Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of wood and can be sanded and refinished multiple times. Engineered hardwood consists of a real wood veneer on top of layered plywood, offering greater stability in areas with fluctuating humidity like basements or over concrete subfloors.

A: Choosing the right hardwood floor comes down to your lifestyle, design preferences, and the space you're renovating:

• Species: Each wood species offers different hardness, grain patterns, and durability. For high-traffic areas, harder species like Oak, Hickory, or Maple are ideal. For a more elegant or unique look, consider Walnut or Cherry.

• Color: Lighter colors like natural oak or maple can make a space feel larger and more open, while darker tones like walnut or espresso create warmth and a more dramatic look. Consider your existing furniture, wall colors, and lighting when selecting a stain or finish.

• Board Size: Wider boards (5 inches and up) provide a more modern, spacious feel, while narrower boards (2-3 inches) offer a classic, traditional look. Wider boards are great for open spaces, while narrower boards can help smaller rooms feel more proportionate.

We recommend ordering samples to see how the species, color, and board size look in your home’s lighting before making a final decision.

Yes! We offer sample kits so you can see the species, color, and finish in your home’s lighting before committing to a full order. Contact us to request samples.

A: Hardwood flooring can be installed in most rooms, but some spaces are better suited than others:

• Ideal Rooms: Living rooms, bedrooms, dining areas, and offices are perfect for hardwood thanks to their stable, low-moisture environments.

• Caution Areas: Kitchens can accommodate hardwood, but spills should be cleaned promptly to avoid damage. Using rugs and mats can help protect the floor.

• Not Recommended: Rooms with high moisture like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements are generally not suitable for traditional hardwood due to the risk of warping or cupping. In these areas, engineered hardwood or waterproof alternatives may be a better choice.

Always consider the room's moisture levels and foot traffic when deciding if hardwood is appropriate for that space.

Regularly sweep or vacuum using a soft brush attachment to remove dirt and debris. Clean with a hardwood-specific cleaner—avoid water or steam mops, which can damage the wood. Use protective pads under furniture and rugs in high-traffic areas to prevent scratching.

We do not recommend using water or steam mops on hardwood floors, as excessive moisture can damage the wood. Instead, use a damp microfiber mop with a hardwood-specific cleaner like Bona or Basic Coatings Squeaky.

Yes, natural color variation is a characteristic of real hardwood flooring. Each plank is unique, with differences in grain patterns, mineral streaks, knots, and color tone—even within the same species. These variations add to the authentic beauty and character of the floor.

Factors like wood species, grade, and finish will influence the degree of variation. For a more consistent appearance, select a higher grade of wood, but if you prefer a natural, rustic look, embracing these variations is ideal.

We always recommend reviewing samples and, if possible, multiple planks before purchase to understand the range of tones you can expect in your finished floor.