Despite the plethora of flooring options available in the market, engineered hardwood flooring reigns supreme in Toronto. This is due to its exceptional durability and timeless beauty. Customers are presented with two popular choices when it comes to hardwood floors: solid and engineered hardwood. In most cases, the latter emerges as the clear victor. The reason behind this is its ability to provide a natural look and feel, along with ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and resistance to water and moisture damage.
To obtain the material for engineered hardwood floorings, trees are cut into logs, which are then sawed into planks or boards. Each board possesses a unique look and feel based on the wood species it originates from. Yes, you heard it correctly! Boards used for flooring are sourced from various wood species. Hardwoods used for floors can generally be classified into two categories: exotic and domestic species. Exotic species include Bamboo, Brazilian Cherry, Amendoim, and many others.
On the other hand, domestic species consist of walnut, maple, red oak, and birch. It is easy to deduce that the former comes with a higher price tag. It is intriguing yet true that all species can be utilized for engineered hardwood floorings, but their characteristics and prices differ. You can see the types of wood species used in engineered hardwood flooring here.
Now, let us closely examine some of the most popular hardwood floor species in Toronto, commonly used for both residential and commercial purposes.
Oak hardwood flooring
This wood is abundantly found across the globe. It is a practical and excellent choice for homes, as it is durable and affordable. Opting for oak not only provides aesthetic advantages, but it is also available in various stained forms, ranging from light-colored to medium and dark. Its strong graining patterns effectively conceal dents and scratches on the floor, making it an ideal option for households with pets and children.
Red oak and white oak are two well-known oak flooring species. They derive their names from the difference in bark colors, as both have shades of pink. Red oak is a delightful blend of natural light pink, cream, and red hues. Due to its stain-resistant properties and availability in different colors, it surpasses its counterpart in popularity. However, if stability is what you seek, white oak takes the lead. With color options ranging from gray to golden brown, it is considered a reliable flooring choice. For the finest shades in both oak species, explore the collection of reputable Mercier wood flooring.
Bamboo hardwood flooring
The durability, eco-friendliness, and affordability of bamboo contribute to its increasing popularity as a choice for hardwood floors. Additionally, bamboo floors are easily installed on concrete floors and offer cost-effective benefits. While it is generally less expensive than oak, prices may vary depending on the specific species. However, it is important to note that sanding bamboo is more challenging compared to oak species, therefore it is advisable to consult with an interior decorator before selecting bamboo flooring for a particular space.
Hickory hardwood flooring
For those seeking a rustic aesthetic, the hickory species of engineered hardwood flooring is an ideal choice. Not only does it possess a beautiful appearance, but it also offers exceptional durability. Furthermore, hickory is known to be one of the hardest wood flooring options available in the commercial market. With medium to creamy brown color options, it is a suitable flooring choice for hotels, schools, and various other commercial spaces.
Maple hardwood flooring
Homeowners who desire a natural finish for their floors often opt for maple flooring. This type of flooring is renowned for its durability and resistance to scratches and dents. Maple wood is typically available in warm and light colors such as cream and yellow, which can brighten any room or space.
Cherry hardwood flooring
Cherry trees are utilized in flooring, with two notable species being Brazilian and American Cherry. The former falls into the exotic category, while the latter is classified as domestic. Brazilian cherry exhibits a natural reddish-brown color and boasts exceptional durability. American Cherry, on the other hand, is also available in reddish to brownish tones, which deepen in redness over time.
Walnut hardwood flooring
Walnut hardwood flooring is a luxurious and elegant option known for its rich, dark brown color and unique grain patterns. Walnut wood is prized for its durability, stability, and natural beauty, making it a popular choice for high-end interior design. Walnut hardwood flooring adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to any room, creating a timeless and inviting atmosphere. It is also known for its resistance to wear and tear, making it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces. Additionally, walnut flooring can be easily stained and finished to enhance its natural characteristics. Overall, walnut engineered hardwood flooring is a premium choice that can elevate the aesthetic appeal of any home or office.
Birch hardwood flooring
Birch hardwood flooring is a popular choice known for its durability, strength, and distinctive grain patterns. Birch wood typically has a light, creamy color with subtle swirls and knots, giving it a unique and natural look. Birch hardwood is valued for its hardness, making it suitable for high-traffic areas in the home. It is also relatively easy to clean and maintain. Birch flooring can be stained in various shades to match different interior design styles, from modern to traditional. Overall, Birch engineered hardwood flooring is a versatile and stylish option that can add warmth and character to any living space.
Ash hardwood flooring
Ash hardwood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability and attractive appearance. Ash wood is known for its light color with prominent grain patterns, making it a versatile option for various interior design styles. It is a strong and resilient wood species, making it suitable for high-traffic areas in the home. Ash engineered hardwood flooring is also relatively easy to maintain and can be sanded and refinished multiple times, extending its lifespan. Overall, ash hardwood flooring is a practical and aesthetically pleasing option for those looking to enhance the beauty of their living space.
Conclusion
In conclusion, engineered hardwood floorings are globally renowned for their luxurious and exotic appearance. With a wide range of species and colors to choose from, these floors can be tailored to suit various lifestyles and budgets. For a comprehensive selection of wood flooring brands, consider contacting GTA masters, a leading supplier of hardwood flooring in Toronto.