2015 Hardwood Flooring Customer Preference Survey

2015 HARDWOOD OFLOORING CUSTOMER PREFERENCE SURVEY To gain a better understanding of the decisions consumers are making when it comes to hardwood flooring, we surveyed 83 interior designers from across the country. Here's what the experts had to say! Do you have a preferred brand for hardwood flooring that you frequently recommend, and why Ono why? "Carlisle. Excellent product, prefinished or sand and finish." -Todd Richesin, Todd Richesin Interiors "I am open to brand and usually select the look, width and size of the 28 72% yes plank before brand of flooring." "Shaw - great variety." -Tina White, Interior Visions, Inc. -Judee Malanca, Judee Malanca Design "My selectionss are heavily influenced by availability and cost as well as appearance why and performance." not? Top preferred brands include Carlisle, -Nikki, Black Line Studio and Shaw. Do you typically recommend engineered or solid wood Solid 37% 63% Engineered What type of wood do you recommend most often Top3 answers 43% 15% 14% OAK WALNUT HICKORY 19% Various answers including Maple, Bamboo, Cherry, Mahogany, and Birch. OTHER 9% said their recommendation depends on the project and the client's preference because everyone is different and has different needs. 4 What are the most popular hardwood species among pet owners Top3 answers 51% 17% 14% OAK BAMBOO HICKORY Various answers including 19% Walnut, Maple, and Cherry. OTHER Advice for Pet Owners from the Experts "We recommend Natural Hickory or other products that look variegated or worn so that any additional damage from pets may be hidden in the overall Iook of the floor." -Jason Longo, JDL Interiors Is there a difference in what kind of wood younger generations prefer vs. older generations ves 68% Experts Suggest That Younger Generations Prefer Wood That's: Experts Suggest That Older Generations Prefer Wood That's: * Less Grainy (such as Bamboo or Maple) * More Grainy (such as Oak, Hickory, or Cherry) * Trendy and Modern Design Traditional and Simple Design * Cost Efficient * High Quality * Engineered * Solid Wood * Darker in Color/Stain * Lighter in Color/Stain * Matte Finish Glossy Finish 28% of those surveyed said that they have not really seen a difference in wood choice among the generations. When a flooring change is part of the design, how often is the change to hardwood? (vs. tile, carpet, etc.) 28% Almost Always 56% Most Of The Time 12% Not That Often 5% Rarely When a flooring change is part of the design, how much of the budget is generally allotted for it 15% Of Total Budget 31% 30% Of Total Budget 64% 50% Of Total Budget 5% Do you prefer to use hardwood throughout the home or as an accent in a few key rooms 78% 22% Throughout Home Only in Select Areas/Rooms Why Do Experts Love Hardwood Floors? VERSATILE "Hardwood floors are like TIMELESS a great basic black dress." -Dawn Gepfert, Dawn Gepfert Designs "Long live hardwood!" -Nancy Carroll, Nancy Carroll Interiors CONSISTENT TRANSFORMATIVE "I prefer the wood to be part of the canvas backdrop that I like to create. I like the consistency it brings throughout the project" -Renae L. Keller, Renae Keller Interior Design "Floors can completely transform a space, it's one of the most important decisions in a renovation/ redesign." -Dan, NYC Interiors As you can see, opinions vary based on personal preference and past experiences, but one thing's for sure – interior design experts love hardwood flooring! A huge thank you to all the interior designers who took part in this survey. Keep an eye out for our next survey project-coming soon! MacDonald www.macwoods.com HARDWOODS %24