Welcome to our Oak Flooring website
Many home improvements can increase the value of the home in a significant way. This is the case with solid oak floors since it carries a great reputation for being durable and is an attractive timber when used for flooring. There are many types of timber that can be used for home flooring, but choosing oak has many additional advantages.
Types of Hardwoods
It's important to realise that there are different ways hardwood flooring is made. The engineered hardwoods means that only a thin panel of the oak or other timber is covered by layers of plywood or other materials. It is less expensive but also less durable and will not add as much value to your home. Since it is only a thin layer of timber, it will not last as long as solid timber. These interlock so that installation is often easier.
Solid timber floors means just that, the entire plank is wood. This of course means that it is a bigger investment, but if cared for properly, it can last many years. Most come with a longer warranty than engineered hardwoods. Solid oak is a coveted wood to use when you want the real thing.
Colours and Stains
Since everyone has their own unique tastes, oak timber comes in different stains and finishes. You have a choice of getting it natural or stained to a darker colour. Lighter stains make a room appear lighter and a little larger. A darker oak floor gives a room a richer and often cosier feel to it. Many homeowners choose to use a different stain in different areas of the home.
Caring for Oak Floors
One of the nicest aspects to solid oak is the colour or stain can be changed, which will give a room a completely different look. All hardwoods after years of use will begin to dull and sanding and refinishing may be necessary. Many older homes that have an oak floor are sanded, re-stained and look brain new afterwards.
You only need to sweep or use a vacuum on your solid timber floors. Furniture protectors should be used so that indentations do not happen. To avoid scratches, furniture should be picked up and carried rather than dragged or pushed as you might do if the floors were covered with carpet.
For stains and spills that may occur, clean these immediately by dabbing the excess liquid. To help prevent stains, using a wood polisher may be beneficial especially if you have children and pets. Place runners in high-traffic areas of your home, this will help keep your solid oak floors looking newer for longer.
Return on Investment
Having solid oak timber floors will have a big return on investment. Regardless if you sell your home in the next five years or 20 years, your home will be worth more if you have a solid oak floor. The true beauty of oak is it holds its value so if you wish to sell your home at some point it will be worth more with the oak floors than without.