and contraction with changes in humidity. This construction makes engineered wood a great option in areas prone to moisture, like basements or over concrete slabs.

Aesthetic and Style Variety

Solid Wood Flooring

Solid wood offers a timeless look and is available in numerous species of wood, grains, stains, and finishes. It can be tailored to suit any style from rustic to modern. The ability to refinish solid wood flooring also allows for numerous updates in the look and feel without replacing the planks.

Engineered Wood Flooring

While engineered wood also offers a variety of wood species, grains, and finishes, its real wood top layer provides a similar look and feel to solid wood. However, it generally cannot be sanded and refinished as many times as solid wood due to the thinness of the top layer.

Installation and Versatility

Solid Wood Flooring

Solid wood floors are best installed on or above grade and can be nailed or stapled to a wooden subfloor. These floors are not suitable for installation in basements or over concrete without a proper subfloor due to their sensitivity to moisture.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood is more versatile in terms of installation. It can be installed below, on, or above grade and can be glued, nailed, or even floated over a variety of subfloors, including concrete. This makes it an excellent choice for many different house areas, including moisture-prone ones.

Longevity

Solid Wood Flooring

Solid wood floors have a reputation for lasting decades, even centuries, if properly maintained. (The typical life expectancy is 30-100 years). However, they can be susceptible to scratches, dents, and warping over time.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood flooring is designed to withstand daily wear and tear better than solid wood, thanks to its durable construction. On the other hand, engineered wood has a shorter expected life span due to its inability to be refinished repeatedly. (As a rule of thumb, well-maintained engineered floors can last about 30 years.)

Deciding Between Solid and Engineered Wood Floors

When weighing these two options, consider factors such as the location of installation, the level of moisture exposure, budget, and how long you plan to stay in your home. Solid wood floors offer unparalleled charm and longevity but come with higher costs and limitations in moisture-prone areas. On the other hand, engineered wood provides a practical and flexible flooring solution that accommodates a broader range of environments, but it comes at a cost of shorter life expectancy and fewer refinishing options. Ultimately, choosing between solid and engineered wood floors depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and the specific requirements of your home.

Whether you choose engineered or solid wood floors, one thing is true for both: they won’t do justice to your home unless they are sourced from the best materials and installed properly. At Renaissance, we are known throughout Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and across Green Country for our expert craftsmanship. We only use the highest grades of hardwood and engineered floors to ensure your floors remain beautiful for many years to come. For a complimentary quote, contact us here.

The holidays are a special time when we gather with family and friends to share meals, celebrate traditions, and create lasting memories. However, with the festive spirit also comes increased foot traffic, furniture shifting, and the occasional spill—all of which can pose risks to your wood floors. Without taking precautions, a single mishap could cause damage to your floors and put a damper on your holiday spirit.

 

If you’re hosting holiday get-togethers and worried about the toll these activities may take on your floors, don’t fret. With a few preventative measures, you can easily safeguard your hardwood surfaces. Here are some common-sense tips to enable you (and your floors) to enjoy the holidays in peace.

 

Use Protective Mats and Rugs in High-Traffic Areas

 

During the holidays, your home is likely to see more visitors, which means increased foot traffic and the potential for wear and tear on your wood floors. To minimize damage, invest in high-quality mats or area rugs to cover high-traffic zones such as entryways, hallways, and areas near dining tables. Look for rugs with a non-slip backing to ensure safety while protecting your floors.

 

It’s also worth placing doormats both outside and inside your entrances. These will trap dirt, sand, and moisture brought in from winter footwear before they have a chance to scratch or stain your wood flooring. Encourage guests and family members to remove their shoes at the door, even providing a dedicated space for footwear to make this a seamless habit.

 

Clean Spills Immediately

 

While holiday feasting and celebrations often bring joy, they can also lead to inevitable spills. Whether it’s a glass of red wine tipping over during a toast or gravy dripping during a festive dinner, liquids left unaddressed can seep into the surface of the wood, causing stains or even warping the wood over time.

