The final look your wood flooring is the combined result of numerous design elements. These looks can be achieved with solid or engineered flooring. There are so many options available today that almost any need can be met, from traditional, to contemporary, to rustic, to classic.
Wood Species
There is a wide range of species to choose from. Each species of wood has unique colours, tones, and grain patterns. Combine this with the different grades available and you can go from a select grade of natural maple, presenting as cool monochromatic, to a common grade walnut in natural that will provide black, deep purples, browns and near white flames.
Stains, Bleaching, Painting
Stains are still the most common way to change the colour of the wood. You can choose a colour that is a slight variation on natural wood or one that is so dark, you'll wonder why you used wood in the first place. (It's because the grain still shows, and the way it feels underfoot).
Bleaching is a process that will lighten the natural colour of the wood. Painting provides an opaque finish that still allows the natural grain pattern to show. Oak works well for this affect.
Surface Texture
The look changes again when manufacturers work with the texture of the boards. Brushing is the process of going over a board with a wire brush to remove the softer parts of the grain. This can be done gently or aggressively depending on how pronounced an effect is desired. This is usually done with grainier woods such as oak and ash.
Scraping is done by shaving out shallow grooves on the board face. The width and length of the grooves can vary. Distressing is the process of making the wood look like it has already been in use for a while. This can be done with chains that are used to beat the wood, giving it an overall dented and marred look. Often special staining is done to accentuate these marks. As with any treatment you will want to see a large sample to view the overall effect.
Gloss Levels
Does a shiny or dull surface show marks more easily? The gloss level has a major impact on how your floor will look and contribute to the feel of a space. A dark stain, high gloss finish is formal and higher maintenance. It's not a good choice for a household with pets and children. The lower the gloss the more informal the appearance. A lower gloss also affects how the surface texture looks. A brushed or distressed texture is more in keeping with a lower gloss.
Board Width
Board widths have increased over time. Engineered floors have made wider board widths possible and practical. The narrow boards, under 3¼" wide, are more traditional. Usually there are not many options in regards to surface texture or gloss levels. The wider boards allow the full visual impact of the various treatments now available. Even a 4" board with a smooth finish allows you to see the patterning of the grain more fully. The wider board can give you casual elegance or rustic cottage.
Variations on all of the above elements are being continually created. There are no rights or wrongs when choosing the style that you like. It is all about understanding the combinations and what your selection offers you in appearance and maintenance.
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