Hardwood Flooring FAQ

Hardwood flooring is undeniably gorgeous, extremely durable, and relatively easy to clean and maintain. The wide-ranging natural tones and species go from light and airy, warm honey and blonde, to rich brown and deep charcoal. Hardwood floors provide exceptional natural character with graining, knots, and markings. Distressed, hand-scraped, wire-brushed, and smooth hardwood textures deliver supreme beauty. As a natural material, genuine hardwood planks can be susceptible to damage from scratches, moisture, and extreme temperature change.

Engineered hardwood is made from real hardwood slats glued together in a layered construction, alternating directions to reinforce the strength of each plank. A real high-quality wood veneer and reinforced finish top each plank providing authentic hardwood beauty with enhanced durability and moisture protection. The engineered construction means that the wood floor will expand and contract less in humid climates and can be used below-grade in some cases.

Waterproof hardwood features an engineered construction that combines a genuine wood veneer with a rigid core for waterproof performance. Waterproof hardwood will come at a higher price point than other waterproof flooring selections. Since moisture can seep into porous wood planks causing discoloration, oxidization, and even mold, waterproof hardwoods offer worry-free living for active homes and allow homeowners to match flooring in moisture-prone areas.

Yes! When you invest in genuine hardwood floors, you will have the ability to refinish the wood surface more than once over the years to remove scratches and restore the illustrious shine. You should consider refinishing hardwood floors if you notice significant scratching, fading, cupping, cracking, or discoloration. Many engineered hardwood or waterproof hardwood products have finishes that will not allow you to refinish the surface.

Although hardwood flooring may represent a significant investment for some households, hardwood floors consistently rank at the top of desired surfaces in homebuyer surveys. Hardwood floors will retain value better and boost resale value more than all other flooring options.

Installing hardwood planks is not DIY-friendly. Many power and hand tools are needed including saws, leveling tools, compressors, nail guns, sanders, buffers, adhesives, and more. You need to have knowledge of centering rooms, expansion gaps, working around doors, closets, and stairs, and cutting planks for tricky floorplans. Mistakes are extremely expensive and time-consuming. Some engineered or waterproof hardwoods offer glue, staple, or floating installation, but the waterproof and performance warranties are highly contingent on proper installation. Due to the complicated hardwood installation process and money spent on your floors, it is strongly recommended to hire professionals to install your hardwood floors for best long-term results.

No, the level of durability can vary widely among different hardwood species. Whereas pine hardwood planks can dent easily, hickory and bamboo planks can withstand heavy foot traffic better. Popular oak varieties can vary in the level of durability offered. Each wood product has a Janka hardness rating that will indicate the level of resistance to denting and wear. The Janka rating can help you match a hardwood durability level with the needs of your household.

Hardwood flooring provides tremendous durability and removing debris particles will help prevent wear even more. Dust-mopping your floor daily or weekly with a microfiber cloth or dust mop is the best regular practice. Vacuuming will offer a deeper clean, but make sure your vacuum model has no rotating brushes. If your flooring manufacturer has warranted your hardwood surface for mopping, follow the guidelines strictly, use the least amount of water needed, and dry your floor with a microfiber cloth.

If you need to clean a spill on your hardwood, avoid using harsh cleaners or any cleaner designed for other flooring materials like vinyl, laminate, or tile. Look for liquid scratch concealer, wood floor polish, floor wax, and touch-up kits, but make sure to read all instructions before using them to ensure the product is safe for your wood species and finish. Try your cleaning product in an inconspicuous area before using them to clean stains in more visible sections.

According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost in 2023 to purchase hardwood flooring is between $6 and $12 per square foot. This factors in labor and hardwood installation costs, as it is widely recommended that you hire professionals for your hardwood installation. Also, hardwood flooring costs will vary among the different hardwood species.

Under normal household conditions, your hardwood flooring should last from 25 to 30 years without requiring any major work. By sanding, refinishing, and repairing your authentic hardwood floors when needed, your floors can last for decades longer and will be prized by prospective buyers for their timeless charm.