 

The most effective way to prevent damage is to clean up spills as soon as they occur. Use a soft, absorbent cloth to blot—never rub—the affected area. Follow up with a gentle hardwood floor cleaner like Bona to ensure no residue is left behind. By keeping cleaning supplies on hand and within easy reach, you’ll be prepared to tackle accidents before they become problems.

 

Be Careful When Rearranging Furniture

 

Preparing for holiday gatherings often involves moving furniture to make space for decorations, create additional seating, or accommodate activities. Sometimes, the furniture-moving even happens “on the fly” to make room for more guests. However, dragging tables, chairs, or couches across your hardwood floors without proper care can leave scratches and gouges.

 

To protect your floors, place felt pads or furniture sliders on the legs of all pieces you plan to move. These simple yet effective tools reduce friction and prevent scratches while making furniture rearrangement easier. When moving large or heavy items, enlist help and lift the furniture instead of dragging it across the floor. Also, pay attention to well-meaning guests who want to “help” by moving furniture without asking. With these precautions, you can safely organize your space to host guests without compromising the integrity of your flooring.

 

Trim Your Christmas Tree with Care

 

If you celebrate Christmas with a real tree, it’s essential to take steps to protect your wood floors. Tree sap can be sticky and difficult to remove, while water spillage from the tree stand can lead to staining or warping. To prevent these issues, start by placing a waterproof mat or tree skirt underneath the stand. When watering the tree, use a watering can with a narrow spout and avoid overfilling the stand. Cleanup is also critical—sweep or vacuum regularly to remove fallen needles, which can become abrasive and scratch the floor if stepped on. By taking these steps, you’ll ensure your holiday centerpiece doesn’t cause accidental damage.

 

Establish a Floor-Friendly Cleaning Routine

 

During the holidays, maintaining a consistent cleaning routine will go a long way in protecting your floors. Begin by dry-mopping the floors regularly or use a vacuum with no beater brush. (Avoid anything with harsh bristles that could scratch the surface.) For extra protection, use Bona wood floor cleaner every 1-2 weeks on the floors. Regular cleaning not only preserves the appearance of your floors but also makes your home feel welcoming for guests.

 

Keeping Your Floors Festive and Flawless

 

By following these practical tips, you can protect your hardwood floors from the inevitable hustle and bustle of the holiday season. With the right precautions—like placing rugs in high-traffic areas, cleaning spills promptly, and handling furniture with care—you’ll keep your floors in excellent condition while fully enjoying the festivities.

 

That said, if a mishap does cause some damage–or if your wood floors are already showing signs of wear and could use a little TLC–Renaissance Hardwood Flooring is here to help. Whether your floors need refinishing or a full replacement, our team can bring your floors back to their original beauty or give your space an entirely new look. For a complementary quote in the Tulsa or Oklahoma City areas, fill out our contact form today. Happy Holidays!

 

We all love the elegant look of quality wood floors, but let’s face facts: wood floors can also make a room seem “noisier.” You may especially hear the difference if you’ve just replaced carpeting with wood flooring. Hardwoods can drastically change the acoustics of a room, making it sound more “live” or “echoey.” The reason? Carpet absorbs sound waves, and wood reflects them.

 

Now, some people don’t mind the sound either way, but if you’re the kind of person who likes a room to sound quiet and cozy, the additional noise caused from hardwood floors might bother you a bit. Fortunately, there are creative ways to dampen the sound so you can enjoy the look and feel of your new floors without the added noise. The following five tips should help.

 

Use Area Rugs

 

Strategically placed rugs offer a great way to reduce the “echo effect” in a room with wood floors. Rugs can absorb sound waves, providing an extra layer of insulation that helps to dampen the sound. You don’t have to cover all the floor space for this to work–in fact, you should notice some improvement with every area rug you add.

 

Decorate the Walls

 

Just as rugs diffuse sound from bouncing off the floors, wall hangings do the same for the walls. For best effect, consider adorning your walls textile hangings, which can be an excellent sound-absorbing solution–but if you prefer framed artwork, almost anything hanging on the walls should help somewhat. Even a bookshelf placed against a wall will help to dampen sound. Not only do these pieces absorb the sound waves bouncing off your hardwood floors, but they also add warmth and texture to your room, creating a more inviting space.

