Hardwood flooring is a game-changer. It transforms any space with warmth, style, and durability. Unlike carpet or vinyl, wood floors last decades with the right care. They can be refinished multiple times, adapting to new trends without the need for a full replacement. Plus, they add serious value to a home—buyers love them. In this blog, we discuss and answer the most frequently asked questions about wood flooring.
What’s the best type of hardwood for my home?
It depends on your lifestyle. If you have pets and kids, opt for harder woods like oak, hickory, or maple. These resist dents and scratches better. Softer woods like pine can work in low-traffic areas but may show wear faster. Engineered wood flooring is a fantastic choice if you want stability in humid conditions, while solid hardwood offers the classic appeal of all-natural wood.
How do I maintain hardwood floors?
It’s easier than you think. Sweep or vacuum regularly to keep dust and dirt from scratching the surface. Mop with a damp (not wet) microfiber cloth and a hardwood-safe cleaner—skip anything with harsh chemicals or excessive moisture. Place felt pads under furniture legs and use rugs in high-traffic areas to prevent wear. If scratches do appear, refinishing is always an option.
Can hardwood flooring handle moisture?
Yes, but with some limits. Solid hardwood can warp or swell if exposed to too much moisture, so it’s not ideal for bathrooms or basements. Engineered wood flooring is a better pick for those areas since it has a more stable core. For kitchens, just wipe up spills quickly, and you’ll be fine.
Is engineered hardwood real wood?
Absolutely. Engineered hardwood flooring has a natural wood veneer on top, which gives it the same look and feel as solid wood. The difference is in the layers beneath. The core is made of high-density fiberboard or plywood, which makes it less likely to expand or contract with changes in humidity. It’s a smart choice for areas where moisture might be a concern.
How long does hardwood flooring last?
With proper care, hardwood flooring can last 50 years or more. Some historic homes still have their original hardwood floors from over a century ago! Refinishing every 7–10 years keeps them looking fresh, making them a lifetime investment.
Does hardwood flooring increase home value?
Yes! Hardwood floors are a huge selling point. They make a home feel upscale, clean, and timeless. Many buyers are willing to pay more for a home with hardwood, making it one of the best flooring investments for resale value.
What’s better: prefinished or unfinished hardwood?
It depends on your priorities. Prefinished hardwood flooring comes ready to install with a factory-applied finish, making it faster and more convenient. Unfinished hardwood is installed raw and then finished on-site, allowing for custom stains and a seamless look. If you’re remodeling and want minimal disruption, go prefinished. If you’re after a custom stain or wider planks, unfinished is the way to go.
Can I install hardwood flooring myself?
Technically, yes—but it’s not for the faint of heart. Solid hardwood requires precise nailing, sanding, and finishing, which can be tricky for DIYers. Engineered wood flooring is easier to install, especially with click-lock or floating options. If you’re confident in your skills, go for it! If not, professional installation ensures a flawless finish.
What’s the difference between solid and engineered hardwood?
Both look and feel the same on the surface. The difference is in the construction. Solid hardwood flooring is a lone piece of wood, making it super durable and able to be refinished multiple times. Engineered hardwood has a real wood top layer over a plywood or fiberboard base, making it more stable in areas with humidity fluctuations.
Can hardwood floors be refinished?
Yes, and that’s one of their biggest perks! Solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished multiple times—sometimes up to 10 times over its lifespan. Engineered hardwood, depending on the thickness of its top layer, can be refinished once or twice. Refinishing removes scratches, dings, and discoloration, giving your floors a fresh start.
Looking for high-quality hardwood floors in Amarillo, TX? Call us!
Hardwood flooring is timeless, durable, and a fantastic investment. If you’re thinking about making the switch, visit Gowdy Flooring and explore a variety of wood species, finishes, and styles. Our showroom in Amarillo, TX, serves Amarillo, Canyon, Dumas, Borger, and Hereford, TX. Our flooring experts can help you choose the perfect hardwood floors for your home!
