Woody's Hardwood Flooring

Preparing Your Hardwood Floors for Utah’s Climate and Winter Season with Style

October 11, 2024/in Cracks & Separations, Dust-Free Sanding, Flooring Tips, Hardwood Floor Care, Hardwood Floor Refinishing, Salt Lake City, Types of Hardwood, Utah, Utah County/by Woody's Hardwood

Discover essential tips and stylish ideas for preparing your hardwood floors to withstand Utah’s unique climate and harsh winter season.

Understanding how to prepare your hardwood floors for Utah’s unique climate and the approaching winter season is essential for preserving their beauty and longevity. In this article, we will explore various aspects of hardwood floor care, including the impact of Utah’s climate, the selection of the best hardwood types, and effective maintenance techniques.

Understanding Utah’s Climate Impact on Hardwood Floors

Utah’s climate presents both challenges and opportunities for hardwood floors. With its varying seasonal temperatures and low humidity, homeowners must consider how these factors affect the integrity of their flooring. In winter, the temperature can drop significantly, leading to expansion and contraction in the wood.

Furthermore, dry air can lead to unsightly gaps between planks, which detracts from the overall aesthetic of your floors. Understanding these considerations is paramount for maintaining the rich appearance and structural integrity of your hardwood flooring.

How Dry Air and Temperature Fluctuations Affect Hardwood

Dry air in Utah, especially during the winter months, can cause hardwood floors to dry out and become brittle. This leads to cracking or warping, which can be costly to repair. Temperature fluctuations can also create an environment where your flooring planks expand and contract, potentially leading to gaps and other issues.

One of the best ways to mitigate these effects is through effective humidity control. Keeping the humidity levels stable not only helps maintain the integrity of the wood but also enhances indoor air quality and comfort.

Managing Humidity for Long-Lasting Hardwood Floors

To safeguard your hardwood flooring from the harsh effects of low humidity, consider incorporating a humidifier into your home. This will maintain optimal moisture levels, reducing the risk of cracks, gaps, and warping.

Additionally, placing bowls of water around your home can naturally increase humidity levels. Regularly monitoring humidity with a hygrometer allows you to maintain ideal levels between 30% to 50%. This proactive approach is crucial for preserving the beauty of your hardwood floors.

Selecting the Best Hardwood for Utah Homes

When selecting hardwood for your home in Utah, consider species that are particularly suited to fluctuating temperatures and dry air. The right choice of wood can make a significant difference in how well your floors withstand the elements.

Opting for denser wood types can enhance durability and resistance to damage, making them a worthwhile investment for your home.

Top Hardwood Species for Durability in Dry Climates

Oak: Known for its strength and versatility, oak can withstand the rigors of Utah’s climate.
Maple: This hardwood is durable and offers a smooth surface, making it ideal for busy households.
Hickory: Extremely tough, hickory is well-suited for high-traffic areas and offers rich color variations.
Walnut: Known for its aesthetic appeal, walnut provides durability while adding elegance to your space.

Engineered vs. Solid Hardwood: What Works Best in Utah?

Choosing between engineered and solid hardwood is crucial for your home. Solid hardwood is a traditional choice that can be refinished multiple times, adding to its long-term value. However, engineered hardwood is often more stable in fluctuating climates—making it a popular choice for homes in the Utah area.

Evaluate your living situation and traffic patterns to make the best choice for your needs, keeping in mind factors such as maintenance, cost, and visual appeal.

Protecting Your Hardwood Floors from Utah’s Environmental Factors

Protection from the elements is critical for maintaining your hardwood floors. Use area rugs to shield against abrasions and prevent scratches from footwear. Ensuring that your floors are well-maintained with regular cleaning and proper care significantly reduces the effects of everyday wear and tear.

Moisture Control and Ventilation Tips

Good ventilation and moisture control can help reduce issues like mold and mildew. Make sure to regularly check the humidity levels, and consider installing a dehumidifier in particularly moist areas of your home, such as basements or kitchens.

