What to Ask About Hardwood

Flooring is going to be one of the biggest, if not the biggest, investments in your home. It’s also the ultimate expression of your style. While wood floors give your home a warm, rich, elegant tone, there’s more to choosing them than simply picking out the prettiest species or your favorite color. Here are some questions to ask yourself when shopping for hardwood to be sure you get the right one for you.

which hardwood version do I want?

There are two versions of hardwood and, while they look similar, they do perform differently. Solid is one thickness throughout and can be damaged by excess water. Engineered wood flooring is layered; at the top is your species-of-choice with undertones, knots, and swirls, but underneath is layers of genuine wood combined with a little resin. The layers are placed crosswise, and, as a result, this flooring is more stable, better able to handle water, and can be installed in some higher-than-normal moisture areas where solid cannot go.