Thinking of installing hardwood flooring in your space? You’re not alone. Hardwood floors remain the gold standard when it comes to flooring, quality, and durability that will last a lifetime. For the best hardwood flooring, you’ll want to pay attention to grade, surface finish, species, and board thickness.

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But with so many new types of flooring on the market, is it really worth paying more for hardwood? The answer to that question depends very much on you. What style do you prefer, how much are you willing to spend, and how long do you expect your floors to last?

Also, where are you planning to install your floors? Is it damp and are there lots of tricky bends and corners?

Well, in this article we will go through everything you need to know to decide whether hardwood floors are right for you. We will look at the benefits and disadvantages, what to look for to identify good quality hardwood floors, and the costs involved.

We will finish up by looking at some of the most trusted hardwood retailers in the market and by answering some burning questions that people tend to have about hardwood floors.

First up, the pros and cons.

Hardwood Flooring Pros

  1. Timeless
  2. Ability To Refinish
  3. Durability
  4. Allergy-Friendly
  5. Maintenance
  6. Property Value
  7. Natural Look
  8. Environmentally-Friendly

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1. Timeless

Ever wondered why hardwood is so popular? Maybe it’s because hardwood floors transcend time and changes in fashion. That’s why many homeowners opt to pay more for the look.

Hardwood Flooring Pros

Unlike laminate, carpeting, and even some types of tile, hardwood will never go out of style. Sure, you may have to refresh it. But it’s a lot less work to refinish a floor than it is to remove and replace it.

2. Ability To Refinish

Yes, we’ve all heard the argument that hardwood floors are susceptible to damage. And, yes, there’s a lot of truth to that. But, how many other types of flooring can you restore to look brand new after 100 years?

Think about it. If you install your hardwood when your children are young, you can expect wear and tear. But once your children have left the nest, you can restore that flooring to look as good as it did the day you installed it.

The best part? No Swiss bank account or massive demolition required.

3. Durable

Despite its fussy reputation, hardwood flooring is notably durable. Depending on the species of wood you choose, you may be surprised how much of a beating these floors can handle.

Strictly looking at Hardwood vs Tile, there are hardwood species that can hold up to foot traffic better than almost any tile. Still skeptical? Grab a sample of hardwood from your nearest home improvement store and test it out.

You’ll be impressed by how much effort it takes to blemish it. For that reason, dense wood such as oak and cherry make great choices for high traffic areas.

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4. Allergy-Friendly

If you battle seasonal allergies, you’ll be happy to know hardwood naturally repels most allergens, including pollen and pet dander.

Even the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America recommends hardwood flooring for those who have asthma. If you have little ones who spend time on the floor, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to sanitize hardwood and keep it germ-free.

5. Low-Maintenance

No one likes to spend hours cleaning their floors. Nor should they have to. That’s why hardwood flooring is an excellent choice for busy homes.

Yes, you’ll have to sweep up or use a hardwood floor vacuum a few times a week. And yes, you should damp mop your floors regularly to keep them sanitized. But, in general, hardwood floors are one of the simplest floors to maintain.

The trick is to protect your floors from day one. Make sure you use mats under pet dishes and coasters under your furniture. And if you’re worried about stains, don’t be. Most hardwood won’t discolor as long as spills are wiped up quickly.

6. Adds Value

Hardwood flooring provides an excellent return on investment (ROI). Not only is it cost-effective, but it actually adds value to your home, even if it’s scarred.

If you follow the home improvement world, I’m sure you’ve heard that most homebuyers list hardwood as a must-have feature. If you plan on selling, a beautiful wood floor could help you command higher listing fees and even incite a bidding war in your favor.

Thinking of refinancing? Then you’ll need an appraisal, and hardwood flooring can add a percentage to the appraisal value of your home.

When your home is appraised, an inspector will check the quality of materials used in the construction and design of your home. Having quality finishes like hardwood makes a favorable impression and leads to higher property value.

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7. Natural Look

Hardwood flooring is visually pleasing. The natural tones, textures, and grainings work together to enhance the atmosphere of your home. Plus, it complements any decor style.

