Native North American Hardwood: Chestnut

Just the word chestnut conjures up warm thoughts. I guess we all associate it with the line in the song "chestnuts roasting on an open fire." Apart from producing a delicious nut, the wood of chestnut trees can be used to create beautiful wood floors and furniture.

A little about chestnut wood.

Chestnut trees are native to North America. You will find that there are two species available: Southern Chestnut and Tiete Chestnut. Southern chestnut is a luscious warm tan color with golden highlights. Tiete Chestnut is a darker brown that will actually grow darker with age.

What does chestnut wood look like?

When you think of chestnut, you may picture a honey-blond color, but chestnut wood actually ranges from gray and white to different shades of browns. The grain has a straight and spiraled grain and is a bit rough to the touch. It is softer than other hardwoods, but is still a durable material that is resistant to decay.

How to care for chestnut wood.

When initially installed, chestnut flooring should be either stained or sealed with a clear protective varnish. The natural color is attractive enough that only a clear product is necessary. This will make maintenance simple, only requiring occasional sweeping and polishing. After several years, it might be necessary to refinish them, but only after a long time.

How much does chestnut cost?

Chestnut flooring is more average in cost, beginning around $5.00/sq. ft. A bit more exotic and unusual than oak or pine, it is unique enough to make it a desirable commodity. Other hardwoods can be as inexpensive as $0.98/sq. ft.

Upgrading your floors to hardwood will make your home more attractive while increasing the value. Hardwoods have long been considered a classy feature, and one that is preferred over other flooring choices. Request free estimates from prescreened flooring contractors to bring the warm flavor of chestnut to your home.

Get free estimates from:

Hardwood Experts in Los Angeles, California

Crimmins Hardwood Flooring Solution in Derry, New Hampshire

A local, hardwood flooring expert in your area