The pic below shows the stairs that we plan to replace with site-finished hardwood (white risers). We also will install hardwood throughout part of the upstairs of the house.

Our 70-year old downstairs hardwood floors appear to have a light nutmeg stain (on white oak) and a water based finish.

The flooring contractor suggests that we install white oak upstairs, but leave the new floors natural, without a stain. He says it would: save money, make it easier to match any future wood floor extensions, and provide a superior finish because modern stains are lousy.

I think I like the slightly darker color of our downstairs floors and worry that the floors will look too different. Your thoughts?

The contractor also suggests that we use a base shoe (kind of like a quarter round) to avoid the hassle and expense of removing the molding. I worry that it will look like a silly patch. YOur thoughts? Thank you.