So you’ve got beautiful 100 year old wood floors. But it has only worn out in some places, and you don’t want to replace it all. What are your options?

You likely wont be able to find an exact match, even if the floors are only ten years old. However there are some great ideas out there, and I’ve done the looking for you. (You’re welcome)

#1 Cover them

I know what you’re thinking, “Mya, why would I cover up my own piece of history?” and to that I say, don’t cover them permanently. A well placed area rug can do wonders, even in a hallway.

These runners protect those high traffic areas and add a pop of pattern to an otherwise boring space. Plus how cool is the Star Wars one?

#2 Replace a section with tile

Sometimes hardwood just doesn’t hold up in wetter areas of the house. You don’t want to loose the charm of your hardwood, and metal transition strips don’t always match your personal style, so what do you do?

You can do a couple of things actually.

First you can choose a matching transition strip that blends in better than a metal one.

Another trend is to blend the tiles directly into your hardwood. I think that this is a bold and beautiful design move. This choice requires a bit more time and effort as it can be tedious cutting the correct shapes out if your existing hardwood, but the results are worth it.

These tiles are cut right into the hardwood, making them blend into the room well. The tiles also provide an extra level of protection in front of patio doors and underfoot in kitchens.

Putting tiles under a bath tub is wonderful improvement from porous hardwood floors. this room keeps the elegance of its original hardwood floors, while implementing a more resistant, and sanitary ceramic tile.

Another example of ceramic tile being used for its water resistance and durability.

#3 Switch to a softer floor covering

A lot of people think that carpet is dead. Its not, although shag that stands up past your ankles is. Carpet is a very practical choice for home improvements. Its warm and soft. Plus there have been many improvements in stain proofing in the past five years.

Carpet can be installed over hardwood as well, meaning less prep work for you, or your installer. And using a flush matching reducer keeps everything looking sleek.

Another option is to “build in” an area rug. by installing in just one space and trimming out the edges.

#4 Install a similar wood next to it

If you are able to find a hardwood thats similar in colour, a great way toblend the two is to change directiond with the new hardwood. for example, if youve got existing hardwood in a dining room and you need to swithc out the kitchen floors, you can lay the new flooring opposite to the dining room.

You could also go with a colour that is completely different from your existing flooring. A contrast is a powerful thing! Again following a contrasting pattern, you could put down a hardwood that follows the same palette.

you could also take on a tougher project and frame a piece of your hardwood with new hardwood, preserving the character while renewing your home.

#5 Switch to vinyl plank

Vinyl plank is a great product! it’s waterproof durable and comes in MANY different colours and styles. You may even be able to find a vinyl plank in the same colour as your hardwood. if you can find one in a complementary colour you’ll be set! you can adopt the same installation style as with the hardwood, going in an opposite direction, or even going in a herringbone pattern.

Written by: Mya Stolte Feb. 24 2022