Latest News

Everywhere we go lately, we’ve seen beautiful hardwood flooring in Denver; new restaurants, model homes, even new offices are installing hardwood floors. Many people are partial to wood flooring because it is elegant, versatile with any decor, and easy to clean and maintain.  It seems as though everyone has caught on to the many great benefits of hardwood flooring.  Now more than ever we have more opportunities to be creative with the variety of styles available for builders and consumers.  If you are considering installing or refinishing your hardwood floors, here are some exciting new trends to consider:

1.  Color.  It used to be that wood stain was mainly available in varying shades of brown. but stains with other color pigments are becoming more widely available.  Varying shades of grays and ebony have recently become a popular option with consumers.  We also have even been starting to see other colors as well such as greens, yellows, blues, and violets.  There's more variety than ever before to express your unique personal design style.  For tips on how to decide on color, read this educational guide.

2. Reclaimed Wood.  With the growing need to reduce our carbon footprints, many hardwood companies are offering reclaimed wood.  This is a great way to have style and the peace of mind that you’re being "green."  The reclaimed wood is salvaged from old buildings that have been renovated or torn down and the finished product preserves the historical essence.  

3. Beetle Kill Pine.  In the last decade many have seen the devastating effects of the Mountain Pine Beetle epidemic, especially here in Denver.  Fortunately, the wood can still be used for consumers.  Best of all, the use of the wood is considered an eco-friendly product because it is wood that is already dead that would otherwise be left in the forest causing an extremely dangerous fire hazard.  Interestingly, the beetle leaves behind a fungus that stains the wood, so the finished product you receive still contains a beautiful array of blue-grays among the existing blondes, reds, and browns in the grain of the wood.  Some of the wood may even still have burrow marks from the beetle, which result in a unique branch-like pattern not found in any other hardwoods.
 
4. Wide Plank.  The standard width of wood boards is between 2-3 inches.  In the last several years wider boards have been milled, from 4 inches up to about 10 inches.  The wider planks can make the room appear to be larger and give a rustic impression.  However, widest planks bring a modernized touch to any room.  

5. Walls & Ceilings.  Believe it or not, we have seen a comeback in wood paneled walls.  The new colorful array of hardwood stains has brought back this look. Stained wide hardwood planks create an interesting accent wall.  Get creative with colors and wall accents; it’s a versatile design element that can change with the decor trends.

Unlike tile, vinyl, or carpet flooring that seems to go in and out of style, hardwood flooring remains a classic staple in home and business decor. Whether you are installing new or refinishing hardwood floors in Denver, and the increased availability and varieties of wood and stain, there are many options to create a uniquely classic space.  Contact Ward Hardwood Flooring today for a free estimate or stop by our showroom and browse our collection of samples for ideas.
 

If you’re thinking about making any home renovations, it can be tough to make decisions because of the many products and services out there.  Here’s a case for wood floors that will hopefully help narrow down your choices in flooring.

1. Wood floors are always in style- There was a short time in the 1950’s when wall-to-wall carpet was invented and everyone wanted it, simply because it was new and interesting.  However, since then, most homeowners and renters, alike, seem to prefer homes with wood floors.  It is a style that is classic and looks great no matter what era we are in.  Interior décor changes over time, trends come and go. Contemporary, shabby chic, modern, rustic, traditional, industrial; wood floors seem to fit in to every trend and give a home a luxurious appearance.  

2. Wood floors are more hygienic- Sure you can vacuum carpet, but it never seems to get everything.  And if you spill liquids, forget it; you’ll never get it all because carpeting is a porous weave that traps both liquid and solid particles.  Wood floors have a smooth finished surface, so dirt and spills will mostly rest on top and can easily be swept or soaked up.  Cleaning carpet often requires toxic chemicals and hiring a carpet cleaning service.  However, hardwood floors can easily be cleaned with a few drops of dawn in warm water and can be done without paying for professional service.

3. Wood floors look great no matter what condition they are in- There is no flooring more beautiful than a brand new hardwood floor.  The wood grain has a beautiful natural design, the color is dynamic and varies from board to board, and the finish seems to gleam and sparkle.  But even old, worn wood floors have a beauty to it too.  It looks shabby chic, like it has been well worn and well loved.  It appears to have a history behind it; it’s nostalgic for many people, but still functions well.  Carpet on the other hand, is nice when it’s new, but over time it starts to look grimy.  Stains have settled in that are impossible to get out.  In areas with high foot traffic, it will begin to look worn and matted.  Eventually, tears occur and nylon strings unravel, leaving a trip hazard.  

4. Wood floors rarely need to be completely replaced- The life expectancy of carpeting is much shorter than wood floors.  If you are lucky, you may get 10 years out of it, tops.  But wood floors can get twice that much.  Even after decades, there is a chance it just needs to be sanded and refinished rather than replacing the boards.  The cost is a little more, but that is because the product lasts so much longer.  

5. Wood floors have a better resale value- For all of the reasons above, homes with hardwood floors sell for more than homes with mostly carpeting.  Real estate agents love to highlight wood flooring in their listing amenities.  Home buyers typically find wood floors more appealing.  Renters prefer wood floors because they know carpeting is a trap for germs and grime from previous renters.

Hopefully, now you have a better understanding of just some of the many benefits of hardwood floors versus carpeting. If you’re considering new flooring in your home, rule out the tacky carpet.  For additional information about hardwood floors- the different products, styles and services available, contact Ward Hardwood Flooring.  We can give you a free estimate and have a great selection of wood flooring to choose from.