Additionally, using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens can prevent excess moisture from building up, further protecting your hardwood floors.

Refinishing and Maintenance Solutions to Prevent Warping

Regular maintenance and refinishing can help prevent warping and preserve the look of your hardwood floors. Sanding and refinishing your floors every few years will not only extend their lifespan but also renew their shine.

Focus on areas that experience more foot traffic and inspect for signs of wear. Performing timely maintenance can save you from costly repairs down the line.

Preparing Your Hardwood for Winter Weather

As winter approaches, it’s important to take extra steps in preparation. Steam cleaning your floors can eliminate grime and protect the finish. Ensure that any gaps are filled to prevent cold drafts and dirt from accumulating.

Winter Hazards: Snow, Ice, and Abrasive Materials

Winter presents unique hazards for hardwood floors, particularly snow and ice. Salt used for de-icing can leave residues that damage the wood over time. Position mats at entrances to catch excess moisture and prevent it from reaching your floors.

Effective Winter Maintenance Tips: Cleaning and Prevention

During the winter months, maintaining your hardwood floors requires special attention. Here are some top tips:

Wipe up spills immediately to prevent water damage.
Use a soft-bristle broom or vacuum to remove snow and dirt.
Avoid using steam mops, as excess moisture can warp the wood.
Schedule seasonal professional cleaning for deeper maintenance.

Winterizing Your Hardwood: Essential Maintenance

Winterizing your hardwood floors goes beyond cleaning. Consider applying a fresh coat of finish before the cold months to provide an additional layer of protection. This not only enhances durability but also improves the aesthetic appeal of your space. This consideration can also provide the opportunity to inspect the floors’ overall condition to determine if a full refinishing is required.

Refinishing and Repairing Floors During Winter Months

Winter months can be an ideal time to schedule refinishing or repairs. Because many people tend to stay indoors during this season, any renovation work can be completed with minimal disruption. Always hire professionals to ensure that the job is done correctly and efficiently.

Fall Design Trends to Complement Hardwood Floors

As seasons change, so do design trends. Incorporating the right decor can enhance the beauty of your hardwood floors during the fall months. Embrace earthy tones, natural materials, and warm colors to create an inviting environment that complements your flooring.

Fall Color Palettes: Earthy Tones for Warmth and Coziness

Earthy tones such as deep browns, burnt oranges, and muted greens can create a warm and cozy vibe in your home. These colors harmonize beautifully with hardwood, allowing the natural beauty of the floors to shine.

Seasonal Décor Ideas to Highlight Hardwood Flooring

Enhancing your hardwood floors through seasonal decor can be accomplished with simple touches. Consider layering rugs or using decorative elements such as vases and candles that add charm while drawing attention to your floors.

Rustic and Vintage Themes for a Timeless Fall Look

Rustic and vintage styles continue to remain popular in home design. Incorporating elements like reclaimed wood furniture or antique fixtures can accentuate the natural beauty of hardwood floors, creating an inviting and timeless aesthetic.

How Woody’s Hardwood Services Support Your Design and Maintenance Needs

Settle for nothing less than excellence when it comes to your hardwood. Woody’s hardwood flooring services offer expert refinishing, installation, and repairs to meet your seasonal design and maintenance needs. Their skilled team handles everything with precision and care, ensuring that your floors remain stunning all year long.

Expert Refinishing, Installation, and Repairs for Every Season

Trust the experts at Woody’s for all your hardwood requirements. Their extensive knowledge of local conditions guarantees that your hardwood floors withstand Utah’s unique climate, allowing you to enjoy them for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I refinish my hardwood floors?

A: It’s generally recommended to refinish hardwood floors every 5-7 years, but this can vary based on traffic and the finish used.

Q: Can I use a steam mop on my hardwood floors?

A: No, steam mops can introduce excessive moisture, leading to warping. It’s best to use a damp cloth or a specific hardwood floor cleaner.

Q: What is the best way to manage humidity levels?

