80ad8ee6e7b0730486c325d8908cfaf0

Image Source: Designoform

Hardwood flooring is a classic staple for many homes. From rustic cabins to contemporary spaces, hardwood is extremely versatile and matches an array of styles. When it comes to home decor, looking at both style and function is imperative when deciding on what flooring to choose. Your home will evolve and change along with your style and needs, so it is important to choose something both timeless and a reflection of your unique taste!

hardwood_collage_281118625

The classic hardwood flooring can be quite an investment, and while the interior design favorite maintains its timeless status, it comes with some difficulty. Hardwood can easily become scratched, especially when moving around furniture when decorating. Rearranging your space can be taxing enough without having to worry about bruising your floors! Despite cosmetic scratches, hardwood is an incredibly durable floor and can add long-term value to your home. We all know accidents happen, particularly when children and pets are involved, and hardwood is susceptible to stains and water damage. Natural wood reacts to fluctuations in temperature and moisture by warping and expanding, which can be detrimental to your floor if it is not installed correctly. So, what is a homeowner to do when you love the pastoral look of hardwood flooring, but not the budget or capability for long-term maintenance?

woodplank_collage_28114598

Wood plank porcelain evokes the everlasting look of hardwood, but can be more homeowner-friendly. Because it is man-made, this flooring comes in even more of a variety of size, color, and style options. This allows you to perfectly integrate your wood-inspired flooring to the current architecture of your home. Unlike hardwood, wood plank porcelain comes with the freedom to install it yourself without worrying about warping due to careless professional installation or moisture retention.  Its durability and low maintenance nature makes it a must-have for households with pets and children! Wood plank porcelain is not without its drawbacks as well. Because it is tile, the grout can discolor or be difficult to clean. While it does not occur as easily as with hardwood flooring, when put under stress these tiles can chip and may be difficult to replace.

 

Both wood plank porcelain and hardwood evoke the beauty of nature that suits every style of home from Bohemian to French Country. While both have a long list of positive qualities, there are always cons to consider, especially when it’s your home! If you were or are renovating your home, which would you choose?