Hardwood flooring is one of the most popular choices for homeowners, and for good reason. It’s strong, stylish, and built to last. But if you’re thinking about installing hardwood in your home, you likely have questions. From costs to care, finishes to installation, this guide answers the most common questions people ask about hardwood floors. Let’s break it down.
What’s the difference between solid and engineered hardwood flooring?
Solid hardwood is made from one piece of wood, top to bottom. Engineered hardwood flooring has a real wood top layer, but it’s built on layers of plywood or fiberboard. Solid wood can be sanded and refinished numerous times. Engineered hardwood flooring usually allows for one or two refinishes, depending on the thickness of the top layer.
Engineered hardwood is often the safer bet if your home has fluctuating humidity or you're installing the floor in the basement. It resists moisture better than solid wood.
How long do hardwood floors last?
With proper care, solid hardwood floors can last 50 years or more. Engineered hardwood, while durable, typically lasts 20 to 30 years. The lifespan depends on foot traffic, maintenance habits, and whether you refinish the floors when needed.
Can hardwood flooring increase home value?
Yes. Buyers see hardwood as a premium feature. Homes with hardwood often sell faster and for more money. It gives the space a polished, timeless look that doesn’t go out of style.
What types of wood species are available?
You’ve got options. Oak is the most common. It’s tough, takes stain well, and has a classic grain. Maple is lighter and smoother. Hickory is bold and rustic, perfect for high-traffic homes. Exotic woods like Brazilian cherry or acacia bring rich colors and standout patterns.
Your lifestyle and design taste will help guide the right species for your space.
Should I choose prefinished or site-finished hardwood floors?
Prefinished hardwood comes already stained and sealed from the factory. It’s quicker to install and gives off less odor and mess. Site-finished hardwood flooring is installed raw and then sanded and stained in your home. That gives you more control over the final look but takes longer and requires more cleanup.
For quick updates, go prefinished. For a custom feel, site-finished may be the better fit.
Is hardwood flooring hard to maintain?
Not at all. Just sweep regularly, vacuum weekly, and clean up spills fast. Use hardwood-safe cleaners—never soak the floor. You’ll also want to use furniture pads and rugs in high-traffic spots.
Refinishing every few years helps bring back the shine and repair surface scratches.
Can hardwood flooring be installed in kitchens or bathrooms?
Technically, yes. But it’s not always the best choice. Kitchens are usually fine if you clean up spills quickly. Bathrooms, however, are high-moisture zones. For those areas, consider luxury vinyl or tile that mimics the look of wood but offers better water resistance.
How much does hardwood flooring cost?
Costs vary. Engineered wood is often less expensive than solid wood.
At our wood flooring store in Brookfield, IL, we can walk you through estimates based on your room size and style preferences.
Is professional installation worth it?
Absolutely. Installing hardwood takes skill, especially if you want it to last. Professional installers make sure your subfloor is prepped, boards are spaced and nailed correctly, and everything is sealed tight. You also get warranties that DIY installs don’t offer.
Visit us for high-end hardwood floors in Brookfield, IL
Hardwood flooring is a smart, long-lasting investment that brings warmth and beauty to any home. Do you still have questions? Reach out to NPN Flooring today! Our wood flooring store in Brookfield, IL, serves Brookfield, Naperville, Plainfield, Oswego, LaGrange, and Aurora, IL.
