Solid Wood flooring is popular for centuries from the 1600s and yet are the top of the choices for most home décor plans in the 21st century. The timeless appeal which enhances with age is unmatched to any other type of floors. The old wooden flooring charm enriches not only the décor and looks of the interiors but also adds value to the property in terms of its monetary value. Solid Wood Floors blends well with both traditional as well as modern interior décor themes. Of course, the climatic conditions across India play a significant role when choosing the right solid wood for your flooring. And this guide will help you with exactly that. 

Solid Wood Flooring is undoubtedly Special. 

Solid Wood Floor planks are made from a single piece of solid wood devoid of any joints. This makes them strong and sturdy. The natural grains and knots of each floorboard give a unique character to each plank thus no two planks are alike. In addition, the origin tree species gives them a distinctive grain pattern, colour that enhances its beauty. If this was not enough, as the wood ages, its natural character enhances, makes it more beautiful thus making solid wood for flooring special and a perfect choice for home with elegant classic interiors.

Best Types of Solid Wood Flooring for Indian Climate Conditions

It is humidity and the temperature of the place that will determine the performance of the solid wood flooring.

Teak Wood 

 Teak Wood is the most naturally resistant to humidity, decay and termites and hence becomes the best choice for humid cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata 

Oak Wood 

Oak offers great durability for solid hardwood floors in moderately humid conditions. This makes it fit for less humid regions of India.

Sheesham (Indian Rosewood)

Being a durable hardwood variety, this wood is great for high traffic areas but not fit for high humid regions like Mumbai. 

Walnut

Softer than oak, it offers a Luxurious appeal but is suitable for climate controlled interiors. 

What you need to know before selecting solid wood for flooring for an Indian home?

1. Climate: 

 While teak and white oak work the best as moisture resistant variety for coastal and humid climates, other varieties are fine with dry weathers but in climate controlled conditions.

2. Wood grade:

 Rustic grades have a more natural appearance while the higher grade wood has fewer knots and more uniform look.

3. Finish.

Prefinished gives better surface protection and speedy installation but no customisation.

Site- finished solid wood flooring allows customisation but needs more time for installation. 

4. Installation Method

All solid hardwood floors are nailed or glued to a subfloor. The installation needs to be done perfectly to reduce movement caused by seasonal changes. 

5. Maintenance Requirements

Good quality sealants protect the wood floors against scratches and moisture, but periodic refinishing is required to maintain the floor.

Bonus tip: In Indian conditions, managing indoor humidity levels is crucial to maintaining solid hardwood floors. Always ensure proper kiln drying and seasoning of the floorboard has been done to minimize expansions and contractions, while choosing solid wood for flooring in India. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of solid wood floors

Ponder over the pros and cons of solid wood flooring before you swipe that credit card.

Pros

✔ Natural Beauty: The characteristic knots and grains of the wood give an earthy vibe to the space adding warmth and cozy feel. The whole space turns beautiful and elegant.
✔ Long Lifespan: If cared for properly, the floors can last from 40-100 years.

✔ Multiple Refinishes: Multiple refinishes are possible and thus their look can be refreshed periodically
✔ Spike in property Value: Homes with solid wood flooring always fetch a higher sale value.
✔ Timeless Appeal – As the wood appearance enhances with age, giving it a timeless appeal, the floor stays in trend forever. 

Cons

✘ Moisture: Being sensitive to moisture, the wood may contract and expand.

✘ Costly: These are sold at premium pricing
✘ Regular maintenance: Regular care and maintenance is needed to maintain the look
✘ Installation: Requires professional installation.

Final Thoughts

The time less beauty and appeal of wooden floors has made them a winner against all other types of flooring for centuries. Inspite of its climate dependency and its premium pricing, they have been a desirable choice for many. One can weigh their pros and cons, before using solid wood for flooring as an option for their home.