Hardwood Floor Guide: What Type of Flooring Is Best?

Starting on a new renovation project is exhilarating. But before you begin picking out paint colors and ordering furniture, you must choose the proper foundation first. Now comes a myriad of questions, starting with what type of flooring is best for your home and what is the most durable type of flooring? Today, we answer these questions and more.

 

Types of Flooring: Solid Vs. Engineered

Two types of hardwood flooring you may consider are solid and engineered hardwood. Both types deliver warmth and beauty, but they are made differently.

Solid hardwood boards are made of a single piece of wood throughout. On the other hand, engineered hardwood combines a top layer of real hardwood (called a veneer) over a high-quality core made from plywood, lumber core, MDF, or stone-polymer composite. This option blends the authentic look of natural wood with unique construction. Engineered hardwood flooring is also DIY-friendly—we'll get into that more later.

Both solid and engineered hardwood come in various styles, colors, and textures. So, regardless of your choice, you'll find something that fits your tastes.

 

Performance

Discovering what floor is best for flooring involves assessing your lifestyle and the specific demands of each room. For instance, engineered hardwood is a great option for rooms with moisture—such as bathrooms, basements, and kitchens—with AquaSeal another option for bathrooms. The veneer top and construction core make them resistant to water and splashes—giving you more time to clean up spills. This flooring type is a great option for busy homes with children or pets.

Solid hardwood flooring performs best in spaces with low moisture. Changes in the room's humidity level can cause solid hardwood boards to expand and contract, which can lead to warping or buckling. But allowing the floors to adjust to the room's climate—or acclimate—before installation can help prevent this. You can also maximize the floor's performance by promptly wiping up spills.

Solid hardwood also serves well in areas with high foot traffic—such as living rooms, entryways, dining rooms, and staircases. Due to the wood's natural stability, it can withstand dents and scratches. This is another choice great for homes with furry friends.

 

Style and Appearance

When it comes to your floors, style, and aesthetics matter. Your home's foundation sets the mood and enhances your décor. Here are a few flooring options to consider.

 

Wood Species

Different wood species possess unique grain patterns, colors, and textures. These traits contribute to their overall look. For instance, oak is a timeless and classic choice that exudes warmth and natural beauty. Oak floors also have a pronounced grain texture that gives them character. From contemporary to rustic, this flooring type can fit an array of interior design styles. For a modern and versatile option, look to Bellawood red oak floors.

If you're looking for bold and vibrant flooring, check out Santos mahogany. This exotic hardwood flooring delivers stability and beauty to any room. The alluring reddish-brown hues complement various design themes, from traditional to minimalistic. For a beautiful contrast, pair this flooring with lighter-toned furniture.

Known for its light and creamy color tones, maple hardwood flooring is a nice choice for creating an airy space. While its grain patterns are generally straight, they may occasionally possess slight waves. This lends itself well to modern and contemporary spaces.

Textures

Hardwood flooring comes in two different textures: smooth and distressed. The one you select will depend on personal preference and how much traffic your floors get.

Distressed wood flooring is intentionally crafted to have a worn appearance. Techniques like scraping, wire brushing, and hand scraping give these floors a naturally aged and vintage look. These floors are a popular option for achieving a rustic and cozy feel. Distressed flooring also helps camouflage natural wear and tear. So, this is a nice choice for homes with pets or frequent traffic.

Smooth textures serve as a neutral backdrop, allowing you to experiment with many home designs. This texture is a nice choice if you're looking for flooring with universal appeal.

 

Installation Methods and Requirements

Placing hardwood floors yourself is a rewarding way to enhance your space, but a professional may handle some installations best. And some flooring types are not meant for certain areas of your home. Below are some installation tips to consider when picking out new flooring. Regardless of the method, we recommend following your floor's Warranty, Installation, and Care guide to protect your investment and maintain its longevity.

DIY-Friendliness

Engineered floors come in both tongue and groove profile—which can be nailed or glued down —or click-click, which is a great option for DIYers.

Solid hardwood and some engineered hardwood with a tongue and groove profile require nails and glue to attach the flooring, which can be advanced for some homeowners. So, consider your comfort and experience level with flooring installation before making a choice. But in any case, hiring a professional will ensure a successful installation.

 

Location of Installation

Solid hardwood floor is not suitable for basements. This area is prone to high moisture and extreme climate changes. Plus, nail-down or glue-down installation would not hold up well in damp and moist basement conditions. Engineered flooring (with moisture mitigation) is a safe choice if you want to install flooring on lower levels of your home.

 

Envision Your Perfect Hardwood Floors

And if you're still wondering what type of flooring is better, the bottom line is that it depends on your home's atmosphere and essence. Explore our collection to find the flooring that speaks to you. If you can't decide, order free samples to envision how the floor will look in your space. Or compare different styles with our PictureIt! Floor Visualizer. LL Flooring is here to help you in your search for the best flooring for your space.

 

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In this video, installation and flooring expert Mark shows some insider tips for damaged flooring - including careful cuts and detailed Skilsaw adjustments. Remarkable careers lead to remarkable trade skills!