How to tell what type of wood floor you have
Having a wood floor in your house is a classic and elegant choice of flooring that adds warmth to any room. However, with so many different types of wood flooring available, it can be hard to tell exactly what type of wood is installed in your home. But, identifying the type of wood used in your floors is important when it comes to maintenance and repairs. To help steer you in the right direction, let’s break down how to tell what type of wood floor you have.
1. Start with the species
The first step in identifying your wood floor is to determine its species. The most common hardwood species used in flooring are oak, maple, cherry, and walnut. Perhaps the easiest way to identify the species is by looking at the grain patterns. Each species has a unique grain pattern, so by studying the patterns, you can get an idea of the species of wood.
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2. Consider the color
Different species of wood have different natural colors. For instance, oak typically has a golden hue, while cherry has a reddish tint. Look for color variations in the flooring to have a better idea of the wood species. If you’re still not sure, you can conduct a small patch test. Make a small scratch on an obscure part of the flooring and try to match the color with a stain or finish color chart.
3. Check the plank width
Another common characteristic of wood flooring is its plank width. While almost any species of wood can be used for narrow planks, wide plank flooring is more commonly made out of softer woods such as pine or fir. If you have wide plank flooring, it’s a good indication that you have a softer wood species.
4. Check the pattern
The pattern of the flooring could potentially help you identify the wood species. Parquet flooring, for instance, is usually made of oak, while herringbone patterns are commonly made from maple or ash. Similarly, different types of flooring patterns are often associated with particular species of wood. A flooring expert can help you identify the species and pattern of your flooring.
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5. Examine the grain
When it comes to identifying the species of your wood floor, the grain is critical to take into account. The grain pattern of the wood used in your floor is highly indicative of its species. Oak and ash have straight grains, making them easier to identify, whereas maple and cherry feature more complex, swirling grains.
There are several clues that you can look for to identify the species of the wood used in your flooring. Finding out the species of your flooring is crucial when it comes to maintenance, repairs, and refinishing. By using the tips mentioned above, you can determine which type of wood flooring you have, which will help you choose the right products to clean your floors and keep them in top condition. Still, if you are having trouble identifying the species of your floor or you want accurate information, you can always use the help of hardwood flooring experts in your area.