Hardwood Flooring 101

Hardwood Flooring 101: Different Types, Engineered vs. Solid, and How to Install

Hardwood flooring is a classic and timeless choice for any home. It adds warmth, character, and value to a space, and can be a beautiful and durable option for any room in your house.

There are many types of hardwood flooring to choose from, including oak, maple, cherry, and even exotic options like Brazilian cherry or teak. Each type of wood has its own unique characteristics, including color, grain, and durability. Hardwood floors can be finished in a variety of ways, including with a natural, clear finish, or with a stained finish in a color of your choice.

One of the main benefits of hardwood flooring is its durability. Hardwood is resistant to scratches and dents, and with proper care and maintenance, it can last for decades. Hardwood is also easy to clean and maintain, as it only requires regular sweeping and occasional mopping.

When it comes to installation, hardwood flooring can be either nailed down or installed as a floating floor, which means it is not attached to the subfloor. Nailed down hardwood flooring is more traditional and requires the use of a hammer and nails to secure the boards to the subfloor. This type of installation is generally more expensive, but it also provides a more solid and stable foundation for the flooring. Floating hardwood floors, on the other hand, are easier to install and are often preferred for DIY projects. They are held in place by a series of interlocking mechanisms and do not require the use of nails or glue.

When choosing hardwood flooring, it's important to consider the type of wood that will best suit your needs and style. Oak is a popular choice for hardwood flooring due to its durability and versatility. It can be stained in a variety of colors and finishes, and it is resistant to wear and tear. Maple is another popular choice for hardwood flooring, and it is known for its light color and smooth grain. Cherry is a more expensive option, but it is known for its beautiful, rich color and natural luster.

Types of Hardwood Flooring

There are also a few different types of finishes to consider when choosing hardwood flooring. A natural finish allows the wood's natural beauty to shine through and is a popular choice for those who want a more traditional look. Stained finishes, on the other hand, can add color to the wood and are a good option for those who want a specific color or look. Polyurethane finishes are also popular, as they provide a durable and protective layer on top of the wood.

When it comes to caring for your hardwood flooring, it's important to follow a few simple steps to keep it looking its best. Regular sweeping and dusting will help to keep the floor free of dirt and debris, and a damp mop can be used for more thorough cleaning. It's also important to use protective pads on the feet of furniture to prevent scratches, and to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the floor.

Overall, hardwood flooring is a beautiful and durable choice for any home. It adds warmth and character to a space and can increase the value of your home. With proper care and maintenance, hardwood flooring can last for decades, making it a worthwhile investment for any homeowner.

Another factor to consider when choosing hardwood flooring is the type of wood species. There are both domestic and exotic wood species available, and each has its own unique characteristics and benefits. Domestic wood species, such as oak, maple, and cherry, are more readily available and often less expensive than exotic species. Exotic wood species, such as Brazilian cherry or teak, can add a unique and luxurious look to a space, but they may be more expensive and harder to source.

It's also important to consider the grade of the wood when choosing hardwood flooring. Wood is graded based on its appearance, with the highest grades having the fewest knots, blemishes, and color variations. Higher grades of wood are typically more expensive, but they may also be more durable and have a more consistent appearance.

In addition to the type and grade of wood, there are also different types of hardwood flooring to consider. Solid hardwood flooring is made from a single piece of wood and is typically 3/4 inch thick. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it a durable and long-lasting option. Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, is made up of several layers of wood that are bonded together. It is typically thinner than solid hardwood, but it is still durable and can be sanded and refinished. Engineered hardwood is often a good choice for areas with high humidity or for those who want the look of hardwood without the added weight or cost.

When it comes to installation, it's important to choose a professional installer if you are not comfortable or experienced with the process. Hardwood flooring installation can be complex, and it's important to ensure that it is done correctly to ensure the longevity and stability of the floor. It's also important to prepare the subfloor before installation, as it should be level, clean, and dry.

Once your hardwood flooring is installed, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep it looking its best. Regular sweeping and dusting will help to keep the floor free of dirt and debris, and a damp mop can be used for more thorough cleaning. It's also important to use protective pads on the feet of furniture to prevent scratches, and to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the floor.

