Hardwood flooring is something that many homeowners desire and something that many home buyers look for. There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to hardwood flooring, but for many homeowners a high end look is the most desirable. High end hardwood floors can really add to the appeal of a home's interior. There are also plenty of ways to create a high end look at various price points. Here are three options that homeowners should consider.

Inlays

Historic homes and luxury homes often have beautiful inlays in their wood floors. Having this work done by hand was previously very expensive. However, recent advances in computers and laser cutting technologies have made inlays more affordable than they were previously. Wood inlays along the border of the room and medallions are two of the most popular options for inlays. Typically, the less complex the pattern, the less expensive the inlay is. Complex inlays can quickly get pricey. Hardwood floor installation is also something that should be done by a professional whenever inlays are involved. This can add to the cost. 

Exotic Wood

Nothing says luxury quite like exotic or rare hardwoods. Exotic hardwoods such as teak, ebony, tigerwood, and Brazilian cherry have to be imported which can add to their price. These woods also hold up well to heat and humidity and are typically very durable and hard. Floors created with exotic hardwoods are as beautiful as they are tough. Regular hardwood costs between $4 and $10 per square foot while some exotic species can go for as much as $40 per square foot, though prices are more often between $10 and $30 per square foot for most exotic woods.

Hand Scraped

For historic or rustic style homes, one option that can lend an upscale look to the space is hand scraped hardwood flooring. This type of flooring mimics the look traditionally found in older homes. The rustic style is also becoming more and more popular, even in high end homes, which makes this type of flooring even more desirable. Hand scraped hardwood floors have a unique look that cannot be recreated by machine. Hand scraped hardwood floors can be expensive, costing between $10 and $25 per square foot. 

High end hardwood flooring can make a big difference in a home's interior. There are a variety of ways to get a high end look. Some options include using inlays, installing exotic hardwoods, or installing hand scraped hardwood flooring. Each option can provide a high end look and can work with a variety of home styles. 

For more flooring options, talk with contractors, such as those at Costen Floors Inc.