Wood floors are a classic choice. They add warmth, charm, and serious resale value to your home. But despite their popularity, there are a lot of myths out there about wood flooring. At Gowdy Flooring, we hear it all the time—people holding back because of things they’ve “heard” but never actually confirmed. So, let’s set the record straight. Here are the biggest hardwood flooring myths we’ve come across and the truth behind them.
Wood floors are too fragile for daily life
Let’s start with the most common one: “Wood floors scratch too easily.” Yes, wood can get scratched. But so can almost any flooring if you drag heavy furniture or wear high heels indoors. Most modern wood floors are protected with tough polyurethane finishes that can take a beating.
If you have pets or kids, you can choose a harder wood species like hickory or white oak. You can also choose engineered wood flooring with a scratch-resistant coating. Just use rugs in high-traffic zones and felt pads under furniture. Wood floors are made to be lived on, not tiptoed around.
You can’t install wood floors in Amarillo’s climate
Many people think that the dry, sometimes extreme weather in Amarillo makes wood floors a bad idea. This is not true. Yes, wood expands and contracts with humidity changes. But that’s why proper acclimation before your hardwood floor installation is key.
When you work with a local flooring expert, we know how to manage this. We’ll make sure your wood gets time to adjust before it goes in. Plus, engineered wood flooring is specifically designed to handle climate swings better than solid wood. So, no matter what the weather looks like outside, your floors can stay stable inside.
Engineered wood isn’t “real” wood
This one’s a classic. Engineered wood is absolutely real wood; it just has a different structure. Instead of a solid plank, engineered wood floors have a real wood veneer on top and multiple layers of plywood underneath. That layered design gives it extra strength and stability, especially in Amarillo homes that deal with dry heat and seasonal changes.
And yes, you can refinish many engineered wood floors if they have a thick enough top layer. So, you’re not sacrificing longevity. You're getting the best of both worlds: natural beauty and added durability.
Wood floors are bad for pets
We love our four-legged family members, too, and wood floors can absolutely work in pet-friendly homes. Are there better options for high-moisture accidents? Sure—vinyl and tile win there. But with the right finish and regular maintenance, wood holds up just fine against paws and playtime.
Opt for a matte or wire-brushed finish to help hide minor scuffs. Keep nails trimmed and wipe up spills fast. Most pet owners who invest in wood flooring never look back. It’s easy to clean, non-allergenic, and way more stylish than carpet.
Wood floors are too expensive
Not all wood floors come with a hefty price tag. In fact, the range is wider than ever. Engineered wood can be more budget-friendly than traditional hardwood flooring. And when you factor in the long-term value—like how wood flooring can boost your home’s resale price—it’s often a smarter investment than cheaper short-term options.
We help Amarillo homeowners find wood floors that fit their style and their budget. And with proper care, your floors could last decades, which saves money down the line.
Visit us for world-class hardwood flooring in Amarillo, TX
Don’t let outdated information keep you from the timeless beauty of wood flooring. When installed and maintained correctly, wood floors are tough, versatile, and built to last.
Gowdy Flooring offers a wide selection of high-quality wood flooring for sale. Our showroom in Amarillo, TX, serves Amarillo, Canyon, Dumas, Borger, and Hereford, TX. We’re here to help you make the right choice for your home. Reach out to us today!