 

 

Consider the Kind of Wood Flooring

 

The type of wood flooring you choose can also have an effect on how much noise it reflects. Generally speaking, the softer the wood, the more sound it absorbs. Pine, one of the softest woods used in flooring, will generally produce the least amount of noise. Maple is harder and more “echoey,” while oak (the wood used most often in flooring) is somewhere between them.

 

Consider Wood Flooring Alternatives

 

If the “echo effect” of hardwood flooring truly concerns you, there are other alternatives to consider that will emulate the look of wood floors while also dampening the sound. Certain types of engineered wood flooring can be quite absorptive of sound waves, and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is even better at reducing ambient noise from a room. Both are technologically designed these days to resemble wood flooring, and many people prefer them.

 

You don’t have to implement all these tips to reduce the echo of wood floors–only one or two should help. And at the end of the day, having a bit of exposed hardwood (along with other materials) can actually “warm up” the sound of your room. (Some recording studios even prefer hardwoods for just this reason.) Just know that when you’re choosing wood floors, you have options for dampening the sound if you’re sensitive to “echoey” spaces and want a quieter room.

 

Whatever you choose, quality workmanship and installation will go a long way to making sure your wood floors last for generations to come. For a complementary quote in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Catoosa, Norman, and other parts of Green Country, contact us here today.

Whether you are thinking to install new wood flooring or refinish your existing ones, you face a dilemma: how can you be sure your new floors match the design style and aesthetic of your space? It can be a stressful decision, for sure–after all, you plan on living with this decision for many years to come. Correctly matching your wood flooring with your interior design can create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere in your home. If you choose something that conflicts with the space, however, it can create an unsettled mood, and you may feel you have to do more renovations to fix the issue.

 

Fortunately, there are some basic interior design principles that can help you make an informed decision about what flooring color, style and type will best suit your current interior design style (assuming, of course, that you’re happy with your current style). Here are a few tips to help point you in the right direction.

 

Modern Style

 

Modern interior design is characterized by clean lines, minimalistic aesthetics, and a neutral color palette. When selecting wood flooring for a modern home, consider the following:

 

• Color Schemes: Opt for lighter shades and basic wood types like maple, or white oak. These lighter hues complement the sleek and airy feel of modern interiors.

• Patterns: Simple, straight plank patterns work best. Avoid intricate designs that may disrupt the clean lines typical of modern design.

• Finishes: Matte or satin finishes are ideal, as they provide a subtle, understated look.

• Textures: Smooth textures are preferred, enhancing the modern, streamlined appearance.

• Furniture Choices: Pair your light wood floors with contemporary furniture pieces in neutral tones, incorporating metal and glass elements for an added touch of sophistication.

 

Rustic Style

 

Rustic interior design embraces natural elements, creating a warm and cozy ambiance. Wood flooring is a natural fit for this style, and here’s how you can achieve the perfect match:

 

• Color Schemes: Rich, warm tones are ideal for rustic spaces. Consider wood choices walnut, cherry, or oak. These bring out the natural beauty of the wood and add to the rustic charm.

• Patterns: Wide planks often fit well within a rustic theme, adding an authentic, lived-in feel.

• Finishes: Go for hand-scraped or distressed finishes that highlight the wood’s natural imperfections. To “lean in” to the rustic look, consider reclaimed wood (just be prepared to pay more and to wait longer).

• Textures: Embrace rough and textured surfaces that contribute to the rustic aesthetic.

• Furniture Choices: Complement your wood floors with furniture made from natural materials, such as leather, wood, and stone. Earthy tones and handcrafted pieces will further enhance the rustic vibe.

 

Traditional Style

 

Traditional interior design is timeless and elegant, often featuring classic details and rich colors. To match wood flooring with a traditional style, consider these pointers:

 

• Color Schemes: Darker wood floors like mahogany, oak, or cherry are perfect for traditional settings, adding a sense of sophistication and grandeur.

