Few things transform your space like real wood under your feet. And that’s probably why be it for warmth, beauty, or that wow factor, hardwood flooring never goes out of style.
Moreover, hardwood floors are also at the top of the list when it comes to adding long-term value to your home.
But here’s the catch: Choosing the right hardwood isn’t as simple as picking a pretty looking plank.
That’s because between the many hardwood flooring types and sub-types, including solid and engineered, prefinished and unfinished, etc., you can easily be overwhelmed.
This is exactly why I’ve created this guide to walk you through all types of hardwood flooring materials out there.
Whether you’re remodeling a single room or building your dream home, this will help you make the best decision for your space, style, and budget.
So let’s get right into it.
What is hardwood flooring?
Before I get into the various wood floors types, let’s first be clear about what hardwood flooring exactly is.
For starters, hardwood flooring is crafted from real wood and is available in solid planks or engineered boards with a genuine wood veneer. It is known for its strength, natural beauty, and ability to be refinished.
And the best part: With the right care and maintenance it can last you for generations.
Now, like all modern-day alternatives, synthetic floors have come to replicate wood. Nevertheless, if you’re looking to create the authentic warmth and texture of wood flooring, there’s no substitute to hardwood.
Talking about wood species for flooring, popular options include oak, hickory, walnut, and more.
But notwithstanding the wood species you go for, you’ll have to choose between two grades of hardwood, namely solid and engineered. I’ve explained them both so that you’re able to make an informed choice.
Solid vs engineered hardwood flooring: What’s the difference?
When it comes to choosing between the many hardwood flooring types, the first decision you’ll make is pick from either solid or engineered hardwood. And this is true for all hardwood species and construction types.
So let me walk you through the two grades of hardwood.
To begin with solid hardwood, it is exactly what it sounds like. Here, each plank is a single, solid piece of wood, typically 3/4 of an inch thick.
This type of hardwood is considered the best for high-end flooring. Meaning if you’re looking for that old-world, rich, and classic feel, this is your go-to flooring material.
Coming to engineered hardwood, it’s not the second-best option either, contrary to what a lot of people think. Instead, it’s a smart alternative made from multiple layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard and topped with a thin veneer of real wood.
In fact, it is this layered construction that gives engineered hardwood superior stability and makes it perfect for moisture-prone areas like basements and kitchens, among others. So, if you’re looking for a kitchen or basement remodeling on a budget, this is apt for flooring.
Plus, take good care, and engineered wood floors can also last you for decades if not less.
What are the different hardwood flooring types by construction?
Now that you know the grades of hardwood and how they’re apt for various areas of your home, let’s look at the type of wood floors based on construction.
All in all, you’ll find four types of hardwood flooring materials on the market, namely:
1. Unfinished hardwood
As the name suggests, unfinished hardwood is raw wood that is first installed in your home and then sanded and stained on-site.
And this is ideal if you want a totally custom wood food. That’s because you can match the existing wood tones, control the sheen, and achieve a truly seamless look throughout your home.
It goes without saying that unfinished wood involves more work up front and can be messy due to sanding and finishing fumes. But at the end, you also get a high-end tailor-made floor.
2. Prefinished hardwood
Next up on wood floors types, we’ve got prefinished hardwood which is apt for those who want a gorgeous flooring without the wait or the mess.
These are essentially factory-finished planks coated with a protective layer and often cured with UV light for toughness.
What I personally love about prefinished floors is how quickly they can be installed. You walk in, and boom, no sanding, no staining, no waiting days to move in furniture.
Also, they’re more consistent in tone and finish, and the coatings are usually harder than anything you could do on-site.
3. Reclaimed hardwood
Reclaimed hardwood is one of my personal favorites, not just for its beauty but for the story it brings into a home.
You see, this wood is salvaged from old barns, factories, and historic buildings. And this makes it the most sustainable and eco-conscious flooring choice out there.
Plus, no two planks are ever alike as you’ll often see weathering, nail holes, and rich patina that simply can’t be manufactured. This adds depth, character, and a unique sense of history to your space.
4. Distressed & wire-brushed hardwood
Lastly on the list of hardwood flooring types by construction, we’ve got distressed or wire-brushed floors. These hardwoods have intentional textures that mask wear and tear beautifully.
Here, while wire-brushing enhances the wood grain, distressing adds subtle scrapes and divots for that weathered and rustic feel. And for those who want to make their home look rustic, warm, and more inviting, this is perfect flooring material.
What are the hardwood flooring types based on wood species?
There’s an old saying among flooring experts that the species of hardwood you choose is like picking the soul of your floor.
And I can’t agree more. After all, it determines not just the look but also how your floors will wear, feel underfoot, and age.
