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Solid vs. engineered wood flooring: which should you choose?

Understanding the difference between solid and engineered hardwood flooring helps you choose the right floor for your home.

• Solid wood flooring: Solid hardwood is milled from a single piece of wood. It offers exceptional longevity and can usually be sanded and refinished multiple times. It's a great option for above-grade rooms with stable humidity.
• Engineered wood flooring: Engineered hardwood flooring features a genuine hardwood surface over a layered core. This construction improves stability when humidity changes throughout the year while offering greater installation flexibility.

Our flooring experts can help you decide which option best fits your home and lifestyle.

Hardwood species to consider

Every hardwood species offers a unique combination of grain, color, and durability.

• Birch: Birch features subtle grain patterns and a smooth appearance that fits contemporary and transitional homes.
• Hickory: Hickory is one of the hardest domestic hardwoods. Its bold grain and outstanding durability make it ideal for busy households.
• Maple: Maple offers fine-grain and light natural coloring, creating a clean, modern look.
• Pecan: Pecan stands out with dramatic grain variation and warm character, making every floor distinctive.
• Red oak: Red oak remains one of the most popular hardwood species thanks to its warm tones, open grain, and dependable durability.
• White oak: White oak wood flooring features tighter grain patterns and slightly cooler undertones, making it a versatile choice for many interior styles.

Choosing the right hardwood color

Color has a major impact on the look and feel of your space.

Light hardwood flooring brightens rooms and helps smaller spaces feel larger. Medium tones provide timeless versatility that pairs with almost any décor. Dark hardwood flooring creates richness, warmth, and dramatic contrast.

Our showroom makes it easy to compare hardwood colors so you can confidently choose the right style for your home.

Hardwood textures and finishes

Texture and finish influence both appearance and maintenance.

Smooth hardwood delivers a clean, classic look that highlights the natural grain. Wire-brushed flooring adds subtle texture while helping disguise everyday wear. Hand-scraped hardwood flooring offers rustic charm and handcrafted character.

Popular finish options include matte, satin, and gloss. Matte finishes create a natural appearance and help hide dust and scratches. Satin offers a soft sheen and remains the most popular choice for busy homes. Gloss finishes provide a brighter, reflective appearance but typically require more upkeep.

How to clean and maintain hardwood floors

Routine care helps hardwood flooring stay beautiful for decades.

Sweep or vacuum regularly using a hardwood-safe attachment to remove dirt before it scratches the surface. Clean spills promptly and use cleaners designed specifically for hardwood floors.

Avoid steam mops and harsh chemicals, which can damage the finish.

Protect your floors with furniture pads and place mats at entrances to reduce dirt and moisture. Maintaining consistent indoor humidity also helps minimize seasonal expansion and contraction.

With proper maintenance, wood floors can provide decades of reliable performance.

Frequently asked questions about hardwood flooring

Is hardwood flooring worth the investment?

Yes. Hardwood flooring offers lasting beauty, excellent durability, and can increase your home's resale value.

Can hardwood floors be refinished?

Most solid wood floors can be refinished multiple times. Some engineered hardwood floors can also be refinished, depending on the thickness of the hardwood veneer.

Which hardwood species is the most durable?

Hickory is one of the hardest domestic hardwood species. White oak, maple, and red oak also provide excellent durability.

Is hardwood flooring good for homes with pets?

Yes. Harder wood species and lower-sheen finishes can help minimize the appearance of scratches from everyday pet activity.

How long does hardwood flooring last?

With professional installation and proper maintenance, hardwood floors can last for 30-100 years or longer.

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