What type of wood is best for hardwood floors?

Hardwood floors not only look stylish but are also long-lasting. Additionally, hardwood is easy to maintain, which makes it the preferred choice for homes with kids and pets. Hardwood does not trap dust, which means people with allergies don’t have to think twice about getting near to areas with this kind of flooring. When choosing hardwood flooring in Dunwoody, you will have several options. Over the years, flooring companies have started offering different types of hardwood. The following are some of the top hardwood flooring options used by remodeling contractors in Atlanta to bring dull and uninspiring areas to life.

1. Unfinished and Finished Hardwood

One of the main benefits of using unfinished hardwood is that you can apply a custom coating before the final finish. Once the flooring is installed and stained, several coats of protective finishing are applied. Unfinished hardwood is finished in a way that seals the seam between boards, preventing water from seeping in. Due to this property, unfinished hardwood is used extensively in kitchens. Prefinished hardwood floors are sanded and sealed in factories, which helps avoid the inconvenience (odors and VOCs) that are associated with on-site finishing. Once the floor is installed, it is ready to be walked on immediately.

2. Solid and Engineered Hardwood

Solid hardwood consists of 100 percent wood and can be sanded and refinished several times. The major downside to using solid hardwood is that it is highly susceptible to humidity, making it a poor choice for below-grade basements. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, includes layers. While the top and bottom layers are 100 percent wood, the middle layer includes 5-7 layers of plywood. The unique structure gives engineered wood excellent stability, making it an excellent choice for any area in your home. Engineered wood, however, cannot be sanded and refinished multiple times.

3. Species of Hardwood

Look for hardwood made with species that are readily available and very hard. Some choices to consider are oak, bamboo, cherry, and maple. If budget is not a constraint, opt for high-end species such as teak and mesquite.

These are some hardwood floor options. If you are struggling to figure out which option best suits your layout, 1st Choice Remodel would be happy to help. To discuss your hardwood floor refinishing project in Atlanta, call at 678.640.2272. To give feedback, fill out our contact form.