Hardwood FAQs

What are some of the different types of wood flooring?

Although very similar in look and feel, there are some differences between engineered and hardwood floors. Both types are made from 100% real wood, but there are important distinctions.

Engineered wood is constructed from multiple piles of wood and then finished with a solid wood top layer.  Under the top layer lies and inner core of high density fiberboard layers.  A hardwood backing lines the bottom of each plank.  This allows your floor to be dimensionally stable as the wood expands and contracts.

What species should I choose?

Selecting the type of wood for your floor is an important decision.  There are a few essential things to know before you select your floor.  The first is knowing the hardness factor of the wood.  This will determine how well your floor will hold up to wear including dings and scratches.  Softer woods, such as Bamboo, Maple and Pine have a medium hardness factor, while exotic woods like Brazilian Teak or Acacia have a high hardness factor.

Each type of wood has a different type of grain which creates various looks and styles.  Walnut and oak have distinguished grain patterns while maple is much more subtle.  Exotic woods tend to have very distinct grain and color patterns.

How do I pick the right width and color for my new floor?

Different woods create a vast variety of colors and grain patterns.  There are also choices to make concerning the width of your floor.  This decision will affect the installation and look of your floor.  Wider planks will allow the detail and design of your wood floor to be more obvious.    Flooring widths can range from 2 ¼ “up to 8”  depending on your favorite style.  In addition to the color, look and width, texture is another option to consider.  Your wood planks can be smooth, hand-scraped, distressed, or wire-brushed to add detail and texture.   To simplify the buying process decide if you would like a lighter or darker colored floor, the species of wood that will give you the look you want, the textured finish, and then decide how wide you want each plank to be.  At Maxwell Flooring we can help you make the best decision for your home.

Can I put hardwood flooring in every part of my house?

It is not recommended that solid hardwood flooring be installed in rooms below ground level or on slab cement.  This includes basements.  In rooms where water damage is possible, such as bathrooms, hardwood floors are discouraged.  Engineered wood flooring is more versatile and can be installed in almost anywhere in the home, including basements and cement slabs.  Contact us at Maxwell Flooring with more specific questions.