Of all the home design choices out there, one that’s always a common pick is hardwood flooring. Its timeless beauty adds a lasting touch to any room, and when cared for with proper maintenance, can last you a lifetime.
One of the ways to get the most out of your hardwood floors is by selecting the right stain. While there is certainly no shortage of flooring stains out there, some colors have become increasingly popular in recent years. Keep reading to find out what we consider to be the most popular hardwood floor stain colors!
- Popular Darker Brown Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
- Popular Lighter Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
- Popular Rustic Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
- Popular Cherry Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
- Trends in Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
- How to Choose a Hardwood Floor Stain Color
- Conclusion and Overall Popular Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
- Answers to Common Questions with Detailed Explanations
- References
The most popular hardwood floor stain colors include natural, cherry and ebony. You can also find many other types of wood stains in different shades and hues that can enhance the look of your floors.
“While choosing a hardwood floor stain color, consider not only your home’s overall style but also the light availability in the room. Darker stains absorb light, creating a cozy, intimate vibe, while lighter stains reflect light, giving the room a lively, spacious feel. As a professional interior decorator, I’ve seen the difference the right color can make in transforming a simple space into a place you’d love to come home to.”
Kenzo Zaldana, Professional Interior Decorator
Popular Darker Brown Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
Dark brown hardwood floor stains are a popular choice in flooring because of the rich, timeless look they impart to a space. These colors fit well with traditional colors like navy blue and cream as well as bolder colors like hunter green. However, there can be drawbacks associated with darker stain colors; for example, dark stains tend to highlight dust and dirt more easily than lighter colors and require slightly more maintenance to keep clean.
Although many people choose dark brown shades for their hardwood floors, some may shy away from darker colors due to appearance concerns. Darker stains can sometimes make a room seem smaller or darker, whereas lighter stains visually open up the space and create a lighter, more open feeling in the room. Furthermore, darker colors can also make the room appear cold or uninviting if not properly balanced with warmer colors in the decor.
For those who embrace the deep tones of dark brown hardwood flooring however, this year promises an array of stunning options in this hue. From espresso to mahogany there are plenty of variations in dark brown that offer enough variety to accommodate most design schemes. Furthermore, thoughtful design choices such as selecting light furniture and warm rugs can offset the often intense shades and create a finished look that is both inviting and beautiful.
To explore further possibilities with browns on your hardwood floors, color trends suggest shifting toward lighter shades of brown such as taupe and beige in this upcoming year. In the following section, we will discuss various shades of these tones that have quickly become popular among homeowners.
Shades of Brown
Brown hardwood stain colors are the epitome of classic and timeless style. Popular in traditional homes and even urban apartments, the shade offers a range of versatility and can match many tastes. There is a wide variety of browns available from a coffee bean color to a deep espresso. Using brown hardwood flooring is an excellent option for people who want to bring warmth into their space without compromising on modernity or sophistication.
In contrast to other hardwood stain colors, people have mixed feelings about brown. While some may find it boring and outdated, others love its timelessness and familiarity. Others may view it as being stark or dingy-looking, while still others prefer its ability to stand out in bold kitchens and bathrooms. Ultimately, the choice between dark or light shades of brown ultimately comes down to personal preference and how they look within a particular space.
Ultimately, shades of brown provide homeowners with a classic option that can be easily customized to match any décor style. Whether living in an apartment or country house, browns are sure to add charm and elegance no matter what space they happen to be used in.
As we move onto the next section on “Popular Lighter Hardwood Floor Stain Colors”, it’s important to keep in mind just how popular shades of brown are when it comes to hardwood floors. From deep espresso to warm chestnut, these options continue to remain popular for homeowners looking for an elegant yet classic aesthetic.
Popular Lighter Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
Light hardwood floor stain colors are gaining more popularity among homeowners, including bright whites, natural wood tones, and gray washes. Bright white creates a modern and streamlined aesthetic, while a subtle gray can lend a cool feeling to a room. Natural colors are a great choice for those seeking an organic feel within their home. All provide a stark contrast to classic dark stains, making them an attractive option for those seeking an updated look.
When considering lighter hardwood floor stains, it is important to consider where the floors are being implemented. For high traffic areas, such as entryways and living rooms, dark stains remain the best choice because they are able to better conceal dirt and scuffs that come with everyday use. On the other hand, in low traffic areas like bedrooms or dining rooms, lighter stain colors may be ideal as they can make a space feel airy and inviting.
