Before you choose a species for your hardwood floor, you have an important decision to make: domestic or exotic?
Of course, the answer will depend on your specific needs, lifestyle, and preferences. Every hardwood species will have its pros and cons. It’s just a matter of choosing the right one for you.
Domestic Hardwood Species
The benefits of domestic hardwood species include price and versatility. Domestic hardwood is generally less expensive than exotic species, and domestic species can easily be adjusted to the latest local design trends.
Also, there are regional differences in domestic hardwood throughout North America, and many homeowners like having hardwood that was harvested from the region in which they live.
Exotic Hardwood Species
One advantage of exotic species is that many of them rate high on the Janka hardness scale. Species such as Brazilian Cherry and Mahogany are especially favored for their hardness and durability that is perfect for high-traffic areas in a home.
Exotic species often have very striking grain and intense coloring, which are often features of contemporary home design. Exotic hardwoods can bring a truly upscale feel to a home,
To some degree, exotic species are falling out of favor, due to the inevitable lower supply and the cost of importation, as well as concerns about sustainability.
Many exotic species are also challenging to match with current trends. But exotic hardwood isn’t going away anytime soon. It remains a choice that appeals to many people’s interior-design aesthetic.
Your Choice
When selecting a species, whether domestic or exotic, focus on making a choice that will make you happy for years to come.
We’re proud of our selection of both domestic and exotic hardwood species, and we can help you make the choice that's right for you.
Visit our showroom to see what we can offer!
