Hardwood Flooring: Top 10 FAQs Answered!

Purchasing hardwood floors is a significant investment, and it's understandable that people have many questions before making a decision. Here are the top 10 questions that people often have when buying hardwood floors, along with information to help clarify and answer them.

What type of wood should I choose?

There are many different types of wood to choose from when it comes to hardwood floors, and each one has its own unique characteristics and benefits. Some popular choices include oak, maple, cherry, and hickory.

Oak is a durable and affordable option that is resistant to moisture and wear and tear. It is a popular choice for its classic look and versatility, as it can be stained in a wide range of colors.

Maple is known for its light color and smooth finish, and it is a popular choice for its modern and contemporary look. It is also a hard and durable wood, making it suitable for high traffic areas.

Cherry is a popular choice for its rich, warm color, which deepens and darkens over time. It is a softer wood, so it may not be as durable as some other options, but it can add a sophisticated and elegant touch to a space.

Hickory is known for its strength and durability, as well as its natural variation in color and grain pattern. It is a popular choice for its rustic and natural look.

Ultimately, the type of wood you choose will depend on your personal preference, budget, and the look you want to achieve in your space.

How do I choose the right finish for my hardwood floors?

The finish on your hardwood floors plays a crucial role in protecting them from wear and tear and enhancing their overall appearance. There are several factors to consider when choosing the right finish for your hardwood floors. The first is the type of finish. There are three main types of finishes: oil-based, water-based, and polyurethane. Oil-based finishes are durable and long-lasting, but they can yellow over time and have a strong odor. Water-based finishes are more environmentally friendly and dry quickly, but they may not be as durable as oil-based finishes. Polyurethane finishes are the most common and offer a balance of durability and ease of application. The best woods offer the polyurethane and aluminum oxide combined finish to help protect woods against dents and scratches.

Another factor to consider is the level of gloss you want. Hardwood floors are available in high gloss, medium gloss, and low gloss finishes. High gloss finishes reflect a lot of light and give a shiny appearance, while low gloss finishes have a more matte appearance and are more subtle. Medium gloss finishes fall somewhere in between. The level of gloss you choose will depend on your personal preference and the style of your home. A high gloss finish may be a good choice for a formal or modern space, while a low gloss finish may be more suitable for a rustic or traditional space.

How do I care for my hardwood floors?

Proper care and maintenance is essential to keeping your hardwood floors looking beautiful for years to come. Here are a few tips for caring for your hardwood floors:

• Use floor protectors on furniture to prevent scratching and scuffing.
• Sweep or dust your floors regularly to remove dirt and debris.
• Use a damp mop or cloth to clean your floors, rather than soaking them. This will help to prevent water damage and warping.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your floors. These can strip the finish and damage the wood. Instead, use a gentle cleaner specifically designed for hardwood floors.
• Use area rugs in high traffic areas to protect your floors from wear and tear. This will help to extend the lifespan of your floors and keep them looking beautiful.
• Can hardwood floors be refinished?

Yes, hardwood floors can be refinished to restore their original appearance. Refinishing involves sanding down the top layer of wood and applying a new finish. This process can be done several times over the life of the floor, depending on the thickness of the wood and the extent of the wear and tear. Refinishing is a great way to refresh the look of your hardwood floors and extend their lifespan.

If your hardwood floors are showing signs of wear and tear, such as scratches, dents, or discoloration, refinishing may be a good option. It is also a good choice if you want to change the color or finish of your floors. However, it is important to note that refinishing is a labor-intensive process and can be costly, especially if you hire a professional to do the work. It is also important to note that refinishing will remove a layer of wood, so the process can only be done a certain number of times before the floor becomes too thin.

How do I choose the right color for my hardwood floors?

The color of your hardwood floors will have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your space. When choosing the right color, consider the style of your home, the color of your walls and furniture, and the amount of natural light in the room. Lighter colors tend to make a room feel larger and more open, while darker colors can add warmth and depth. It's also a good idea to consider the resale value of your home and choose a color that will appeal to a wide range of potential buyers.

If you're not sure which color to choose, it may be helpful to look at samples in your space to see how they look in different lighting conditions. You can also consider hiring a designer or seeking the advice of a flooring expert to help you choose the right color.

Can hardwood floors be installed in any room?

Hardwood floors can be installed in most rooms of the house, but there are a few things to consider before making a decision. Hardwood floors may not be the best choice for rooms with high humidity, such as bathrooms and laundry rooms, as they can expand and contract with changes in moisture levels. In these cases, it may be better to choose a moisture-resistant flooring option, such as tile or luxury vinyl.

