What Is the Best Type of Wood for Hardwood Floors?

Did you know that 52% of Americans have hardwood floors in their homes?

Whether you’re building a new home or planning a remodeling project, you need to know the best type of wood for hardwood floors. The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming, so we’re here to help you make the best decision for your home.

Keep reading to learn more about the most popular types of wood for hardwood floors.

1. Maple

Maple is the wood flooring of choice for basketball courts, so that should give you an indication of its durability. It has a predictable pattern and somewhat light color, usually resembling a cafe latte.

The grain isn’t overly pronounced, but you can find some really striking patterns on the market. Look for a bird’s eye pattern (like a peacock feather) or a fiddleback pattern (which resembles torn velvet).

2. Oak 

Perhaps the most popular and affordable of all types of hardwood floors, you can never go wrong with classic oak. It’s durable, widely available, and can last well over a century with proper care.

Its dark grain and tight pattern fit well in almost any room of the home. Most oak is brownish-yellow, although some boards may appear whiteish-gray, slightly pink, or even like redwood.

Interested in oak hardwood floors? Have a look at why this option continues to be so popular in American homes.

3. Brazilian Cherry

Do you love woods with a deep reddish hue? Look no further than Brazilian Cherry wood, which only deepens in color the longer it’s exposed to sunlight.

Homeowners love its tight, flowy grains and bold color. It’s also one of the hardest types of wood on the market, meaning it can outlast the rest of your home. Some Brazilian Cherry products come with a transferrable warranty of 100 years or longer!

4. Hickory

Hickory wood is harder and stronger than oak, making it more resistant to dents and scratches. It’s a little pricier than oak, but people love it for its character and durability.

Are you interested in the best type of wood for hardwood floors in terms of your return on investment (ROI)? Choose hickory and you won’t be disappointed.

5. Australian Cypress

Somewhere between oak and hickory on the hardness scale, Australian Cypress has become a popular option in recent years. It’s also more stable than other types of hardwood floors.

This wood comes in a variety of eye-catching colors to suit any style of home. The heartwood is anywhere from warm brown to honey-gold, while the sapwood is a smooth creamy color.

The Best Type of Wood for Hardwood Floors: Now You Know

So, which type of wood for hardwood floors is ideal for your home? Will you choose traditional oak or hickory? Or will you go with something more exotic like Brazilian Cherry or Australian Cypress?

Whichever option you choose, you’re sure to love the final results!

Now that you know the best type of wood for hardwood floors, what’s next? Keep browsing our site for more great tips and advice!