How To Know If Dark Or Light Hardwood Will Look Best In Your Home

Hardwood flooring is one of the most popular flooring options in all types of homes around the world. It is elegant, relatively easy to maintain, and can match nearly any decor style. Homeowners everywhere are drawn to its iconic and timeless style. However, once you make the decision to install or redo hardwood, there are still several options in front of you. There are hundreds of different types, grains, shapes, colors, and finishes to choose from. In this article, we’re going to talk about the different looks that light hardwood and dark hardwood can create in your home. There are several things to consider when choosing your flooring type, including room size, natural lighting, daily wear and tear, paint colors, home style and decor style. Everyone has their own preference, and your floors should fit both your lifestyle and personal aesthetic. Here’s some basic information that will help inform your decision to choose dark or light hardwood for your home.

Dark hardwood floors

Dark hardwoods, including oak, teakwood, rosewood, cherry, and dark walnut, have been trending in style for the last several years, especially in metropolitan areas. The darker stains tend to have a more “modern” look, and provide a nice contrast to white and brightly colored decor and furniture. They also highlight the grain of the wood a bit more than lighter colors, which can lend an air of elegance. Dark woods absorb light, so they are much more resistant to fading than lighter hardwood.

Light hardwood floors

Light hardwood floors, such as maple, pine, ash, and birch, are excellent for compact homes and smaller spaces, as they tend to make rooms appear bigger. Beach and coastal homes look great with lighter types of wood. Lighter floors also tend to show dirt and dust less than dark floors, meaning that they require less daily maintenance. They also hold an advantage over dark floors when it comes to scratching, as scratches are much more apparent on dark hardwood floors. If you have any questions about flooring, or would like to set up a free, no obligation estimate with one of our friendly flooring experts, give Naffco a call today at (813) 254-4066.