Unfinished or prefinished
Solid hardwood can be unfinished or prefinished. Therefore, you must first decide if you want to have the planks installed and then sanded and finished on-site. While this method of installation is time-consuming, it is a good idea if you are building a new home or undergoing a major renovation. It may be your only choice if you opt for a less common wood or stain. It's important to remember that you'll only get a flush look when you install unfinished flooring. In contrast, prefinished hardwood flooring planks:
- have factory-applied treatments that make them very durable.
- can be walked on immediately after installation.
- can be installed in a room in one day.
- have a beveled look.
An alternative to solid wood
Engineered hardwood is a practical, budget-friendly alternative to solid hardwood. Planks are made with plywood that has a layer of hardwood on top of it. Some products may contain medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or lumber core. Engineered hardwood can be used in a basement because it is moisture resistant. However, it is not recommended for bathrooms. Expect to find:
- many species of woods like oak, beech, and hickory.
- planks that range in thickness from three to seven or more layers.
- finishes like matte, semi-gloss, and high gloss.
- surface effects, including distressed and hand-scraped.
Installation
Solid hardwood is glued or nailed to the subfloor while engineered hardwood planks can be fit together to create a floor that floats over the subfloor. The former can be sanded down numerous times over its lifetime while the latter can only be lightly sanded once or twice. Cherokee Floor Covering, a hardwood flooring store that has been serving the Woodstock, Canton, Marietta, and Acworth areas for more than 30 years, can install hardwood flooring in your home. We do hardwood refinishing too!
