How to Choose the Perfect Exotic Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood floors are the most popular choice for many homeowners. They provide a classic, attractive look to any room or hallway. Plus, they are strong and durable, which saves you money on maintenance on upkeep.

Exotic hardwood can provide an extra pop of color or unique patterning for those with stylish tastes. While it may be slightly more expensive than domestic hardwood, the character of these exotic species is well worth the price.

With the wide variety of floors to choose from, the selection process can often be overwhelming. Here are some things to consider to find the perfect exotic hardwood floor for your home: 

Interior Aesthetics 

One of the most important things to consider when shopping for exotic hardwood flooring is the interior aesthetics of your home. Consider the style of the room you are renovating, including the furniture and wall decor. 

For example, if the room has a more rustic, cottage feel to it, Australian Cypress would be the perfect exotic wood. The pronounced whorls and grain of this floor create the perfect cozy, cabin vibe. 

Exposure to Sunlight

While hardwood floors are designed with longevity in mind, there are some natural things that cause changes that are difficult to avoid. 

Sunlight has a different effect on each species of hardwood. Some flooring becomes darker when exposed to sunlight, while others become lighter and may lose their vibrant hues. 

For example, if you are interested in the flashy, dramatic stripes of Tigerwood, you should be wary of prolonged exposure to intense sunlight. The light may dull the stripes over time, evening out the unique design which caught your attention in the first place. 

If you are placing the new flooring in a bright, window-abundant room, be aware of how sunlight may interact with the hardwood.

Durability

Hardwood, as the name suggests, is tough and durable. 

Its hardness is classified by a system known as the Janka Hardness Test, which measures the amount of force it can withstand. Species of wood with a higher pounds-force (lbf) are preferable for heavy traffic or accident prone areas. 

Brazilian Cherry is one of the strongest exotic woods on the market, with an impressive score of 2350 on the Janka scale. Its lush red color with blonde highlights is another advantage, making this hardwood an impossible choice to overlook. 

Environmental Impact

Hardwoods generally take much longer to grow than softwoods. Without proper regulation, the harvesting of these woods can lead to serious deforestation. 

If you are worried about the environmental impact of your exotic wood floors, look for a wood that has been certified by the FSC, the Forest Sustainability Council.

For the ecologically conscious homeowner, Bamboo floors are an excellent choice. While not technically hardwood (more like a woody grass), this option is just as durable as traditional flooring. Bamboo takes only around 5 years to grow, which makes the harvest and regrowth process much more sustainable. 

Custom Hardwood Flooring Design in Maryland

Still unsure which exotic wood floor is right for you? We are here to help! Our skilled craftsmen take pride in designing, installing, and restoring your wood floors, and we won’t rest until you’ve found the perfect match. Contact Atlas Floors Inc. today to get your project started!