Hardwood has become one of the most popular flooring materials due to its ease of installation and care, strength, durability, anti-allergen properties and exquisite looks. When choosing the type of hardwood to use, so many options can be confusing. Aside from the many things to consider about the wood itself, color is a huge factor. Light or dark wood can create an entire vibe throughout and determines what you are able to do with your space. To make your decision easier, think about what you like or prefer, the style of your home, your children or pets, what looks best with the cabinets and furniture, and how much light you get.
While narrowing down your choices, it is also helpful to be aware of the pros and cons associated with light and dark hardwoods. As with many things, there are certain features that could make some hardwood flooring options unsuitable for your home and lifestyle.
Dark Hardwood
Mahogany, cherry and other dark hardwoods can make a striking impact on any interior. Dark floors have several advantages over their lighter counterparts. They absorb sunlight rather than repel it, making them less prone to fading. This is very beneficial if the room has large windows or skylights that let in a lot of sun. The dark colors can emphasize wood?s natural grain, bringing out its inherent beauty. They make a strong impression and bring a sense of luxury to your home.
While dark hardwood floors have several benefits, you should also be aware of some of the drawbacks.
While common dark colored dirt and grime may blend in, light colored debris, such as dust and pet hair, are easily noticeable, causing the need to constantly vacuum. If installing hardwood in high traffic areas, you should?be aware that scratches are more prevalent on dark wood surfaces, and depending on the size of the room and the lighting can make a space seem smaller and uninviting.
Light Hardwood
Maple, hickory, pine and white oak are some of the popular light woods used in flooring. Light woods can make a room look chic and seem more comfortable depending on the space. They are easy to work with and look good with most furniture styles and wall colors. Light wood can brighten a room and make it appear larger, making it a good choice for small spaces. It does a great job at hiding dust, pet hair, damage and scratches and, therefore, is acceptable for a busy household.
While all hardwood floors are made from relatively hard woods, some lighter woods are softer than their dark counterparts. Douglas fir, birch and pine are prone to scratching and denting and may not be suitable for high traffic areas where they can be marred by shoes, furniture or other items. Another disadvantage to using light wood is that it can wash out a room if the color is too light. Prior to settling on a color, it is a good idea to gather several color swatches and compare them at different times of the day to see how the natural light and the artificial light affect the appearance of the room.
Regardless of your choice of light or dark hardwood, the professionals at Wayne Wiles Floor Coverings can help make your experience seamless. We offer the very best in hardwood flooring solutions and provide free in-home estimates. When choosing Wayne Wiles, customers can be assured that they will get the best possible installation services time and time again. Contact us at (239) 204-5700 or click here to schedule an estimate.
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