Selecting the Best Wood for Your Kitchen Floor from a Lumber Store in Houston

If you are a homeowner who is looking to add wood flooring in your kitchen, you are not alone. Wood flooring in the kitchen provides a classic look that is very appealing, but you have to make sure you choose the right type of material so that your flooring lasts. Here are some tips on choosing the best wood for your kitchen floor from a lumber store in Houston.

Durability

In a high-traffic area such as the kitchen, the type of wood that you choose for your flooring will have an impact on how long it lasts. While softwood options might look great, they tend to dent easily. In an area where you might drop a heavy pot or two along the way, you will definitely want floors that can stand strong after a little abuse. It is recommended that you choose hardwood species such as maple or cherry, as these will hold up well with the everyday wear that your floor will have to withstand.

Oak is also a particularly good choice because the naturally rustic look of this type of wood can obscure any scratches that may occur, and they might even add to the overall look of the intentionally distressed grain. Hardwoods with a clear-water base can also be refinished multiple times, making maintenance much easier if the look becomes too ragged.

Selecting the right finish

There are varying levels of water-based finishes that you can select for your floors, but acrylic-impregnated offers the most durability. This type of finish actually infiltrates the layers, whereas most usually just provide extra coating for the surface. While this finish might be more expensive on the front end, the added durability can extend the lifespan of your floors and will require less upkeep overall. You will also be able to choose from several different types of finishes based on what type of shine you want your floors to reflect. A satin-sheen finish is best if you want to conceal stains that result from grime and food particles accumulating on the surface over time.

Edging

You will also need to select the right edges to frame your floors and help create a cohesive look. Beveled edges certainly add an elegant look to wood floors, but this design also provides space for food and other types of debris to slip in between your floors and the walls. The best option for kitchen flooring is a square edge, as this will create a flush, tight bonding with your walls that will keep the debris and other particles out.

What you ultimately decide to do will depend on your personal preferences, how much you use your kitchen and what you will primarily be using it for. If you need help making your final decision, contact us at Houston Hardwoods Inc. Serving as the premier lumber store in Houston for the past 25-plus years, we are ready to help you with our knowledge staff and extensive selection of exotic hardwoods, softwoods and plywoods. Make sure you pay us a visit today so you can begin upgrading your kitchen right away.