Going back to wood floors

By The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

People are uncovering wood floors they carpeted over long ago, and many new houses are built with hardwood floors. Tave Baker, vice president of Holmes Tile and Marble Co. of Jonesboro, says hardwood floors play a major part in his company's new construction and remodeling projects.

As with many home decorating trends, hardwood-flooring looks are myriad. For instance, light colored woods, such as ash or maple, are best for an open, airy look with modern decor, according to the association. Medium woods, such as hickory and oak, denote warmth and coziness for a more casual look. Dark woods, such as mahogany and walnut, add to a feeling of formality. Red oak and white oak are most commonly used in Arkansas.

Homeowners who have flooring of one wood but want the look of another can change the floor's appearance simply by staining it, the experts point out.

Read tomorrow's Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for full details.

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