A: Using a combination of humidifiers and dehumidifiers, along with regular monitoring, helps maintain optimal humidity for hardwood floors.

By understanding and addressing the unique challenges posed by Utah’s climate, you can ensure that your hardwood floors not only endure but thrive through the seasons. With proper care and thoughtful preparation, you can enjoy beautiful floors year-round.

Contact Woody’s Hardwood Flooring today to discuss your flooring needs. We serve Salt Lake City and Utah County areas.

Dust-Free Sanding: The Secret of Hardwood Floor Refinishing in Utah

April 18, 2023/in Dust-Free Sanding, Dustless Sanding, Flooring Tips, Hardwood Floor Installation, Hardwood Floor Refinishing, Hardwood Flooring Maintenance, Hardwood Flooring Repairs, NWFA, Salt Lake City, Types of Hardwood, Utah, White Oak/by Woody's Hardwood

Say goodbye to cluttered workspaces during hardwood floor refinishing with dust-free sanding! By using advanced technology that minimizes the amount of dust released during the process, you’ll be able to breathe easier while enjoying immaculately finished floors every time. Trust us at Woody’s Hardwood Flooring located near Salt Lake City, Utah – we provide superior consultation and application processes for all your flooring needs. To ensure that the hardwood floors in your home or business are refinished without any mess or health hazards, Woody’s Hardwood Flooring has developed a proven method called dust-free sanding.

What is Dust-Free Floor Sanding?

Unlike traditional sanding methods, this technique uses advanced equipment, including high powered, industrial vacuum trucks and specialized techniques to collect dust as soon as it is created. This results in clean, healthy air quality while leaving behind beautifully polished floors. Sick of dealing with all the dust when you refinish your hardwood floors? Look no further than Dust-Free Floor Sanding.

The History of Floor Sanding

This revolutionary process uses specialized equipment designed to suck up all potential debris from sanding, leaving your space free from harmful particles or residue. The result? A perfectly smooth and polished finish without all the messy cleanup you’re used to. The history of floor sanding is a long one, dating back centuries. In ancient times, people would use stones or shells to smooth out their flooring surfaces manually.

As society progressed, so did technology. By the late 1800s, sanding machines were invented to lessen the workload for home and business owners alike. And even though electric-powered tools were introduced in the following years (*1930’s*), they still generated copious amounts of dust – an unproductive side effect.

When it comes to hardwood floor refinishing, one common complaint has always been about the amount of dust generated during sanding. But did you know that there are now ways to minimize or even eliminate this problem? Enter: dust-free floor sanding techniques that use specialized equipment and methods to significantly reduce airborne particles. What if we told you it’s possible to update your floors without exposing yourself or others around you dangerous levels of harmful sawdust?

The Difference Between “Dustless Sanding” and “Dust-Free Sanding” of Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floor refinishing is known for creating an enormous amount of dust – enough to make most people hesitant about scheduling it in their homes. Traditional methods of “dustless” sanding use vacuums and filters to reduce particles left behind from wood removal, while still producing some level of airborne dirt in your space after completion.

The difference between traditional methods and true dust-free technologies is massive: well-maintained equipment designed to capture all debris results in little-to-no excess surface waste for every wood type. When it comes time to choose a floor sander, don’t forget to inquire about their sanding equipment. One of the most important questions to ask is whether they use dust-free options – if so, this ensures a healthy environment during and after the procedure. By selecting a team with top-quality tools and materials, you’re making an investment in yourself and keeping everyone around safer from unnecessary harm.

By opting for dust-free services utilizing specialized machinery capable of keeping airborne particles under control while completing necessary work on your flooring surfaces- there’s no need for anyone involved in renovations become exposed unknowingly!

Ask us today how we can partner together towards achieving beautiful new floors in addition total safety assurances all-around. The decision to install hardwood flooring can be daunting because of the many types of hardwood available on the market today. Fortunately, several choices have stood the test of time due to their superior quality and longevity.

