If you are uncertain about which flooring to choose, remember that white oak flooring is a practical choice as well as providing a beautiful surface for your floor. This wood is a natural material yet it is tough enough to withstand the rough and tumble of family life and it was often used to build boats in the past due to its ability to withstand the elements. In any case, it will enhance your home for many years to come.
When choosing an oak hardwood floor, a trip to a flooring supplier can reap many benefits. You can see the wood close at hand and get an idea of the quality of different brands of wooden flooring and also look at all the various options for your floor. It is amazing how much difference plank width can make to the look of the finished floor, for instance. Many suppliers have sample floors to look at as well as catalogs and other images to give you a good idea how your finished floor will look.
As well as being able to choose various plank width and the color of your wood (through wood staining of the natural oak), you also have additional options for buying your wood finished or unfinished. When wood is finished at the factory, the planks are ready to install and they have a protective coating which means you have nothing to do other than sweep away any sawdust once installation is complete. If you buy unfinished planks, after installation you need to sand your floor smooth (a very messy job), then treat it with a coating of polyurethane varnish to protect the surface.
All wood floors benefit from regular maintenance but as the job is not particularly onerous you will find that it is easy to keep your floor looking its best. You really only need to sweep it to remove any grit which might damage the surface and keep it clean with a damp (not wet) mop.