• Patterns: Herringbone or parquet patterns can add an element of classic design and craftsmanship.

• Finishes: Satin or semi-gloss finishes reflect light beautifully, adding to the elegance of traditional interiors.

• Textures: Smooth and polished textures are preferable, maintaining the refined look.

• Furniture Choices: Opt for classic furniture pieces with intricate details and rich fabrics. Antique or vintage pieces can also add a touch of historical charm.

 

Industrial Style

 

Industrial interior design is edgy and raw, often featuring exposed brick, metal, and unfinished wood. Here’s how you can align your wood flooring with an industrial design:

 

• Color Schemes: Neutral and darker shades work well for these spaces. Aim for gray stains or weathered wood. These tones can complement the industrial materials and finishes.

• Patterns: Simple, wide planks are ideal. Chevron patterns can also add an interesting dynamic.

• Finishes: Matte or distressed finishes contribute to the raw, unfinished look typical of industrial design.

• Textures: Rough and distressed textures add to the rugged, industrial feel.

• Furniture Choices: Combine your wood floors with furniture made from metal, leather, and reclaimed wood. Look for pieces with a utilitarian feel, such as vintage metal chairs and wooden tables.

 

Choosing the right wood flooring to match your interior design style is key to creating a cohesive and attractive living space. Whether your style is modern, rustic, traditional, or industrial, there are wood flooring options that can beautifully complement your home’s aesthetic. Whatever your choice, our expert craftsmen can ensure your hardwood flooring is of the highest quality and installed to last for generations. For a complimentary consultation on choosing the right flooring for your home in the Tulsa or OKC areas, reach out to Renaissance Hardwood Flooring today using our convenient form.

When it comes to choosing the perfect flooring for your home, the decision often comes down to two popular options: engineered hardwood and traditional solid hardwood flooring. While both offer the timeless beauty of real wood, they differ in construction and performance. Engineered hardwood consists of a top layer of real wood veneer over layers of high-quality plywood, making it more stable and less prone to warping compared to solid hardwood. Engineered flooring can only be refinished a limited number of times due to its thin veneer.

 

Pros and cons aside, many homeowners are finding engineered hardwood flooring to be a valid alternative to solid wood in some cases. Let’s talk specifically about some of the benefits.

 

Durability

 

One of the standout benefits of engineered hardwood flooring is its impressive durability. Thanks to its layered construction, it can withstand changes in temperature and humidity better than traditional hardwood. This makes engineered wood an excellent choice for areas where moisture might be an issue, like basements or kitchens.

 

 

Versatility in Design Options

 

Engineered hardwood floors offer a wide array of design choices, including pre-finished and unfinished options. With various wood species, finishes, and plank sizes available, you can easily find a style that suits your aesthetic preferences. Whether you’re going for a classic oak look or a trendy gray wash, engineered hardwood provides the versatility to achieve the design you envision for your home.

 

Environmentally Friendly Choice

 

For the environmentally conscious homeowner, engineered hardwood is a sustainable option. The production process uses less hardwood, preserving natural resources compared to traditional hardwood floors. Many manufacturers also source their materials from sustainably managed forests. This means you can enjoy the beauty of wood flooring with peace of mind that you’re making an eco-friendly choice.

 

Of course, for many homeowners, nothing beats the look and feel of solid hardwood floors–and there are plenty of reasons to consider this option, as well. But despite some of the skepticism some may have about it, engineered wood flooring has plenty of advantages, especially in situations where cost and humidity are factors.

 

Considering whether engineered wood flooring is right for you? The best way to learn is with the help of our expert team–and there’s no cost for a consultation. If you’re considering new wood flooring in the Oklahoma City or Tulsa areas, contact Renaissance Hardwood Floors today to schedule your complementary personalized consultation.

While wide plank flooring isn’t necessarily a new development in wood flooring design, it has seen a huge surge of popularity among homeowners and designers alike over the past few years. Indeed, wide planks can add a touch of elegance and drama to any room. However, like any flooring option, this trend is not for everyone. If you’re thinking about wide planks as an option for your next flooring project, let’s delve into some of the advantages and disadvantages.

