Hardwood flooring offers a wide variety.
We're here to help you choose one which fits your needs best. Below is a comparison guide for you to better understand the pros and cons before you commit.
Which is easier to clean: Dark or Light?
Light hardwood floors tend to show less dirt than dark hardwood floors.
But, if you love dark wood, go for a dark color that is slightly lighter (e.g. dark walnut over jacobean).
A satin finish also shows dirt, scratches, dents and imperfections less, regardless of stain color.
The aesthetic appeal: Dark vs Light ?
The Dark Side:
Dark colors absorb light. This is great for flooring as it makes the color pop and adds depth and contrast to the room. These attributes make dark flooring naturally photogenic.
Dark hardwood floors aren’t as prone to fading as their lighter counterparts because they absorb sunlight rather than repel.
The dark color emphasizes the wood’s natural grain.
They can make a room look smaller if the room is low-lit, has a low ceiling or painted with a dark color.
The Light Side:
Regardless of the size of the room or the ceiling height, light hardwood flooring complements any space it is placed. It’s hue naturally makes a room feel bigger. This makes it a great option for apartments and townhouses.
It is less dramatic than its darker counterpart but creates a lasting impression nonetheless.
They hide pet-hair and scratches better than darker colored flooring.
Which hardwood stain colors are most modern?
Gray is very on trend in 2020. These come both in dark hues and light.
Something to keep in mind:
Light toned hardwood flooring is viewed as timeless and traditional.
Dark toned hardwood flooring is viewed as luxurious and dramatic. (ebony, jacobean, 50/50 blend).
The Takeaway :
Once you’ve decided on which hue suits your space best, gather swatches and compare them your room at several times of day. Natural and artificial lighting will have an impact on your perception of the colors as well as the surroundings in which it is placed.
When you’ve made your decision, we’ll help you with the next steps.