The beauty of hardwood flooring

 
There’s nothing like the natural beauty of wood floors. Whether you choose solid or engineered wood flooring, you'll get undertones, raised grains, knots, growth rings, and rich, warm charm. Hardwood flooring is also durable, long-lasting, versatile, cost-effective, and adds value to a property.
 

Take a look at engineered wood flooring

 
On the surface, both solid and engineered wood floors look the same. Engineered's top layer, also called the veneer layer, comprises hickory, walnut, maple, cherry, and oak hardwoods. Underneath, however, are three or more layers of genuine wood, combined with a bit of resin, to make the floor more stable and better able to handle water.

As a result, there’s a little more versatility with engineered wood flooring because it can be placed in some higher-than-normal moisture areas where solid can’t go, such as in basements. It’s also a little less expensive because it offers faster and easier installation techniques, such as the floating floor. Just like solid, however, it adds value to a property and can be refinished.
 
 
 
 

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Wood flooring: the cost-effective alternative

 
When you look at the big picture and see that all it takes is a refinishing (not a replacement) to bring them back to their original luster, solid hardwood floors can last up to 100 years, while engineered has a lifespan of around 50. With either, you'll also recoup 70% to 80% of the cost, as seen in your increased property values, and potential home buyers will often pay 2.5% more for a home with wood floors.

Either solid or engineered wood flooring is easy to take care of. Wipe spills immediately, especially in the case of solid wood (although that's a good practice for any flooring). Sweep with a soft broom or vacuum regularly without beater bars; you want to do this since dirt and soil can be sharp and scratch. Clean periodically with a damp mop and wood cleaner and employ some simple tactics, such as using mats and protective furniture pads strategically, keeping pet nails trimmed, and avoiding the wearing of stilettos on the surfaces.
 

Visit our hardwood flooring shop today

 
Whether it’s solid or engineered, hardwood flooring will add elegance to your home. Come into The Flooring Guys to explore our inventory of wood species, all from some of the most recognized and trusted manufacturers around the country. You’ll also get a free quote. Our showroom is in Johnston, IA and we service homeowners and businesses in and around Des Moines, IA, Urbandale, IA, West Des Moines, IA && Ankeny, IA.