 

What is Wide Plank Flooring?

 

Wide plank flooring typically refers to wood planks that are wider than the traditional 2 ¼ to 3-inch boards. Wide planks can range from 5 inches to as wide as 12 inches or more. These broader planks offer a distinctive look, showcasing the wood’s natural grain and texture in a way that narrower boards cannot. It’s essential to note that while wide plank flooring is often associated with hardwood, it can also be made from other materials such as engineered wood or luxury vinyl.

 

The Pros of Wide Plank Flooring

 

Let’s begin by looking at some of the advantages wide plank floors can offer.

 

Aesthetic Appeal

 

Wide planks are renowned for their stunning visual impact. The broader planks create fewer seams, allowing the natural beauty of the wood grain to shine through. This enhances the overall appearance of the floor, giving it a luxurious and timeless feel. The wide surface area showcases more of the wood’s natural patterns, knots, and imperfections, creating a unique and authentic look. Wide planks can also make a room feel larger and more open. The fewer seams can create a sense of continuity, making spaces appear less cluttered.

 

Variety of Styles

 

Wide planks come in various wood species, finishes, and stains, offering versatility to match any interior design style. Whether you prefer a rustic farmhouse look or a sleek, modern aesthetic, there’s a wide plank option to suit your taste.

 

Increased Home Value

 

Investing in high-quality wide plank flooring can add significant value to your home. This flooring type is often associated with luxury and durability, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers. Not only can wide plank wood flooring give you a great return on investment by lasting for decades with proper care, but homes with wide plank floors tend to stand out on the market, potentially increasing resale value.

 

The Cons of Wide Plank Flooring

 

For some homeowners, the drawbacks of wide plank flooring outweigh the benefits. Let’s look at some of the potential disadvantages.

 

Higher Cost

 

One of the primary drawbacks of wide plank flooring is the higher upfront cost. High-quality wide planks often come at a premium price, especially if you opt for rare wood species or custom finishes. In addition, installing wide planks can be more labor-intensive, requiring skilled craftsmanship to ensure proper fitting and alignment.

 

Limited Availability

 

Finding the perfect wide plank floors can be challenging sometimes as not all wood species and finishes are available in wide formats. This can limit your choices and potentially delay your project. In some cases, you may need to place special orders or wait for custom milling, which can extend the timeline for your flooring project. Availability can also be affected sometimes by supply chain limitations because they tend to be in high demand. This isn’t to say you can’t get the flooring you want–you just may need to exercise a little patience when ordering certain types of wide plank floors.

 

Installation Challenges

 

Wide plank flooring requires precise installation to avoid issues down the line. The installation process for wide planks is more complex, necessitating careful subfloor preparation and meticulous fitting. Ensuring a stable and level subfloor is also essential to prevent problems such as squeaking or uneven surfaces. In short, you want to be certain that you’re working with an experienced technician since not all wood floor installers have the experience or qualifications to work with wide planks. (And it’s certainly not something to attempt DIY.)

 

Are Wide Plank Floors Right for My Home?

 

Ultimately, choosing whether or not to use wide plank flooring comes down to personal aesthetic and budget. However, design experts will generally tell you that wide plank floors are best for big rooms and refined or minimalist design styles because they add a sense of space and formality. In small rooms, wide planks can actually highlight the limited space and make it feel more claustrophobic.

 

At Renaissance Hardwood Flooring, installation teams have extensive experience in quality wide plank installation, along with many other types of custom styles and designs. Over the past 40-plus years, we have built a solid reputation for quality and craftsmanship across both the Tulsa and Oklahoma City areas. Contact us here to schedule a complimentary quote.

Hardwood floors aren’t just for homes; many businesses and commercial spaces can benefit from them, as well. Hardwood flooring offers a classic elegance while being tough enough to handle the demands of a busy environment.

 

That said, deciding on the right flooring for your commercial space isn’t just about looks—it’s about durability and practicality, too. Let’s dive into how different commercial settings can benefit from hardwood floors, explore the pros and cons of popular wood types, and understand the various finishes available.

