Everything You Need to Know About Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring brings timeless beauty and long-lasting durability to your home, making it one of the most sought-after choices for homeowners. At Flooring America, our hardwood experts are here to guide you every step of the way, helping you find the perfect style and finish to match your needs and lifestyle. From understanding the benefits of solid and engineered hardwood to learning tips for maintenance and design, our FAQ has all the expert guidance you need. Explore our hardwood flooring frequently asked questions to make confident decisions and transform your space with our trusted expertise!

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What Are the Different Types of Hardwood Flooring?

There are two main types of hardwood flooring to choose from:

• Solid Hardwood is crafted from a single piece of wood, offering a classic look and exceptional durability. Solid wood can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it a long-lasting choice.
• Engineered Hardwood features a hardwood veneer layered over a sturdy core. This construction makes it more resistant to changes in humidity and moisture, perfect for areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.

Additionally, hardwood flooring comes in a variety of species, each offering unique characteristics. Popular options include oak, maple, and hickory, known for their durability and timeless beauty, while exotic species like Brazilian cherry or teak provide bold colors and distinct grain patterns. The choice of species allows you to tailor the look and feel of your flooring to suit your style.

Our experts can help you weigh the pros and cons to select the best fit for your home and lifestyle.

What’s the Difference Between Solid Hardwood and Engineered Hardwood?

The difference lies in durability and versatility:

• Solid Hardwood is crafted from a single piece of wood, offering timeless appeal and exceptional durability. Its ability to be refinished multiple times ensures a long lifespan, making it a classic and reliable choice.
• Engineered Hardwood features a hardwood veneer layered over a sturdy base, providing enhanced stability and resistance to moisture—ideal for spaces like basements. However, its refinishing potential depends on the thickness of the veneer and may not be recommended.

Both options come in a variety of styles and finishes. We’ll help you choose the perfect one for your home.

Are Hardwood Floors Good for High-Traffic Areas?

Absolutely! Hardwood flooring is known for its durability, especially species like oak, hickory, and maple. These harder wood options hold up well against foot traffic. Adding area rugs in high-use spaces and maintaining the finish will further extend the life of your floors. At Flooring America, we offer hardwood floors designed to handle the liveliest homes!

What’s the Best Hardwood Flooring for Homes with Pets?

For pet-friendly homes, durability is key. Consider harder woods like hickory or maple that resist scratches. Opt for finishes designed to mask wear and tear. Rugs in play areas and entryways are also helpful to protect the floor surface. We recommend choosing options with our pet-friendly seal for added peace of mind. For even greater reassurance, look for products featuring both our pet-friendly and waterproof seals. Flooring America carries pet-friendly hardwood styles to meet the needs of busy families while keeping your home stylish and comfortable.

Why Does Hardwood Acclimation Matter?

Manufacturers typically advise allowing hardwood products to acclimate in the installation space for at least 72 hours before use. To ensure proper acclimation:

• Arrange the hardwood boxes for ample airflow.
• Stack them no more than four high.
• Leave at least six inches of space around each stack.

This step helps the wood adjust to the room’s humidity and temperature, preventing potential issues like warping after installation.

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