Choosing the right flooring material for your home can be a daunting task, but natural hickory flooring can be a beautiful and durable option. Hickory is a hardwood species known for its unique grain pattern and exceptional strength, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of natural hickory flooring and provide you with essential tips on how to choose and maintain this type of flooring.
Choosing Natural Hickory Flooring:
1. Consider the style of your home: Hickory has a distinct rustic charm, which makes it perfect for homes with a traditional or country-style aesthetic. Its warm tones and natural variations in color and texture add character and depth to any space. However, if your home has a more modern or contemporary design, you may want to consider other options that better suit your overall style.
2. Assess your lifestyle and foot traffic: Hickory is a highly durable hardwood species, making it an ideal choice for areas that receive heavy foot traffic or are prone to scratches and dents, such as entryways, hallways, and living rooms. It is also highly resistant to moisture and humidity, which makes it suitable for kitchens and bathrooms. However, keep in mind that natural hickory flooring can be quite hard, so it may not be the best option if you prefer a softer feel underfoot.
3. Consider the color and finish: Hickory flooring is available in a variety of colors, ranging from light blonde to rich, dark brown. The natural color variations in hickory make it unique and visually appealing. When choosing a color, consider the existing color palette and furniture in your space. Additionally, you can select from different finishes, such as matte, gloss, or distressed, to achieve the desired look and feel. Keep in mind that a matte finish tends to hide scratches and imperfections better than a glossy finish.
Maintaining Natural Hickory Flooring:
1. Regular cleaning: To keep your natural hickory flooring looking its best, sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can scratch the surface. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a floor attachment to avoid causing any damage. Avoid using wet mops or steam cleaners, as excessive moisture can cause the wood to warp and lose its luster.
2. Protect from scratches: Although hickory is a durable hardwood, it is still susceptible to scratches from heavy furniture, pets, and sharp objects. Place felt pads or furniture coasters under the legs of your furniture to prevent scratches when moving them. Trim your pet’s nails regularly, and avoid dragging heavy objects across the floor.
3. Maintain proper humidity levels: While hickory is less prone to humidity-related issues than some other hardwoods, it is still important to maintain proper humidity levels in your home. Fluctuations in humidity can cause the wood to expand or contract, leading to gaps or buckling. Use a humidifier during dry winter months and ensure good ventilation in areas prone to high humidity, like bathrooms or kitchens.
4. Protect from sunlight: Sunlight exposure can cause natural hickory flooring to fade over time. Consider using blinds or curtains to limit direct sunlight on the floor. Additionally, periodically rearranging furniture and rugs can help minimize sun damage by allowing the floor to age uniformly.
Natural hickory flooring can add warmth, beauty, and value to your home. By considering your style, lifestyle, and following proper maintenance techniques, you can enjoy the benefits of this stunning hardwood flooring for years to come.