Top 6 Wood Flooring Stain Color Trend

June 12, 2023 | customhardwood | Floor Care

Choosing the right hardwood floor color can add warmth, beauty, and value to any home. One of the key decisions when it comes to hardwood floors is selecting the right stain color. Stain colors have the power to transform the look and feel of your space, creating a unique ambiance that reflects your personal style. In this article, we’ll explore six hardwood floor stain color trends that are currently making waves in interior design. From cool and contemporary to warm and inviting, these trends are sure to inspire you.

Six Hardwood Floor Colors Currently Making Waves in Interior Design

Ashen Gray Wood Flooring Stain:

Embracing a modern aesthetic, Ashen Gray hardwood floor color stain brings a cool-toned, smoky hue to hardwood floors. This trend adds a touch of sophistication and pairs well with minimalist designs. The subtle gray tones create a sleek and contemporary atmosphere, making it a popular choice for those seeking a fresh and modern look. To achieve an ashen gray shade, you can consider a combination of Minwax’s “Classic Gray” and Duraseal’s “Weathered Oak” stain colors. Mixing these two colors in varying ratios allows you to customize the intensity of the gray tone.

Warm Caramel Wood Flooring Stain:

If you’re looking to infuse your space with timeless elegance, Warm Caramel hardwood floor color stain is the perfect choice. With its rich and inviting tone, it adds warmth and depth to hardwood floors. This trend complements traditional and rustic styles, creating a cozy and welcoming ambiance that never goes out of style. To achieve a warm caramel shade, you can combine Minwax’s “English Chestnut” and Bona’s “Golden Oak” stain colors. Experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance of warmth and richness.

Coastal Driftwood Wood Flooring Stain:

Inspired by the calming beauty of the coast, Coastal Driftwood hardwood floor color stain trend captures a light, weathered look. The soft, muted grayish-brown tones evoke a sense of tranquility, making it ideal for beach-inspired or Scandinavian designs. Coastal Driftwood lends a fresh and airy feel to any room, transporting you to a serene seaside getaway. To achieve the Coastal Driftwood shade, consider combining Duraseal’s “Weathered Gray” with Bona’s “Beachwood” stain colors. Adjust the ratios until you achieve the desired driftwood effect.

Midnight Ebony Wood Flooring Stain:

For those who crave drama and boldness, Midnight Ebony stain color trend is a showstopper. This deep, almost black hue adds a sense of luxury and sophistication to hardwood flooring. It’s perfect for contemporary or modern spaces, creating a sleek and glamorous atmosphere that demands attention. To achieve the Midnight Ebony shade, you can use Minwax’s “Ebony” stain color. This rich, dark color creates a striking and dramatic effect on hardwood floors.

Honey Maple Wood Flooring Stain:

Bring a warm and inviting vibe to your space with the timeless Honey Maple stain color trend. Its golden tones highlight the natural beauty of the wood grain, infusing the room with a sense of lightness and freshness. Honey Maple complements a variety of interior styles, from traditional to transitional, adding a touch of classic elegance that never goes out of style. To achieve the Honey Maple shade, consider combining Minwax’s “Golden Pecan” with Bona’s “Early American” stain colors. This combination will create a warm and inviting hue reminiscent of honey maple.

Vintage Chestnut Wood Flooring Stain:

For those who appreciate vintage aesthetics, Vintage Chestnut stain color trend is a perfect choice. Its warm, reddish-brown tones evoke a cozy and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of days gone by. This stain pairs beautifully with eclectic or farmhouse styles, enhancing the charm and character of any space.

To achieve the Vintage Chestnut shade, consider combining Duraseal’s “Coffee Brown” with Minwax’s “Red Mahogany” stain colors. Begin by mixing equal parts of each stain color and testing it on a small, inconspicuous area of your hardwood flooring. Assess the color and adjust the ratio as needed to achieve the desired Vintage Chestnut hue. Remember to stir the stain colors thoroughly before mixing and follow the application instructions provided by the manufacturers.

Expert Tips for Achieving the Perfect Stain Color

Please note that the exact measurements and results may vary based on factors such as the type of wood and personal preference. When working with stain colors, it’s always a good idea to test small samples on the actual wood flooring you plan to use. This will help you assess the color and make any necessary adjustments before applying the stain to the entire floor.

To achieve the desired stain color, it is recommended to consult with a professional wood flooring contractor or reach out to the specific stain manufacturers for guidance. They can provide expert advice on the best combinations and ratios to achieve the stain color you desire.

Remember, achieving the perfect stain color often involves experimentation, and the final result may depend on the unique characteristics of your wood flooring and the application technique.

To Explore More Hardwood Flooring Colors, Check Out Our Hardwood Flooring EBook

Frequently Asked Questions on Wood Floor Staining

Q1: How do I prepare my hardwood floors for staining?

To prepare your hardwood floors for staining, thoroughly clean them to remove dust, dirt, or debris. You can use a broom, vacuum cleaner, or a damp mop to achieve this. Next, inspect the floors for existing finish or wax coatings and remove them using an appropriate stripping agent. Finally, sand the hardwood floors to ensure a smooth and even surface, removing any imperfections or scratches that may interfere with the staining process.

Q2: What types of stains are suitable for hardwood floors?

There are two main types of stains commonly used for hardwood floors: oil-based stains and water-based stains. Oil-based wood flooring stains offer a richer and deeper color but take longer to dry and can have a stronger odor. Water-based wood flooring stains dry more quickly, have lower VOC emissions, and are easier to clean. Both types can achieve beautiful results, so it comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your project.

Q3: How many coats of stain are applied to hardwood floors?

The number of coats of wood flooring stain used depends on the desired color intensity and the hardwood you’re working with. In general, one coat is usually sufficient. Still, additional coats can be applied if a darker or more vibrant color is desired. Following the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the drying time between coats is important to ensure optimal results. Remember to test the stain on a small inconspicuous area or a sample board before applying it to the floor.

Q4: Should a sealer or a topcoat be applied after staining the hardwood floors?

Yes, after staining hardwood flooring, applying a sealer or a topcoat is recommended to protect the stain and enhance the floor’s durability. A sealer helps to seal the wood pores, preventing the wood flooring stain from penetrating too deeply and providing a more uniform finish. A topcoat, such as polyurethane, protects against wear, moisture, and other potential damages. Consider using a water-based sealer or topcoat to minimize the odor and drying time.

Q5: How long should I wait before using my hardwood floors after staining?

A5: The drying time for stained hardwood floors varies depending on humidity, temperature, and the type of stain and finish used. Generally, you should wait at least 24 to 48 hours before walking on the floors and avoid placing furniture or rugs on them for a few days. However, it’s best to consult your professional hardwood flooring contractor, as they will know the instructions provided by the stain and finish manufacturers to ensure you allow enough time for the stain to fully cure before resuming regular use of the floors.

Schedule For a Free On Site Estimate

Ready to transform your home with the perfect hardwood floor color? Contact us today to schedule a free on-site estimate. Our expert team is here to help you choose the ideal stain color and ensure a flawless installation. Don’t wait—bring your vision to life with beautiful, custom-stained hardwood floors.