Tips for Choosing the Best Hardwood Flooring for Your Space, Budget, and Lifestyle

Selecting the perfect hardwood flooring can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Here's a guide to help you navigate your choices based on key factors affecting floor-buying decisions.

1. Choose Between Solid or Engineered Hardwood

Solid Hardwood Flooring:

• Made from a single, solid piece of wood.
• Typically more traditional and can be sanded and refinished multiple times.
• Ideal for above-ground installations where humidity and moisture are not concerns.

Engineered Hardwood:

• Multi-layered construction with a natural hardwood top layer and a stable core of pressed plywood.
• More versatile, suitable for basements, over radiant heating systems, and on concrete floors.
• Generally more resistant to moisture and temperature changes than solid hardwood.

2. Installation Locations

Ideal Locations:

• Living rooms, dining rooms, family rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and entryways.
• Kitchens, with quick spill clean-ups to avoid damage.

Not Recommended:

• Bathrooms and laundry rooms (except for specialized products like Hydropel waterproof hardwood).
• Basements (only use engineered hardwood here).

3. Durability Factors

Wood Species:

• Harder woods like Hickory, Oak, and Maple are more resistant to dents and dings.

Protective Finish:

• Opt for high-quality finishes like the Lifetime Finish for superior scratch and stain resistance.

Gloss Level and Texture:

• Matte finishes and textured surfaces like distressed or hand-scraped styles hide wear and tear better than high-gloss floors.

Water Resistance:

• While hardwood isn't generally water-resistant, options like Hydropel provide enhanced spill resistance.

4. Hardwood and Pets

To maintain hardwood floors with pets:

• Trim pets’ nails regularly.
• Keep floors clean of fur and dirt.
• Clean up accidents and spills immediately.

5. Style Options

Color:

• Influenced by wood species, stains, and finishes. Some species offer more natural color variation than others.

Wood Species:

• Oak: Bold, varied grain.
• Maple: Fine, straight grain.
• Exotic species: Unique, statement-making patterns.

Surface Treatment and Texture:

• Textures and finishes can give floors a rustic, weathered, or modern look.

Width:

• Narrow strips (<3") can make small rooms appear larger.
• Wide planks (≥5") create a sophisticated, open feel.
• Mixed-width boards offer a vintage aesthetic.

Edge Style:

• The way edges and ends are finished can subtly impact the floor's overall look.

6. DIY vs. Professional Installation

DIY Installation:

• Can save money but requires time, knowledge, and precision.
• Consider engineered hardwood with a floating installation option for easier DIY projects.

Professional Installation:

• Provides peace of mind and ensures quality results.
• Ask your retailer for recommendations on reliable installers.

By evaluating these factors, you can find hardwood flooring that fits your space, budget, and lifestyle while achieving your desired aesthetic.