Whether you are building a new home or updating one that was built decades ago, it would always be an excellent idea to take a look at the flooring as well. If you have an older home, maybe it’s time for you to replace the flooring with something that would add more appeal and warmth to the entire structure. This is when patterned wood flooring comes in.
Patterned wood flooring, also known as parquet flooring, has been the favorite of many homeowners. And, yes, this type of floor has been around for quite some time. In fact, they are also being used in restaurants, offices, hotels, and other business establishments. With various patterns, parquet flooring can be easily incorporated into any theme. So regardless if you are aiming for a classic or modern look for your place, installing patterned wood flooring would be great.
But how do you decorate your flooring with patterned wood? You should first familiarize yourself with the different types of hardwood floor installation patterns, which are as follows:
Straight Pattern
The straight pattern is the most commonly used type. As the name suggests, boards parallel to each other are installed along the width or length of the room. This results in a contemporary look. You even have the option to alter the natural color of the wood so it will match the overall design of your home.
Since it is the easiest patterned wood to install, it is also the most affordable type. So if you are on a limited budget but you are in love with wood flooring, this type would be the best way to go.
Diagonal Pattern
If you want to spice things up a little bit with still a touch of the traditional straight installation of wood flooring, consider following the diagonal pattern. All you have to do is to lay the boards at a 45-degree angle and still parallel to each other. This would add a luxurious look to any room.
Random Pattern
Just like the straight pattern, this type involves boards that are parallel to each other. However, they come in different widths. Now, if you want a customized look, you are free to decide as to how narrow you want the boards to be.
The random pattern offers a more energetic look and feel. This is perfect for a rustic design. And again, you have the option to stain the wood so it will become more dramatic and attractive. Just look at the image below. Dark-stained boards are installed on the kitchen floor, following the random pattern. They create a homey atmosphere but elegant at the same time.
Basket Weave Pattern
Looking into taking your flooring to the next level? Do you want something with dimension? If so, then the basket weave pattern would be your best choice. With planks fitting under and over the others, this pattern mimics that of a woven basket. It could be made simple, but using various colors could make it elaborate and sophisticated-looking, too.
Herringbone Pattern
Simply put, the herringbone pattern is achieved by laying hardwood floor strips in a diagonal zigzag plan. This is a more complicated design, though, because you really have to be accurate with the measurements so you will be able to create an excellent pattern. At the end of the day, you’d have a flooring that offers an appearance of movement, while making the room look wider. Structural stability is another benefit that you can get from decorating your flooring with the Herringbone pattern.
Surface Finishes
Once you are done installing the wood pattern that you want for your flooring, the next step is to apply some finishing touches. If you are doing the job yourself, you can utilize an oil sealer, which gives the wood a more natural look since it brings out the grain patterns.
Another popular surface finish is water-based polyurethane. This one here can give your flooring a better hardwood look and feel. And if it is applied multiple times, the signature wet look can be achieved.
The other finishing touches include hard-wax oil, acid-cured, and aluminum oxide.
Installing wood flooring provides a number of benefits. Aside from it is ecological, you can be sure that it is long-lasting as well. It is definitely cost-effective, and when it comes to beauty, it sure is a winner. With patterned wood flooring, there are endless possibilities. With as simple as restaining it, it can keep up with the new trends. It’s a timeless flooring design!