All types of hardwood floors possess a unique natural beauty that complements any style of decor, whether it’s modern, traditional, or country. Hardwood flooring can be installed in any room, although special considerations are needed for kitchens and basements.

When it comes to choosing between unfinished and prefinished hardwood flooring, there are a few factors to consider.
Unfinished hardwood flooring allows for custom staining before the final finish is applied. It’s an excellent option if you want to match the color of existing flooring or ensure that the finish penetrates and seals the seams between boards, preventing water from seeping through. Unfinished flooring is particularly suitable for kitchens where water resistance is essential.
On the other hand, prefinished hardwood flooring comes from the factory already sanded and sealed, making the installation process quicker. It eliminates on-site odors and VOCs and is ready to walk on immediately.

Deciding between Solid, Engineered and Hybrid (also known as Wood Veneer SPC) hardwood flooring depends on specific needs.
Solid hardwood flooring consists entirely of wood and is typically 5/8″ to 3/4″ thick. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times. However, solid wood is sensitive to changes in humidity and is not recommended for below-grade basements.
Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, consists of a real wood veneer glued to several layers of wood underneath, such as plywood. This construction provides excellent stability over time and makes it suitable for any area of the home, including below-grade basements. However, the number of times engineered hardwood can be sanded and refinished depends on the thickness of the veneer.
Hybrid flooring brings together the natural beauty of hardwood with the durability and waterproof features of luxury vinyl. This flooring solution features a real wood veneer layer on top, providing the elegance and authenticity of hardwood. Beneath the veneer, it incorporates a sturdy and waterproof core, often made of a stone polymer composite. Rigid Core Hybrid flooring offers the timeless appeal of hardwood while offering excellent resistance to moisture, scratches, and wear. It’s an ideal choice for areas where traditional hardwood may not be suitable, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, and specially for South Florida homes where there is too much humidity on the ground.

When choosing the best species of hardwood for your floors, it’s advisable to select readily available and highly durable options. Oak, maple, and cherry are all popular choices. Other species such as bamboo (a type of grass), walnut, ash, and mahogany offer their own unique characteristics. Exotic species like teak, jarrah, and mesquite are more expensive. It’s important to ensure that the hardwood flooring comes from sustainably harvested forests. Another option to consider is reclaimed hardwood flooring, which can be found at salvage yards. Although it may show signs of wear and age, reclaimed flooring is significantly cheaper than new flooring, making it an ideal choice for renovating older houses.

While oak remains the dominant hardwood flooring choice in America, exotic woods from countries like Brazil, Australia, and parts of Asia are gaining popularity. These exotic species offer a broader range of colors, eliminating the need for staining oak to achieve a specific shade. Brazilian cherry, cork, bamboo, wenge, bubinga, and Sydney blue gum are among the popular choices. Each wood has its own characteristics and installation requirements, so it’s important to work with a professional who understands the specific wood and local environmental conditions.

The trend towards exotic hardwoods is driven by factors such as improved affordability and availability, as well as their unique aesthetics and sustainability. Exotic woods can add a touch of distinction to any space and are worth considering for those seeking something beyond traditional oak flooring.