Hardwood flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners, thanks to its durability and natural beauty. However, there are many questions that arise when considering hardwood flooring for your home.
In this blog post, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions about hardwood flooring to help you make an informed decision.
What types of hardwood flooring are available?
There are several types of hardwood flooring available, including solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, and laminate hardwood. Solid hardwood is made from 100% real wood and can be sanded and refinished multiple times.
Engineered hardwood is made up of a core of hardwood or plywood with a layer of real hardwood on top. This type of flooring is more stable than solid hardwood and can be installed in areas where solid hardwood cannot. Laminate hardwood is made from a high-resolution photograph of real wood, with a laminate surface that mimics the look of hardwood.
How do I choose the right hardwood flooring for my home?
When choosing hardwood flooring for your home, consider the level of foot traffic in the area, as well as the level of humidity.
Solid hardwood is a good choice for high-traffic areas and low-humidity environments, while engineered hardwood is better suited for high-humidity areas. Laminate hardwood is a good option for high-traffic areas, but it is not as durable as solid or engineered hardwood.
What is the cost of hardwood flooring?
[Source: Superior Flooring]
The cost of hardwood flooring can vary depending on the type of hardwood, the size of the area, and the complexity of the installation. On average, solid hardwood flooring can cost between $3 and $14 per square foot, while engineered hardwood can cost between $2 and $10 per square foot. Laminate hardwood is the most budget-friendly option, costing between $1 and $5 per square foot.
How do I maintain my hardwood flooring?
Proper maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your hardwood flooring. Regular sweeping or vacuuming will remove dirt and debris, and a damp mop can be used to remove spills or stains. Avoid using water or harsh cleaning products on your hardwood flooring, as they can damage the finish. Also, be sure to use furniture protectors on the legs of your furniture to prevent scratches.
Can I refinish my hardwood flooring?
[Source: Superior Flooring]
Yes, you can refinish your hardwood flooring. The number of times you can refinish the flooring will depend on the thickness of the wood, but on average, solid hardwood flooring can be refinished up to 5-7 times. Engineered hardwood and laminate hardwood flooring cannot be refinished.
How do I decide between pre-finished and unfinished hardwood flooring?
Prefinished hardwood flooring comes with a factory-applied finish, while unfinished hardwood flooring requires the finish to be applied on-site. Prefinished hardwood flooring typically has a harder and more durable finish, and it can be walked on immediately after installation. Unfinished hardwood flooring allows for more customization, such as the ability to match the finish to existing woodwork or to create a specific look.
Can hardwood flooring be installed over radiant heat?
[Source: Superior Flooring]
Yes, hardwood flooring can be installed over radiant heat, but it is important to choose a type of hardwood that is suitable for this type of installation. Engineered hardwood is typically the best option for radiant heat, as it is more stable than solid hardwood and can expand and contract without warping.
What are the benefits of hardwood flooring over other types of flooring?
[Source: Superior Flooring]
Hardwood flooring offers many benefits, including durability, natural beauty, and the ability to increase the value of your home. Hardwood flooring is also easy to clean and maintain, and it can last for decades with proper care. Additionally, hardwood flooring is a natural and eco-friendly choice, as it can be made from sustainable or reclaimed wood.
How do I know if my hardwood flooring is of good quality?
When purchasing hardwood flooring, look for flooring that has been certified by organizations such as the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) or the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Additionally, look for flooring that has been kiln-dried to reduce the moisture content and prevent warping. The thickness of the hardwood planks and the type of finish used can also indicate the quality of the flooring.
Is hardwood flooring suitable for pets?
Hardwood flooring can be suitable for pets, but it is important to choose a type of hardwood that is durable and can withstand scratches. Engineered hardwood or high-quality laminate flooring can be a good option for pet owners. Additionally, using furniture protectors on the legs of furniture and keeping your pet’s nails trimmed can help to prevent scratches on the flooring.
Can hardwood flooring be installed over existing flooring?
[Source: Superior Flooring]
Hardwood flooring can be installed over existing flooring, but it is important to ensure that the existing flooring is in good condition and is level. A moisture barrier should also be installed to prevent water damage. Additionally, it is important to check the thickness of the existing flooring, as some types of flooring may need to be removed to accommodate the thickness of the hardwood flooring.
What is the difference between a solid hardwood floor and an engineered hardwood floor?
[Source: Superior Flooring]
A solid hardwood floor is made from 100% real wood and can be sanded and refinished multiple times. An engineered hardwood floor is made up of a core of hardwood or plywood with a layer of real hardwood on top. Engineered hardwood flooring is more stable and can be installed in areas where solid hardwood cannot.
How long does it take to install hardwood flooring?
The time it takes to install hardwood flooring can vary depending on the size of the area and the complexity of the installation. A standard installation of hardwood flooring can take anywhere from a few days to a week.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, hardwood flooring is a beautiful and durable option for any home. By considering the type of hardwood, cost, maintenance, and specific needs of your home, you can choose the best hardwood flooring option for your space.
If you have any more questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact the MacDonald Hardwoods team. We would be more than happy to help anyone in the surrounding Denver area with their hardwood flooring needs!