Top Types of Hardwood Used for Flooring

For instance, oak boasts immense durability and can resist wear and tear better than other options. Similarly, cherry looks elegant while also being strong enough for everyday use. Ultimately, select what appeals most to you as each kind possesses distinct characteristics tailored for different styles.

Selecting the right hardwood flooring for your space is key when considering design aesthetics and durability. Each variety has its own distinct characteristics such as color or grain pattern that requires careful consideration before deciding on a type.

Additionally, budget constraints can affect which option would work best for you. The level of foot traffic in your area also plays a critical role in making sure the floors remain polished; to aid this endeavors, dust-free sanding techniques using specialized equipment are available – here a high-powered sander equipped with an efficient dust collection system achieves just that.

Environmentally Friendly – Inside & Out

When performing any kind of sanding task on wood surfaces, preventing dust creation is key to preserving a clean and safe work environment. One promising way to accomplish this is through implementing an efficient dust collection system designed to capture airborne particles before they escape into the surrounding area.

Additionally, using advanced sanding tools with specialized capabilities like high-speed or random orbit movement can significantly reduce dust production while also ensuring optimal results.

Lastly, choosing water-based finishes instead of traditional ones also helps mitigate potential health hazards associated with airborne contaminants.

When is Dust-Free Floor Sanding Recommended?

Sanding hardwood floors is critical to maintaining their beauty and longevity. However, traditional sanding techniques often create more problems than they solve with excessive dust production causing health risks to workers and individuals in the area. Dust-free floor sanding removes this barrier by minimizing airborne particles while maximizing efficiency and safety.

This technique is particularly useful when working in areas where individuals with respiratory issues or allergies are present. Say goodbye to messy traditional sanding methods when making a floor addition or repairing your flooring!

Dust-free sanding is an excellent alternative that minimizes mess and hassle for homeowners. During the process, a thin layer of the existing finish is expertly removed to make space for your new addition or repair. By utilizing this technique, you can almost guarantee that it will adhere correctly to your current flooring surface without any issues.

Dust-Free Sanding Resources in the United States

Looking to invest in achieving immaculate hardwood flooring? Consider opting for dust-free sanding which according to Bona is one of the “healthiest, cleanest and most efficient ways” when preparing floors. Want further information about succeeding at this task? Check out Bona.com, an online resource where you’ll find all of the necessary tools and products required.

By choosing dust-free sanding not only will you create fresher air, but its proven efficiency in leaving behind no mess ensures less time spent cleaning up after.

Are you tired of dealing with the aftermath of messy wood floor refinishing jobs?

You’ll love Woody’s Hardwood Flooring’s innovative dust-free sanding system! By eliminating the need for cleanup after technicians perform cleaning or maintenance services on your floors it provides convenience without sacrifices on quality or results.

The NWFA supports this approach as well because it also reduces exposure to harmful airborne particles during refinishing projects.

Whether you live or operate a business in Sandy, Lehi, Taylorsville, Murray, Draper, Herriman, Cedar City near Salt Lake City, UT, we welcome you to enjoy all these amazing perks firsthand. Say goodbye to hazardous particles and hello to pristine floors with dust-free sanding!

You won’t regret opting for this method when either installing new or fixing existing hardwood flooring because it significantly minimizes mess and maximizes productivity. The importance of maintaining a clean working space should never be underestimated since it helps prolong the beauty of one’s flooring too.

Luckily, online platforms such as Bona.com and the National Wood Flooring Association exist side by side with top-quality Utah flooring professionals that can walk you through everything.

Call our team of hardwood flooring experts to discuss your project today!

Gray Hardwood Flooring Trends in Utah – Are They the Right Choice for You?

July 19, 2022/1 Comment/in Flooring Tips, Gray Hardwood Floors, Hardwood Floor Care, Hardwood Floor Installation, Hardwood Floor Refinishing, Hardwood Flooring, Hardwood Flooring Maintenance, Salt Lake City, Types of Hardwood, Utah/by Woody's Hardwood

The popularity of gray hardwood floors has grown in recent years, as homeowners seek a more stylish and timeless look for their homes. Although these floors may cost a bit more upfront, they often last much longer than other types of wood and can be less prone to wear and tear.

