5 Guidelines for Custom Floor Designs By John Burton Posted on November 14, 2018 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter When installing new floors in your home it’s important to consider adding unique design options that can personalize your home. Despite there being a number of options for owners to select from, many are unaware of what they can do to enhance the space. Some of the most common types of elements are outlined below and include: inserts, personalized designs, mixed treatment patterns, and a diagonal installation. 1. Inserts A popular design option that homeowners choose to add are specialty inserts. Based on the design preferences and style of the homeowner, they can choose to add an patterned insert to a room. This is commonly done to the outside perimeter of a space and set as a border. This added helps to separate the space and create a divide in a room which can be used to help define rooms in open concept homes. Plus, homeowners can further the design by adding a unique pattern or color to the border. Ultimately, homeowners considering this option will be able to enhance the space. 2. Designs Another option that homeowners should consider prior to having the flooring remodelled in their home are a design with different color woods. Oftentimes, companies will offer pre-set design patters that a homeowner can add to enhance a space. If a homeowner does not enjoy the pre-set designs there, they can choose to custom a design themselves. Although these patterns can enhance a space, it is important for owners to consider the style and atmosphere to ensure the piece is able to compliment a number of design aesthetics. 3. Different Installation Pattern The most common way that homeowners install floors is perpendicular and vertical. Although this is a timeless and classic way to install the wood boards it may not appeal to all owners. For those that are interested in a more unique installation pattern it is recommended to speak with an installer about different types of installations. Based on your design preferences and budget, most companies will be able to offer different types of patters such as diagonal installations to enhance the overall look and feel of your home. Plus, this is a subtle way to add in a unique touch without it impacting other features of the home. 4. Treatment For homeowners wanting a unique design pattern, consider mixing the flooring treatment that is applied to the boards. There are a number of treatment options for homeowners to select from and some of the most common include bleaching and staining. Based on the preferences of the homeowner, the boards that are used can be treated with different styles or patterns. For homeowners interested in enhancing the natural appeal of wood, it is best to use the staining process as it uses a chemical formula to outline the natural grains of the wood from the boards. Once the chemical is applied, the grains will appear to be highlighted while the rest of the boards surface will be darkened. However, for homeowners that are interested in a more sleek and classic design, it is recommended to choose a bleaching treatment which will blend the grains of the wood into the outer surface. 5. Type It is also important for homeowners to consider the type of wood that they would like installed in their home. This is recommended seeing as the type that is selected can impact the quality and length of installation based on how rare the wood is. Although most wood types can be easily sourced, there are other types of more unique styles that can cause a lengthier installation process.