One of the oldest flooring materials is still among the most desirable. Whether your style is classic, contemporary or casual, a hardwood floor surface can complement your decor and add value to your home. Durable, natural and renewable, hardwood flooring is available in a variety of colors and grain patterns to meet your individual design and lifestyle needs.
Hardwood flooring species (oak, ash, walnut, hickory, maple and cherry) are some of the most common choices for residential flooring and each has its own unique properties. But before you choose a species, you need to understand the pros and cons of both types of hardwood flooring—hardwood and engineered—and consider the finishing options.
Hardwood Floor Finishing
In the past, hardwood floors were installed unfinished, then the installer applied a stain and a durable top coat to protect the surface. Today, hardwood flooring is also available as a pre-finished product, with a stain and finish coat already in place.
Unfinished Hardwood Flooring:
- This is the smoothest flooring available.
- Allows for customization of tones.
- Takes longer to install.
- Causes potentially toxic vapors and dust.
- Reduces material costs.
- More expensive to install.
Prefinished hardwood flooring:
- Comes in a few dozen colors.
- Initial material cost is higher, but installation costs are lower than unfinished hardwood floors.
- There is no exposure to dust or toxic vapors.
- It comes with manufacturers’ warranties.