With so many different elements to consider when choosing a wooden floor, it can often be a little overwhelming. From different grade types, to wear layers and surface finishes, each of these features is important to consider to ensure you select the right type of wood floor to suit both your interior taste and your lifestyle.

Another element to consider is whether you prefer a handcrafted surface finish. Below we discuss everything you need to know about handcrafted wood floors and whether or not it is the right choice for you and your home.

What is handcrafted wood flooring?

When we talk about handcrafted wood flooring, we are referring to the surface of the wooden plank which has been crafted by hand using traditional artisan techniques. This creates a distressed, uneven surface texture which is truly unique in style. There are variations in style from light undulations in the surface, to more severe scrapes and deep grains; at The Wood Flooring Co. we have a great selection of handcrafted wood floors to choose from, depending on the overall aesthetic you want to achieve in your home.

What is the difference between handcrafted and handscraped wood flooring?

'Handcrafted' is a more general term and is used to describe all planks which have been crafted by hand. Many manufacturers also refer to these floors as ‘handscraped’, although some make a distinction with handscraped wood floors having a more severe, distressed surface finish with cracks and scrapes along the grain. Good examples of handscraped wood floors within our collection would be Cellar Oak and Smoked Cellar Oak, both of which have deep cracks along the length of the boards for a truly authentic, distressed finish.

Cellar Oak Engineered Wood Flooring, The Wood Flooring Co.

Is handcrafted flooring harder to maintain?

A handcrafted wood floor gives the impression of a floor that has been down for years. However, thanks to modern engineering and click lock mechanisms, engineered wood flooring provides a stable and easy to maintain floor. Whether or not it is handcrafted has very little impact on its overall maintenance.

As with all floor coverings, you should protect your new engineered wood flooring from dirt particles by placing mats at entrance ways and routinely cleaning with a broom or vacuum cleaner (do not use steam cleaners). In the case of more stubborn dirt, treat the floor with a damp cloth – never use a mop or excess water.

Does handcrafted wood flooring need treating in the future?

All of the handcrafted floors within our Heritage Collection have been simply finished in a natural oil. This helps to showcase the unique texture and colour variations across the floor, as well as providing added protection.

All of our wood floors have ready to use surface finishes. It is not necessary to treat them or give it an additional seal following installation. Our naturally oiled wood flooring surfaces can be treated periodically with Professional Care Oil. This should not be necessary more than once a year, often less, but this will depend on the amount of individual wear/ foot traffic etc.

What type of interior style is handcrafted flooring suited to?

Unique in style, handcrafted wood flooring will bring warmth and texture to your home. Because they are classic in style, they seamlessly fit in traditional and industrial style interiors and perfectly complement traditional furnishings.

However, they can also add depth and timeless appeal to more contemporary settings and will look stunning as a contrasting backdrop to a more modern design, for example in a contemporary kitchen or living room.

For a modern twist on an antique style floor, consider Aged Whisky Oak with its neutral tones or Old Farmhouse Oak with classic blonde tones that will never go out of fashion. For a more dramatic dark wooden floor, be sure to order samples of Rustic Barn Oak and Smoked Cellar Oak for a floor that is truly distinctive and cocooning.

Call our expert team on 01905 340238 to discuss your wood flooring requirements, or check out our social media channels for more style inspiration.