What is a good wood to use for hardwood floors in a home?

Question

I am looking for something of high quality that will last a long time. Also I would like something versatile enough to use in every room except bedrooms. Anyone have any suggestions?

Answer 1

Bamboo.  Very durable...great look...long lasting.  Not very expensive.

Answer 2

Nothing is better than a good hard wood, like oak. It'll last more than fifty years, no problem. If you pick a wood like bamboo, as it is not as durable, you may need to change it in as little as fifteen years.

Answer 3

Hi, Brazilian cherry is very durable here is a link to the Janka hardness scale http://www.hardwoodlaminateflooringguide... Just keep in mind that it is a darker wood and will show dirt more. I've had my oak hardwood flooring for 13 years now and I still love it. It has stood up to 2 children (now 14 and 16), numerous friends over and two dogs and two cats. The finish is worn buy the sink where I should have had an area rug to protect from splashes especially when my kids do dishes. It has a few scratches and dents from life but still looks great. I may in the future get it refinished but for now I like the character of it.

Hardwood increases the value of your home and lasts forever. The finishes today are harder than when I purchased mine. You do need to take care of it and use some preventative maintenance. Like using are rugs at entrances to trap dirt, felt pads on furniture and wipe up spills right away. Sweep or vacuum regularly. Mine stood up and I played more than I cleaned. I also loved that they camouflage more than a white floor. I have oak whereas a really dark floor would show more. Hope this helps.

http://www.hardwoodlaminateflooringguide...

http://www.hardwoodlaminateflooringguide...

Answer 4

The exotic woods are more expensive but they are harder. They are also relatively dark compared to a natural unstained oak or maple (which is very light). Bamboo is soft and not durable. The Brazilian cherry is a big thing right now and will add additional value if used. Also if you go for a solid wood that is 3/4 inch thick keep a sample in case you ever sell. Solid woods can be refinished several times. Hand scraped is another big thing right now and you might find some at a good price. Get the widest planks you can for the cost. Wide planks are very rich looking.

The most durable wood to use, which is usually the most costly is teak. I recently did a 4 1/2 wide solid hand scraped oak and I wish I had gone with teak and spent the additional money. Teak is even usable outside so that is one of the biggest reasons I am sorry I didn't go with the teak. But Teak can't be refinished to look lighter in case light floors come back and oak can. Although if you are thinking you may want to change the floor coloring or stain by refinishing don't go with the hand scraped. It is easier to refinish a flat plane.