Homeowners, builders and designers have always loved the look of wood. It’s one of the most versatile flooring materials available. With the variety of species, stains and finishes on the market today, wood floors can complement contemporary, classic or traditional décor and everything in between. Wood flooring has also become more durable than ever, thanks to new technologies that allow manufacturers to produce high-quality engineered-wood styles. From width and color to size and construction, there’s a lot to think about before choosing the wood flooring that’s right for you. Ready to begin your process? Start with these basic considerations.

Style

When it comes to design, do you enjoy a formal look or a more traditional one? “In the end, it comes down to the total character of the décor,” says Shirley Pai Hilton of Pacific Imports International. Your décor preferences, which include furniture and color selection along with placement of accessories and your home’s architectural style, will all inform your choice.

Wood-flooring planks can be wide or narrow. Finishes run the gamut from high-gloss to matte, and color and pattern choices are endless, so think about what you like. Tear out pictures of beautiful wood floors in magazines or consult design books. Pay attention to how the floors you’re attracted to in pictures interact with the rest of the décor. Think about how your new wood floor would go with the furniture and accessories you already have.

Finally, consider your lifestyle. Do you mind footprints on your high-gloss finish floor? Are you living with kids or pets whose constant traffic can be hard on certain finishes? Do you enjoy how irregular textures feel underfoot, or do you prefer something smooth? 



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