 

Which Commercial Spaces Can Benefit from Hardwood Floors?

 

Let’s begin by exploring different types of commercial or public spaces that are great choices for hardwood floors.

 

Offices

 

In an office setting, hardwood flooring exudes professionalism and sophistication. It creates a welcoming atmosphere for clients and provides a comfortable and stylish environment for employees. The timeless appeal of wood can make any workspace feel more inviting and professional.

 

Retail Spaces

 

Retail spaces can greatly benefit from the beauty and resilience of hardwood floors. They not only enhance the shopping experience with a clean and attractive look but are also durable enough to withstand heavy foot traffic. Whether it’s a boutique or a large retail outlet, hardwood floors can elevate the overall aesthetic.

 

Gymnasiums/Sports Facilities

 

Hardwood floors are a popular choice for gymnasiums and other sports facilities because of their shock-absorbing nature. They provide the necessary traction for athletes while minimizing the impact on their joints. Additionally, hardwood floors are easy to maintain and clean, making them perfect for these high-traffic areas.

 

Performing Arts Studios

 

Between the shock-absorption quality and excellent acoustic properties, hardwood floors are a top choice for various performing arts studios. They offer the perfect balance of resonance and reflection for recording studios and performance spaces, creating an ideal environment for music production, rehearsal, etc. Wood floors are also a flooring option of choice for dance studios because they’re easy on the feet.

 

Restaurants

 

Restaurants can greatly benefit from the warmth and charm of hardwood floors. With the right finish, they can add a touch of elegance to any dining space. Hardwood floors also offer versatility when it comes to design options, allowing restaurant owners to create unique and inviting atmospheres.

 

Popular Wood Types for Commercial Spaces

 

Choosing the right wood type for your commercial space depends on several factors, such as use, foot traffic, and overall aesthetic. Let’s look at a few of the more popular types of wood flooring available, and some of the pros and cons of each:

 

• Oak is the “work horse” of commercial spaces, a timeless and durable option known for being able to handle heavy foot traffic. It also has a distinctive grain pattern that adds character to any space. At the same time, it can be prone to scratching and may darken over time with exposure to light.

• Maple stands out for its hardness and resistance to impact. Its light, natural color brightens up spaces, and its smooth grain pattern adds a modern touch. On the downside, maple can be more expensive and less stain-friendly due to its density.

• Cherry offers rich, warm tones that add a touch of luxury. It ages beautifully, developing a deeper patina over time. But it’s softer than oak and maple, which makes it more susceptible to dents, and it tends to be pricier. It might be a good option for small offices with minimal foot traffic.

 

Understanding Finishes

 

The finish you choose can also significantly impact the look and maintenance of your hardwood floor:

 

• A matte finish gives a natural, understated look and hides scratches well, making it ideal for offices and retail spaces aiming for a muted elegance.

• The satin finish strikes a balance with a slight sheen, offering easy maintenance. It’s perfect for high-traffic areas like retail spaces and office lobbies.

• For a high-shine appearance, a gloss finish reflects more light and showcases the wood’s natural beauty, though it does highlight imperfections more readily. This finish is great for showrooms and boutique retail spaces where a luxurious appearance is prioritized.

 

LVP: An Alternative to Wood Flooring

 

If you want the look of hardwood flooring in your commercial space, but you prefer something a bit more low-maintenance, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring might be a good alternative for you. Not only can LVP be fabricated to mimic the look of almost any type of wood floor, but it’s also highly durable for high foot traffic and easy to maintain. It’s also fairly soft under-foot, making it more comfortable to stand on for longer periods of time.

 

Making the Right Choice

 

Choosing the right hardwood flooring involves considering the specific needs and aesthetic goals of your business. For an office, you might prefer the durability of oak with a matte finish for a professional and enduring look. Retail spaces could opt for maple with a satin finish to create a bright, welcoming environment that stands up to daily wear and tear. Specialized areas like yoga studios might find cherry wood with a smooth satin finish offers the perfect blend of warmth and elegance.

