Choosing Between Domestic and Exotic Hardwood Species
- Published By: District Floor Depot
Selecting the perfect hardwood flooring involves more than just color and style — it’s a decision that balances aesthetics, durability, budget and even environmental considerations. Whether you’re renovating your home or building a new one, one of the primary choices you’ll face is between domestic and exotic hardwood species.
Each option brings its own set of characteristics and charm to your interior spaces. Understanding the difference between these two categories can guide you in selecting the ideal hardwood flooring for your home. District Floor Depot offers many hardwood floor options to suit any style.
About Exotic Hardwood Flooring
Exotic hardwoods are found around the world and usually come from tropical areas. They tend to be darker in color and offer distinctive hues that appeal to property owners who prefer deeper wood tones. They’re also very dense and usually rank on the higher end of the Janka Hardness Scale, an instrument for measuring wood durability.
Exotic woods differ from domestic hardwoods in how light affects them, as well as in their availability, appearance, durability and finish options. They tend to cost more than domestic species as well.
Popular exotic hardwoods include:
- Brazilian cherry: Brazilian cherry is perhaps the most popular exotic hardwood flooring. It has an appealing red color that deepens with time.
- Teak: Teak is exceptionally durable and has natural water resistance — a valued characteristic for flooring.
- Brazilian chestnut: Brazilian chestnut has rich colors from chocolate brown to light brown with fine and clear veins.
- Tigerwood: Tigerwood features dark stripes and is ideal for a dramatic touch in a home or office.
- Brazilian walnut: One of the most durable woods, Brazilian walnut makes an exceptionally attractive, stable flooring material that can even be installed outdoors.
About Domestic Hardwood Floors
Domestic hardwoods are typically softer than exotic hardwood species — they rank in the low-medium range of hardness on the Janka Scale. Domestic hardwood floors tend to have a lighter tone that can make a space feel airy and open.
Some domestic hardwoods include:
- Maple: Maple hardwood flooring is popular for modern homes because it brightens and opens up spaces. It has a faint grain pattern and comes in various finishes. Maple takes stain well and can complement many aesthetics.
- Oak: Classic oak flooring is relatively cost-effective and provides an excellent return on investment. Oak has a distinct appearance that lends itself well to many types of stains and finishes. Choose from white or red oak flooring and enjoy its durability and beauty.
You can repair and refinish both types of hardwood flooring to keep them looking great for years to come. District Floor Depot offers refinishing services to maintain your investment.
Choose District Floor Depot for Your Hardwood Floors
We provide speedy delivery, a local showroom and installation services — our before and after photos speak for themselves. Our team offers mill-direct prices to help you stay within budget.
Both domestic and exotic hardwoods add value to your home. Contact us to learn more or have us provide samples you can review in your own space.