Exotic Hardwood from South America

Tigerwood is a highly durable hardwood that is ideal for high-traffic areas due to its hardness. It has a unique blend of dramatic grain patterns and rich reddish-orange tones, adding a touch of luxury to any space. Tigerwood is water-resistant and naturally resistant to rot and decay. This makes it perfect for outdoor use, including outdoor deck boards, shutters, deck furniture, and boats. It is also common to use for decorative items because of its beautiful grain patterns. This wood is easy to maintain, requiring only a dust mop or vacuum cleaner for regular cleaning. It also has a moderate price compared to other exotic hardwoods.

Brazilian cherry hardwood is a versatile option that can be used in a variety of decorating styles, from traditional to contemporary. It comes in different shades, allowing homeowners to pair it with various wood furnishings and create a warm environment. The wood’s rich, warm color and distinctive grain pattern make it a popular choice for its aesthetic beauty. It naturally varies in color from burgundy to red, orange, and even some pink tones, and it darkens over time. Those tones of color add character and depth as it ages.

Acacia wood is one of the most durable hardwoods. It is ideal for furniture and flooring that will be used frequently. It is also resistant to scratches, dents, and other damage, and it has a natural shine that lasts for years. This wood has a beautiful natural grain and color, ranging from light amber to dark mahogany. Of course, this will add an elegant and rustic touch to any room or outdoor space. Acacia trees grow fast and can be harvested sustainably, so it’s an environmentally friendly choice compared to slower-growing hardwoods.

Exotic Hardwood from Central America

Santos mahogany is a very durable hardwood species commonly found in Central America and southern Mexico. This wood features a range of colors, from a lighter golden brown to a darker purplish red or burgundy, with a distinctive interlocking grain and a medium-to-fine texture. It has a high natural gloss, and quarter-sawn sections may display a striped or ribbon pattern, adding to its aesthetic appeal. Santos mahogany is also easy to work with and has good finishes, making it a popular choice for flooring, furniture, and interior trim.

Exotic Hardwood from Oceania

Australian Cypress is a highly durable and versatile softwood. It is extremely durable, with a Janka hardness rating of 1,360 lbs, making it suitable for high-traffic areas and resistant to decay, rot, and insect attacks. It has a varied color range, from light tan to darker brown, with a straight grain and a medium uniform texture. The wood has a moderate natural luster, adding to its aesthetic appeal. It is naturally resistant to moisture, decay, and insect attacks, making it a long-lasting and low-maintenance option. Australian Cypress is an environmentally friendly choice.

Resume

Domestic hardwood and exotic hardwood represent two distinct categories of hardwood flooring. Domestic hardwood derives from trees native to the United States, such as oak, maple, ash, cherry, birch, walnut, or hickory. On the other hand, exotic hardwood originates from various regions worldwide, particularly tropical areas. The most common are Brazilian walnut, Brazilian cherry, Australian cypress, and purple Heart.

Domestic hardwoods are generally more affordable and readily available than exotic hardwoods. They offer a traditional, warm appearance and are suitable for a wide range of designs. In contrast, exotic hardwoods tend to be denser, harder, and more expensive due to their striking visual impact and the costs associated with importing them. The choice between these two types of flooring depends on factors such as availability, personal preference, and budget. Important aspects to consider when comparing domestic and exotic hardwoods include color, availability, and hardness. Domestic hardwoods typically undergo gradual color changes, are more widely available, and may be less dense, while exotic hardwoods often exhibit more rapid color changes, are less readily available, and tend to be denser and harder. The decision ultimately hinges on individual needs and priorities.

Natural light tones

Light-colored hardwood floors, such as blonde or whitewashed finishes, have recently gained popularity. These lighter tones create a bright and airy feel, helping to make spaces feel more open and welcoming.

Light-colored hardwood floors tend to have a cool undertone to their color. Cool colors and tones tend to recede visually from the eye when you look at them. This makes spaces appear larger and more airy than they are.

Smoked wood floors

For the discerning homeowner who appreciates the artistry of handcrafted details, smoked wood flooring offers a unique canvas. This hardwood undergoes a meticulous fuming process where natural elements dance with the wood, transforming it into a masterpiece of rich tones and subtle textures.

The inclusion of smoked wood flooring can bring a cozy and distinctive touch to any area, all while upholding stringent air quality standards. This flooring type is perfect for people who have an admiration for the craftsman aesthetic and seek a truly unique flooring solution.

Wide Plank Hardwood

Get ready to walk wide in 2024! Plank wood flooring is about to take a giant leap, with extra-wide 10-inch planks predicted to dominate the trend scene.

These beauties excel at minimizing seams, creating a smooth, unified expanse. This not only visually expands smaller spaces but also allows the wood’s natural grain and color variations to truly shine.

The beauty of wide planks lies in their versatility. They can be sanded smooth and contemporary, adding a touch of urban chic to commercial spaces. Or, they can be embraced in their rough-hewn glory, bringing a rustic, historical charm to homes. Whether you prefer sleek minimalism or cozy farmhouse vibes, wide planks can effortlessly adapt to your style.

Timeless Floor Colors for Your Home

Deciding on the perfect floor color can feel like walking a tightrope between trendy and timeless.

Classic White and Off-Whites: These bright shades instantly open up any space, reflecting light and creating a sense of airiness. Think crisp and clean, perfect for Scandinavian-inspired minimalism or a breezy coastal vibe.

Shades of Gray: Don’t underestimate the power of gray! From cool, steely tones to warm, charcoal hues, gray offers endless versatility. Pair it with bold pops of color or keep things cozy with neutrals for a sophisticated, welcoming atmosphere.