One important factor to consider when choosing hardwood flooring is the level of traffic in the area where it will be installed. Hardwood is a durable and long-lasting flooring option, but it can still be affected by heavy foot traffic over time. For areas with high traffic, it's important to choose a hardwood species that is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. Hardwood species such as oak and maple are good choices for high traffic areas, as they are naturally resistant to scratches and dents.

Another factor to consider is the level of moisture in the room where the hardwood will be installed. Hardwood is not a good choice for rooms with high levels of moisture, such as bathrooms or laundry rooms, as it can be damaged by water. In these areas, it's better to choose a moisture-resistant flooring option, such as tile or vinyl.

The finish of the hardwood is also an important factor to consider, as it can affect the durability and appearance of the flooring. Natural finishes, such as oil or wax, provide a more traditional look and allow the wood's natural beauty to shine through. However, they do not provide as much protection as other finishes, such as polyurethane, which creates a harder and more durable layer on top of the wood. Stained finishes can also add color to the wood, but they may not be as durable as other finishes.

Installation

In addition to the type and grade of wood, there are also different installation methods to consider when choosing hardwood flooring. The most common methods are nail down, glue down, and floating.

Nail down installation is the most traditional method and involves securing the hardwood planks to the subfloor with nails. This method is generally more expensive, but it also provides a more solid and stable foundation for the flooring. Nail down installation is best for solid hardwood flooring and is not recommended for engineered hardwood.

Glue down installation involves applying a adhesive to the subfloor and pressing the hardwood planks into place. This method is generally less expensive than nail down installation and is a good choice for engineered hardwood or for areas with concrete subfloors.

Floating installation is the easiest and most popular method for DIY projects. It involves laying the hardwood planks on top of an underlayment, with no nails or glue required. The planks are held in place by a series of interlocking mechanisms, making this method quick and easy to install. Floating installation is suitable for both solid and engineered hardwood, and it is a good choice for areas with concrete or uneven subfloors.

When it comes to choosing the best installation method for your hardwood flooring, it's important to consider the type of wood, the condition of the subfloor, and your budget. It's also a good idea to consult with a professional installer or a knowledgeable salesperson to determine the best option for your specific needs.

In addition to choosing the right type of wood and installation method, it's also important to consider the cost of hardwood flooring. Hardwood can be a significant investment, and the cost will vary depending on the type of wood, the grade of the wood, and the size of the area being covered. Exotic wood species and higher grades of wood will generally be more expensive, while domestic wood species and lower grades may be more budget-friendly. It's a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal.

Maintenance

When it comes to maintaining hardwood flooring, it's important to follow a regular cleaning and maintenance routine to keep it looking its best. Regular sweeping and dusting will help to keep the floor free of dirt and debris, and a damp mop can be used for more thorough cleaning. It's also important to use protective pads on the feet of furniture to prevent scratches, and to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the floor.

If you have a polyurethane finish on your hardwood flooring, it's important to reapply the finish every few years to keep it looking its best. This process involves sanding down the surface of the wood and applying a new layer of polyurethane. This can be done by a professional or by a DIY enthusiast with the proper tools and experience.

Hardwood flooring can be a beautiful and durable addition to any home, but it's important to choose the right type of wood and finish for your specific needs and style. With proper care and maintenance, hardwood flooring can last for decades, making it a worthwhile investment for any homeowner.

In conclusion, hardwood flooring is a classic and timeless choice for any home. It adds warmth, character, and value to a space, and can be a beautiful and durable option for any room in your house. With so many types and grades of wood to choose from, as well as different types of finishes and installation options, there is a hardwood flooring option to suit every style and budget. With proper care and maintenance, hardwood flooring can last for decades, making it a worthwhile investment for any homeowner.

Last Words

We know how a flooring project is a huge undertaking for you. But if you’re not in a rush, I encourage you to shop around. Then check us out. We're a Factory Direct Retailer, so our hardwood prices are guaranteed cheaper than any other retailer. We import the materials ourselves, passing along the savings to you. Should you have any further questions, please email us at hello@redeemedflooring.com.