Timber flooring is a popular choice for many homes, as the look of timber is very classic and timeless, and the material is also very durable. If you like the appearance of timber floors but have been hesitant about having them installed in your home, note a few misconceptions you might have about this material, and this might help you decide the best flooring material for you.

Expense

It's a common misconception that timber floors are very expensive, but the cost of timber will often depend on the species you choose. Some exotic hardwoods are more rare and more difficult to cut and fabricate than certain softwoods, so they are often more expensive. A timber species that is not native to your country will need to be transported to your area, and this can also add to its overall cost.

When considering the price of timber floors, note the durability of timber when comparing prices; many varieties of timber flooring will last for many years, if not even decades, before any slats will need replacing. Carpeting and some cheaper types of tile may need to be replaced several times over within that same timeframe, making timber floors the most cost-effective choice in the long run.

Temperature

Timber floors are often cooler than carpeting, but this doesn't mean that timber is outright cold, and that it would be uncomfortable during winter months. This is especially true for darker species of timber that hold a slight bit more heat than very light shades. The porous nature of wood also allows it to hold some heat, so that timber floors aren't as cold as dense stone or concrete, or even some types of floor tile. If you live in a colder climate or just prefer a warmer home interior, you can ensure that your timber floors don't get overly cold by choosing a darker species of wood and using area rugs to trap some heat.

Appearance

Don't assume that your only choices for the appearance of timber floors is a light, honey-coloured oak or a very deep mahogany. Different species will have a wide range of colour and tones; tiger strand bamboo, for example, has a mixture of both light and dark colours, so that it resembles a tiger's fur. Jarrah and cherry both have a rich, reddish tone. Maple wheat has a slight green or grey tinge to it, and spotted gum flooring timber has a wide variety of tones, from dark to light.