Real hardwood floors offer timeless elegance, durability, and unmatched natural beauty. They add warmth and character to any space, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and value of your home. However, with various flooring options available in the market, it's essential to distinguish between real hardwood and its alternatives.
Examining the Characteristics
- Visual Inspection: Start by visually inspecting the surface of the flooring. Real hardwood floors typically exhibit natural variations in grain patterns, knots, and color tones, reflecting the unique characteristics of the wood species used. Look for subtle imperfections and irregularities that are common in authentic hardwood.
- Texture and Grain: Run your hand across the surface of the floor. Genuine hardwood floors often have a distinct texture and grain pattern that you can feel. Unlike laminate or engineered wood, which may have a smooth and uniform surface, real hardwood tends to have a more tactile and organic feel.
- End Grain Inspection: Examine the end grain of the flooring planks, especially near doorways or transitions. Real hardwood will show end grain patterns, revealing the structure of the wood and its growth rings. This natural feature is typically absent in laminate or vinyl flooring products.
- Water Absorption Test: While not recommended for finished floors, a water absorption test can help identify real hardwood in unfinished or inconspicuous areas. Place a small drop of water on the floor and observe how it reacts. If the water is absorbed into the wood rather than pooling on the surface, it's likely genuine hardwood.
- Scratch Test: Real hardwood floors are more resistant to scratches compared to laminate or vinyl alternatives. Try lightly scratching the surface with a coin or key in an inconspicuous area. If the scratch is shallow and barely noticeable, it's a good indicator of real hardwood.
Consult the Experts at BA Flooring
If you're still unsure about the authenticity of your hardwood floors, don't hesitate to consult the experts at BA Flooring. Our knowledgeable staff can provide professional insights and assistance in identifying the flooring material in your home. With our extensive experience in the industry, you can trust us to help you make informed decisions about your flooring needs.
Invest in Quality Flooring Solutions
At BA Flooring, we understand the importance of investing in quality flooring solutions that stand the test of time. Whether you're remodeling your home or embarking on a new construction project, we offer a wide selection of genuine hardwood floors, along with laminate, vinyl, tile, and carpet options to suit your preferences and budget. Visit our showroom in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, to explore our extensive collection of flooring products and experience exceptional customer service firsthand.