Wood Brown: Embrace the timeless beauty of natural wood. Rich, warm browns add depth and character to any space, especially when paired with earthy textures like stone or leather. It’s the perfect choice for rustic farmhouse vibes or a touch of cozy elegance.

Prepare the wood and place

Before installation, it is crucial to acclimate the wood. Leave the flooring planks in the room where they will be installed for at least 48 hours to adjust to the temperature and humidity levels. Ensure that the subfloor is clean, level, and free of any debris. Make any necessary repairs or adjustments to achieve a smooth and even surface for installation. Depending on the type of subfloor and wide plank flooring, you may need to install an underlayment to provide additional moisture protection, insulation, or soundproofing.

Installation process

To begin the installation process, place the initial row of broad wooden panels next to one wall. Remember to leave a 1/2-inch gap between the panels and the wall on all sides to accommodate natural movement. Use spacers to ensure consistent spacing along the edges. It’s important to fasten the panels either by nailing them down or by gluing them in place.

To create an aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound floor, alternate the positioning of the joints between the panels to achieve a random pattern. Take precise measurements and make accurate cuts to fit the wide wooden panels around any obstacles, such as doorways or vents. Always wear appropriate protective equipment when using power tools.

Continue installing the broad wooden panels row by row until you reach the opposite wall. Maintain the necessary expansion gap throughout the entire installation process.

Once the broad wooden panels are completely installed, you can proceed to install the baseboards, trim, or any other finishing touches of your choice.

Complete the installation

Once the installation of wide plank flooring is complete, the process of incorporating the final details provides an opportunity to enhance both the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space. The addition of baseboards, trim, or other desired finishing elements not only contributes to a polished and cohesive appearance but also serves practical purposes.

Moreover, the finishing touches are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the wide plank flooring. Properly installed baseboards and trim help accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of the wood. This will ensure the stability and visual appeal of the flooring over time. Also, the attention to detail in the final stages of installation reflects a commitment to both aesthetics and functionality. The result is a space that exudes timeless elegance and meticulous craftsmanship.

Sustainable Wood flooring

The wood flooring sector is at the forefront of sustainability efforts, demonstrating that real wood is the most environmentally friendly flooring option available. The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) has even published a children’s book to educate young readers about tree harvesting, regeneration, old- growth forests, biodiversity, and other forestry-related topics. Wood is generally considered a sustainable material, largely due to the ability of timber trees to absorb carbon.

Additionally, wood is renewable, although renewal rates vary among different plant species. The environmental impact of using wood also depends on transportation and forest management practices.

Waterproofing flooring

Wood-look products such as LVT, WPC, and laminate have been promoted as waterproof, durable, and low-maintenance options. Waterproof wood flooring incorporates a water-resistant finish layer and an engineered wood core to prevent swelling and water damage. It is an excellent choice for areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Technological Advancements in Hardwood Flooring Finishes

In recent years, hardwood flooring has benefited from various technological advancements in finishes, leading to improved durability, reduced volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and a wide array of sheen options. Water-based polyurethane is a well-liked finish known for its durability, low VOC content, ease of application, and quick drying. Another popular option is oil-based polyurethane, valued for its durability and resistance to scratches and stains. Wax finishes offer an eco-friendly alternative, providing a natural look and feel to the wood, although they are not as durable as polyurethane finishes.

Additionally, acid-cured finishes are recognized for their durability and resistance to scratches and stains. Furthermore, advancements in core construction have also contributed to the enhancement of hardwood flooring, further improving its quality and longevity.

However, you should consider that the sunlight may damage your hardwood floors. In order for you to continue to do so, you need to take precautions.

To do so, we recommend that you read the following guide. And also, don’t forget to check out all the posts on our blog!

How can sunlight damage hardwood floors?

First of all, you need to know that wood floors are light sensitive, so they react to sunlight. Damages such as discoloration, darkening, or white spots are caused by ultraviolet (UV) light rays, heat, and moisture.

The exposure time to serious damage varies with the type of wood and its thickness.

Install blinds and curtains

Now, to prevent or minimize these changes as much as possible, the blinds are a big ally. By placing blinds or curtains on your windows, you will make sure the floor is not constantly exposed from sunrise to sunset.

Remember to close them whenever you leave or when you are not using sunlight. Transparent curtains even allow light to go through without it being directly against the floor. You can also place horizontal curtains that allow you to direct the entrance of light towards the wall or the ceiling.

Window films

You can put in window film. They consist of sheets of several thin layers, which are glued to the window glass, and what they do is a rebound effect of UV rays or infrared lights, preventing a large percentage of them from entering the room and touching the floors. These sheets can be transparent or darker than glass.

UV light inhibiting finishes for your floors

There are also other ways to take care of your floors, such as finishes with UV inhibitors that are placed directly on the floors, such as lacquers, varnishes, or wax or oil finishes.

This protective finish layer will prevent the UV rays that enter from directly affecting the wood because it will make it more difficult to penetrate, which will reduce the color change of the wood by a high percentage.

Low-E glass windows

If you are renovating your home or you have in mind to make a change in the windows, do not hesitate to replace the windows with low-e glass.

These glasses have a special coating that reduces the entrance of rays that damage the layers of wood. We recommend advising you about this, as there is a large amount in the market.

Modify the organization of your furniture

Finally, a good idea is to modify the distribution of the furniture in your home. Make sure to place them so that sofas or carpets can prevent direct sunlight from coming into contact with the wood. In this way, the floors will last longer in your house with the colors intact.

This was some advice to help you minimize the damage to your hardwood floors! Don’t forget that we do refinishing work for your house! Ask us for a free quote today!