For an open floor plan, consider wide plank wood flooring and a rich, chocolate color. Not only will this combination make your space appear larger, but it also allows for better flow and a more cohesive look.

8. Environmentally-Friendly

Since wood is a renewable resource, it’s popular with eco-conscious builders and remodelers. In fact, most trees are replaced immediately upon harvesting, so there is little to no chance of deforestation.

But there is a catch.

Not all wood is responsibly sourced. This means, unless your supplier can show you a certificate ensuring your wood complies with international forestry guidelines, the product you are purchasing may not be as green as you think.

The agency tasked with enforcing wood flooring regulations is The Forest Stewardship Council. The council is an international non-profit agency that oversees responsible forest management. Council members work closely with farmers, manufacturers, transporters, and suppliers to guard against illegal production and trade.

When buying wood flooring, always insist on seeing the product’s FSC certification, especially if you’re buying an exotic species such as mahogany or teak.

Hardwood Flooring Cons

  1. Expensive
  2. Loud
  3. Cold
  4. Water Damage
  5. Hard
  6. Prone To Scratches
  7. Difficult Installation

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1. Expensive

Depending on which species, size, and finish you choose, hardwood flooring can be a significant investment. It’s not unheard of for boards to run $15 per square foot.

If you’re flooring a small area, that may be reasonable. But if you plan on running hardwood throughout, you’ll need to shop within your budget.

You can find less expensive, quality hardwood if you shop around. A great way to cut costs is to buy unfinished wood.

Looking for another option? Check with a few local building companies. Often, they’ll buy large lots and sell the leftovers directly at a significant discount.

2. Loud

With the exception of carpeting, most flooring will make some noise. Hardwood can increase the acoustics in your room, and it does amplify sounds, but so does tile. Unless you’re holding a dance class in the living room, noise isn’t a huge drawback to hardwood flooring.

Nevertheless, many homeowners note their hardwood flooring is louder than expected. If acoustics are a sticking point, look into cork or vinyl plank. Both options will give you the look of hardwood minus the sound effects.

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3. Cold

Hardwood is warmer than tile or stone, but it can feel cold in the winter. The temperature may be especially uncomfortable for aging adults or anyone suffering from joint pain.

If you’re concerned about cold floors, consider installing underfloor radiant heating. There are several inexpensive radiant systems on the market. In fact, most systems pay for themselves within a few years by reducing your overall heating bill.

Just remember, not all wood is compatible with underfloor heat. Check with your installer or floor representative before purchasing the materials.

4. Water Damage

Hardwood isn’t the best choice for wet areas like bathrooms and basements. That’s because liquid can seep between the boards and cause discoloration and warping.

Plus, water-damaged boards can harbor mold and mildew.

If you choose to install wood in a damp area, be sure to lay a vapor barrier beneath the boards and monitor the room’s humidity level daily.

5. Hard

Wood floors aren’t always comfortable underfoot. They don’t absorb pressure or flex like cork or carpeting.

If you have small children learning to walk, wood floors won’t provide padding and may result in some bumps and bruises. Pets may also have difficulty adjusting to hardwood floors.

The good news? You can solve the problem with a few strategically-placed area rugs. This tactic also works well if you have hardwood floors in your kitchen.

A cushioned floor mat can do wonders to relieve aches and pains brought on by hours of food prep and cleanup.

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6. Prone To Scratches

For anyone who owns hardwood flooring, scratches are a part of life. Life happens, and when it does, your floors will probably tell the tale. But unlike many other floor coverings, wood can be repaired.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as steel wool or a wax wood filler. Most scratches rarely go deeper than the finish level. And in that case, it’s a simple fix.

Rest assured even years of abuse can be sanded away. Countless historical homes still have their original hardwood floors intact. Plus, scratches can add a bit of character to your space.

Still, if you have pets in your home, hardwood may not be worth the headache. If that’s the case, you might be better off installing vinyl plank, linoleum, or wood-look tile.

7. Difficult Installation

Installing solid hardwood isn’t a DIY job. And good flooring contractors are far from cheap. But unless you’ve had first-hand experience, professional flooring installation is a must.

Because wood is a natural product, you’ll need to account for expansion, contraction, variation, and transitions carefully. If you don’t, you’ll wind up with a giant and expensive jigsaw puzzle.

