Hardwood Flooring
Classic Hardwood Flooring – Bring beauty and strength into your home Shop our hardwood flooring selection - Solid Wood, Engineered Wood and Bamboo
Hardwood Flooring
When it comes to flooring, few choices match the timeless elegance and durability of hardwood. Whether you are renovating a single room or updating your entire home, a hardwood floor offers a stunning upgrade that combines beauty, longevity and value.Â
Types of Hardwood Flooring Â
Here's a look at the different types of hardwood flooring to help you select the right option for your space.
Engineered vs. Solid Hardwood
When you're exploring hardwood options, you'll come across two main types: engineered and solid. Solid hardwood is what it sounds like — each plank is made from a single piece of wood. It's a classic choice, known for its long life span and the ability to be refinished multiple times. On the other hand, engineered hardwood consists of a hardwood veneer over a plywood base, making it more suitable for areas with moisture, like basements or kitchens.Â
Both options bring the warmth and beauty of natural hardwood floors into your home, but your choice will depend on where you're installing the flooring and your specific needs.
Domestic vs. Exotic Species
Another decision you'll face is choosing between domestic and exotic wood species. Domestic species like maple, hickory and oak hardwood flooring are durable and classic. They tend to have a more traditional look and are often more affordable. Exotic species, like Brazilian cherry or teak, offer unique grain patterns and rich colors that can make a bold statement. They're also typically harder than domestic woods, adding an extra layer of durability.
Benefits of Hardwood Flooring
These are some of the reasons real hardwood flooring is a top choice among homeowners:
- Durability: With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades, aging gracefully and developing character over time.Â
- Healthy option: Hardwood is hypoallergenic and easy to clean. It can also improve indoor air quality, so it is a healthier choice for your home.
- Increased home value: Buyers love the look and feel of natural hardwood flooring, making it a smart investment for the future.
- Timeless appeal: Hardwood complements almost any design aesthetic, from modern to rustic to traditional. Â
How to Choose the Right Hardwood Flooring
Consider the following factors when selecting solid wood flooring for your space:
- Lifestyle and traffic: If you have a busy household with kids and pets, you may want to choose more durable species like oak or hickory, which can handle heavy traffic.
- Finish options: The finish on your hardwood can drastically change the look and feel of your space. Matte finishes offer a more natural appearance, while high gloss finishes add a sleek, modern touch. For high-traffic areas, distressed finishes are perfect for hiding scratches and wear.
- Color: Lighter hardwood floors can make a space feel larger and more open, while darker tones add warmth and coziness.
Hardwood FAQs
We answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Carpet & Tile Mart's hardwood flooring solutions below.
What Type of Hardwood Flooring Is Best?
The best hardwood flooring depends on your specific needs and priorities. Engineered hardwood flooring is great if you're seeking versatility and excellent moisture resistance. Solid hardwood flooring is the best choice for durability and longevity in climate-controlled areas.
Is Hardwood Flooring Expensive?
Hardwood flooring can incur high up-front expenses due to the material cost, labor and installation services. It is often more expensive than carpet and laminate flooring. However, the initial costs can be offset in the long run with the hardwood's low maintenance requirements, exceptional durability and aesthetic appeal.
Where Is Hardwood Flooring Commonly Used?
In residential properties, hardwood flooring is commonly used in bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms and hallways. It is also a popular choice of flooring in commercial spaces, specifically in staircases, offices and sports courts. Read our guide to the best room choices for hardwood flooring.
Is Hardwood Flooring Scratch-Resistant?
No, hardwood flooring is not scratch-resistant. Denser and harder wood species, such as maple and hickory, can be more resistant to marks, but they are not completely immune to them. High-quality finishing is essential if you want your hardwood flooring to be protected from scratches.
Which Is Better: Hardwood or Vinyl Flooring?
Neither of the two is "better." The right choice depends on priorities, including durability, moisture resistance and budget. Hardwood flooring adds a timeless elegance to a home, and while it's more expensive, it also offers a good return on investment. Vinyl flooring offers superior warmth and underfoot comfort. It is also budget-friendly and easier to maintain due to its water-resistant nature.
Is Hardwood Flooring Waterproof?
No, traditional hardwood flooring is not waterproof. While some engineered hardwood options can be treated for water resistance, prolonged water exposure can still cause significant damage, leading to swelling, warping and mold growth.
Is Hardwood Flooring Good for Pets?
Yes, hardwood flooring can be good for pets. It is durable and generally easy to clean. However, it's essential to select durable wood species, such as hickory or oak. High-quality aluminum oxide coating or a matte finish also helps minimize damage from dents and scratches.
What Is the Best Thickness for Hardwood Floors?
The best thickness for hardwood floors depends on your needs.
- 3/8 inch: Ideal for thinner or engineered floors in low-traffic areas.
- 1/2 inch: Provides a blend of durability, versatility and cost-effectiveness.
- 3/4 inch: Can be sanded and refinished more often to offer durability and longevity for high-traffic spaces.
How Should You Clean Hardwood Floors?
To clean your hardwood floors, use a broom or vacuum to remove loose dirt and debris. Next, use a microfiber mop with a hardwood floor cleaner and mop in the direction of the wood grain. Allow the floor to air dry completely. Avoid using steam mops and harsh chemicals to prevent damage.
Should Wood Floors Be Lighter or Darker Than Cabinets?
Wood floors should ideally have a contrasting tone to cabinets. If you have darker cabinets, pair them with lighter floors, and vice versa. This creates visual interest and prevents the room from looking monotonous. Lighter floors with darker cabinets feel more spacious, while darker floors with lighter cabinets appear warmer and more inviting.
Shop a Large Selection of Solid Wood Floors at Carpet & Tile Mart
At Carpet & Tile Mart, we make it easy to find the perfect hardwood flooring for your home. With 14 convenient locations across Delaware, Pennsylvania and South Jersey, you can stop by and explore our extensive selection of solid and engineered hardwood floors in person. Additionally, our price match guarantee and 2-year installation warranty mean you can shop confidently, knowing you're getting the best deal and service.