When it comes to installing hardwood flooring into your home or office you can be rest assured you are making a good, strong decision. Hardwoods have been known to last, add value, and provide a hypoallergenic environment for your space. They are great options if you are considering resale value.

One of the main drawbacks to hardwoods is that they are susceptible to water damage. However you can remember to take specific precautions to ensure your hardwood floors remain strong and beautiful for the long term. According to the design center on HGTV, here are some elements to consider when selecting your hardwoods:

• Board Widths. Select from narrow strips (less than three inches), wider planks (more than three inches), parquet squares, and—a new option—squares and rectangles. The traditional choice, strips give the illusion of more space, while planks impart a rustic look. Parquet floors, with the distinctive geometric design, suit formal spaces.
•  Wood Species. Hardwood species vary in durability, grain patterns, and color. Oak, maple, and cherry are among the most common species due to their hardness. Exotic woods like mahogany, and Brazilian cherry aren’t as durable, but are prized for their striking appearance.
• Colors. Hardwoods run the gamut from blond to black, depending on species and finish.
• Textures. You can get hardwood floors that look shiny and new, or you can buy brand new wood that looks like an antique and adds timeworn character to your room Many manufacturers offer distressed and hand-scraped hardwoods that will disguise heavy use over the years and give the floor an appealing timeworn appearance from the moment it’s installed.
• Hardness. For busy households with pets and kids, it’s a good idea to choose the hardest wood species possible. Hard species, such as red oak, will withstand wear and tear, while softer species, such as pine, tend to show scratches. The choice between engineered and solid hardwood will most likely be determined by location, subfloor, and preferred installation method. But if you’re on the fence, keep in mind choosing solid hardwood means scratches from a puppy’s claws or dings from a toddler’s toy can be sanded out and refinished over and over. Whichever you choose, preventive care and proper maintenance can keep your floors looking good for years.
• Finish. Along with protecting the surface, hardwood finishes imbue floors with color and luster. Much commercially available hardwood comes pre-finished, which simplifies installation and eliminates dust, chemical fumes, and waiting time. These factory-applied finishes generally have a longer warranty as they are longer lasting and more durable than site-applied finishes.
• Some homeowners prefer site-finished floors due to the wider selection of stain colors and the opportunity to hone the surface and even out imperfections after the boards are in place. Boards are also easier to repair if damaged. Urethanes are the most common type of finish.
• While solid hardwood can be repeatedly refinished, engineered hardwood flooring can only be refinished a limited number of times. That’s because the thickness of the top veneer varies. However, pre-finished engineered floors are quite durable, generally eliminating the need for frequent refinishing.
• Best for: Any room except full baths or laundry rooms.
• Pet Friendly? Moderately. Keep pets’ nails trimmed to avoid scratching the floor, clean messes immediately, and lay a mat under water dishes to minimize spills. The surface is hard, so provide soft mats or pet beds where dogs can lie down comfortably.
• Underlayment. Underlayment products provide a base for the floor. This layer also limits noise, and adds insulation. Cushioned materials such as cork and form are ideal beneath floating floors. Vinyl- and plastic-lined underlayments are best in moisture-prone areas. Manufacturers offer many options and featuring a variety of benefits and price points.

If you are in the market for a new floor or a recommendation on caring for your existing flooring, we want to help you make the most informed decisions. Call us today for a free consultation!