We know you may be able to operate a nail gun, but there’s a lot more to it than that. So, unless you’ve got nerves of steel, expect to fork over some cash to a pro who does this for a living.

Still in the market for hardwood? Good. Let’s show you what to look for.

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Selecting The Best Hardwood Flooring

  1. Grading
  2. Surface Finish
  3. Gloss
  4. Species
  5. Board Thickness
  6. Color, Length, and Width

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1. Grading

Most wood flooring falls into one of three categories or grades: Select, #1 Common, and #2 Common. Each grade is measured by characteristics such as color variations, knots, imperfections, and board length.

Selecting High-Quality Hardwood Flooring

The grade does not affect the durability or strength of the wood. It’s a design tool used for measuring appearance quality.

Select grade flooring appears more uniform in color and graining. This means there are slight tone variations and minimal imperfections. These boards are the most expensive because the extensive selection process limits the usable material extracted from the tree.

The next grade down is #1 Common. These boards have noticeable variations in length and color. #1 Common boards also feature small knots and holes. If Select grade flooring is beyond your budget, #1 Common is your best option.

#2 Common boards have a rustic appearance that fits well with cabin or country interiors. The boards feature large visible knots and sharp variations in tone. #2 Common boards are relatively inexpensive and can add a ton of charm and character to your home.

There is one last grade, but it’s not recommended for flooring: Tavern grade. Tavern grade boards are a cheap flooring option, for a reason. They’re full of knots, machine burns, and broken edges.

Tavern grade boards are best for small projects in inconspicuous areas.

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2. Surface Finish

Whether you’re purchasing prefinished or natural hardwood, you’ll need to protect it with a layer of sealer. Prefinished flooring comes with several coats of protectant applied, while unfinished flooring must be treated after applying the stain.

There are multiple sealing options available, including water-based polyurethane, wax, oil, and aluminum oxide.

Water-based polyurethane appears clear. This product is used in both factory finishes and onsite jobs. Water-based polyurethane has multiple levels of sheen and provides a strong, clear surface layer for your floor.

Oil and wax finishes are commonly used for onsite finishes. These products soak into the wood and form a protective shield that guards against scratches and staining. Both chemicals are easy to apply, but you’ll have to repeat the process every three to five years.

Aluminum oxide finishes are exclusive to pre-stained flooring. These finishes offer the highest level of protection and last up to 25 years.

The downside? Hardwoods with aluminum oxide surfaces are more expensive than other materials.

As with any chemical treatment, remember to check for the presence of VOCs. If you’re buying a chemical off the shelf, the information should be listed on the packaging. However, if you are purchasing prefinished flooring, ask to see the product’s air quality certification.

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3. Gloss

The level of sheen on your hardwood will dictate how often you clean. It also determines how noticeably imperfections and wear will show over time. Selecting the right finish for your home and family’s needs will save you time and aggravation.

High-gloss finishes have 70% luster. If you choose a high-gloss floor, understand there will be maintenance involved. These finishes tend to show every smudge and footprint. As a result, within minutes of cleaning the hardwood, it may be covered in prints and smudge marks from your hardwood mop, your children, or pets.

At 55% luster, semi-gloss flooring is more forgiving. It will still reveal your less-than-stellar mopping skills, but every little mark won’t jump out at you as you’re admiring your hard work. Semi-gloss may be more appealing to those who consider high-gloss hardwood to resemble gymnasium flooring.

The next step down is satin. Satin finishes are the most popular among homeowners and designers. Satin finishes are 40% luster. They are easy to keep clean and offer enough shine to showcase your floor’s beauty.

Matte flooring is a bit deceptive. In theory, it should hide smudge marks the best, but that’s not always the case. Think of it like this: matte paint highlights fingerprints, the same for flooring.

Matte hardwood works well for both modern and traditional styles, but it requires the same maintenance as high-gloss. If you have pets or like to keep your windows open, matte hardwood will show every speck of dust and hair.

If you’re looking for a mixture of aesthetically pleasing and easy to maintain, choose satin or semi-gloss. These finishes require the least amount of upkeep. Plus, they mask dents and scratches better than matte or high-gloss.

