Hardwood floors are a coveted commodity among homeowners and homebuyers alike, but if you’re considering making the move in part or in total to hardwood floors there are some things you should consider before taking the plunge. Wood floors are often pricey, require certain care, and can seemingly only fit a niche homebuyer with certain requirements.

In any case, there are certainly advantages to hardwood floors as well as disadvantages. Let’s take a look at whether or not hardwood floors are right for you.

A Value Upgrade

Hardwood floors are a great way to boost your home value. In many markets, homebuyers even prefer hardwood floors and are willing to pay a premium for them. That upgrade comes at a cost as many hardwood floors can have a high impact on your wallet unless you do the work yourself. But fear not, that expenditure is very likely to be made up in the final sales price.

Bear in mind that hardwood floors may or may not work in your home. Most pier and beam homes are perfect candidates for hardwood floors and likely have them already, but slab foundation homes may require some thoughtful engineering to prevent moisture issues which could cause problems down the road.

Engineered and Bamboo Floors

For the fraction of the price of full-on hardwood floors, homeowners have the luxury of actually purchasing engineered flooring or bamboo floors.

Engineered hardwood comes as tongue and groove pieces that easily snap together and are simple to install for the average homeowner. Instead of being completely made of hardwood, they are veneered with a thin layer of real hardwood on top of a particle board base. Engineered hardwood generally has the same life expectancy as most hardwoods if cared for correctly and often can be refinished once during its lifetime.

They are certainly an economical option for the frugal homeowner while giving your home the luxurious appearance of hardwood.

Durability

Hardwood floors are renowned for their durability, but not in the way you may be thinking. Hardwood floors can last literally a century without being replaced but also require special care and considerations.

New hardwood floors must be carefully watched over if you wish to keep them in pristine condition; however if you have pets, children, or anything that can damage the floor, look out! Your new hardwood floors may not look new for long. (With that said, you may want to consider laminate or engineered hardwood.)

On the other hand, if you can live with the occasional scuff and ding in your floors, then hardwood is likely the best candidate for longterm durability. Bear in mind, though, that moisture can severely damage hardwood if not managed immediately in the case of spills or accidents. It’s also important to consider whether or not your home at large has moisture problems and tackle those head-on before installing hardwood.

Spending on Hardwood

Whether you’re an existing homeowner looking to make significant upgrades or a homebuyer looking to take the plunge into homeownership, you’ll definitely be in the market for some finances to make that happen.

This is where Tidewater Mortgage Services, Inc. comes in. For decades, Tidewater has helped homeowners and homebuyers find the financial solution that works for them and their personal goals for their living arrangements. Whether you need a mortgage to purchase a new home or a cash back refinance to make needed upgrades to your existing home, Tidewater has you covered.

Our simple online application can get you pre-qualified for a mortgage to make your home-owning or upgrade dreams into reality.