Engineered hardwood flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring is created with a core of hardwood, plywood or HDF, and a top layer of hardwood veneer. Available in almost any hardwood species, the flooring has the natural characteristics of the selected wood, but is designed to provide greater stability. Engineered hardwood minimizes the gaps in the wood’s surface caused by expansion and contraction from changing temperatures and humidity levels. This form of flooring may be installed above or below grade. Solid hardwood flooring
Solid hardwood flooring is a complete piece of the natural wood species running through the entire floor, typically with a tongue and groove installation. Hardwood has the timeless beauty, warmth, and character of real wood. Acoustically, hardwood makes a solid sound with little vibration when walked upon. It can suit any budget and complement any style, while offering versatility and longevity to your floors. Solid hardwood is sensitive to moisture and can only be installed above grade. >> Download a printable hardwood buying guide |  | Species
Wood floors come in a variety of species, both domestic and exotic. Each species offers a unique overall appearance and differs in color, hardness, and price. Some have more variance in color and character, while others are more uniform in nature. Some species exhibit "photosensitivity," which causes color changes after long-term exposure to light. The Janka Hardness scale identifies hardness and durability of each wood species, helping you choose a wood that will meet your needs. | | | Finish
Hardwood floor finishes add aesthetic qualities like enhanced sheen and color, while improving the performance and durability of the wood. Polyurethane finishes are highly resistant to stains, moisture, wear and tear, and spills. The most popular wood floor finish, polyurethane is available in gloss, semi-gloss, and satin sheens, and tends to amber slightly as it ages. Urethanes are the hardest finishes, offering longevity to your floor, but may also yellow slightly over time. Aluminum oxide offers durability and a long-lasting finish. When added to a urethane finish, aluminum oxide provides remarkable scratch and abrasion resistance, superior gloss retention, and a smooth look that's easy to clean. Water-based finishes are urethanes or acrylic/urethane blends that are fast-drying, moisture resistant, durable, and resistant to yellowing. | | | Size
Strip hardwood flooring is usually 2 1/4" thick. Plank hardwood is 3" or wider and can come in random lengths. Parquet wood floors are made of geometric patterns of hardwood strips. The individual plank width can support or detract from your overall decorating style, so keep in mind the size of your room, furnishings, and design scheme when choosing board width. | | | Edges
Square edges tend to have a continuous, uniform look that presents a contemporary feel. Microbeveled edges have a slight groove along each edge that creates a subtle depth and dimension to each wood board, giving the floor a casual feel. Beveled edges have deeper grooves that offer a custom, hand-crafted appeal. | | | Square footage
To measure your room's square footage, use the longest point in both directions from baseboard to baseboard (or from the drywall). Don't try to be exact – always round up. If you'd like help, Eheart Interior Solutions can take the guesswork out of your project and measures for you. Ask a sales associate for details. | | | Maintenance
Wood floors do not trap dust, pollen, and other allergens, but floors should still be cleaned regularly. Sweep with a soft bristle broom or vacuum without a rotating brush. Clean your floors periodically with a professional wood floor cleaning product, and never wet-mop a wood floor. Throw rugs help prevent scratches from dirt and other debris. Eheart Interior Solutions carries a full line of wood care products and will ensure you have the correct products for your floor. |
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