As such, it is essential you know a fair bit about the different wood species before you select one for your floor.
I’ve detailed the different wood species popularly used for flooring, which includes:
1. Red and white oak
Oak is a true classic and one of the most versatile wood species out there.
Here, while red oak has a warmer and slightly pinkish undertone, white oak is cooler, smoother, and a bit more modern.
Both stain beautifully and let you customize to fit almost any design aesthetic. So from rustic farmhouse to sleek and contemporary, you can do just about anything.
Also, it’s impressively durable, which makes it a top choice for bigger families including those with pets despite the high cost of hardwood flooring.
2. Maple
If you’re someone who loves subtle elegance, maple is your wood for flooring. This is lighter in color (palettes range from creamy white to pale gold) and has a super tight grain that gives it a very clean and modern look.
What’s more?
It’s harder than oak and has a soft glow that radiates a sophisticated and airy vibe.
Note: Tight grain of maple means scratches can show more easily.
3. Hickory
The rebel of the bunch, hickory is bold, dramatic, and bursting with character. It has a strong grain contrast and color variation that gives it a lot of visual energy.
In fact, such is the contrast of this wood that two hickory boards will never look the same. And that’s exactly why I suggest it to those homeowners who want rustic lodge-style or country-inspired homes.
4. Walnut
Walnut has deep chocolate tones and flowing smooth grain which makes it the choice for elegance and richness.
However, it is not as not as hard as oak or hickory, so I usually suggest it for low traffic areas like bedrooms, studies, or formal living rooms.
But what it lacks in toughness, it makes up for in luxury. So, if you want your floors to be the envy, walnut is your go-to.
5. Cherry
Cherry wood starts off with a soft reddish tone and deepens into a rich warm mahogany-like hue over time.
In fact, it’s this natural darkening that is one of cherry’s most charming traits and makes it like a fine piece of antique furniture.
Talking about wood grain, it’s smooth, refined, and gives it a very traditional look. But because it’s on the softer side, I only recommend it for areas that don’t see a lot of foot fall.
6. Exotic woods (Brazilian Cherry, Tigerwood, Acacia, etc.)
Want to make a statement with flooring?
Well, exotic hardwoods are where it’s at.
There are various exotic wood species that include:
- Brazilian Cherry: Also called Jatoba, this is insanely hard and has a deep red tone that turns heads.
- Tigerwood: This has bold stripy patterns that makes it live up to its name.
- Acacia: Another favorite of mine, this has dark swirling grains with a rustic-meets-modern edge.
Note: Exotic woods are pricier than traditional hardwood, costing anywhere between $5 and $12 per square foot. And if you’re upgrading flooring as part of home renovation, this is sure to inflate your complete house renovation cost significantly.
What are the different types of hardwood flooring materials based on finish?
So far, you already know the different hardwood flooring types based on construction and wood species. But there are also wood floors types with different finishes.
Although finishes are the final coat that protects the wood and amplifies its beauty, there are various ways it’s done. And that includes:
1. Oil-based polyurethane
Oil-based polyurethane gives wood a warm golden glow that deepens over time. Also, it is durable and perfect for high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, or living rooms.
The only catch?
It takes longer to dry and it does have a stronger odor during application.
But once it’s cured, you get a hard protective finish that can take a beating.
2. Water-based polyurethane
If you want a clearer and more natural finish that won’t yellow over time, water-based polyurethane is the way to go.
Why?
Well, it dries fast, has a low odor, and is more eco-friendly. This makes it great for family homes with low to medium foot fall.
The catch: It is slightly less durable than oil-based polyurethane.
3. Hardwax oil
Hardwax oil is all about the natural look and feel of wood. It penetrates into the grain instead of sitting on top and gives your floor a matte organic finish.
Plus, it is super easy to touch up and perfect if you want something low-sheen and low-maintenance in the long run.
4. UV-cured finishes
Most prefinished hardwood floors come with UV-cured finishes. And let me tell you they’re tough as nails.
You see, these finishes are applied in a controlled factory setting and then instantly hardened with UV light.
The result: You get extreme durability, scratch resistance, and a perfectly even finish.
5 Things to consider before choosing wood floors types
Before you commit to any type of hardwood flooring, I suggest you sit back and go through a few key questions. That’s because finding answers to these questions is essential to the end product you’ll get in terms of function, quality, durability, and more.
All in all, here are a few things you should take into account:
1. What’s Your budget?
Let’s be real: Floors are an investment and their prices can vary wildly.
For instance, engineered hardwood is generally more budget-friendly than solid wood. At the same time, prefinished boards also save money on installation labor.
