How to Compare Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors can add beauty and value to your home, but they also require maintenance and special cleaning methods to help them keep looking their best. If you are interested in putting hardwood floors in your home, you should start by learning all you can about the different kinds of hardwood flooring and the pros and cons of each kind. There are a wide variety of options available, with a wide range of price tags. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Find out the difference between solid wood and engineered wood. Solid hardwood floors are planks of just one type of wood, while engineered wood planks are a thin layer of hardwood with other woods underneath. Engineered wood often is less expensive, easier to put in and easier to care for than hardwood, but it probably won't last as long as well-maintained solid wood.
-
2
Look into the grade of the hardwood floors you're comparing. The grade tells you how flawless or flawed the hardwood floor is. Depending on the look you want to achieve with your hardwood floors, you might want to choose something with some flaws.
-
-
3
Figure out if you want the hardwood floors to be prefinished or unfinished. Prefinished floors come with a protective layer that protects them from moisture and damage. If the floor you choose is unfinished, you need to apply this layer yourself. However, this can be a better option if you want to have more control over the look of your hardwood floors.
-
4
Check out the hardwood floor options you're comparing in person. This gives you the best idea of the overall look, feel and quality of the wood.
-
5
Pay attention to the thickness of the planks or strips of wood flooring you're comparing. The thickness of the wood can drastically change the look and feel of the room.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images