Keep reading to discover why gray hardwood floors are trending in Salt Lake City, Utah. And who the best flooring hardwood floor contractor to hire is, when looking for that touch of luxury found in the unique look of gray hardwood floors.

Are Gray Hardwood Floors Just a Fad?

Gray hardwood flooring is a popular choice in homes today. But is it just a fad?

Gray hardwood flooring has been around for quite a while, but it has become more popular in recent years. Some people think that it is just a fad and that it will not last. However, many people love the look of gray hardwood floors and plan to keep them for many years.

So Why Gray Hardwood is Trending?

If you’re looking for a trendy flooring option that will stand the test of time, gray hardwood is the way to go, it is a popular choice right now and for many good reasons.

Gray Is the Perfect Neutral Color for Interior Decorating

There is a reason why gray hardwood floors are so popular – they are the perfect neutral tone. They can match any style or color scheme and will never go out of style. Gray hardwood floors are also very versatile; they can be used in any room in your home, from the living room, kitchen, and the bedroom.

If you’re looking for a new floor that will add some character to your home without being too bold, then gray hardwood is the perfect option.

Calming Effects

Gray hardwood floors are quickly becoming a popular choice in homes across the country. Not only are they stylish and on-trend, but they also have several calming effects that can be enjoyed by homeowners and their families. One of the main benefits of gray hardwood floors is that they help to create a relaxing atmosphere.

The color is known for its ability to promote tranquility, making it perfect for use in bedrooms, living rooms, and other areas of the home where relaxation is desired.

Gray hardwood floors can also help to minimize noise pollution, making them ideal for busy households or those with small children.

Durable

In addition to their calming effects, gray hardwood floors are also known for being durable and long-lasting. They can withstand heavy traffic and are easy to maintain, making them a great choice for families with kids or pets. A quick sweep or vacuum will remove most dirt and dust and keep the floors looking shiny and new.

In addition, because gray hardwood is a natural material, it is durable and will last for many years with proper care.

Unique

Gray hardwood is also a good choice for people who want a unique look in their home. It can be used in any room, and it goes well with both modern and traditional decor. It can add a touch of elegance to any room, while also providing a level of sophistication. In addition, gray hardwood is perfect for those who are looking for a one-of-a-kind flooring option.

Many Shades from which to Choose

Gray hardwood flooring can be used to create a modern or traditional look, and there are many shades of gray from which to choose. Some people may think that all gray hardwood is the same. However, there are many different colors and textures available. When shopping for gray hardwood flooring, it’s important to consider the color of the wood, as well as the finish.

Some finishes can make the wood look lighter or darker, so it’s necessary to choose a finish that will complement the color of your walls and furniture. If you are keen to change up your choice of furniture and interior decorating styles quite often, the neutrality of gray floors is a great option to support a variety of furniture colours and decorating styles.

Which Shade of Gray – Light or Dark?

Gray hardwood floors are a popular choice for a modern look. There are many different shades of gray to choose from, so how do you know which one is right for you?

The first thing to consider is the color of your walls and furniture.

If you have light-colored walls, you’ll want to choose a light gray floor. If your walls are dark, go with a darker gray floor.

Next, think about the style of your home.

A traditional home might look better with a medium-gray floor, while a more modern home would be better suited for a lighter-gray floor.

Finally, consider the other finishes in your home.

If you have stainless steel appliances or black hardware, a light gray floor may seem too bland. In that case, go with a darker gray floor or mix and match different shades of gray to create interest.

Best Flooring Contractors Salt Lake City

Flooring is an important part of any home. It can add comfort and style, and it’s one of the first things people see when they walk in the door. Therefore, it’s important to choose the right type of flooring and to work with a contractor who knows what they’re doing. If you’re looking for the best flooring contractors in Salt Lake City, then you’ve come to the right place.

