Understanding where certain types of hardwood flooring can be used should be foremost in any selection making in order to have a successful installation for years to come. You want to take into consideration the foot traffic, sunlight and the potential for contact with water before deciding which flooring to install in your house.
Solid Flooring
All wood flooring that is one piece of wood from top to bottom is considered solid flooring. Solid flooring gives you a great opportunity for customization. Your choice of species, stains and finishes all contribute to the personalization of a solid floor. This is an excellent choice in most areas of a home on the ground level or above.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Other products gaining popularity in recent years would be prefinished engineered hardwood flooring. These are constructed in ply fashion similar to that of common plywood with an actual hardwood veneer on the surface, commonly called the wear layer.
Wear layers can vary from one prefinished manufacturer to the next. One key to look for in choosing an engineered product would be the thickness of the veneer or wear layer. Nearly all manufacturers produce thin and thicker wear layers, the latter having the ability to be refinished. Often price can dictate the wear layer thickness. Some cannot be completely refinished.
How many times an engineered hardwood can be refinished should be a concern for those that plan on living with their new hardwood floor more than 10-20 years, but will depend on what you perceive as needing refinishing. Minor scratches, dings and dents add to the character of hardwood flooring. Some are fine by the added character that comes along with age and use, others may not be. If you're seeking near perfection and desire a flawless appearance, your floors may need refinishing every five years. With the right professionals and a flat subfloor these can be successfully refinished at least two or three times. Color changes may reduce this number.
Engineered hardwood floors can be an excellent choice for a basement or even a kitchen, because they are more stable (with minimal, if any, expansion and contraction) than solid hardwood due to the way they are constructed. They are recommended for in-floor radiant heating systems as well.
With the proper hardwood floor selection and installation you can even increase the value of your home. After properly installing your solid or engineered hardwood floor, routine maintenance can help the floor to last 10-20 years. Not only did you invest in the value of your house with a new hardwood floor but you can also enjoy the beautiful look for years to come.
