We think it’s a shame when homeowners let myths stop them from getting the hardwood flooring they’ve always wanted. Hardwood flooring not only looks beautiful, but can be tough enough to resist scratches, dents, and stains. Keep reading to learn why some of the myths about hardwood flooring simply aren’t true. For more information, call your local hardwood flooring store.
1. Wood floors are high maintenance
Did you know carpet needs more maintenance that hardwood flooring? If you or a family member has allergies, you’re much better off with wood flooring. Unlike carpet flooring, hardwood doesn’t trap dust, pet hair, and pollen. To clean hardwood flooring, simply sweep or dust. You may also choose to vacuum with the beater bar turned off. Carpet, on the other hand, has to be vacuumed every day in high traffic or pet areas.
2. Wood floors scratch easily
The Janka hardness test measures how well hardwood resists scratches, dents, and stains. If you are worried about scratching hardwood floors, choose wood species with high Janka ratings. For example, white oak flooring has a Janka rating of 1,360 pounds-force. Oak flooring is tough enough to resist scratches from dog claws, as well as dents from dropped pots and pans. Your local flooring store can help you pick out the right hardwood species for your home.
It’s important to understand that all flooring shows wear over time. Carpet stains or chipped tile can also make your home look run-down when you’re trying to sell. Thankfully, there are things you can do to keep your hardwood flooring looking nice for years to come. For example, two easy ways to prevent scratches are to trim dog nails and put floor protectors on furniture feet. Keep in mind that shallow scratches can also be easily repaired.
3. I can’t install wood floors if I have pets
Even if you have a dog, cat, and rabbit, you can still install hardwood flooring. Woods with high Janka ratings are more likely to resist scratches from dog claws, especially if you trim their nails. Pet stains should be promptly cleaned to prevent permanent damage or odor. If you are house training your new puppy, we recommend using baby gates to keep them off engineered or solid wood flooring. Once your puppy learns how to use the bathroom outside, you can give them free reign of the house.
4. Hardwood flooring doesn’t belong in kitchens
Hardwood is just one of many options for kitchen flooring. Does your home have an open floor plan? Solid or engineered wood flooring is a great way to connect your kitchen, living room, and dining room. While hardwood flooring is vulnerable to water damage, this doesn’t mean you can’t install it in your kitchen. The best way to protect real wood flooring is to place a rug in front of the sink to catch drips. Wood floors come in rich natural colors that not only add warmth to your kitchen, but help it seem brighter.
5. I can’t afford hardwood flooring
There are many different tree species used for hardwood flooring that affect price. In general, exotic woods tend to be more expensive than ones grown domestically. If you love the aesthetic of wood floors, but aren’t sure if it’s in the budget, visit your local flooring store. You may be surprised by what you can afford. You don’t know until you look.
Our Holland hardwood flooring store has been helping homeowners just like you for over 40 years. To schedule your free in-home estimate, call Carpet Bonanza at (616) 396-2765.
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