Is Hardwood Right For Your Kitchen?

Apparently, our love affair with hardwood floors isn't letting up. Nearly 90 percent of hardwood floor manufacturers reported that their sales of hardwood flooring was were up - either dramatically or somewhat in 2014, according to a recent study.

So, if you love it that much, why not take hardwood flooring into the kitchen? More and more people are actually doing that - having hardwood floors installed in their kitchens rather than the more traditional tile or linoleum. A hardwood floor can add a touch of elegance or a rustic element to the kitchen. There are definitely plenty of things to consider before doing this. Here are some things to consider:

Choose the right wood

Maple? Oak? Pine? Pine is actually a soft wood. This means it will dent more easily and not handle wear and tear as well as maple or oak. However, many people do want that rustic look. If you're one of those people a distressed pine wood floor might be ideal for you. If it's a hardwood you're looking for, Oak would likely be the option you want to go with. Due to its prominent grain pattern, oak is helpful at hiding dents and other imperfections. Maple has a subtler grain pattern, so if that's the wood you choose, expect more upkeep.

Upkeep

First off, the manufacturer knows best. Make sure to read and follow their guidelines closely. If you have a spill, just as with any other surface, wipe it up as soon as possible to prevent stains, warping and discoloration. Hardwood floors and rugs make great companions. It's nice necessary to completely cover the wood with rugs or carpet, which would defeat the point of having a hardwood kitchen floor.

Small accent rugs in front of the sink, stove, and entrance to the kitchen will be plenty to protect the most common spill spots. Placing protective padding under furniture, including kitchen chairs, also will help protect your new hardwood floor from wear and tear.

Consider the finish

To retain the color of your hardwood floor, making touchups and recoating easier throughout the years, a clear water-based finish is the best option. Another choice, acrylic-impregnated wood, requires less upkeep and is stronger, but will end up being more expensive upfront. Instead of simply coating the wood, it permeates the wood. One more finish to consider is an oil-based one. This type of finish is known to change color over time. When the color of your hardwood floor changes, this makes future touchups and recoating more difficult as time goes by.

Installing hardwood floors is a great way to update your kitchen. However, just as with any other surface in your home, they do require special care and attention. It's very important to do your research before making a decision on what type of wood is the best fit for your kitchen.

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