With that in mind, you should pick the finish that suits your lifestyle and your decorating tastes. If you love the look of matte or high-gloss, by all means, indulge yourself. Just invest in a few good cleaning tools.

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4. Species

Did you know the species of wood you choose can affect durability? In fact, some wood is denser and resists damage better than others. That’s why scientists developed a tool to rate the hardness of each species, and it is called the Janka Hardness Test (see video below).

This scale can help you choose hardwood flooring that compliments your home and lifestyle. Brazilian hardwoods and ipe wood rank the highest, while popular choices like acacia, oak, maple, and hickory fall somewhere in the middle. Pine is a favorite choice for country homes, but it’s also the least durable.

When deciding which species of wood to purchase, it may be helpful to note that red oak is the industry benchmark for hardness. It has a Janka rating of 1290 and is used widely in residential construction.

5. Board Thickness

The overall thickness of your hardwood also factors into flooring quality.

Solid hardwood boards should be at least ¾ inch thick. This measurement ensures your flooring is stable and can withstand regular foot traffic. There are thicker boards on the market, but they are expensive and usually unnecessary.

You can sand and refinish ¾” boards up to seven times.

As a rule, don’t buy hardwood flooring less than ¾”. Thin, flimsy boards may cost less, but you’ll make up the difference in repairs and replacement.

Remember to check the edge finishes of your boards. And while you’re looking at edges, inspect the tongue and grooves for signs of damage or poor milling practices.

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6. Color, Length, and Width

If you’re wondering whether the size or tone of your flooring contributes to the quality rating, rest assured, it doesn’t. These factors are merely a matter of preference.

Dark hardwood floors appear sophisticated and modern but show every speck of dust. Mid-toned to lighter colors are lower-maintenance and look amazing with any style and decor.

When it comes to size, most designers say thin, long, boards look best in a traditional setting, while wide plank wood flooring work well in modern and transitional homes.

Larger boards will have fewer seams and create a flowing effect in your space. But, again, it’s a matter of taste. It’s your home, and you should always surround yourself with what you love.

Looking for low-maintenance hardwood? How about engineered hardwood?

Facts About Engineered Hardwood

Engineered wood flooring combines the best of both worlds. This floor covering looks and feels identical to solid hardwood but offers more flexibility in installation. It’s also a little less expensive than solid wood.

Facts About Engineered Hardwood

Engineered wood is available in three different varieties: traditional nail-down, glue-down, or click-lock planks. If you’re looking for a wood floor for the basement level of your home, engineered hardwood is an excellent choice as it is not as prone to warping in moist conditions.

Quality varies, so you’ll want to make sure your boards meet specific criteria. The overall thickness should be no less than 5/8”. This calculation also assumes a veneer thickness of 3/16” and a 9-11” ply core. These dimensions ensure the flooring will hold up to wear and tear and provide a stable surface for your space.

For aesthetics, engineered wood should be made with quality saw-cut veneer and have some variation in graining and tone. Don’t forget to ask about the surface finish. The best-engineered wood products feature an aluminum oxide surface layer, just like solid hardwoods.

Finally, It’s also important to check with the manufacturer that the boards you purchase come from the same lot. Otherwise, the finished floor will appear blotchy.

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Want hardwood flooring with a past? Why not choose reclaimed wood?

The Lowdown On Reclaimed Wood

Not only is this material environmentally-friendly, but it can also save you a ton of money.

This trend became popular during the green building movement. It’s a way of preserving history and gives homeowners the opportunity to purchase flooring made from depleted species such as chestnut and heart pine.

Reclaimed or vintage wood, as it’s often called, is made from salvaged planks found in century-old factories and barns. The reclaiming process includes dismantling the structure, culling the boards, paint and nail removal, and finally, sanding and kiln drying. Once the boards are restored, they can be stained or shipped out as unfinished pieces.

When opting for reclaimed wood, choose a reputable supplier. Ask about the processing methods used in restoration. You’ll also want to check the moisture content and size of the boards for consistency.

There is no grading system for reclaimed wood, so do your homework before you place your order. Remember to request samples and photos of the actual product. Better yet, if you live nearby, drive over to the supplier and take an up-close look at the material.

