If you’re thinking about installing some brand new wood floors in your home, you’re probably faced with the question: should I choose light or dark hardwood? While it partly depends on your personal preference, there are also a few considerations to take into account when making your choice.
Dark Hardwood: Pros
With darker hardwoods, you really get to see the grains, as these show up better with a darker stain. You also will not have to worry about your floor fading, as they absorb sunlight. Dark woods like cherry, walnut and mahogany make your space feel warm and luxurious. You can also choose a satin finish for your dark wood floors to curb the appearance of imperfections. Dark floors tend to have a higher resale value, as they make a big impact on potential homebuyers.
Dark Hardwood: Cons
Dark hardwoods like dark browns, greys and even black have become more popular in recent years, but they do have some disadvantages. If you don’t clean your floors on a daily basis, you’re more likely to see a buildup of dirt and grime, especially in high traffic areas. Dust and grime shows up more easily on a darker floor, as do scratches and dents, and if this bothers you, it may mean a more rigorous cleaning schedule. Dark floors tend to make a room look smaller, so avoid them in smaller rooms.
Light Hardwood: Pros
Lighter wood floors won’t require quite as much cleaning as darker woods, but they will not necessarily be resistant to scratches and dents. They’re good for use in homes with children and pets. Light woods hold a stain nicely, and can be restained often if you want to change up the look of your space. They will make rooms feel larger, so you can use them in smaller spaces to brighten them up and create the illusion of a larger space.
Light Hardwood: Cons
Sometimes lighter wood floors don’t have as much of an impact on a space as a darker wood, so you may want to choose a light wood with lots of texture and colour variations. And if you choose a wood that’s too light, it may cause your space to feel washed out. Some light hardwoods are also soft, such as white ash, and will not hold up well in high traffic areas. You may have to have them refinished and stained more often.
At Bigelow Flooring in Guelph, we carry a wide range of hardwood floors to suit your needs and style! Browse our hardwood flooring selection online, or visit us in-store to chat with one of our experienced flooring specialists.
