May 08, 2024 | Flooring America
While the contemporary design world has been captivated by the appeal of white oak flooring, hickory hardwood has quietly been making a comeback as a popular choice for commercial and residential spaces. And while everyone seems to know everything about white oak flooring, what about hickory wood? How does hickory hardwood measure up to other hardwood flooring and what are the benefits to installing hickory floors? Well, in this guide we'll take a deep dive into hickory hardwood and why it just might be the perfect choice for you!
Whitetail Hickory in White Hawk by Flooring America/Flooring Canada
Renowned for its durability, rustic charm, and timeless appeal, hickory flooring has surged in popularity among homeowners and commercial property owners alike. Its distinctive grain patterns and rich variations in color lend an air of authenticity to any space, whether it's a cozy home or a bustling office.
Upland Trail in Elk by Flooring America/Flooring Canada
Discover the undeniable advantages of hickory flooring, which is known for its exceptional durability, stunning natural beauty, and timeless appeal. Pros to installing a hickory floor include:
Exceptional Durability: Hickory hardwood effortlessly endures heavy foot traffic and daily wear while retaining its natural beauty and charm.
Distinctive Aesthetic Appeal: Explore the unique grain patterns and natural beauty of hickory flooring that make it an attractive option for interior design.
Versatility in Design Options: Experience the aesthetic versatility of hickory flooring with an array of staining and finishing options, empowering homeowners to customize their floors to seamlessly complement diverse decor styles, from rustic to contemporary, with ease.
Fort Smith Hickory in Hideout by Flooring America/Flooring Canada
Gilmore Hickory in Whisper by Flooring America/Flooring Canada
Just as important as the benefits, it's key to consider the downsides to certain floors before making your big purchase. Disadvantages of hickory flooring include:
Susceptibility to Scratches: One of the hickory flooring drawbacks lies in its susceptibility to scratches and dents, requiring diligent maintenance to preserve its pristine appearance over time.
Variability in Color and Grain: While hickory hardwood's variability in color and grain patterns can add authentic character and charm to a space, if you prefer a more uniform look, hickory floors may not be the right fit for you.
Higher Cost Compared to Some Alternatives: Hickory wood tends to be more expensive than other hardwood options, which may impact your overall project cost. However, many homeowners find the investment in hickory flooring worthwhile for its long-term durability and timeless beauty.
Stonewick Inn in Candle Flame by Flooring America/Flooring Canada
When it comes to maintenance, hickory hardwood flooring demands attention to ensure its longevity and pristine appearance.
Regular sweeping and vacuuming help to keep dirt and debris at bay, preventing scratches and preserving the floor's luster. Additionally, occasional mopping with a damp cloth and a gentle hardwood floor cleaner is recommended to remove any stubborn stains or spills. While hickory's durability can withstand heavy foot traffic, it's wise to use protective pads under furniture legs and avoid wearing high heels or shoes with sharp objects indoors to prevent scratches and dents. With proper care and maintenance, hickory hardwood flooring can retain its beauty for years to come, adding value and charm to any space.
Hickory, like other hardwoods, is sensitive to fluctuations in moisture levels, which can cause the wood to expand or contract. Excess humidity can lead to swelling and warping, while overly dry conditions can cause shrinking and cupping. To minimize these risks, make sure your home is properly ventilated and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture from sources like leaks or spills to safeguard the beauty and longevity of your hickory floors.
Beacon Hill in Ocelot by Flooring America/Flooring Canada
Hickory hardwood flooring not only brings timeless beauty and durability to your home but also boasts eco-friendly credentials.
Hickory hardwood flooring benefits include sustainability as it is a natural and renewable resource. Make sure your hickory is sourced from responsibly managed forests to ensure minimal environmental impact. Hardwood floors have a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste. Furthermore, choosing hickory hardwood means selecting a biodegradable material that can be recycled or repurposed at the end of its life cycle, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come.
Ocean Drive in Sunroom by Flooring America/Flooring Canada
When thinking about hickory flooring pros and cons, installation often is top of mind for many homeowners. Because of hickory's hardness and natural grain variations, it's installation can present unique challenges.
Hickory's dense nature requires precision cutting and careful handling during installation to ensure a seamless and secure fit. Its hardness may also necessitate specialized tools and techniques, adding complexity to the installation process.
Besides hickory's hardness factor, its natural variations in color and grain patterns may require extra attention to achieve a cohesive look across the floor, making DIY installation tricky. Because of this, we advise enlisting the expertise of professional installers experienced in working with hickory flooring to ensure a successful and visually stunning installation that will stand the test of time. But don't worry! Our expert installers at Flooring America have the tools and knowledge necessary to make your hardwood flooring installation a breeze!
Ready to experience the timeless charm and durability of hickory hardwood flooring firsthand? Browse our extensive catalog at Flooring America to explore a wide range of options. Try out our room visualizer tool to envision how hickory flooring could enhance the aesthetic of your space. And for personalized advice and expert guidance, visit your local Flooring America store today to speak with our knowledgeable design experts.
