First let s make the distinction between solid hardwood and engineered hardwood solid hardwood is exactly what it says it is a solid plank of wood whilst engineered hardwood is a composite product consisting of an upper layer of hardwood that is adhered onto layers of.
Which type of hardwood flooring is best.
Oak is one of the most durable species with a tight dark grain that works in almost any room.
Now the field is atomizing into various niches that appeal to buyers specific needs.
Bathroom or kitchen flooring.
To get you going here s an at a glance quick guide to the many types of flooring.
If you re thinking of adding hardwood flooring in your kitchen unfinished flooring is a good choice because the finish will penetrate and seal the seams between boards helping to prevent water from seeping between boards.
For hardwood flooring in homes it is the most popular material.
It is the most natural and customizable type of hardwood flooring.
They offer comfort and style without compromising durability.
Douglas fir is a slightly under the average priced type of hardwood flooring.
Hardwood or carpet are the best flooring choices for the living room.
It s damaged easily if the proper care and maintenance aren t taken on a regular basis.
Popular wood floors oak.
Solid hardwood is the term used for planks of wood cut directly from the tree it is precisely what you think it would be.
This is the flooring that has been around for ages.
Best options by room.
These materials also go well in the mudroom.
Solid hardwood vs engineered hardwood consider the best type of hardwood flooring depending on where you are using it.
Yet recent tests by consumer reports show you can have both durability and good looks from many types of flooring including engineered wood laminate porcelain tile and vinyl.
After hardwood flooring installation and staining the flooring is given several coats of protective finish.
For now let s discuss the three main types of hardwood floors to consider.
Best flooring options for every room.
Don t confuse floor type with wood variety we ll cover selection of wood variety in the next section.
The best flooring for bathrooms or kitchens is tile or vinyl.
With the number of solid hardwood flooring brands slowly dwindling due to the dominance of engineered wood flooring it gets easier to identify the winners and the losers it s no longer good enough to put out plain old solid hardwood.