Hardwood flooring: timeless beauty and lasting durability
Solid hardwood flooring: classic, strong, and natural
Solid hardwood is the way to go if you're looking for authenticity. It's made from a single piece of wood and is thick, durable, and can be sanded and refinished multiple times. This makes it one of the longest-lasting flooring options on the market.
Solid hardwood flooring comes in different thicknesses, usually around ¾ inch, and is nailed or stapled to a wooden subfloor. It expands and contracts with humidity, so it’s best suited for areas where moisture isn’t a major concern—think living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. Solid hardwood delivers if you want floors that age beautifully and can be refreshed over time.
Engineered wood flooring: modern, stable, and versatile
Engineered wood flooring is a smart choice for those who want the look of hardwood but need something more resistant to moisture and temperature changes. Unlike solid hardwood, engineered hardwood consists of a real hardwood veneer on top of multiple layers of plywood or fiberboard. This structure makes it more stable, preventing it from warping or shifting due to humidity.
One major advantage? You can install engineered wood flooring in places where solid wood isn’t ideal, like basements or kitchens. It’s also available in a range of finishes, from traditional oak to exotic species, and can be installed as a floating floor, nailed, or glued. Engineered hardwood flooring is a great alternative if you want flexibility without sacrificing aesthetics.
Shop at home
Hardwood species: finding the right fit for your space
Hardwood flooring comes in various species, each offering unique grain patterns, colors, and durability levels. Here are some of the most popular choices:
- Oak: A staple in American homes, oak is strong, resistant to scratches, and available in red or white varieties. Red oak has a warm, reddish tint, while white oak is more neutral and modern.
- Maple: Known for its subtle grain and high durability, maple is ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Hickory: One of the toughest hardwoods, hickory has a bold grain and stands up well to daily wear and tear.
- Walnut: A darker, luxurious option with rich color variations, walnut adds depth and sophistication to any room.
- Cherry: Cherry wood deepens in color over time, developing a rich, reddish hue that enhances its natural beauty.
- Exotic woods (Brazilian cherry, tigerwood, acacia): If you want something more unique, exotic species offer eye-catching grain patterns and extreme durability.
Choosing the right hardwood species depends on your lifestyle, design preferences, and budget. If you have pets or kids, opt for harder woods like hickory or oak. If aesthetics are your priority, walnut or cherry may be your best bet.
See why wood floors remain a top choice
Hardwood isn’t just about looks—it’s a flooring option that delivers on multiple fronts:
- Durability: A well-maintained hardwood floor can last decades, even generations. Solid hardwood flooring can be refinished multiple times, while engineered wood provides extra stability in changing conditions.
- Easy maintenance: Cleaning hardwood flooring is simple. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping keep it looking fresh. There is no need to worry about deep stains or trapped allergens like with carpet.
- Increases home value: Homes with wood floors sell faster and often at higher prices. Buyers love the timeless appeal and durability of wood flooring.
- Eco-friendly: Many wood floors come from sustainable sources, and options like reclaimed wood add an eco-conscious touch to your home.
- Versatile aesthetics: Whether you love a rustic farmhouse vibe, sleek modern elegance, or classic charm, hardwood fits any style.