Time to update your flooring? Maybe it’s finally time to install the hardwood you’ve been dreaming about.

Yet deciding on installing hardwood flooring is only the first step of the process. Trend’s show that hardwood is always a good choice. But with dozens of choices available, how do you know what to choose?

It starts with color. Today’s color choices range from dark stains to greys, off whites and beiges. Reds and browns are always popular here in Colorado, they’re a good blend with any décor as we move from summer to winter. But color isn’t everything. There are many other things to consider.

Distressed?
A few years ago, hand scraped and contoured wood became the rage. Today we’re seeing heavy distressed woods being replaced with a softer wire brushed ceruse effect. Reclaimed hardwoods are also welcome, especially in homes where sustainability and eco-friendly options are at top billing.

Type of hardwood?
Red oak always maintains a strong hold on the market. White oak is also a great choice; you’ll find a variety of products made from this wood. Hickory remains strong, and can give your home a rustic feel. Lighter tones of hardwood such as maple and birch have decreased in popularity in their natural colors, but continue to be popular finished, creating a cleaner contemporary look.

Plank size?
Wider plank size has seen a dramatic increase over the past few years. And as the planks have grown in width, they’ve increased in length as well. As hand scraped and other hardwoods entered the market, their width increased to show off the detail. When combined with a shorter length, they created an almost checkerboard appearance. By increasing the length, it created a stronger, more refined look and feel that people loved. Today, you’ll find four inch wide planks have increased drastically, with a lot more seven inch or wider planks on the market today. You can find them 10 or 12 inches, but you’ll need a wide open space to appear like they belong.

Are you in the market for new hardwood flooring?