Are you all about convenience? Or do you prefer customization?

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Unfinished Vs. Prefinished Hardwood

Should you buy unfinished or prefinished hardwood? The answer is – it depends. Both products have their advantages and drawbacks, so the choice is more personal than practical.

Prefinished wood sports factory-grade finishes that come complete with warranties. The color possibilities are endless, and they’re available in multiple styles and sizes. Plus, they’re easier to install, and you can walk on them immediately.

The best part? No fumes or chemicals from staining and sealing. What’s more, you won’t have to worry about dust or hair sticking to the sealer and ruining your finish.

Unfortunately, all this convenience comes at a price. Prefinished flooring typically costs $2.00 per square foot more than unfinished boards.

In contrast, unfinished boards are highly customizable. You can mix and stains until your heart’s content. Additionally, unfinished boards are easy to clean and present a flush look in comparison to prefinished wood’s micro-beveled edges.

If you’re looking for a mirror finish and don’t mind waiting a few days to walk on your floors, unfinished may be the way to go.

One last note. If you’re basing your decision solely on price, make sure you’re factoring in the costs of having a contractor finish onsite. The savings may be less than you think.

So, how much will it really cost?

Hardwood Pricing Guide

Several factors weigh into the cost of a hardwood floor project. When preparing your budget, don’t forget to factor in the price of installation, support materials, finishing, and waste. As a rule, always add 10% more to your budget to cover additional expenses.

Hardwood floor ranges anywhere from $3.00 per square foot to $10.00. That’s just for the product. The price is based on species, location, and grade. Exotic hardwoods will set you back around $8.00-10.00 per square foot, while maple and oak typically cost between $4.00-$7.00.

Don’t forget to order between 5-10% more material than you need for waste production.

Installation costs depend on the size of the job and how much preparation needs to be done. Most contractors charge extra for demos, so you might want to tackle that job yourself. The average price of installation runs anywhere from $3.00-$7.00 per square foot, and it typically doesn’t include extras such as vapor barriers or transitions.

If you have your floor finished onsite, add $2.00-$5.00 per square foot for stain and sealer application.

Do yourself a favor and don’t let the price scare you. These numbers are the average, but there are exceptions. If you shop around, it’s possible to find hardwood you love for a budget you can stomach.

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Ready to take on the stores? Here’s a list of popular merchants and a summary of customer experiences to get you started.

Best Hardwood Brands And Hardwood Flooring Reviews

  1. Paradiso
  2. Home Depot
  3. Lowe’s
  4. BuildDirect
  5. Floor & Decor
  6. Hurst Hardwoods
  7. Olde Wood

Paradiso

The Paradiso brand of flooring is designed for customers who simply want the best designs, materials, and highest quality of flooring.

Paradiso’s target market is individuals who want their flooring to stand out with beautiful patterns, express their own creativity, and provide the wow experience.

The brand itself was established in 2021, however, the manufacturers have a long track record of creating excellent goods and provide two varieties of flooring: hardwood and carpet. They also offer a line of wall tiles.

Read our in-depth Paradiso review

Home Depot

Home Depot is an excellent option for those who want reasonably priced hardwood from a trusted retailer. This store carries lines from all the big names, including Mullican Hardwood, Shaw, and Mohawk.

Most products are prefinished, but Home Depot does sell unfinished hardwood at competitive prices. Quality varies, so you’ll have to inspect the material. However, Home Depot is conscious of government regulations and provides all consumers with clear documentation supporting compliance.

Consumer reviews of this chain are mostly favorable, and most complaints reference problems with sub-contracted installers, not the products.

If you’re looking for varied width flooring, take a look at American Originals by Bruce. Prices range between $3.00-$5.00 per square foot for ¾” solid oak. The boards are available in 14 colors and carry a lifetime finish warranty.

Lowe’s

Lowe’s is another go-to source for hardwood flooring. The company has an excellent reputation for customer service and one of the best loyalty programs for active military and veterans. Like Home Depot, they offer price match, so it may pay to stop here last.

