Hardwood floors are one of the best ways to add a classic look to your home. Clean, polished, and inviting, hardwood is a tried-and-true way to boost not only the appearance of any room, but the value of your home. But with so many options to choose from, how do you choose what type of wood to use for your perfect floors?
This list will give you a side-by-side comparison of oak vs. cherry hardwood floors, including everything you need to know about the looks, the durability, and the cost. Let’s get started:
Appearance
One of the most important considerations for homeowners in choosing a hardwood is its appearance. Oak hardwood comes in two varieties – white and red. White oak has a light, creamy brown color while red oak contains more of a pinkish tone. Both varieties have a long, bold grain that can contain many predictable, swirling or arching variations. Cherry tends to have a rich, deep red color and a finer grain. The color of cherry wood gets darker and deeper as the wood ages, but these deep colors can fade with over-exposure to sun.
Hardness
Both oak and cherry are considered hardwoods. However, oak is much harder, which means it will not dent as easily and is a good choice for households where there is a lot of moving furniture, rowdy kids, or big pets. Cherry, while still hard, is a little softer and may show some denting from these kinds of activities.
Damage Resistance
Hardness is not the only way to predict how durable a hardwood floor is. Aside from denting, hardwood needs to be resistant to water damage, insects, and decay. Cherry is especially good at resisting water damage and rotting and is considered an especially durable wood. Oak doesn’t stack up quite as well and is much more likely to be stained or damaged by water and pests. In this category, cherry is the definite choice.
Cost
Finally, it’s important to consider the cost. Oak is widely used for many purposes and is one of the most affordable options for flooring. However, due to its lower durability, it may need to be replaced or repaired sooner than other options. Cherry is a bit more expensive than oak, but there are still plenty of affordable varieties within reach.
Overview
Overall, both oak and cherry are great choices for hardwood floors. Oak is an affordable, attractive option that’s perfect for busy households, while cherry offers rich beauty and durability. If it’s cherry, oak, or something else, Central Mass Hardwood is here to help you find the perfect floors for every room. We’re ready to help you understand all the details and find your perfect hardwood floor.
