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Facts about wood species natural color changes

Wood exposed to normal sunlight is subject to color changes. As with all natural products made from wood, these changes are expected and add to the beauty and distinctiveness of wood floors.
Kährs wood floors come in a variety of species, ranging from silky, light maple to dramatically dark walnut. Apart from looks, wood species also vary in versatility, hardness and how they react when they are exposed to normal sunlight. If you move or rearrange rugs and furniture periodically, you avoid distinct lines between the exposed and unexposed areas of the floor. No matter which species you choose, you can rest assured that it has been sustainably forested.
Oak

The light brown to darker tones of White Oak undergoes a medium degree of color change with slight ambering over time.

Ash

The sapwood is almost white and the heartwood ranges from grey through light brown to light yellow with brown streaks. Ash undergoes a medium degree of change over time from a lighter freshly sanded tone to a straw/tan color.

Walnut

The sapwood is light toned while the distinguishing heartwood is a light brown to dark chocolate brown, sometimes with a tendency to purple. Over time, it develops a warm, golden-brown lustre as the darker heartwood softens in tone, adding elegance and depth to your home.

Beech

Beech brings a soft, inviting palette to your space, with tones from light cream to warm tan and pink-orange highlights. Over time, its colours gently mellow, with subtle ambering and a softening of the orange hues. Please note: Beech is not recommended for use over underfloor heating.

American Oak

Red Oak features a light-colored sapwood ranging from white to pale brown, and heartwood that varies from soft pink to warm reddish brown. Known for its straight grain, Red Oak is strong, durable, and takes stain beautifully—making it a favorite for a wide range of design styles. Over time, it experiences moderate color change, shifting slightly from its freshly milled pink/tan hues to a richer amber tone.

American Hard Maple

Hard Maple showcases a creamy white to light golden sapwood with subtle grain patterns, while the heartwood can range from pale brown to light reddish tan. Its smooth texture and fine, even grain make it a favorite for modern and classic interiors alike. Naturally dense and incredibly durable, Hard Maple resists wear and dents, making it ideal for high-traffic spaces. It undergoes a mild ambering over time, deepening its warm tones for a richer, more inviting look.

American Hickory

Hickory is one of the hardest domestic hardwoods, prized for its strength and striking grain variation. The sapwood is typically creamy white, while the heartwood ranges from golden brown to deeper reddish tones—often appearing together in bold contrast. Its dramatic color shifts and natural character marks give Hickory a rugged, rustic appeal. Over time, it develops a slightly warmer patina, enhancing its bold personality without losing clarity.