Comments on: How to Buy Hardwood Flooring

on 11/22/2005 I think it's a good idea to examine engineered flooring closely. While it is more stable than solid hardwood flooring, there are many types. Most important is the actual wear layer, or the surface veneer.

Expect lower priced engineered products to handle only one successful refinish. Some cannot be refinished at all. Others of better quality (1/8" veneer) can usually be refinished 2-3 times, but it will also depend on the refinisher's knowledge and the flatness of the subfloor.

Today, many exotic hardwood floors offer hardness factors twice that of more common red oaks and maples. This means that impact resistance is higher (scratches and dings won't go as deep into the hardwoods), but they will still be noticeable. This is not to say that exotic hardwoods are going to last longer. Longevity depends on the care and maintenance given.

on 11/22/2005 Pine floors have been around for ages. They are not a wise choice for those who don't want to see imperfections after the installation, but many are being sold as character grades today.

I wouldn't place glued-down hardwood floors in the "do-it-yourself" category, although the big-box stores will tell you differently. This type of floor is very prone to failure, including those floors installed by professionals. The easiest installation for any "do-it-yourself" homeowner would be floating floors. Some are glued together, while others "click" together.

on 11/22/2005 A terrible idea if you have small children. This wood scratches with dents and nicks very easily.