Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel or building a new room, hardwood flooring is an excellent investment in the future of your home. When well-maintained, this flooring can last several decades, and it looks fantastic in practically any setting. The biggest problem with hardwood is deciding which type works best for your space. Here are a few pointers to help you choose. 

How to Choose the Best Hardwood Floor

1. Solid or Engineered

To begin narrowing down your options, you’ll first have to decide between solid and engineered flooring. While solid hardwood is entirely made from timber, engineered wood consists of a thin layer of hardwood bonded on top of multiple layers of plywood that are placed in opposing directions. This prevents the flooring from contracting and expanding when exposed to moisture changes. However, unlike solid hardwood, engineered planks cannot be repeatedly sanded to remove any scratches, chips, and dents that might occur. 

2. Placement

If you are performing a bathroom or kitchen remodel, you have to consider how the moisture and humidity in these spaces will affect the hardwood. Engineered flooring is a better choice for these rooms, but if the space is well ventilated, a heavier, denser species—such as teak, mahogany, walnut, oak, or cherry—will resist shrinking and warping. 

These woods are also some of the most durable options and hold up well in rooms that receive a lot of foot traffic. If you have pets, kids, or just love to entertain guests, these floors will withstand damage, so you don’t need to sand and refinish the floor anytime soon.

3. Style

While harder wood species offer more durability, you’ll get more color variation with softer species. Choices like ash, birch, black walnut, and cherry are more easily stained to create different looks. However, most hardwood floors will come in different textures and can be stained in a range of shades. You’ll also have the option of adding a gloss, matte, or satin finish to suit your specific style preferences.

 

 

Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel or renovating your entire home, the experts at B & D Home Improvement will help transform your space. Since 1976, this family-owned and -operated company has provided a variety of home improvement services, including bathroom and kitchen remodeling, home additions, and window replacements to residents in North Haven, CT. All clients will deal directly with owner William Kyrtopoulos from the initial consultation to the completion of the job. Call (203) 239-1974 or visit their website to learn more about their services.