Hardwood Flooring for Your Home

Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood

Two common types of hardwood flooring are solid and engineered hardwood.

Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of natural wood. Depending on the thickness and product specifications, it can often be refinished multiple times throughout its life.

Engineered hardwood features a real wood surface layer over a constructed core. Its layered design can provide additional dimensional stability, making it suitable for certain environments where changes in temperature and humidity may be a concern.

The right option depends on the room, subfloor, installation method, and conditions of your home.

Choosing a Hardwood Species

Different wood species have their own natural characteristics, including grain patterns, color variation, and hardness. Some offer a more consistent appearance, while others have pronounced knots, grain movement, or natural variation.

The finish can further change the appearance of the floor. A natural or clear finish can highlight the character of the wood, while a stain can shift the color to better coordinate with your interior.

When comparing options, look at full samples rather than relying only on small color swatches. Natural wood can vary from one board to another, and your finished floor will have its own unique character.

Hardwood Flooring & Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle should be part of the flooring decision. Consider how much traffic your floors receive, whether you have children or pets, and how much maintenance you're willing to perform. A busy household may have different needs than a home with lighter foot traffic.

The finish and species you select can also influence how the floor looks as it experiences normal daily wear. Choosing a product based on the actual conditions of your home can help you find a floor you'll be comfortable living with for years.

Where Can Hardwood Be Installed?

Hardwood can work well in many areas of a home, including living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, hallways, and other appropriate spaces.

Moisture should be considered carefully. Traditional hardwood is generally not the best choice for areas with frequent water exposure, while certain engineered hardwood products may offer greater flexibility in some applications.

Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific product, particularly when installing hardwood in areas where humidity or moisture may be present.

Caring for Hardwood Flooring

Routine maintenance can help preserve the appearance of hardwood. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit that can contribute to surface wear. Clean spills promptly and use cleaning products recommended for your flooring and finish.

Avoid excessive water and cleaning methods that aren't approved for the product. Furniture pads can also help reduce scratches and dents beneath chairs, tables, and other furniture.

Over time, hardwood may show normal signs of use. Depending on the product and finish, professional refinishing may be an option for restoring its appearance.

Hardwood Flooring Tips

• View samples in your home. Lighting and surrounding colors can change how a hardwood floor looks.
• Consider plank width. Different widths can create noticeably different visual effects.
• Expect natural variation. Real wood naturally varies in grain and color, so no two floors will look exactly alike.
• Think about moisture. Consider the conditions of each room before deciding where hardwood will be installed.

Hardwood & Your Overall Design

Hardwood can serve as a foundation for your room's design. Its natural character can complement furniture, area rugs, cabinets, walls, and other finishes without overwhelming them.

When choosing a floor, consider the entire room rather than looking at the flooring by itself. Comparing flooring samples with your existing finishes can make it easier to find a color and style that feels right for your home.