Hardwood floors have always been known for their timeless appeal and durability. When it comes to discussing floors, the color is often the initial factor to consider. This is because the floor, whether light or dark, sets the overall mood of the room. However, a trend that is emerging for 2024 is placing emphasis not only on the tone but also on the finish and texture of hardwood floors. While the smooth, elegant, and classic look remains popular, there are also newer techniques and styles emerging that will be highly sought after in the coming year and beyond.

One technique that can be used to achieve a unique look is brushing. There are different ways to achieve this effect. One method involves using a stiff wire brush to expose the heartwood and bring it to the surface of the floor. This technique works particularly well with Hickory and Oak, resulting in a visually appealing appearance. Another approach to create a distressed look is by using a hand scraper. This method gives the floor an antique look, making it a great choice for historic homes, cabins, farmhouse kitchens, or hearth rooms. Hand scraping intentionally creates dents and gouges and works best with slightly softer woods like pecan, pine, and walnut.

For brushed floors, it is recommended to use a matte finish to maintain a natural and rustic appearance. This type of finish adds a traditional touch to the room while also providing durability to withstand the activities of pets, children, and toys. It creates a grounding effect, giving the space a timeless feel.

A perfectly imperfect whitewash

There are several other methods to distress hardwood floors, including bleaching, pickling, and antiquing. Bleaching involves applying substances like hydrogen peroxide or Oxalic acid to the floorboards, rather than the bleach we typically use in the laundry room. It's important to ensure that the room is well-ventilated and to wear protective gear for both the eyes and skin when using these substances. The acids lighten the wood, creating a rustic and lived-in appearance that is perfect for achieving a shabby chic or beachy vibe.

Pickling is another technique that can be used to bleach wood and is sometimes referred to as whitewash. This process is typically applied to light-colored woods such as pine, oak, or ash, and involves adding a chemical to whiten the surface. There are a couple of ways to achieve this look. One method involves sanding the wood, applying primer, and then wiping it off with a rag. Alternatively, there are pickling solutions available at many paint stores. The result is a driftwood-like appearance that showcases the natural grain of the wood.

Moody and distressed alterations

Aging hardwood floors involves using natural tannins or chemicals to darken and/or create scratches on the surface. Once the floor has been brushed, you can stain it using natural tannins. To create a solution, you can soak iron-based items like nails, hinges, hooks, or bolts in vinegar for several days. The longer you soak the metal, the more intense the resulting wash will be. Apply this solution to your hardwood floor, preferably one that has already been distressed. Alternatively, you can achieve a similar distressed effect by using brewed black tea.

There are other methods to achieve a different tone for hardwood floors as well. These include using a stain or dye, applying a chemical tannic acid, or using a hard wax oil or oil finish. Each of these methods will darken the surface of your hardwood floor. Another option is smoked or fumed wood, which imparts a warm and organic look to the flooring. Fumed wood is created by placing planks in a chamber and exposing them to ammonia gas. This process brings out the natural tannins in the wood, resulting in a distinct and unique appearance.