Hardwood floors can also be sensitive to temperature changes, so they may not be suitable for rooms with extreme temperatures, such as basements or attics. In these cases, it may be better to choose a more temperature-resistant flooring option, such as carpet or ceramic tile.

If you do decide to install hardwood floors in a room with high humidity or extreme temperatures, it is important to take steps to ensure that the wood is properly acclimated and protected. This may involve installing a moisture barrier or using a special adhesive to secure the wood to the subfloor.

How do I choose the right thickness for my hardwood floors?

The thickness of hardwood floors is typically measured in inches and ranges from 3/8" to 3/4". Thicker hardwood floors tend to be more durable and can be sanded down and refinished more times than thinner floors. However, they also tend to be more expensive and may require more extensive installation. Thinner hardwood floors may be a good choice for lower traffic areas or if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option.

When choosing the right thickness for your hardwood floors, it is important to consider the level of traffic in the area where the floors will be installed. If you have children or pets, or if you expect a lot of foot traffic, you may want to choose a thicker hardwood floor to ensure maximum durability and longevity. Thicker hardwood floors may also be a good choice for stairs, as they are more resistant to wear and tear.

On the other hand, if you're installing hardwood floors in a low traffic area, such as a bedroom or a formal living room, a thinner hardwood floor may be sufficient. Thinner hardwood floors are also a good choice if you're looking to save money, as they tend to be less expensive than thicker options.

How do I choose the right width for my hardwood floors?

The width of hardwood floors is typically measured in inches and ranges from 2" to 9.5". Wide plank hardwood floors, which are typically 5" or wider, can add a sense of rustic charm and warmth to a space. They can also help to create a sense of continuity, as fewer seams are visible. Narrow plank hardwood floors, which are typically 2" to 3", can create a more modern and streamlined look. They can also make a room feel larger, as the narrower planks can help to elongate the space. The width of your hardwood floors will depend on your personal preference and the style of your home.

When choosing the right width for your hardwood floors, it is also important to consider the size of the room. In smaller rooms, wider plank hardwood floors may make the space feel cramped, while narrower plank hardwood floors may help to open up the space. In larger rooms, wider plank hardwood floors may be a good choice to help fill the space, while narrower plank hardwood floors may create a more intimate and cozy feel.

How do I choose the right installation method for my hardwood floors?

There are several different installation methods for hardwood floors, including nail-down, staple-down, glue-down, and floating. Nail-down and staple-down installation involves attaching the hardwood floors to the subfloor using nails or staples. This method is typically used for solid wood floors and is best suited for wood subfloors. Glue-down installation involves using adhesive to attach the hardwood floors to the subfloor. This method is typically used for engineered wood floors and can be used on concrete or wood subfloors. Floating installation involves laying the hardwood floors on top of a foam underlayment and securing them together with a tongue and groove system. This method is suitable for both solid and engineered wood floors and can be used on concrete or wood subfloors.

The best installation method for your hardwood floors will depend on the type of wood, the subfloor, and the area where the floors will be installed. It is important to choose an installation method that is suitable for the specific type of wood and subfloor you have, as well as the conditions in the room where the floors will be installed. For example, if you have a concrete subfloor, you may want to choose a glue-down or floating installation method, as these are suitable for concrete. If you have a wood subfloor, you may want to choose a nail-down or staple-down installation method, as these are suitable for wood.

How much do hardwood floors cost?

The cost of hardwood floors can vary widely, depending on the type of wood, the finish, the thickness, the width, and the installation method. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $4 to $15 per square foot for just the hardwood floors. The cost of installation will also vary depending on the complexity of the job. It's a good idea to get quotes from multiple contractors before making a decision to ensure you're getting the best deal.

In addition to the cost of the materials and installation, it's also important to consider the ongoing costs of maintaining your hardwood floors. This may include the cost of cleaning supplies, floor protectors, and area rugs. It's a good idea to budget for these ongoing costs when determining your overall budget for hardwood floors.

It's also worth considering the long-term value of hardwood floors. While they may be more expensive upfront, they can add value to your home and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. This makes them a good investment in the long run, even if the initial cost may be higher.

Last Words

We know how a flooring project is a huge undertaking for you… and can be very expensive. 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. We have pro installers with 15+ years of experience, at your service. Should you have any further questions, please email us at hello@redeemedflooring.com.