 

Ready to transform your commercial space with the timeless elegance of hardwood flooring? Reach out to our experts today to explore your options and take the next step towards a beautiful, durable flooring solution for your business. To schedule a complimentary consultation in the Tulsa or Oklahoma City area, contact us here.

 

Ah, spring in Oklahoma—when the weather decides to throw everything it’s got at us. From severe thunderstorms and tornadoes to heavy rains, we’ve seen it all recently–and repeatedly. While our gardens and lawns may be throwing a party for this moisture-rich atmosphere, our hardwood floors are definitely not celebrating. We’re used to humidity this time of year, but this steady stream of storms has caused us to experience excessive humidity for an extended time. And that, believe it or not, can cause damage to your floors. Let’s talk about why it’s important to pay attention to humidity and what you can do to protect your floors,

 

Why the Fuss Over Humidity?

 

To understand why hardwood floors aren’t fans of humidity, we need to take a quick peek into the science of wood. Wood is hygroscopic, which, in layman’s terms, means it likes to play sponge with the moisture in its environment. Humid air makes the pores expand, and drier air makes them contract. Under normal conditions, your wood floors are flexible enough to adapt to these changes in moisture. But in the case of excessive humidity, wood floors can absorb too much moisture at once. As a result, the wood panels may expand, warp, and even buckle, none of which is good news for homeowners. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it can lead to significant structural damage over time, requiring costly repairs or replacement.

 

How to Protect Your Floors from Excessive Humidity

 

The good news here is that you don’t have to just watch your floors get damaged. There are several steps you can take to protect them at times like these. Here are a few helpful tips:

 

• Keep Windows Closed: It might be tempting to throw open the windows and invite that fresh, spring air inside, but doing so also invites humidity. Keep windows closed during particularly humid days.

• Keep Shades and Curtains Closed: Direct sunlight on your wood floors can heat them and cause them to absorb more moisture.

• Run Your Air Conditioning: Your A/C does more than cool down your home; it also removes moisture from the air, helping to control indoor humidity levels. For best results, keep your thermostat below 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Invest in a Dehumidifier: In seasons like these, a dehumidifier can be a hardwood floor’s best friend. It removes excess moisture from the air, helping maintain a stable environment for your wood planks. (Bonus tip: If your dehumidifier doesn’t have a hygrometer to measure relative humidity, buy one. To protect your floors, keep indoor humidity at around 55 percent.)

• Use Fans to Improve Air Circulation: Fans can help move air throughout your home, preventing moisture from settling and giving your floors a bit of a breather.

 

By following these tips, you can create a safe environment for your hardwood floors, even when Oklahoma’s weather decides to go off-script. Remember, a little precaution goes a long way in preserving the beauty and integrity of your wood flooring.

 

All that said, if the worst happens and your hardwood floors sustain moisture damage, the team at Renaissance can help. We’ve been serving the Tulsa and Oklahoma City areas for decades, and we’re well aware of how the environment can wreak havoc on wood floors. For a complementary quote on hardwood flooring repair, refinishing, or replacement, contact us here.

Some style trends appear once, and you never see them again. Others, however, seem to make their way back into popular culture again and again. That’s exactly what we see happening with herringbone wood flooring. Although this flooring pattern has been around for centuries, it’s recently become one of our most requested floors yet again. It’s like this classic style has been rediscovered, and now, it’s making waves in modern homes, beautifully marrying old-world charm with contemporary design.

 

What’s the Story Behind Herringbone?

 

The herringbone pattern isn’t a newcomer. It’s actually been around since the days of the Roman Empire, deriving its name from its resemblance to fish bones. Originally used in brick roadways for its stability under compression, this pattern made its grand entrance into homes during the 16th century, dressing up the floors of fancy French chateaus and Italian villas. At that time, it was the epitome of luxury and sophistication. Fast forward a few centuries, and herringbone is still captivating homeowners all over the globe.

