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How to choose hardwood
Hardwood flooring adds warmth and charm to any home, but choosing it isn't a simple matter of just deciding what's prettiest. There are many factors to consider, such as durability, water resistance, budget, and more. To help you select the best for your needs, we compiled a short question-and-answer.
What if my house is prone to leaks and high moisture?
You've likely heard that any wood can be damaged by water and solid wood floors are no different. While that problem can be eliminated through acclimation, you might also consider engineered wood flooring. This is a version of hardwood that is more stable and better able to handle water.
While solid is, as it sounds, one thickness throughout the plank, engineered, is layered. At the top is a slab of your species, giving it undertones, knots, swirls, and grains. Underneath are three or more authentic wood layers, combined with a little resin and placed in a crosswise position. Like solid, it can be sanded, refinished, and adds value. Unlike solid, it can be installed over cement subfloors and below-grade areas, such as the basement.
While solid is, as it sounds, one thickness throughout the plank, engineered, is layered. At the top is a slab of your species, giving it undertones, knots, swirls, and grains. Underneath are three or more authentic wood layers, combined with a little resin and placed in a crosswise position. Like solid, it can be sanded, refinished, and adds value. Unlike solid, it can be installed over cement subfloors and below-grade areas, such as the basement.
Engineered has a range of 3/8-3/4
Yes, and whether it is solid or engineered, the thickness determines the number of times a floor can be sanded. Ideal for solid is ¾-inch, and it can be sanded up to six times. Engineered has a range of ⅝ to ½- inch, and, depending on thickness, it can be sanded up to five times.
Do I get factory finished or on-site?
Factory finish has the main benefit in that you know exactly what you're getting. You will have a sample to use when coordinating other furnishings, wall coverings, accessories, etc. However, some people prefer on-site finishing, as there is more variety of and better control over sheen.
How do I decide on species?
While the most popular are hickory, oak (both red and white), maple, walnut, and cherry, you're not limited to that. You need to ask yourself some questions, such as if you have any extra durability needs. Not all hardwood has the same level of hardness. Do you prefer dark and dramatic or something warmer and more traditional? Do you like a lot of knots and grains, or would you prefer something more subtle?
While solid hardwood flooring is a tongue and groove installation, engineered can be a floating floor. Our installations are of the highest quality, with great appearance and performance. Visit any one of the Metro Carpet & Floors five showrooms. We have locations in Dearborn Heights, MI, Canton, MI, Waterford Township, MI, Troy, MI, and Farmington Hills, MI. Visit us for your free quote on hardwood flooring.
While solid hardwood flooring is a tongue and groove installation, engineered can be a floating floor. Our installations are of the highest quality, with great appearance and performance. Visit any one of the Metro Carpet & Floors five showrooms. We have locations in Dearborn Heights, MI, Canton, MI, Waterford Township, MI, Troy, MI, and Farmington Hills, MI. Visit us for your free quote on hardwood flooring.
