Hardwood

Hardwood flooring is made from solid wood planks milled from a single piece of timber. It offers a timeless, natural aesthetic with a rich, warm appearance. Hardwood comes in various species, such as oak, maple, and cherry, each with unique grain patterns and colors. It can be finished in different stains and finishes, allowing customization to match any decor.

Durability: Hardwood is durable and can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it a long-lasting flooring option.

Best For: Living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas where warmth and elegance are desired.

Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance, including sweeping and occasional refinishing, to keep it looking its best. It’s susceptible to moisture, so not ideal for bathrooms or basements.

Types of Hardwood Flooring:

Solid Hardwood:

Made from a single piece of solid wood, typically 3/4 inch thick. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, providing long-lasting durability. Used for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms where you want a classic, natural wood look.

Engineered Hardwood: Composed of a thin layer of real wood on top of a plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF) core. It’s more stable and resistant to moisture than solid hardwood. Used for areas with fluctuating humidity, like basements, kitchens, or over concrete slabs.

Distressed Hardwood: Features a deliberately aged or weathered look, with imperfections like scratches and knots, giving it a rustic, vintage appeal. Used for rustic, farmhouse, or industrial-style interiors where a lived-in, natural look is desired.

Typical Sizes of Hardwood Floorboards

Widths:

Standard Widths: 2 1/4 inches to 3 1/4 inches: The most common widths for traditional hardwood floors, often seen in classic or traditional settings.

Wide Plank Widths: 4 inches to 7 inches (or wider): Wide planks are popular in modern, rustic, or contemporary designs, offering a more expansive, less busy look.

Thickness:

Solid Hardwood: 3/4 inch: The standard thickness for most solid hardwood flooring, allowing for multiple refinishing over its lifespan.

Engineered Hardwood: 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch: Engineered hardwood tends to be thinner than solid hardwood, with a top veneer layer typically around 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick.

Length: Varies: Hardwood floorboards can range from shorter lengths (12 to 48 inches) to longer lengths (up to 84 inches or more). Mixed-length boards are often used to create a more natural, varied look.