Lowe’s sells both engineered and solid hardwood. Prices are reasonable, and the selection is impressive for a big box store. Their online site displays individual product reviews, both good and bad, which gives the impression that they are not trying to hide anything.

Overall, Lowe’s is a solid choice for anyone looking for a mixture of price and quality. The store offers one-stop shopping and will even set you up with one of their trusted installers.

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BuildDirect

If you crave choice, look no further than BuildDirect. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more extensive selection of solid and engineered hardwood. Besides options, the prices are fantastic and many products ship free.

The drawback to this company is that there is no physical location, so you’ll have to take your chances with online ordering.

Another roadblock? There are minimum order requirements. So, if you are flooring a small area, BuildDirect isn’t the best choice.

However, if you are working on a large project, check out their website. They have dozens of free samples you can order, and they will even ship them overnight.

Reviews for BuildDirect are overwhelmingly positive regarding both customer service and product quality. Some reviewers do express concern about the company’s international location and the laws governing sales. But, on a comforting note, all flooring materials on the website display in-depth information on country of origin and health certifications.

Floor & Decor

Floor & Decor is a big box store specializing in floor coverings and decorative home elements. What’s nice about this retailer is that they also sell everything you’ll need to install your flooring as a DIY.

You can browse through a vast selection of solid and engineered wood flooring priced within the $3.00-$6.00 per square foot range. Additionally, Floor & Decor stocks several species of wood, including Brazilian cherry and hickory.

Unfortunately, most products do come from lesser-known manufacturers. So, there is a bit of concern over quality and origin.

The store receives mixed reviews on multiple sites. But what’s strange is the degree of satisfaction. Either people love the products or they’re disappointed. There is no middle ground.

Still, Floor & Decor shows an 85% favorable rating on Google, but again, reviews are subjective. Everyone has their own definition of quality. Your best bet is to do some digging on the exact product you’re looking at – before you contact the store.

Hurst Hardwoods

Feel better buying your hardwood from a dedicated flooring supplier? Try Hurst Hardwoods. This company has been in business for 25 years and has amazing reviews on every possible review platform.

Their online store is expansive, the prices are reasonable, and the information displayed is transparent and helpful. Hurst even carries exotic wood species, including Tigerwood and Caribbean Pine.

Hurst sells both unfinished and prefinished products in multiple grades. If you’re looking for a bargain, check out their contractors corner. Most products are discounted well below list price.

Hurst is also a great place to start when it comes to doing a hardwood flooring brand comparison before you start narrowing your search to more specific species, colors, and types.

Olde Wood

In the market for reclaimed wood? Take a look at Olde Wood. The company receives excellent ratings on several popular forums and belongs to the National Wood Flooring Association and the World Floor Coverings Association.

While prices are a bit steep at $8.00 per square foot, their antique selection is unique. Their online gallery shows hundreds of images that drive home the beauty of reclaimed wood flooring. The artistry is breathtaking, and even if you don’t end up ordering, it’s worth getting lost on their website.

Notable Mentions: Bellawood, DuChateau, LM Flooring, Mirage

FAQs About Hardwood Flooring

What Is The Most Durable Hardwood Flooring?

While hardwood flooring has a reputation for being susceptible to scratches, some species of hardwood can be highly durable. For the most durable hardwood flooring, invest in oak, walnut, ebony, maple, ash, or pecan.

Always check the Janka rating of the wood, which is an indication of its hardness and durability. Red oak is considered the industry standard and has a Janka rating of 1290. Anything around this rating or higher is a durable choice.

Don’t be tempted by softwoods such as fir, pine, and hemlock, as they will quickly become battered even with normal household use.


How Much Does It Cost To Install Hardwood Floors?

How much it is going to cost to install your hardwood floors depends on the quality and size of the floor you are installing, and it can vary quite a bit depending on where you live.

Hardwood flooring can cost anywhere from $3.00 to $20.00 per square foot for the best hardwood flooring options. You should also buy 5 to 10 percent more flooring than you need to account for inevitable wastage.

Pre-finished wood will be at the higher end of the price spectrum, while unfinished is a bit cheaper. But you can expect to pay $2.00 to $5.00 per square foot for finishing on site.