I always suggest you balance cost with long-term value. That’s because sometimes it’s worth spending a little more now for a floor that’ll last you a lifetime (and still look fabulous).
2. What’s your subfloor?
Your subfloor matters more than you might think. It determines which installation method you can use and how well you can control moisture.
For instance, if you’ve got a concrete floor then engineered hardwood and glue-down installation are your best bet.
3. What’s your lifestyle like?
Your lifestyle plays a key role in affecting how you’ll use the hardwood floor.
For instance, if yours is a home with pets, kids, and a lot of foot traffic generally, then I suggest you go with harder woods like hickory or oak. Also, you can go for a textured or wire-brushed finish to hide scratches.
4. What climate do you live in?
Humidity and temperature swings can wreak havoc on hardwood if you’re not careful. So, if you’re in a humid climate or have radiant heat, engineered wood is the safest choice.
Similarly, if you’re in a dry or temperate zone then solid wood can work beautifully.
5. What flooring style you want?
Your floors set the tone for your entire space. So, if you want a rustic look then I suggest you stick to wide-plank hickory or hand-scraped oak.
Similarly, light-toned maple or minimalist white oak with a matte finish are great for modern aesthetics.
Frequently asked questions about hardwood flooring types
What is the best hardwood floor?
The best hardwood floor depends on your needs.
For instance, if durability and versatility matter most, oak (especially white oak) is a top choice. It is hard, stains well, and suits nearly any style.
At the same time, for high-end elegance walnut offers rich color and grain. Also, if you’re after sustainability and charm, reclaimed hardwood is unmatched.
Ultimately, the best floor is one that matches your lifestyle, climate, and design vision.
What is the best wood for hardwood floors?
Some of the best woods for flooring include oak, hickory, maple, walnut, and exotic species like Brazilian cherry.
Here are some best hardwood for flooring you can choose from:
- White oak: It is highly durable and water-resistant which makes it ideal for modern or traditional styles.
- Hickory: It is the hardest domestic wood, great for high-traffic or pet-heavy homes.
- Maple: It offers a clean, light look, while walnut brings dark luxury and warmth.
Choose based on hardness, color, grain, and how much wear your floors will see.
How long does hardwood flooring last?
With proper care, solid hardwood can last 75 to over 100 years, making it one of the most enduring flooring options. It can also be sanded and refinished multiple times, which extends its life significantly.
Engineered hardwood, at the same time, typically lasts 20 to 40 years, depending on the quality and thickness of the veneer.
Is hardwood flooring waterproof?
No, hardwood flooring is not waterproof and this is a super important point to remember.
While engineered hardwood offers a bit more moisture resistance than solid wood, thanks to its layered construction, neither option should be installed in areas with high humidity or standing water.
Why?
If water sits on the surface too long, it can cause warping, staining, or even permanent damage.
Can you install hardwood yourself?
Yes, but it depends on the type.
For instance, if you’re working with a floating engineered floor that clicks together, it’s a solid DIY project if you’ve got basic tools and patience.
That said, solid hardwood, especially nail-down or glue-down installations, is much more complex. It often requires subfloor prep, special tools, and a good understanding of expansion gaps and moisture control.
So, unless you’re an experienced DIYer, I highly recommend hiring a professional as it’ll save time, stress, and possibly some costly mistakes.
Can hardwood be refinished?
Yes, and this is one of the biggest advantages of real hardwood.
Solid hardwood can be sanded down and refinished multiple times (typically 4 to 7, depending on thickness), making it an excellent long-term investment.
Engineered hardwood can also be refinished, but only if the top veneer is thick enough and usually only once or twice.
Engineered or solid wood: Which is better?
Honestly, it comes down to your home’s needs and lifestyle.
Engineered hardwood is more stable in environments with humidity swings or moisture like basements or over radiant heating. Meaning it’s more versatile in tricky areas.
But if you want maximum longevity and refinishing potential, solid hardwood is the winner. It offers a traditional, authentic feel that can be renewed over decades.
You might also want to read: How Much Does Remodeling A Kitchen Add Value On Long Island?
Final thoughts
As you can see, there are endless hardwood flooring types going by construction, wood species, and finish.
So, if you’re going to invest in hardwood flooring, take the time to really understand your options. And as you do so, factor in your lifestyle, wood longevity, and where you’re installing it.
My advice?
Think long-term, consider how each room is used, and always work with a reputable contractor.
Got more questions or looking to get hardwood flooring installed in your home?
You can reach out to us and get a free quote for your flooring project!
At Creative Design Ceramic Tile & Bath, we are seasoned flooring installation professionals with 38+ years of expertise installing top-of-the-line floors across Long Island and beyond. And we’ve got all your flooring needs covered on a budget.