 

Why We’re All Falling for Herringbone

 

There’s something about the zigzag pattern of herringbone that just draws you in. It’s not your ordinary flooring; it’s got character and drama. It plays with light and space, making rooms look bigger and more interesting. Whether your home design is ultra-modern or more Downton Abbey, herringbone wood flooring fits right in.

 

It’s Not Just Pretty—It’s Practical, Too

 

Herringbone isn’t just about good looks; it’s also incredibly durable. The interlocking pattern of the wood planks is not just for show–it adds an additional layer of stability that can withstand lots of foot traffic and plenty of weight. (Remember–the Romans used the herringbone pattern as a way to reinforce their roads!) Ultimately, when it’s properly installed, herringbone wood flooring can last for generations–not just in style, but in substance.

 

Boosting Your Home’s Value

 

If you’re thinking of selling your home someday, herringbone floors might just be your secret weapon. Wood flooring in itself is known to boost home values, but the herringbone pattern amplifies this trend because it attracts more attention. It’s an investment that pays off by making your space more desirable to future buyers.

 

Trendy, Yet Timeless

 

Yes, herringbone wood flooring is having a bit of a moment–but considering this style has been around for ages, there’s also a timeless quality to it. This style is the perfect blend of beauty, versatility, and durability, with a splash of history thrown in for good measure. It’s a choice that says, “I love my home, and I want it to have something special.”

 

One important thing to keep in mind: herringbone flooring should not be installed by novices. It’s a complicated process that requires precise measuring and a high level of craftsmanship. That’s why you should only use a trusted wood flooring company to install it. At Renaissance, our team of master craftsmen are highly skilled in installing herringbone wood flooring, along with many other intricate patterns and styles. For a complementary quote in Tulsa, Catoosa, Claremore, Oklahoma City, or other parts of Green Country, contact us here.

Despite the timelessness of wood flooring itself, preferences do change over time as to how these floors look and what people are asking for. Now a few months into 2024, we’re noticing some specific design trends taking the forefront. Some of these are timeless looks that are making a comeback, while other trends seem to be new and innovative. Let’s dive in and explore some of the top wood flooring design trends we are tracking this year.

 

Natural & Light Wood

In keeping with the ongoing popularity of the “modern farmhouse” style, we’re seeing a consistent demand for natural finishes, lighter wood tones, and a more “unfinished” look that embraces the natural imperfections of the wood such as knots, grains, and color variations. This move toward nature and authenticity makes each floor unique and tells a story of its own.

 

Mixed Tone Wood Floors

 

Mixed tone wood floors are gaining popularity as they offer a unique and visually interesting aesthetic. This trend involves combining different shades and tones of wood within the same floor, creating a beautiful blend of colors that adds depth and character to your space. Watch for this trend to grow in popularity this year.

 

Wide Plank Floors

 

While some previously dismissed wide plank hardwood as a fad, its popularity is continuing to rise. The wider planks give a sense of luxury and spaciousness, making them perfect for open-plan living spaces. Additionally, these wide planks can feature natural imperfections and saw marks, further enhancing their rustic charm.

 

Large Format Flooring

 

Hand-in-hand with wide plank floors is a trend known as large format flooring. These floors not only integrate wider planks, but larger and longer planks, to create a dramatic and expansive look. This style is particularly suited to larger rooms where the scale of the flooring can truly shine.

 

Patterned Wood Flooring

 

While patterned styles have been around for centuries, herringbone floors are making a huge comeback in 2024, along with other classic patterns like parquet flooring. There’s also a trend toward more innovative, modern, and abstract patterns as homeowners seek to add a one-of-a-kind look to their homes. This trend truly gives homeowners an opportunity to express their creativity and individuality.

 

Whether you’re renovating your home or planning a new build, these wood flooring trends offer a wealth of inspiration. That said, remember that the best floor is one that fits your personal style and meets your practical needs. At Renaissance, our skilled craftsmen are highly experienced in all wood flooring styles. Whatever style you choose, you can trust that you’re getting the highest level of quality, both in product and in installation. For a complementary quote on your next wood flooring project in Tulsa, Glenpool, Sapulpa, Oklahoma City, or anywhere else in Green Country, contact us here.