Hardwood floors have always stood out for their durability, beauty, and versatility. However, the myriad of customization options for this type of flooring can easily leave one feeling overwhelmed. Here are various aspects to consider when choosing your hardwood floor type to help you make an informed decision that perfectly suits your needs and lifestyle.
Wood Species
The wood species has a significant impact on the appearance, durability, and cost of your floor. Each species offers distinct characteristics in terms of grain, colour, and hardness. Firstly, you can determine whether you prefer wood species with distinctive or discreet grains.
| Distinctive and prominent grain, characterized by pronounced and abundant growth rings, is attributed to species like ash, red oak, and white oak. This type of species will better mask any wear marks that may occur over time. | Other species, such as birch, maple, and silver maple, offer a more discreet and fine grain, with a more uniform appearance. Their subtle texture allows for great adaptability to various home styles. |
Another aspect to consider is the hardness of the wood species. The Janka test, which measures wood resistance, allows for the comparison of the hardness of different species. The higher the number, the harder the wood.
Click here to learn more about our different wood species.
Grade
Wood grade refers to the natural appearance of the wood, including colour variations, knots, and imperfections. Choosing the grade allows you to determine whether you will get a floor with a rather uniform appearance or, conversely, a more rustic appearance with many specific characteristics. It is important to note that the choice of grade concerns only aesthetics and plays no role in the quality, strength, or durability of the floor as a whole.
Each manufacturer has its own classification system. Here are the different wood grades offered by PG Flooring:
Select & Better: The most uniform grade. It offers low colour variation and very few noticeable characteristics.
Instinct: This grade offers pronounced colour variation and several features, such as knots and mineral streaks.
Pacific: A mix of Select & Better, and Instinct grades. The Pacific grade is the most versatile and commonly used.
Heritage: This more permissive wood grade offers a large range of colour variations as well as several knots, mineral streaks, and other character-related marks that give the overall appearance of a more rustic wood floor.
Unique: Our Unique Collection is aimed at hardwood floor enthusiasts with an eye for an authentic look and strong character. Each product in this collection bears the Unique grade name, as each comes with its own grade classification. A complete description of each Unique flooring option is available online, directly on the product page, as well as in-store, on the label found on the back of the sample boards.
Click here to learn more about our different wood grades.
Stain
A wood stain can radically transform the ambiance of a room, playing a crucial role in the design of your space. Whether you prefer light and natural tones or darker and more dramatic shades, it is important to choose a colour that harmonizes with your decor and personal style.
One of the notable advantages of hardwood is its ability to be sanded and stained to a new colour. Therefore, in future renovation projects, whether in 10, 15, or even 25 years, you'll be able to refurbish your floor and give it a new colour without having to replace it.
Finish
The finish of your hardwood floor impacts its overall appearance, as well as its durability and ease of maintenance.
Varnished finishes, which are the most popular option, offer optimal protection against daily wear and are easy to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Different gloss levels are available, according to your preference: matte, satin, or semi-gloss. Finishes with superior resistance, such as our Model Extreme finish, are also available for consumers seeking maximum protection.
Oiled finishes, on the other hand, are appreciated for their ease of repair. Whether for a minor defect, such as a dent or a scratch, or even to touch up a complete section where wear is more apparent, simple and quick repair options are available. Oiled finishes offer a lower gloss level, equivalent to that of a matte finish.
Pro Tip: Since wood is naturally matte, it is interesting to note that a similar gloss finish (matte finish or oiled finish) will further diminish the appearance of any wear marks that may occur over time.
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Texture
The texture of wood adds character to your hardwood floor, creating a sense of depth and character in your space. Texture options range from smooth to brushed, or even chased.
A chased texture is ideal for concealing imperfections while adding a rustic touch to your interior. A brushed texture, which is less pronounced, also helps in the concealment of wear marks. Smooth floors, on the other hand, offer a more traditional and sophisticated appearance to the decor.
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Width
The width of the planks influences the overall look of your floor and its integration into your space. Wide planks offer a sense of visual openness, giving the room a more spacious atmosphere, while narrow planks enhance the effect of depth and bring a traditional and intimate charm to your interior. It is therefore necessary to choose a plank width that matches your aesthetic tastes, as well as the scale of your space.
In conclusion, choosing the perfect hardwood floor for your space involves considering several factors. By equipping yourself with the right information and working with qualified professionals, you can create a beautiful and durable space that reflects your style and meets all your practical needs.
If you have any questions about our products or need advice on choosing the right type of flooring, we invite you to reach out to one of our retailers located near you.