It’s fantastic to have choices. But when it comes to hard flooring, we have so many options in color and style, it can be overwhelming. Do we want a breezy whitewashed look, an elegant dark tone or something in between? The color should reflect your home’s spirit and style and work well in the room you’re redoing. Hard surface flooring is an investment, especially if you’re choosing hardwood. While there’s nothing wrong with following a trend, you want to make sure it’s something that will make you happy over time.
How Can I Decide What Color Hard Surface Flooring Is Best?
When choosing hardwood, we focus on the grain and the stain. Our choice relates to the wood’s unique natural grain and the finish that determines the color. Both of these elements are important, and we have more options than ever.
Luxury vinyl is a major trend in hard flooring. It’s usually less expensive than hardwood, and it gives you choices that hardwood can’t. Hardwood looks are popular, but luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or tile (LVT) can also replicate tile, stone, and other surfaces with a stunningly wide range of color choices. A terrific example is the trendy grays we see in today’s luxury vinyl.
With so many color choices available in both hardwood and luxury vinyl, here are some guidelines to help you choose:
- How are you using the room? Is it a high-traffic living space or a quiet bedroom?
- Is the room large or small?
- Does the room have access to natural light, or is it a darker, closed-in space?
- Are you up for cleaning frequently or seeking a low-maintenance choice?
Are Dark or Light Hard Surface Floors Best?
These days, both light and dark colors are trending, and they both offer gorgeous style. Light colors can make a room feel open and airy. Dark colors can give you a more elegant look and pop with a brightly colored rug. If you have a small, dark room, you may want to choose a lighter colored floor to create the impression of more space. On the other hand, for a large, high-traffic area, a pale surface may require too much maintenance. And remember, there’s nothing wrong with a more neutral natural wood look. Sometimes a timeless, classic look fits the space best.
Which Colors Hide Dirt the Best?
Just like white carpeting, light-colored flooring tends to show dirt. Maintenance isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker if you crave that airy look and are ready to clean. If you choose a light-colored floor, be sure to get a top-notch sealant to add a layer of protection. On the other hand, dust and pet hair may be more visible when you select a darker shade. Dark floors also tend to show scuffing and wear. For high-traffic rooms, sometimes a classic wood look with a traditional stain is the way to go.
What About the Distressed Flooring Look?
Distressed flooring is a big trend. With hardwood, there are artificial aging processes that give flooring a worn, rustic look. We can also select an array of distressed wood looks available in luxury vinyl. Many of us love the aesthetics of distressed flooring, and it also tends to be low maintenance and durable. One significant upside is that a distressed look can hide dirt and scuffing. Whitewashing or “pickling” that lightens the wood without hiding the grain is another gorgeous trend for that rustic look.
Should I Choose a Narrow or Wide Plank?
Plank width is another big decision these days. Wide planks are hot right now, but the guiding principle should be to choose flooring that best reflects your home. If you’re doing hardwood in a mid-20th Century home, you might opt for narrow oak planks. If you have a contemporary home or a neocolonial-style house, wide planks may be best. An experienced contractor can help you sort through all the possibilities. Getting advice from the pros can help you find the right look for your space.
What Color Flooring is Best for Resale and Long Term?
Sometimes we fall in love with a current trend, and there’s nothing wrong with that. However, when we’re thinking long-term, we want to avoid getting too trendy. If you’re choosing a floor with resale in mind, be sure to pick a color and plank width that works well with your home. Keep things appropriate to the house, and don’t lean too heavily on trends. If you’re thinking long-term, a classic shade may be the best choice.
Having Trouble Choosing a Color? The Right Contractor Can Help.
Choosing your flooring color is a big deal. It’s something you’re likely going to live with for years, if not decades, and you want to do it right. That’s why finding the right flooring contractor means so much. At Loudoun Valley Floors, we’ve been helping homeowners make big decisions for decades. Your floor is truly at the heart of your home. Most people have an idea of what they want but need some help with the details. With a team of experienced professionals, we’ll help you find the perfect look for your space.