Professional installers generally charge between $3.00 to $7.00 per square foot. While this should include the labor to remove the existing floor, it typically does not include extras such as vapor barriers and transitions.
It is for these variables that you should always require a site visit for a quote rather than accepting a simple square foot estimate.


What Color Hardwood Floor Is Best For Resale?

What color hardwood is going to appeal to individual buyers depends very much on their personal preference. However, research suggests that the majority of buyers prefer dark woods, especially when viewing empty homes.

Lighter woods tend to work best with most decors and are almost as popular among buyers as dark woods. Grey woods tend to have a limited, niche appeal. While the hardwood adds value, you are limiting your market appeal.


What Is The Most Scratch-resistant Hardwood Flooring?

While all hardwood floors will scratch under the right (or rather the wrong) circumstances, harder floors tend to be more resistant to scratches than most, so go for something that is at least as hard as red oak, which has a Janka rating of 1290.

Pre-finished boards that have been given a polyurethane or aluminum oxide finish will also resist scratching but better than unfinished boards that are treated after installation.


Which Is Better Solid Hardwood Or Engineered Hardwood?

Whether solid or engineered hardwood flooring is better for your project depends primarily on where you are planning on installing the floor.

Solid hardwood floors are not significantly more expensive than engineered wood floors, and both will add to the resale value of your home as many people do not distinguish between these two styles of wood flooring, although there is certainly a market that values solid over-engineered.

Both floorings are prone to scratching, and if the top layer of the engineered floor is the same as the comparable solid wood floor, they should scratch and wear at the same rate.

The main difference is that while engineered wood floors can generally only be refinished once or twice, top-quality solid hardwood flooring can be sanded and refinished up to seven times without compromising the integrity of the floor.

This means that engineered hardwood floors have a lifespan of around 40 years, while solid hardwood floors can have a lifespan of 80 to 120 years.

But solid wood floors are difficult to install, which adds extra cost, while engineered wood planks are better designed for DIY projects or tricky spaces.

While solid wood floors should not be installed in moist areas because they tend to warp badly with water, the criss-cross layers that makeup engineered wood floors mean that they are less likely to warp out of shape and can be used in bathrooms and the basement.

For similar reasons, solid wood floors are not always compatible with underfloor heating, as the changing temperatures can warp the floor. Engineered wood flooring also holds up better under these conditions.


What Color Hardwood Floor Makes A Room Look Bigger?

While, in general, light colors make spaces look bigger, when it comes to floors, in order to maximize your space, it is best to go with dark wood floors to contrast with light-colored walls.

Going for wider planks and a high gloss finish can also help your space appear larger.


What Is The Most Popular Wood Flooring?

The most popular wood floorings in the United States at the moment are oak, maple, and hickory. This is because these woods are accessible and balance affordability with durability. Cherry woods and walnuts appeal at the higher end of the market.


Do Hardwood Floors Make Your House Colder?

Hardwood floors can make your house colder, as they can struggle to hold on to heat, and any gaps between the planks can allow cold air from underneath to penetrate your floors.

This can be a difficult problem to remedy, as solid hardwood floors are not generally compatible with underfloor heating. The changing temperature levels can cause the wood to warp out of shape.

If cold floors are a problem, but you love the hardwood look, think of investing in engineered hardwood.

They look and feel just like solid wood after installation, but rather than being solid planks, they are made from thin pieces of wood layered on top of one another in a crisscross style. This helps counteract the natural warping tendencies of the wood.

So, you are more likely to be able to couple your engineered wood flooring with underfloor heating. But always check with the manufacturer.

The Wrap-Up

So, we’ve reached the end of our guide. We hope you’ve found the information helpful. Let’s leave our tour on a positive note by recapping the advantages of hardwood.

Hardwood floors are a long-term investment in your home. If properly cared for, they will last an average of 80-120 years. They require some upkeep but add warmth to your space and make your home feel cozy and inviting.

If you’re still on the fence, there are plenty of alternatives. You can achieve comparable results with a material such as bamboo (see our bamboo vs hardwood guide), cork, tile, or even concrete. But if you’re willing to put in the hard work and aren’t scared of the initial outlay, hardwood flooring is a design choice you’ll never regret.