The debate between light versus dark stain colors is ongoing, but there’s no denying the popularity of lighter shades among homeowners. From bold whites to earthy naturals and cool grays, lighter hardwood floor stains offer something special to any interior design scheme.
Next up is an exploration of some of the most popular choices in white, natural and grey hues – all excellent choices for anyone looking to update their home’s aesthetic with a light hardwood floor stain color.
White, Natural and Grey
White, natural and grey hardwood floor stain colors remain highly popular, offering a clean, light look that brings brightness to a room. They are especially beneficial in smaller spaces, because their lighter shades make the room feel larger. For those looking for a timeless aesthetic, shades of white, natural and grey offer this classic feel.
There are drawbacks to these hues, however. A white hardwood color may be too stark for some people’s tastes and cause the room to appear cold. Natural wood can also present an issue if nicks and scratches become noticeable over time as they do not blend in with this shade well. Grey flooring may not withstand spills or dirt as well as darker stains. These potentially high maintenance costs could outweigh its initial appeal.
Despite the potential challenges associated with lighter stain colors, whites, naturals and greys remain among the top choices due to their simple elegance and unique style. The next section will focus on another subset of popular hues: rustic hardwood floor stain colors.
Popular Rustic Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
Rustic hardwood floor stain colors are rising in popularity as homeowners look to create a sense of warmth and age in their space. Bold hues like deep mahogany and walnut are setting the trend for the upcoming year, while deeper espresso tones that look almost black offer an interesting contrast. Varied grains and knots can be highlighted to add further character and charm. These particular colors tend to work well in modern designs while providing a sense of hominess and comfort.
On the other hand, some may take issue with the fact that darker colors tend to make spaces appear smaller and more closed off; light colors can make hallways appear more open and inviting. Additionally, dark stains require frequent maintenance as dust particles will show up much more easily than lighter counterparts due to the high contrast. Softer shades also have an advantage when cleaning spills as they tend to hide evidence better than bolder colors.
Ultimately, homeowners should weigh the options carefully before making a selection. Rustic hardwood flooring offers many advantages, but so too do lighter shades depending on personal preference and design style. Coming up next, let’s take a closer look at popular timber and walnut stain colors.
- According to a survey conducted by Homeflooringpros.com, the most popular hardwood floor stain color is natural/light brown (25% of respondents).
- In the same survey, dark brown was the second most popular color, with 18% of respondents selecting it as their favorite.
- Grey and cherry/mahogany tied for third place in popularity among respondents, both at 8%.
Timber and Walnut
Timber and walnut are two of the most popular hardwood floor stains. Timber has a warm, earthy hue that makes it versatile enough to match any interior décor. Walnut is well suited for contemporary and classic styles, as its deep brown color provides a rich, luxurious look that can easily elevate the atmosphere of any room.
Many homeowners prefer timber because it is low maintenance, doesn’t require as much upkeep, and is easy to clean. On the other hand, some believe that walnut gives off a more sophisticated vibe and is more resilient to wear and tear from heavy foot traffic. It is also known to be extremely durable and lasts much longer than other stains. While these advantages make it more expensive, many appreciate its durability and classic look.
Whichever stain you choose between timber or walnut, one thing is for certain – either option will offer you a beautiful hardwood flooring option with a timeless style that will never go out of fashion.
Leading into the next section on popular cherry hardwood floor stain colors, many suggest looking at natural cherry tones if you’re looking for another elegant yet classic style of hardwood flooring.
Popular Cherry Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
Cherry hardwood is a classic choice for flooring, and offers several options for staining that can give you years of lasting beauty. Depending on the grade of cherry and the look you want, you may want to take advantage of a range of cherry hardwood floor stain colors.
More traditional grades of cherry tend to get darker over time, which is why they are recommended in lighter hues such as medium brown, straw gold or even white-washed. These stains usually feature undertones that can be red, yellow, or green and provide richness to the wood without overwhelming it. If a deeper tone is desired, darker stains like black, espresso or chocolate can be used to transform the look of your floor while still allowing the grain pattern to shine through.
On the other hand, higher grades of cherry tend to darken more gracefully, allowing you to achieve a variety of popular finishes by using everything from light walnut to dark mahogany tones. The benefit with these finishes is that you don’t have to worry about their resistance against fading over time. For households needing extra protection from wear-and-tear and direct sunlight, opt for UV-cured oil finishes to help seal in color and enhance stability.
