All About Oak Flooring (Red & White Oak)
Why Oak Is Popular
Oak is the most widely used hardwood for flooring in the U.S. because it offers the perfect balance of durability, affordability, and timeless beauty. Both Red Oak and White Oak bring unique features, making them versatile for nearly any home style.
Red Oak Flooring
Color & Grain:
Warm tones ranging from pinkish-red to golden-brown.
Distinct, pronounced grain pattern—adds character and texture.
Durability:
Janka hardness: 1,290 (strong enough for most households).
Resistant to everyday wear and tear.
Style Fit:
Traditional, rustic, or cozy designs.
Pairs well with warm interiors and classic furniture.
Staining:
Takes stain very well, allowing for a variety of color options.
White Oak Flooring
Color & Grain:
Natural tones from light beige to medium brown with a slight gray undertone.
Smoother, tighter grain pattern than Red Oak.
Durability:
Janka hardness: 1,360 (harder than Red Oak).
Great for high-traffic areas and homes with kids or pets.
Style Fit:
Modern, contemporary, and Scandinavian-inspired interiors.
Popular for sleek, minimalist looks.
Staining:
Excellent for dark stains; often used for gray or espresso finishes.
All About Maple Flooring
Why Maple Is Popular
Maple is known for its light, clean appearance and exceptional durability. It’s a favorite in both homes and commercial spaces because it combines strength with a smooth, modern aesthetic.
Appearance
Color: Naturally light, creamy, or pale tan with occasional reddish-brown hues.
Grain: Subtle and fine, less pronounced than oak. Offers a sleek, uniform look.
Style: Perfect for bright, airy, and modern interiors.
Durability
Hardness (Janka Rating): ~1,450 (harder than Red & White Oak).
Resistant to scratches, dents, and wear — ideal for high-traffic areas.
Because of its strength, Maple has been used in basketball courts and bowling alleys.
Staining & Finishes
Takes light finishes beautifully (clear, natural, blonde).
Can be challenging to stain evenly because of its tight grain. Dark stains may look blotchy without professional application.
Best left in natural or light finishes for a modern, elegant vibe.
Best Uses
Living rooms & hallways: Withstand heavy foot traffic.
Kitchens: Durable against daily wear.
Modern & minimalist homes: Light tone enhances clean designs.
Commercial spaces: Frequently used in gyms and studios.
All About Walnut Flooring
Why Walnut Is Special
Walnut is known for its luxurious appearance and rich, dark tones. It’s a premium choice in hardwood flooring, adding elegance and warmth to any space. While softer than oak or maple, it’s prized for its beauty and sophistication.
Appearance
Color: Ranges from deep chocolate brown to lighter coffee and caramel tones, sometimes with purple or gray undertones.
Grain: Straight, smooth, and fine with occasional swirling patterns.
Style: Timeless and upscale — perfect for formal, elegant interiors.
Durability
Hardness (Janka Rating): ~1,010 (softer than oak and maple).
Comfortable underfoot and less likely to splinter.
Best for medium-traffic areas where beauty is the priority.
Staining & Finishes
Walnut is naturally dark and beautiful — often left unstained with a clear finish.
Accepts oil and polyurethane finishes well.
Darkens slightly over time, enriching its natural look.
Best Uses
Living rooms & dining rooms: Creates a warm, luxurious feel.
Bedrooms: Adds richness and coziness.
Offices or libraries: Classic, formal look.
(Not ideal for kitchens or entryways with heavy traffic, unless you’re okay with more wear.)
All About Cherry Flooring
Why Cherry Is Loved
Cherry hardwood is prized for its warm, rich color and smooth texture. It brings elegance and a natural glow to any room. While softer than many other hardwoods, its beauty and ability to age gracefully make it a favorite for homeowners who value style and sophistication.
Appearance
Color: Starts as a light pinkish tone and deepens into a warm, reddish-brown over time (especially with sunlight exposure).
Grain: Fine, smooth, and consistent with a subtle natural luster.
Style: Adds warmth and richness — perfect for traditional and classic interiors.
Durability
Hardness (Janka Rating): ~950 (softer than oak, maple, and walnut).
Can dent or scratch more easily than harder woods.
Best for low to medium traffic areas or rooms where beauty is prioritized.
Staining & Finishes
Naturally beautiful, so it’s often left unstained with a clear finish.
Ages beautifully — develops a darker, richer patina over time.
If staining is used, lighter finishes tend to highlight its natural glow.
Best Uses
Living rooms & bedrooms: Creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Dining rooms or formal spaces: Enhances elegance.
Accent rooms or offices: Warm, traditional charm.
(Not ideal for kitchens, hallways, or heavy-traffic areas.)
All About Cedar Flooring
Why Cedar Is Special
Cedar is a softwood known for its natural beauty, warm tones, and aromatic scent. While not as hard as oak or maple, it’s prized for its rustic charm, durability in certain environments, and natural resistance to insects and decay.
Appearance
Color: Light reddish-brown to medium brown, sometimes with hints of pink.
Grain: Straight and fine, often with knots that give a rustic and natural look.
Aroma: Distinct, pleasant scent that naturally repels moths and insects.
Style: Excellent for cabins, cozy homes, and accent areas; adds warmth and character.
Durability
Hardness (Janka Rating): ~900 (softer than oak, maple, and walnut).
Prone to dents and scratches, so best for low to medium traffic areas.
Naturally resistant to decay, insects, and moisture, making it good for humid areas or rustic homes.
Staining & Finishes
Usually left natural to preserve its aroma and reddish color.
Can be finished with oils or clear coats to enhance the warm tones.
Dark stains are less common because the beauty of cedar lies in its natural hues.
Best Uses
Bedrooms & living rooms: Cozy, aromatic, and inviting.
Cabins & vacation homes: Enhances rustic charm.
Accent areas: Staircases, feature walls, or mixed flooring designs.
(Not ideal for kitchens, hallways, or heavy-traffic areas unless protected.)
All About Birch Flooring
Why Birch Is Popular
Birch is a versatile and affordable hardwood known for its light color, smooth texture, and subtle grain patterns. It offers a modern, clean look and is a great option for homeowners who want durable flooring with a bright, fresh appearance.
Appearance
Color: Pale yellow to light brown, sometimes with a reddish hue.
Grain: Fine, uniform, and subtle with occasional cathedrals (arched patterns).
Style: Works well for contemporary, Scandinavian, and minimalist interiors.
Durability
Hardness (Janka Rating): ~1,260 (slightly harder than Red Oak).
Sturdy enough for medium to high traffic areas, but softer than Maple or Hickory.
Can dent under very heavy use, so consider furniture pads in busy areas.
Staining & Finishes
Accepts light and medium stains very well, including natural, honey, or golden tones.
Can mimic the look of more expensive hardwoods like Maple or Oak with staining.
Natural light color brightens up rooms and enhances natural light.
Best Uses
Living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways: Durable and visually appealing.
Kitchens & dining rooms: Handles moderate foot traffic well.
Modern or minimalist designs: Light tone complements neutral color schemes.