The Timeless Charm of Hardwood: A Comprehensive Primer

Hardwood Floors: a Primer

Hardwood floors may lean towards the higher end of your budget, but their longevity and robustness are sure to compensate for the initial investment.

To safeguard against water marks, dents, and scratches, opt for hardwood flooring that boasts sturdy protective layers and finishes which guard the wood underneath. You can anticipate prolonged enjoyment as hardwood typically requires refinishing only once per decade. Hardwood's unsurpassed quality and intricate, natural patterns are attributes that many synthetic alternatives such as vinyl or laminate STILL aspire to mimic.

If you decide on hardwood floors, we suggest hiring an expert hardwood flooring specialists, since hardwood planks necessitate nailing, stapling, or gluing. Engaging a professional installer alleviates the uncertainty, guaranteeing an impeccably finished floor for your immediate delight. Contemplating hardwood floors? Explore the following aspects to refine your selection:

Water Resistance Capability:

Depending on your needs, hardwood floors can either be water-resistant or waterproof. For areas such as kitchens, laundry rooms, or living rooms, where occasional spills may occur, water-resistant hardwood is an optimal choice, as it avoids water damage and staining.

Engineered vs. Solid Wood:

Your preferences and budget should guide your choice between engineered and solid wood. Engineered wood, constructed from plywood layers and wood veneer, offers greater resilience against moisture-induced warping and superior compatibility with concrete subfloors. Generally, engineered hardwood is a lot more stable against humidity and expansions caused by it.

Remember, wood is a living, breathing organic material that needs to expand and contract due to humidity and temperature. On the other hand, solid wood flooring, crafted from a single piece of lumber, is generally costlier per square foot but displays inherent sturdiness. But it can be unstable (prone to warping), especially when installed on top of concrete subfloors.

If you're adamant about solid wood, but your subfloor is concrete, consider a premium underlayment with resistance to moisture.

Hardness Grade:

The hardness of hardwood flooring is assessed via the Janka scale, gauging a wood panel's resistance to everyday wear and tear. Flooring with a lower hardness grade may be less resilient, but it provides a comfortable underfoot feel, making it suitable for bedrooms.

Mid-range hardness can effectively resist common scuffs and indentations, making it a good fit for dining and living spaces. High-hardness hardwood is ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways or kitchens due to its enhanced resistance.

Thickness Range:

You can select from various thickness levels for your hardwood flooring. Thicker hardwood, of ¾" or more, is apt for busy areas or for leveling uneven sublayers, while thinner panels, ranging between ¼" and ½", are suitable for rooms with less foot traffic and smooth or finished subfloors.

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.