With over two decades of experience in the Utah flooring industry, Woody’s Hardwood Flooring strives to provide customers with a top-quality complete wood floor services including installation, refinishing, additions and care, all at a competitive price.

We use only the finest materials and equipment, along with detailed workmanship, to ensure exceptional value for our customers’ investment.

We take great pride in each of our projects; using only the highest quality materials, and state-of-the-art equipment, to ensure you get the greatest value for your investment serving the following areas in Utah:

When it comes to flooring, there are a lot of different options from which to choose for your Utah home. If you’re looking for a quality contractor to help you with your flooring needs, Woody’s Hardwood Flooring is the best choice in Salt Lake City. We have years of experience in the industry, and we know how to provide our clients with the best possible service.

We offer a wide range of services, including hardwood floor installation, laminate flooring installation, and more. We also have a wide selection of flooring options to choose from, so you can find the perfect type of flooring for your home or office.

We use only the highest quality materials, so you can be sure that your new floor will last for years to come.

Our contractors are licensed and insured, so you can rest assured that your project will be handled safely and professionally.

Gray Hardwood Floors – Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are Gray Hardwood Floors Popular?

Gray hardwood floors are one of the most popular flooring trends in today’s homes. There are many reasons for their popularity.

Gray hardwood floors are neutral and can match any decor. They are also versatile and can be used in any room in your home. Additionally, they are durable and long-lasting.

Is Gray Flooring a Good Idea?

Gray flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners. It can be used in a variety of spaces, from the living room to the bedroom.

Gray flooring is versatile and can add a touch of sophistication to any space. While some people may think that gray is a boring color, it can be very stylish when used correctly.

It is a great option for those who are looking for something different. It can add personality to a room and help to create a unique look.

Gray flooring is also very practical, as it is easy to clean and maintain.

So overall, yes, it is a good idea!

What Type of Hardwood Is Used for the Best Gray Hardwood Floors?

There are a few different types of wood you can use for gray hardwood floors. The best one for your specific situation will depend on your needs and preferences. Some of the most popular options include oak, maple, and bamboo.

Oak is a strong, durable wood that is resistant to wear and tear, making it a good option for high-traffic areas.

It also has a beautiful natural grain that will add character to your home. Maple is another sturdy choice that is known for its striking beauty; it can be mixed with other woods to create unique patterns.

Bamboo is an environmentally friendly option that is growing in popularity; it is strong and durable, yet lightweight and easy to install.

What Are the Best Stain Products for Gray Hardwood Floors?

When it comes to flooring, nothing is more timeless than hardwood. And when it comes to hardwood, nothing is more versatile than gray.

So, what could be better than gray hardwood floors?

If you’re thinking about staining your new gray hardwood floors, read on for the best stain products for the job. One of the most popular stain products on the market today is Bona which will give your floors a rich, dark color that will make them stand out.

No matter which wood stain you choose, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and test it on a small area first to make sure you like the results.

Can Cherry Wood Be Stained Gray?

Cherry wood is a popular choice for furniture. It is a hardwood with a reddish-brown color that becomes darker with age. It can be stained in many different colors, but some people are looking for a gray stain instead.

Is it possible to stain cherry wood gray? The answer is yes, you can stain cherry wood gray. However, the results will vary depending on the type of gray stain you use and the condition of the cherry wood.

If the cherry wood is new, it will likely take the stain more evenly and will have a darker gray color than if the wood is older and has more natural variations in color. For better results, make the stain very thin and apply slowly until you get gray. Then you can seal and tone to get an exact color match.

Can You Stain Wood Floors Gray?

Yes! It is possible to stain wood floors a beautiful shade of gray. There are a few things you need to know before you get started, though.

First, the type of wood you choose will make a big difference in the outcome. Soft woods, like pine or cedar, will take on a light gray color when stained, while harder woods, like oak or maple, will be darker.

Second, the quality of the stain will also affect the outcome. Cheaper stains will produce a more muted gray color than higher-quality stains.

