What to know before you buy hardwood flooring in Indianapolis.
Hardwood is a popular floor choice because of its natural beauty and timeless style. However, there are limitations on where some wood floors can be installed. Solid hardwood floors are more susceptible to the effects of moisture. Therefore if you are considering hardwood for your basement or over concrete, Engineered Hardwoods are required. Installation methods can also limit where a hardwood floor can be used. Your Kermans design consultant can talk through hardwood’s limitations and benefits to help you determine if this beautiful floor is the best choice for your home.
Consider size
Hardwood flooring comes in boards referred to as strips or planks. Strips are typically narrow in width with planks offering a wider board. The width of the board can visually impact a room. Strips will visually expand a room while planks work best in a larger area.
Consider edges
Hardwood boards are cut with different edges: square edged boards or beveled boards. Beveled edges have a different appearance than more traditional edges. Aside from the apperance of the beveled edges, an advantage of this design is that is gives a more consistant look during times when room moisture causes minor expansions and contraction within the grove. The beveled edge can be more forgiving when installed.
Consider colors and finishes
Each species of wood has its own unique characteristics. The species will determine your color variations and finish options. The grain pattern of each wood is determined by how the wood is cut. Natural variations in color and grain are normal no matter what type of wood you select. These variations are one of the strongest appeals of a hardwood floor because they make each floor practically one-of-a-kind. When selecting your hardwood floor choose one that either coordinates or contrasts with your existing woodwork and furniture. Darker woods tend to be more formal while natural colors are more casual.
Kermans carries pre-finished hardwoods. Pre-finished hardwoods offer a faster and less labor intensive alternative to unfinished flooring. Because the finish has been applied in a controlled environment, there is more consistency in color & protective coating on each board. The overall floor tends to have a more uniform appearance and if an area becomes damaged, it only requires replacing the damaged boards–not re-sanding and re-finishing the entire floor.
There is a lot to consider when buying hardwood and Kermans is here to help every step of the way. Our knowledgeable sales staff will walk you through all important decisions. Next on the list? What type of hardwood best fits your needs.