No matter what type of finish you choose for your cherry hardwood floors, there is sure to be a perfect color combination that will bring you joy for many years to come. Whether its light and airy or deeply saturated and dramatic, there are plenty of options available.
Trends in Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
Hardwood floor stain colors have come a long way since the days of dark and light wooden floors. As hardwood floor staining trends continue to change, one thing is for sure: hardwood floor staining is making a comeback.
Lighter tones are on the rise. The trend of light-stained wood floors has been driven mainly by homeowners who prefer the more natural look of milder, softer shades to bolder colors. Blonde woods such as maple, bamboo, and pine are gaining popularity due to their bright and cheerful feel. Grayscale color palettes are also rising in popularity as these muted tones make apt designs for modern industrial-style homes.
On the other hand, dark-stained hardwoods remain a classic choice for many homeowners. Shades such as mahogany, chestnut, and espresso offer an elegant timeless look that can be dressed up or down depending on design preference. These darker shades are often associated with luxury and their lasting durability has kept them popular throughout the years.
No matter what direction people decide to go in terms of stain colors for their hardwood flooring, it is clear that the market offers an expansive range of choices. Homeowners have plenty of options when selecting a stain that works best with their interior decor and personal style preferences.
The next section will discuss how to choose a hardwood floor stain color that is perfect for any home. Knowing the right factors to consider – such as tone selection and environmental factors – can help determine which color best suits the homeowner’s vision.
How to Choose a Hardwood Floor Stain Color
Choosing the right hardwood floor stain color for your home can be a daunting task. With a variety of colors, shades, and hues to choose from, it’s important to consider every factor before making a decision. It’s essential to choose a color that not only complements the current décor in the room, but also one that will stand the test of time and continue to look great over many years.
When choosing which stain color is right for you, first consider the overall theme of your home’s decor. Do you prefer warmer colors or cooler colors in general? Look at the colors already present in the space: do you have lighter furniture pieces to create a contrast against the darker staining of the floors? Or will you have much more neutral colors throughout other areas of the home, creating more balance? Knowing what colors already exist in the space can help you better understand which stain colors would work well with them.
In addition to taking into account any existing colors in your home’s design scheme, it’s also important to think about how much natural light is present in the room. If there is large amounts of sunlight coming into the space, lighter colored stains may seem too bright and washed out once exposed to such high levels of light. On the contrary, if there is limited natural light then darker stain colors could create an attractive contrast against whatever decorating elements may be present.
Determining what finish or sheen type works best for each particular room is also extremely important when deciding on which hardwood floor stain color to go with. Gloss finishes are easier to clean, while matte finishes are more forgiving when dealing with everyday wear and tear. Semi-gloss finishes offer both qualities and could be an ideal choice for a room that sees significant foot traffic from both children and pets alike.
Ultimately, selecting a hardwood floor stain color comes down to personal taste as well as what looks best with the room’s current décor and style aesthetic. Be sure take these factors carefully into consideration before making a final decision –– and don’t forget to consider professional advice from contractors or interior decorators who specialize in this area for even more guidance.
Now that we know how to choose a hardwood floor stain color, let’s move on to our conclusion regarding which are the most popular hardwood floor stain colors.
Most Important Points to Remember
When choosing the right hardwood floor stain color for your home, consider the existing colors in the room and how much natural light is present. Also take into account what finish or sheen type is best for each particular room, as well as your personal taste and style aesthetic. Professional advice from contractors or interior designers can help guide you in making a decision. Popular hardwood floor stain colors include shades and hues of lighter and darker colors to create contrast and balance.
Conclusion and Overall Popular Hardwood Floor Stain Colors
When it comes to popular hardwood floor stain colors, the trend seems to be bright, vivid tones. Natural, earthy hues like browns, tans, and greiges are still popular options, but homeowners are increasingly looking for something bolder. Greys and blues are on the rise as popular floor stain colors, with some homeowners even choosing bolds settings such as yellows or pinks. It’s important to note that darker stains are being favored over lighter options, with charcoal grey being one of the most sought-after shades this year while lighter finishes slowly decline in popularity.
