Hardwood floors have a timeless charm, with their natural grains and warm tones creating a welcoming feel. But if you're looking to make your space even cosier, a few thoughtful touches can take your flooring to the next level. Here’s how you can add warmth, texture, and personality to your home while letting your beautiful hardwood floors shine.
How Do You Make Hardwood Floors Cosy?
Hardwood floors are gorgeous, but they can feel a bit chilly underfoot, especially when the weather turns cold. Luckily, there are some easy ways to make them more inviting:
Layer with Rugs: Rugs instantly add warmth and comfort. Choose soft, plush options like wool or cotton to make your floors feel more comfortable while also protecting high-traffic areas.
Try Underfloor Heating: If you want to up the comfort factor, underfloor heating paired with hardwood flooring offers a gentle, cosy warmth that makes a big difference.
Add Soft Furnishings: Throws, cushions, and curtains bring texture and warmth to your space. The contrast of soft fabrics with the solid feel of wood creates a perfectly balanced look.
Go for Warm-Toned Wood Finishes: If you're choosing new flooring, woods like oak or walnut with warm undertones can make a room feel cosier. Brushed or hand-scraped finishes also add texture and depth.
Adjust Your Lighting: Warm, soft lighting helps accentuate the natural beauty of hardwood and makes the whole room feel more inviting.
What Flooring Can Go Next to Hardwood?
Mixing flooring types can add visual interest to your home. When deciding what to put next to hardwood, here are a few great choices:
More Hardwood: Extending the same wood into neighbouring rooms creates a smooth, seamless look.
Engineered Wood: This is a stable, durable option that looks just like solid wood but holds up better in areas with more moisture.
Luxury Vinyl Planks: These mimic the look of wood but offer extra water resistance, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
Tile or Stone: In spaces like entryways, tiles can provide practical durability while still complementing your wood flooring. Use a simple transition strip to keep the look polished.
What Is the Best Way to Level Hardwood Floors?
Uneven hardwood floors can be frustrating, but there are a few ways to tackle the problem:
Sanding and Refinishing: Minor unevenness can often be fixed by sanding down high spots and refinishing the surface.
Self-Levelling Compound: For more noticeable dips, applying a self-levelling compound can create a smooth, even base.
Shimming or Adjusting Joists: If the problem stems from the subfloor, you may need to shim or adjust the joists to fix it.
Call in a Professional: If you're unsure what the issue is or how to fix it, a flooring expert can help find the right solution.
What Is the Next Best Thing to Hardwood Floors?
Hardwood is hard to beat when it comes to natural beauty and long-term durability. But if you're looking for an alternative, here are some solid options:
Engineered Wood: This gives you the same classic look but with better resistance to moisture.
Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP): LVP does a great job of replicating wood grain patterns while being softer and more water-resistant.
Bamboo Flooring: Bamboo has a wood-like appearance and is more eco-friendly than many hardwood options.
Laminate Flooring: Modern laminates have come a long way and can look very similar to hardwood, usually at a lower price.
Elevate Your Space with UK Flooring Depot
At UK Flooring Depot, we think that flooring creates the foundation for your home. Our range of premium hardwood flooring provides lasting beauty, resilience, and unique charm. If you’re set to establish an area that’s cozy, welcoming, and brimming with character, explore our collection today and discover the ideal match for your residence.
