If you want to use something really unique you can consider the use of reclaimed wood flooring for any part of your home. Reclaimed lumber is lumber that has been treated and processed, but has already been used for some purpose. It can come from old crates, boxcars, barns, houses, or any other dismantled wooden product or structure.
Advantages:
The first two things that come to mind when you consider using reclaimed wood flooring is the unique aesthetic look that it will give you. I have seen it used with much success and it always provides the user a product that grabs attention and receives many compliments. The second thing is that you are getting genuine wood for a fraction of the original cost so this could very well turn out to be a worthwhile product to use. Of course you need to exercise caution and choose all of the wood yourself in order to make sure that you do not get stuck with wood which has been damaged, is warped, or decayed.
You will need to make the choice of the type of décor that you want to accompany the reclaimed wood flooring that you use but when you use this type of flooring it gives you a wonderful opportunity to add something totally unique. Many people will utilize this type flooring with an antique theme or motif but I have seen people use it effectively with a modern theme. You will also need to consider refinishing this type of wood in order to create the desired effect. You can always sand it and re-stain it another color. Refinished wood look exactly like new it if is done correctly. The end result is a product that looks like an expensive quality product.
Disadvantages:
The biggest disadvantages of choosing to use reclaimed wood flooring is that you will never find another lot exactly like the first one. It is always a hit or miss deal so you need to be certain that the amount that you purchase in more than adequate for the job. Also consider that if you need to make repairs you will have to either replace the entire floor with a new unique lot of wood, or use wood from a different lot which may or may not fit your purpose. If I were to use this type of flooring I would be sure to use it in a very special or significant part of my home. It is too uncommon of a product and look to use too casually.