Investing in luxury wood flooring is about more than choosing a product – it’s a long‑term decision that affects your home’s beauty, durability and value. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a remodel or an architect specifying finishes for a high‑end project, asking the right questions ensures the finished floor suits your lifestyle and design vision. Below are ten essential questions to consider before you commit.
Solid hardwood consists of planks cut from a single piece of timber. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times and works well above grade, but isn’t ideal in basements or over radiant heat. Engineered hardwood has a real wood veneer over multiple layers of plywood; it’s more dimensionally stable and suitable for basements, slab foundations and humid climates. Knowing where your floor will be installed and how often you may want to refinish it helps determine the right construction.
Site‑finished flooring is sanded and finished in place. It offers endless customisation options for stain colour, sheen and finish type, but the process creates dust and requires curing time. Factory‑finished flooring arrives pre‑stained and sealed, making installation faster with less disruption. Decide whether custom aesthetics or convenience are more important for your project.
Gloss, semi‑gloss and matte finishes all offer the same level of protection; the difference is in reflectivity. High‑gloss floors create a formal, mirror‑like look but show scratches easily, while matte and satin finishes provide a more understated elegance and hide wear. Consider the room’s lighting, foot traffic and desired ambiance.
Regular sweeping, dust mopping or vacuuming keeps grit from scratching the finish. Avoid steam mops or wet mops – excess water can dull the finish or damage the wood. Entry rugs help catch dirt, but steer clear of rubber‑backed mats, which can discolour your floor. Re‑oil or refinish your floors as recommended by the manufacturer to keep them looking pristine.
Natural wood will change tone with age and sunlight. To minimise uneven fading, rotate rugs and furniture regularly and use window treatments to filter UV light. Choosing UV‑resistant finishes also helps protect your investment.
Wood species influence colour, grain and hardness. Light woods like maple or ash create an airy, contemporary look; medium‑toned woods such as oak or hickory feel warm and versatile; dark species like walnut or mahogany add depth and elegance. Harder species (oak, hickory) resist dents better than softer ones (pine) – an important factor in households with heavy traffic, children or pets.
Always order more material than your exact square footage. A good rule of thumb is 10 percent extra to account for cuts and waste, though complex layouts (stairs, bay windows, angled walls) may require even more. Your flooring professional can advise on the right overage to avoid delays and ensure consistent lot color.
Sharp claws and heavy use can scratch any wood floor, but you can mitigate damage by keeping pet nails trimmed and placing rugs in high‑traffic areas. Harder species and textured or matte finishes hide scratches better than glossy, smooth surfaces.
Factory‑finished floors can be walked on immediately after installation, whereas site‑finished floors require sanding, staining and curing time. Additionally, all wood flooring needs to acclimate to your home’s temperature and humidity before installation – this can take several days. Plan your schedule accordingly and budget extra time for custom finishes.
Installing wood flooring is complex; mistakes can cause gaps, buckling or premature wear. Professional installers have the tools and experience to handle subfloor prep, acclimation and finishing correctly. Even if you’re handy, hiring a specialist will save time and protect your investment