Hardwood floors are by far the biggest trend in home improvement projects in 2018. This year it is all about the type, style, and texture of the wood you put in your home. Kitchens and baths seem to be getting the most attention when it comes to installing new flooring.

Solid Wood Floors for Decades of Use

The laminate and engineered wood floors are less popular than solid wood floors this year. Whether you’re going to be living in your forever home or simply making improvements to help increase the return on investment, solid wood floors are on trend in 2018.  And, solid wood floors can last for more than 100 years when they are taken care of properly.

Wood Types Depend on Your Style

The type of wood you choose comes down to your taste and style. Oak and hickory are the most sought after hardwood floor types. Maple and birch are still a great option for people who want to keep a modern design. Not surprisingly, eco-friendly species like bamboo are also popular because they are sustainable and environmentally responsible as well as affordable and attractive.

This year, remodel colors run the gamut from black to white and gray. Super, bright white tones are just as popular as sleek, dark mahogany and ebony. Another favorite floor option is using cool gray tones. Whitewashing is back this year too. Neutral tones with clear finishes like coating bare wood is a popular option that gives you the ability to add a very different look in the future when you may want to refresh the space. Almost anything eco-friendly or helpful to the environment is desirable too. Reclaimed hardwood flooring was popular in 2017 and will be again in 2018.

Finishes Make the Floor

Super glossy floors are falling out of favor this year. Our designers suggest going with matte or satin finishes to get the look you see on your favorite home and remodeling shows. Oil floors are coming back with a vengeance because of the patina from years of aging. One of the biggest advantages of using oil finishes is that you can repair them easily with an additional coat of oil.

Planks Add Character

Parquet is an old trend that is seeing a revival in 2018. Chevron and herringbone patterns are very on-trend. Decorative and textured floors are seeing an uptick in sales too. The character of the floor is a big deal with knotty wood coming up the winner in floor trends.

Rustic in the Farmhouse Sense

Distressing the wood for existing floors is one of the most frequently requested projects this year. Taking it down to the bare wood and giving it a touch of class with the right stain or treatment is by far a welcome change. Letting the natural imperfections show through is one of the best ways you can get the farmhouse feel in your home.

Concise and Clean Lines

If you want to go to the other end of the spectrum with a minimalist design, Classic Floor Designs recommends longer planks of wood for your flooring. Fewer seams paired with classy lines enhance the charm in the room. Often this floor choice pairs best with the stark white or deep ebony colors.

(Seeming) Bigger is Usually Better

Wide planks make small rooms feel much bigger. Using wide planks in bathrooms brings a spa-like atmosphere and is trending in 2018. Event a small powder room can instantly feel roomier with a six-inch hardwood floor.

The best way to select a new floor for your home is to listen to your gut.  After all, you will be living with it! Choose patterns, colors, and textures that compliment the rooms you already love. Classic Floor Designs wants to help you find the right floor option for your home. To talk to one of our designers or to schedule a free consultation, please call us at 202-872-9860.