NewInterior AI
Flooring

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring consists of solid wood planks milled from single pieces of timber, representing one of the most desirable and enduring flooring choices. Prized for natural beauty, warmth, and the ability to be sanded and refinished multiple times over decades, hardwood floors add significant value to homes. The character of hardwood lies in its natural variations—grain patterns, knots, and subtle color shifts that make each floor unique. Species range from classic oak and maple to exotic Brazilian cherry and teak, each offering distinct appearance and hardness characteristics. Properly maintained hardwood floors can last over a century.

Key Characteristics

  • ✓Solid wood throughout thickness
  • ✓Can be refinished multiple times
  • ✓Natural grain and character
  • ✓Increases home value
  • ✓Various species and grades
  • ✓Lifetime durability potential

Types & Variations

Red oak (traditional, warm tones)
White oak (contemporary, harder)
Maple (light, uniform grain)
Hickory (rustic, very hard)
Walnut (rich, dark tones)

Works Well With These Styles

TraditionalTransitionalFarmhouseCraftsmanContemporaryAll styles

Placement & Usage Tips

Hardwood performs best on main and upper levels where humidity is controlled. Avoid below-grade installations. Consider plank width and length proportional to room size—wider planks suit larger spaces.

💡 Pro Tip

When selecting hardwood, consider the Janka hardness rating—higher numbers indicate more dent resistance. For high-traffic areas and homes with pets, choose harder species like hickory or Brazilian cherry.

Related Terms

Engineered Hardwood

Flooring with a real wood veneer top layer bonded to multiple plywood layers, offering stability against humidity and temperature changes.

Oak

A strong, durable hardwood with distinctive grain patterns, widely used for furniture, flooring, and cabinetry.

Walnut

A prized hardwood known for its rich, dark brown color and elegant grain, favored for fine furniture.

← Back to Glossary