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By Laine McKenna

If you’ve never picked out a hardwood floor before, chances are, you’re a bit overwhelmed. Do you go with engineered or solid construction? Pre-finished or unfinished? A natural, smooth finish or an antique finish with hand-scraped accents? Not to mention, you have to select the species of wood, the color, and determine what size plank you want.

Hardwood Flooring Installation Choices

Thankfully for you, this is something you’ll only have to do once. Hardwood Floors are made to last a long time, and unless you plan on moving frequently, it’s a home investment you’ll only have to make once. Still, the selection process can be daunting. You want a floor that’s going to suit your family’s needs, and from an aesthetics standpoint, convey the appropriate message about your home.

By learning some of the basics about Hardwood Flooring, your selection process will be much easier. In this two-part series, I’ll attempt to help you understand some of the commonly used terms of hardwood flooring and the different types of wood floors available. First, I’ll explain the differences in construction and species.

Hardwood floors are classified into two categories: “Solid” and “Engineered” construction. Solid Hardwood Floors are solid pieces of wood, ¾ of an inch thick, and topped with multiple protective coats. They do not fare well in areas that receive a lot of moisture, so bathrooms and kitchens are a no-no. Also, with natural wood, there is a tendency to contract and expand when the outside temperature and humidity changes.

Engineered Hardwood Floors have several layers of wood beneath a specified wood species, and topped with several layers of protective coating. Engineered wood floors’ multi-layer construction is referred to as “cross-grained,” and prevents the tendencies of natural wood.

Engineered floors can be installed in high-moisture areas, which make them a popular choice throughout homes. They can also be installed below ground level and over concrete.

When it comes to species, it’s best to view samples of woods first. You’ll see the colors, and get a feel for pricing. If cost is an issue, your best bet is to go with a traditional, American wood such as oak. Bruce Hardwoods Flooring Adventure Plank Collection has engineered floors for just $3.13 per square foot. For solids, try Bruce Strip Flooring for just $3.54 per square foot.

For exotic flooring like the ever-popular Brazilian Cherry, Mahogany, and Bamboo, it’s best to shop around. Exotics are made from rare species so they cost a bit more, but there are many, many affordable options available. Mohawk Engineered Bamboo Wood Flooring can be found for $4.69 per square foot. The Mohawk Montego Brazilian Cherry Floor can be found for $4.76 per square foot.

Most Hard wood Flooring Retail specialists will work with you to find your best deal on hard wood floors. Any business is better than no business, and an expert who can guide you through the process will make your hard wood flooring selection process much easier.

About the author:
Considering purchasing a hardwood floor but don’t know where to begin? Are you confused by industry terminology? Learn the basics of hardwood flooring, including types of hardwoods and where the good deals are.

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