What to consider when choosing hardwood flooring
There’s a good reason why wood floors will be trending for at least the next 15 years. They have a rich, warm, classic look that fits into any decor. Hardwood flooring never goes out of style, and they last for decades, sometimes as much as 100 years. Choosing a species and color is essential, but there are several other things to think about.
Solid or engineered?
There are two versions of wood flooring. Solid is harvested from solid wood logs, and installation is a traditional tongue and groove. The floors can be either factory or site finished and come in wide or narrow planks or strips. Solid can be damaged by excess water, and it shrinks and contracts to adjust to the weather, so acclimation is necessary.
Engineered wood flooring looks like solid wood, but the construction is different, resulting in more stability and a better ability to handle water. At the top is your species of choice with undertones, knots, and swirls, but underneath are three or more layers with genuine wood, combined with a little resin and then placed in a crosswise position. As a result, it can be installed in any grade level, including the basement. Engineered wood can be installed over concrete, known for dampness, and it offers an additional installation technique: the floating floor, which is clicked, mat, and hover. It can be refinished and adds the same value to your property as solid.
Engineered wood flooring looks like solid wood, but the construction is different, resulting in more stability and a better ability to handle water. At the top is your species of choice with undertones, knots, and swirls, but underneath are three or more layers with genuine wood, combined with a little resin and then placed in a crosswise position. As a result, it can be installed in any grade level, including the basement. Engineered wood can be installed over concrete, known for dampness, and it offers an additional installation technique: the floating floor, which is clicked, mat, and hover. It can be refinished and adds the same value to your property as solid.
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Choice of species
Not all hardwood has the same hardness level, so you need to decide if you have extra durability and strength needs. Also, look at the style. Do you like a lot of knots and swirls, or would you rather something more subtle? Do you prefer light woods or dark or medium tones? Do you have a preference as to plank width?
Factory or onsite finishing?
There are different gloss levels and techniques, and many prefer factory finishes because they know what they are getting right away. They have samples in hand and can start coordinating as the floor is getting ready for shipment. Alternatively, some prefer onsite, as they have better control over the sheen. Be sure to ask if a water or oil-based finish is better for your needs.
As you can see, there’s a little more to deciding on hardwood flooring than you might have thought. We’ll help you select the best wood floor for your needs and style. Come in for a complimentary design consultation and a free measurement for your hardwood flooring at the San Juan Interiors showroom in Friday Harbor, WA. We serve customers in Friday Harbor, WA, San Juan Island, WA, [[cms:city3] && Lopez Island, WA.
