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 prefinished, 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,
prefinished engineered floors are quite durable, generally eliminating
the need for frequent refinishing.