Learn the Hardwood Flooring Pros and Cons Before You Shop

Hardwood flooring is often an attractive upgrade to add to a home. If you like the look of it, you might be thinking of adding it, but there are some advantages and some downsides to this option. Consider both the pros and cons before spending money on this feature.

Many people like how this kind of floor looks. When it is kept clean, it is usually shiny and elegant. Plus, it is still considered unique since more people tend to have carpet or tile compared to hardwood flooring. In fact, you can be particularly unique when you choose this kind of floor because you can pick from several types of wood, each of which has a slightly different color. You can choose dark colors, like cherry wood, or lighter shades, like maple. You can also stick to the shades in-between light and dark, such as oak. Either way, the choice is yours, so do not be worried about missing out on selecting from several options since you have nearly as many choices as you would when choosing tile or carpet. 

In addition, hardwood flooring can last for years and still look good. As long as you sweep the floor often, and then mop with the correct products made for this kind of surface, you will be able to enjoy it for years. On the other hand, you do have to refinish it every few years for the best results. In this way, some people consider this type of surface harder to care for than other kinds, such as tile. But as long as you take the time to keep it somewhat clean, and then refinish it when possible, you should be satisfied. Plus, even if the wood looks worn after several years, it will simply look historic and impressive, not grungy like other kind of floors tend to. 

Hardwood flooring usually keeps it value for a long time. Not only does it increase the number of people interested in your house, but it also ensures that they will pay more for the home. However, keep in mind that this is all because it is an expensive upgrade, so you need to be willing to put in the money now in order to reap the rewards when you sell the house. Of course, as long as you enjoy the floor in the meantime, you will likely see it as being worth the higher price anyway.

If you are not sure whether this surface is worth the money to you, look into floors that appear similar to wood, but are made of other materials, such as laminate. You can learn the pros and cons about such alternatives when you visit a shop that sells floors, as most salespeople should be able to guide you in the right direction when making your purchase. But keep in mind that it is not always about the money. Instead, consider what you would enjoy the most long-term, as floors do not tend to get upgraded often in most homes.