If you have any comments or first-hand experiences with Hardwood flooring, please post them below or share your pictures via our social media.

About Fortino Rosas

Chief Floor Critic, 32 years of experience in flooring installation and sales Fortino Rosas is an independent flooring contractor with 32 years of experience in residential and commercial flooring installation and sales. He joined the Floor Critics team to share his expertise with our readers. Fortino has acquired vast knowledge and skills in the areas of product selection, space planning, and installation. He has installed flooring in residential, government, and commercial office projects in the Midwest.

18 thoughts on “Hardwood Flooring: Reviews, Best Brands & Pros vs. Cons”

  1. What about Hickory? Hickory is harder than oak. Pecan is harder than Oak. Also, it does make a difference with the core of wood used in the ply system. Some manufacturers will use cheap wood for their plies. Makes a difference with denting as well as the layers of aluminum oxide being used will make a difference.

  2. Would like to know if it’s best to install engineered wood flooring or solid wood for my kitchen ,so many different opinions, want to do this the correct way & only once thanks Lisa

  3. Does anyone have experience with Spring Orchard hickory flooring from Schillings? No real information on line, would like to hear any feedback on the product, not Schillings. Thanks

  4. (I am not able to attache here with picture of wood sample )
    We are looking for 8″ Prefinished Solid Hardwood Flooring for 6000Sqf for same wood as per picture attached

    Please let us know the price, availability or any guideline

    Feel free to contact, If you have any question

  5. I installed Alston Flooring Cambridge Collection Tuscany Maple Engineered flooring. It has a finger jointed pine base instead of plywood like most. It instantly started cupping at the joint lengthwise on each side all over the house. All they have done is try and get out of the warranty and refused to take care of it.

  6. Anyone have experience buying from Builddirect- engineered Jasper or Vanier Brands- 4mm wear layer 9 1/2 European Oak/ UV lacquer?

  7. Does anyone know anything about the Cross Island Flooring Company products? We bought their product, hand scraped acacia hardwood, laid it and it is terrible! Now they wont cover it under warranty. It has barely been down a year. Anything we can do?? We do not suggest buying this product.

  8. I’ve installed Bruce Oak flooring in homes as a contractor, and my personal homes also. As a vet, and contractor, I have had nothing but good service from Lowes. We will be installing Bruce Butternut Oak in our current home next.

  9. I want a high quality Brazilian Cherry, which supplier can I trust to buy it from? And is there a difference between trees grown in Brazil and those grown elsewhere? Where can I find a supplier who sells Brazilian Cherry grown in Brazil?

  10. Can you tell me what is baltic birch hardwood? The Chesapeake brand is where I found it. The only thing I find about it is that it is used for plywood. Is this cheap wood advertised as exotic?

  11. I am concerned about out gassing from the floor. I have asthma and I don’t want to get sick from the new floor What would you recommend

  12. I am wondering how one knows the quality of the finish on the various brands of prefinished hardwood flooring. I want the traditional 2 1/4′” red oak with a clear finish. There are many manufacturers and within those manufacturers different price points. I have two dogs so I want to get one that has several coats of poly, but can’t find that info anywhere.

    1. Mary,

      We can help you. Our product is Italian – Foglie D’Oro. What are you looking for?

      Regards,
      Alison Felicioli
      Artitalia Group/Foglie D’Oro

  13. Good article. We’re trying to figure out if we want engineered hardwood flooring or wood-look tile. Still not sure.

    Have also read some disturbing reviews about Lumber Liquidators. We visited a LL store and were satisfied with the sales person’s input but the disturbing reviews of LL still have us concerned about using them as a provider.

    1. We too are trying to make this decision. We have read mostly negative reviews; however, we also realize that most happy customers don’t take the time to write reviews. Most all unhappy customers will write reviews. So, we consider the disturbing reviews as the 1% of anything and hope we do not fall into that category.

      We have personally used LL as a provider in the past and were pleased with the product and end result. We therefore, have no problem with using them again.

    2. Hi Dan,

      Did you find a source? I would recommend engineered, but we do both. Where the wood is sourced is VERY important.

      Regards,
      Alison
      Artitalia Group/Foglie D’Oro

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