Looking to transform your home with timeless elegance and durability? Hardwood flooring might just be the perfect choice. Known for its natural beauty and long-lasting qualities, hardwood is a popular option for homeowners who want to enhance their spaces with style and practicality.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about hardwood flooring—from understanding the two main types to tips on installation, maintenance, and more. Whether you're planning to revamp your living room or upgrade a bedroom, we’ve got you covered.
Hardwood flooring refers to floors made from natural wood planks, cut and finished to provide a durable and attractive surface. Its natural texture, unique grains, and warm tones bring a cozy charm and sophistication to any room.
Unlike laminate or vinyl options, which mimic the look of wood, real hardwood flooring is made exclusively from genuine timber, ensuring an authentic and high-quality finish.
When shopping for hardwood flooring, you'll come across two main types to choose from: solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. Both have their own advantages and are suited to specific needs.
Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of natural wood. It’s incredibly durable and can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifespan, making it a long-term investment. Common species include oak, maple, and walnut, offering various shades and grains to match your aesthetic.
One thing to note about solid hardwood is that it is sensitive to changes in moisture and temperature, which can cause expansion or contraction. It may not be the best option for rooms like basements or areas prone to high humidity.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood uses a layered construction with a real wood veneer on top and plywood layers beneath. This design makes it more stable and resistant to moisture, making it ideal for basements, kitchens, or regions with fluctuating climates.
While engineered hardwood may not be sanded as many times as solid hardwood, its durability and versatility make it a fantastic choice for busy households.
Absolutely. Hardwood flooring is renowned for its longevity. When well-maintained, hardwood can last for decades, sometimes even outliving the homeowners themselves!
Solid hardwood is particularly robust as it can be refinished every 10–15 years to restore its original shine. Engineered hardwood, though slightly thinner, is also built to withstand heavy foot traffic and scratching, especially if you choose a high-quality finish.
Pro tip: Choose species like oak or hickory for superb durability in high-traffic areas. For a softer, luxurious feel, consider cherry or walnut for spaces like bedrooms and lounges.
Installing hardwood flooring can be a straightforward process if done correctly. Here are the general steps involved to give you insight into the process.
Tip: If you’re not comfortable with tools or precise measurements, consider hiring professionals to guarantee a seamless finish. Our team can help with worry-free hardwood flooring installation—get your free quote today!
Hardwood floors are versatile and suitable for most parts of your home. However, certain environments will influence the type of hardwood you choose.
Daily dust and dirt can scratch the surface over time. Use a soft broom or vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment to clean up debris.
Avoid excessive water while mopping. Instead, use a damp mop and a cleaner specifically designed for hardwood. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools.
Add felt pads under furniture legs, consider area rugs for high-traffic zones, and avoid wearing high heels on the floor.
Depending on wear and tear, solid hardwood may need to be refinished every 10–15 years to restore its appearance.
Yes, engineered hardwood has a real wood veneer over plywood layers, offering stability and aesthetics.
Yes, hardwood can be installed in the kitchen, but sealed or engineered wood is recommended to prevent warping from moisture.
Use a dry mop or a damp cloth with a mild wood cleaner. Avoid excessive water, which can damage the wood.
Refinish your hardwood floors every 5–7 years, or sooner if the surface shows signs of wear, like scratches or discoloration.
Solid hardwood is made from one piece of wood, while engineered hardwood has layers of wood with a veneer on top, offering more stability in humid conditions.
