As my fiance and I continue our house hunt, we have certain items on our checklist that are must-haves such as rental potential, a yard, and something in between a fixer-upper and a turn-key home.

But when it comes to materials, we’re a little more flexible. For counters, it’s a toss-up among quartz, butcher-block and marble. For floors, my fiance likes hardwood. So, here are some wood options we are considering.

joanne_20131117_01

Tigerwood (Brazilian Koa). The striping of this warm-colored, exotic wood often makes the floor the center of attention. It’s dense and durable, and the look lends itself nicely to larger spaces. Sunlight can affect the color of the wood, so it may work best in shaded areas of the home.

Teak. Naturally water- and insect-resistant, teak is great for many Hawaii homes because of its density and durability. However, installation can get pricey and you’ll need to oil the floors once every few years for upkeep.

Engineered. For the look and feel of solid hardwood flooring for less cost, engineered flooring may be the best option. Finished hardwood lies on top, and non-finished plywood lies underneath. The end result is durable, yet it can only be sanded and refinished a few times, making its longevity much shorter than solid hardwoods.

Laminate. Made from layering a photo of hardwood on top of a composite material and covering with a clear veneer, laminate is durable and water- and stain-resistant. It’s easy to install and low-cost compared to other options.

When purchasing your flooring, make sure wood products are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This organization focuses on responsible forest management.

Have a comment or question for Joanne? Email thefixisinhawaii@gmail.com.

Advertisement