Hardwood floors last forever. They are also expensive. The upfront cost of hardwood floors often leads people down the dangerous path of choosing cheap materials. Cheap hardwood floors will save money immediately, but the cost of repairing and replacing cheap materials can make them way more expensive overall. Here’s why you need to be aware of cheap hardwood flooring options.
Cheap wood is cheap for a reason
Cheap wood will warp and crack.
We understand that you’re on a budget, but cheap is cheap, hardwood floors are cheap for a reason. Quality hardwood floors can last for centuries. We know this because there are beautiful old homes that still feature the original oak floors. When you choose hardwood floors, make sure that you weigh the cost of the floors with the lifespan of the materials. Cheap wood will often lead to more problems.
Installation problems
Cheap wood will create a few installation problems. The reason they are cheap is sometimes due to inferior milling. When the milling work is sloppy, you get wood that isn’t even and straight. That may not be a big deal when you look at the wood in the shop, but it will make a massive difference in the installation problems. Not having straight and even edges will look cheap and messy when installed. There will be more significant gaps between the boards, and they may not match up perfectly. Over time, these imperfections will drive you crazy.
Knots and color variation
Cheaper wood can also be inconsistent in color. The lower the grade of wood, the more color variation you’ll see. There will also be more knots in the wood. Although a few knots can give your floors some character and texture, knots can also come with a few problems. Too many knots can impact the strength of the wood, and make your floors more likely to cup, warp, or crack.
Too many knots can compromise the structural integrity of your floors.
Buying online
The internet is great for doing initial research about wood, species, patterns, and cost. However, you never want to buy your wood online, sight unseen. Always visit a showroom to see the wood in person to make sure that you are getting a quality product. Visiting a showroom also allows you to talk to experts who can lead you in the right direction.