Overall, bright, luxurious colors will be trending when it comes to hardwood floor stain color palettes. To maximize visual appeal for your home’s flooring, a combination of complimentary elements should be considered such as wall color, furniture pieces and accents, etc. Homeowners should also research their chosen floor finish thoroughly so they can determine which ones will work best for their style and needs. Whether you go for bold statement hues or gentle neutral tones, the right floor stain color can enhance any room in your house.
There is not necessarily one correct answer when it comes to finding the perfect hardwood floor stain color – however there some broad generalizations that can be made about popular trends this year. Regardless of what type of look you’re ultimately aiming for in your space, there are plenty of great options available that would fit perfectly in either bright or subtle settings. No matter what kind of style statement you decide to make with your flooring – don’t hesitate to experiment!
Answers to Common Questions with Detailed Explanations
How long will a stained hardwood floor last?
A stained hardwood floor can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. By performing regular upkeep such as cleaning and waxing, the wood’s beauty will be preserved and it can look as good years down the line as it did when it was installed. Furthermore, many stains are designed to penetrate deep into the wood fibers, which helps reduce the effects of wear and tear over time. Finally, if you choose a quality product that is specifically created for hardwood floors, you can be sure that it will remain vibrant and beautiful for as long as possible.
Are there any color trends in hardwood floor staining right now?
Yes, there are number of color trends in hardwood floor staining right now. Gray is by far the most popular color trend to emerge over the past decade and continues to grow in popularity each year. Other trending colors include pale woods like hickory, cherrywood, and white oak; warm brown tones; and even dove gray with a hint of blue or green. In addition, dark walnuts and mahoganies are making a comeback in modern designs. Finally, deep jewel tones such as navy or dark blue have also been seen in many homes lately.
What kind of maintenance is involved with a stained hardwood floor?
Maintaining a stained hardwood floor is relatively simple but does require regular attention. First, sweeping and vacuuming the floor regularly will help keep dirt, dust and other debris from settling into the wood’s finish. Next, make sure to mop the floor with a damp cloth or mop and cleaning product specifically designed for hardwood floors at least once a week. Additionally, it’s important to re-seal the floor every one to two years to ensure that the color of the stain doesn’t start to fade and that the protective coating remains intact. Lastly, avoid using any abrasive cleaning products or machines such as steam cleaners as they could strip away some of the sealant and cause lasting damage. Following these steps will ensure your stained hardwood floor always looks its best!
References
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-stain-interior-wood/9ba683603be9fa5395fab907a216060
I recently renovated my own living space and chose a deep walnut stain for the hardwood flooring. It provides a sophisticated charisma that matches well with both contemporary and classic design elements.
When it comes to hardwood floor staining, it’s like choosing the right lipstick shade for an outfit. A wrong stain may look out of place, but the right one enhances the overall ambiance. For example, on one of my past projects, I played with the unusual choice of a grayish-white stain; it gave the room a nautical, fresh feel which beautifully contrasted the otherwise warm palette. It’s all about the vibe you’re aiming for, really.
Though many underestimate the power of a stain, I’ve found that it’s quite similar to the spice in a dish–it can dramatically shape the overall flavor. My go-to is a classic honey oak, a warm and inviting stain that brings a cozy, timeless feel to living spaces. But remember, the key is matching your furniture and considering the amount of light the room gets.
While honey oak is indeed a valid choice for many homes, I respectfully disagree with it being a go-to. In my work, I’ve found that grey stains have become increasingly popular due to their ability to provide a modern edge while maintaining the charm and warmth of the hardwood.
While grey may indeed provide a modern edge, as Selena pointed out, I argue that the timeless appeal of honey oak is far from losing its popularity. As per my experience in period restorations, homeowners consistently opt for the warm, inviting aura that honey oak provides. Therefore, I’d say dismissing it as potentially outdated would be hasty.
Marigold, I second your thoughts on honey oak. In my years as a carpenter, I found that homeowners often revert to honey oak thanks to its evergreen appeal and its unique ability to encapsulate a homey feeling.
I agree with you, Quentin, hardwood flooring holds irresistible charm when stained in honey oak. Being an owner of such a floor myself, I can vouch for its warm and welcoming touch.
To me, choosing a stain for your hardwood floor is like selecting the perfect evening dress; it’s all about finding the right tone that not only represents your style, but is also versatile enough to go with different accessories (furniture in this case).