Minneapolis Hardwood Flooring - Choosing What Type of Wood Floors

Minneapolis hardwood flooring gives a home that air of elegance as well as extra durability that tiles and carpeting cannot match. Although it may be more expensive, it is a surefire way to improve your home as wood is both aesthetically pleasing and environmental friendly. There are many types of Minneapolis hardwood flooring to choose from, this includes solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, laminate, cork and bamboo. It is important to know your selections before starting your project.

Solid hardwood flooring is the most expensive type of hardwood floor. It is very sturdy and less vulnerable to scratches and dings which makes it more visually appealing. It can also add value to your home as it has a timeless beauty. The floor can be refinished and sanded numerous times to restore it back to its original look.

Engineered hardwood is a more stable but less expensive alternative to solid hardwood flooring. Unlike the latter, it is less susceptible to the changes in temperature and humidity in the room. It comes in a variety of designs to match anyone's style.

Laminate is recommended for use in living areas. However, it cannot match the feel and look of real wood and can only withstand certain amounts of wear. Wear and tear showing on the planks is not easy to repair as laminate can be easily damaged by moisture - which cannot be fixed.

Bamboo floors are made from bamboo stalks found in many Asian countries. It is resistant to moisture since it is a tropical grass. It is also the best choice for green builders as it is environmental friendly and cutting bamboos does not contribute to deforestation. Although bamboo floors may help lessen noise, it is more prone to dings and scratches.

Cork floors are also an environmental friendly choice of Minneapolis hardwood flooring. It is usually used in areas with high traffic as it provides comfort and softness which absorbs shock. The material also reduces the noise from dropping objects. It is considered healthy for use as it is hypo-allergenic and resistant to most insects. Cork's natural beauty can match any decor.

After choosing the type of floor that you want, there are a few more things to take into account such as the décor, the location, the traffic and the conditions that may compromise the type of floor. Also include the grade, species, cut, patterns and dimensions in your plans. This will help you determine the width and the color. Since installing Minneapolis hardwood flooring is a huge commitment, knowing the pros and cons of every color, style and finishing is a must.