• Consider the benefits and disadvantages of installing hardwood flooring.texture of wooden floor image by Elnur from Fotolia.com
  
  Hardwood floors have been a popular choice in homes for years. They give a home a classic look that is never out of style whether the wood is stained a dark rich color or it is left natural and glossed to a high shine. When considering wood floors for your home, it is best to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the flooring before committing to the expense. While wood floors are popular, they do present some disadvantages.
  
  

Beautiful and Versatile

• One of the reasons that hardwood flooring is such a popular choice is its natural beauty. Wood flooring can work in nearly every home décor. Wood floors can be stained any color to coordinate beautifully with a room's furnishings and light. A hardwood floor creates a warm atmosphere in a room whether under natural light or artificial lights in the room.
  
  

Increases Home Value

• Wood floors can increase the value of the home. The beauty of hardwood floors attracts buyers and is an item that many look for in a new home. Homeowners who are planning to sell their property should consider an investment in wood flooring to increase the selling price of the home.
  
  

Maintenance

• Maintenance for hardwood floors can be difficult. While the floors are relatively easy to clean under normal circumstances, you must use care when using any products on wood floors that could damage the finish or the wood beneath it. Many cleaning products used on other flooring materials cannot be used on a hardwood floor. Only products specially formulated for hardwood floors should be used.
  
  

Easily Damaged

• Damage can occur on wood floors if you do not properly maintain them. Grit and dirt can scratch wood floors when they are not swept off the floor regularly. Furniture and animals may scratch a wood floor as well. Moisture and water damage can destroy an expensive wood floor. Spills must be wiped up immediately to avoid damage to the finish. Wood floors are not recommended in rooms with a high amount of moisture such as bathrooms.