Homeowners’ Preferred Flooring Choices

Flooring matters to buyers. It impacts everything from a home’s appearance to its comfort, functionality and value.

Given this, Bona conducted a survey to glean flooring preferences for 2026. The findings were released in the floor care company’s first-ever ‘floorcast.’ Here are the highlights.

1. Nearly two-thirds say wood flooring is a priority when deciding to purchase a home.

2. The ‘natural’ look for hardwood is still preferred — clear, low-lustre (matte to satin) finishes, sealers and stains with no pigment that highlight the wood’s natural texture and colour, creating a ‘just sanded,’ organic look that feels both timeless and contemporary, and complements a wide range of interior styles.

3. Mid-level tones remain the leading choice (51 per cent) compared to deep and rich, darker tones (27 per cent) or more light, white tones (21 per cent). Yet social media is beginning to subtly shift the palette. Among those influenced by social media, mid-level tones are slightly less preferred in favour of a larger percentage gravitating toward darker shades.

4. From herringbone to chevron and intricate inlays, patterned wood floors are making a major comeback. People are increasingly gravitating toward these designs that showcase craftsmanship and add character, transforming flooring from a background element into a focal point.