How Do You Match Gray Hardwood Floors?

There are a few things to consider when trying to find the right flooring to match your gray hardwood floors.

The first is the shade of gray that your floors are currently. You’ll want to find the flooring that matches the tone of your floor as closely as possible.

The second thing to consider is the finish of your floor. If your floors have a natural finish, you’ll want to find flooring with a similar finish. If your floors have a glossy or matte finish, you’ll need to find flooring with the same finish. Finally, you’ll need to consider the texture of your flooring.

If your floors are smooth, you’ll want to find flooring with a smooth texture. If your floors are textured, you’ll want to find flooring with a similar texture. The best way to match your current flooring is to talk with a flooring specialist, like Woody’s Hardwood, who can professionally consult and provide the best recommendations of products, including wood, stains and finishes that are unique to your home.

Gray Hardwood Floors Trend – Final Thoughts

Gray hardwood floors are a trend that is growing in popularity in Salt Lake City. They can be used in a variety of settings and add a touch of sophistication to any room. If you are considering installing gray hardwood floors in your home, be sure to consult with a wood flooring professional in Utah about the best type of flooring for your specific needs.

wide plank white oak hardwood flooring utah

The Increasing Value of Hardwood Flooring in Utah Homes

August 22, 2019/in Hardwood Flooring, Hardwood Flooring Articles, NWFA, Salt Lake City, Types of Hardwood, Utah/by Woody's Hardwood

It is no understatement to say that choosing the best flooring for your home is one of the most important decisions a home owner can make. No matter what size your home is, whether it is a townhouse, bungalow, 2-storey or mansion, the flooring you choose today will not only affect your quality of life for years to come, but also the resale value of your home.

Hardwood Flooring Continues to Gain Popularity

Hardwood flooring in Utah and across the United States continues to gain popularity among new and existing home owners. A recent study shows that the Wood Flooring Manufacturing industry has grown over the past five years with approximately 75% of wood flooring construction in the US was used in residential construction. More and more people are obviously seeing the benefit and value of real wood flooring in their homes.

Hardwood Flooring Adds Resale Value to your Utah Home

In a USA Today article that discusses those specific features for which home buyers are willing to pay extra, over half of the home buyers are willing to pay more for a home with hardwood floors.

Hardwood holds its value, not only for a few decades, but in many cases, hardwood floors have lasted well over 100 years. They are extremely durable and comparatively easy to maintain, so it is no surprise they are becoming an increasingly popular choice not only for residential use, but for commercial venues as well, as you can see in this local flooring project completed by Woody’s Hardwood Flooring for the Salt Lake City restaurant, Copper Canyon Grill House & Tavern:

Hardwood flooring for Copper Canyon Grill House & Tavern 215 S Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA

Copper Canyon Grill House & Tavern, located at: 215 S Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA

When it comes to the resale value of hardwood floors in your home, according to a survey by the NWFA (National Wood Flooring Association), “99% of the real estate agents participating believe that homes with hardwood floors are easier to sell.”

Furthermore, 82% of those real estate agents believe that homes with hardwood floors sell faster than those without them. A faster selling home reflects less price negotiation, higher market demand and an easier sale overall.

Not to mention, these homes sell for more money than those that don’t have hardwood flooring in place. Wood floors in your Utah home add a distinctive and rich look and feel that other flooring types, such as carpet and linoleum simply fail to create.

What is the Best Type of Hardwood Flooring?

Determining which type of hardwood flooring requires looking at the many options available to the home owner. The top options include which hardwood species, style of board and finish work best in the home’s interior. Considerations of the home’s overall layout and other interior design features all play a role in narrowing down your best choice.

While choosing the best hardwood floor can be a very personal decision, it is important for the home owner to be aware of the factors that will affect their decision for years to come. It is always best to contact a professional hardwood flooring contractor who has extensive experience and knowledge of all of these factors and can help guide you through the decision-making process.

