Hardwood floors have been a popular choice for homeowners for centuries, thanks to their timeless beauty, durability, and ability to add value to a property. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right type of hardwood flooring for your home. In this blog, we'll explore the different types of hardwood floors to help you make an informed decision.
Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood flooring is made from a single piece of wood and is typically 3/4 inch thick. This type of flooring can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it a long-lasting option.
Popular solid hardwood species:
- Oak (Red and White)
- Maple
- Walnut
- Cherry
- Hickory
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood consists of a thin layer of hardwood on top of a plywood base. This construction makes it more stable and resistant to moisture than solid hardwood.
Benefits of engineered hardwood:
- Better resistance to humidity and temperature changes
- Can be installed in basements and over concrete subfloors
- Comparable pricing to solid hardwood and luxury vinyl
Hardwood Floor Finishes
The finish of your hardwood floor can greatly impact its appearance and durability. Here are some common finishes:
- Oil-based polyurethane: Durable and affordable
- Water-based polyurethane: Quick-drying and low-odor
- Aluminum oxide: Extremely durable, often used on prefinished floors
- Hard-wax oil: Natural-looking with easy spot-repairs
Hardwood Floor Styles
- Strip Flooring & Plank Flooring
Narrow planks, typically start at 2.5 inches wide and can go all the way to 6 inches, create a classic look. The plank flooring boards are usually 3 to 8 inches wide, offer a rustic or modern appearance depending on the wood species and finish.
- Wide Plank Flooring
Wider boards, usually 7 inches wide and up, offer a rustic or modern appearance depending on the wood species and finish. The wider planks have gained popularity in recent years and continue to stay among the most requested products by the homeowners.
- Parquet Flooring
Geometric patterns created by small pieces of wood, often in a herringbone or chevron design. These boards can be either cut on the spot, or premade in certain length. Several vendor offer the same color of flooring in either regular plank or herringbone.
Choosing the Right Hardwood Floor
When selecting a hardwood floor, consider the following factors:
- Your budget
- The room's function and foot traffic
- Your home's overall style
- Maintenance requirements
- Local climate and humidity levels
By understanding the different types of hardwood floors available, you can choose the perfect option to enhance your home's beauty and value for years to come.
Remember, regardless of the type you choose, proper care and maintenance will ensure your hardwood floors remain beautiful for generations.
Floorzz gives you one of the largest selections of the finest solid and engineered hardwoods from brands including Bella Cera, Pinnacle, Fabrica, Provenza and HF Design. We offer a variety of species including Maple, Walnut, Oak, and Hickory from different areas of the world. If you're looking for new engineered or solid hardwood flooring for your new home or remodel, we have what you need. Check out Floorzz selection of hardwood flooring and our team can help you if you have any questions or need to order samples.