Hardwood Floors - What Rooms Can Have Them?

There are a lot of misconceptions about where you can place wood floors, and what rooms they are made for. The truth is, you can place wood floors anywhere in the home you like, from the basement, to the attic. It all has to do with your own preferences, and the specific build of your home. However, there are different types that are made for different areas, and it is important to know what wood floors are used for what level, and area, of your home.

You may be wondering why the type of wood flooring is so important, and why it matters what you put in a room. After all, they are all more or less the same, right? Wrong. The differences in wood flooring will make a huge difference to both the look, and stability, of your floors, so be sure to follow the guidelines that dictate what can go in what room, otherwise you may end up with more problems then you ever anticipated.

If you are looking for floors that go in the main areas of your home, on the base level, or any higher (minus the attic), you will want to go with solid flooring. This can be placed anywhere within your home that has little chance of water damage, such as the living room, dining room, hallways, or bedrooms. It is sturdy, attractive, and will make up the majority of planks you will see being sold. They are also much easier to customize, so perfect for home decoration.

When it comes to an area such as the kitchen, laundry room, utility room, basement, or attic, you will need engineered flooring. While not quite as attractive as the solid flooring, and so not as decorative, it is designed by creating a multi-directional grain layout, and consists of several layers of wood pieces that have been compressed into one. This creates a much sturdier plank, that is less likely to be damaged when used in a room with a higher probability of water leaking, or flooding. You can also have this wood type finished, so while it isn't a decorative wood flooring, it is at least attractive.

You can also use acrylic impregnated wood flooring for any room where solid flooring is acceptable, just don't make the mistake of thinking the added strength of the molding will allow for it to be used in those areas where only the engineered brand will do. Even if it is stronger, it is just as likely to be damaged by water as the solid, just less likely to be damaged by excessive activity.

Now, out of these three types, you will be able to create a wood flooring design for any room, in any home. Since most planks, especially solid flooring, come in so many designs, you can also end up with a completely customized, unique effect that will leave everyone envious of your beautiful house. Just remember the guidelines given above, and you should have a beautiful home finish in no time.