Hardwood Flooring Industry Trends 2018 vs. 2019

Beyond relying on one’s personal taste when choosing the best hardwood flooring, it is beneficial for us to look at some recent studies that support our choice, especially from the point of view of it being an investment in the overall value of your home when it comes time to sell.

So, let’s compare a couple of studies based on the wood flooring industry reviews that reveal trends in types, species and finishes of hardwood flooring in the US.

A 2018 hardwood flooring study shows by an industry review that there was an expected higher demand for most types of hardwood floors, including:

Long Board 75% more demand
Wide-Plank 71% more demand
Engineered 67% more demand
Factory-Finished 48% more demand
Distressed Flooring 40% more demand

There was also an expected increase in demand for Domestic species of hardwood flooring, while Imported species were expected to decline. Reclaimed flooring was also appearing in higher demand with an expected 48% increase.

The study also noted that, “While product-demand expectations always vary market to market, NWFA members in the survey seemed to agree that demand for white oak will continue to grow in 2018. Wide-plank, long boards and cerused and gray finishes are also en vogue, a trend in line with many consumers’ growing preference for ‘rustic’, ‘authentic’, and ‘organic’ looks, members in the survey said.”

Other popular hardwood species apart from White Oak, include Hickory/Pecan, Cork, Brazilian Cherry and Santos Mahogany.

The 2018 survey shows that certain hardwood flooring colors were predicted to be chosen by homeowners, including:

Gray stains and finishes will be 62% in more demand while Cerused hardwood will be 56% in more demand.

Dark hardwood flooring color demand will largely remain the same, showing that they are still a popular choice. Similarly, light flooring finishes will generally have the same demand at 55% but will still see a 33% increase in demand.

In the follow up study in 2019, White Oak continues to be the top choice, due in part to it being widely available from manufacturers around the world.

Also, 2019 will continue to see more demand for Wide Plank, Long boards and Engineered hardwood flooring. As home owners are of course concerned about the resale value of their new or existing home, choosing a flooring that remains a popular species and finish can help sell the home and maintain its value long-term.

The 2019 study also noted:

A 16% decrease in demand for Gray stains and finishes
A significant drop in demand of Cerused flooring with only a 19% increase.
Dark and Light colors would see approximately the same demand at 44% and 49% respectively.

How to Choose the Right Hardwood Flooring

So, what does this mean to the Utah home owner when they are looking to have new hardwood flooring installed or existing floors refinished?

While hardwood types, species, colors and finishes have some fluctuation in popularity due to interior design trends, there are certain choices, such as White Oak, Hickory/Pecan, and Walnut species, along with wide plank and long board styles of boards will potentially remain popular for years to come.

Here is an example of a a wide plank White Oak custom floor installation by Woody’s Hardwood Flooring in Utah:

Quality hardwood flooring is a worthwhile investment and that includes the species and finish, but also how it is installed or refinished. However, making the decision on what is best for your home can feel overwhelming considering the vast array of choices in wood species, styles of board and quality and type of wood finishes. Not to mention, which rooms these floors will be installed in. For example, such areas as kitchens and basements have unique requirements that need to be considered.

Besides real hardwood flooring, there are now many other “look-alike” floor solutions that look like wood but do not offer all of the benefits a real wood floor delivers. It is becoming increasingly important for home owners and buyers to be educated on the different types of flooring before they invest. The onus of this education falls not only on the hardwood flooring installation company, but also the flooring and finishing manufacturers.

Discuss Your Needs with A Utah Flooring Expert

As a local hardwood flooring contractor in Utah, we highly recommend discussing your project needs with an expert, so you can make an informed decision, as it will be one you will have to live with for years to come.

Woody’s Hardwood Flooring serves the Salt Lake City area, including West Jordan, Provo, Orem, Payson, West Valley City and Sandy, Utah.

We aim to provide superior service and products, including wood flooring installation, refinishing and flooring additions. We treat each project from beginning to end as if it were our own home; we’re not finished until you are satisfied.

Call us today to discuss your project and receive a free quote.

Archive for category: Types of Hardwood