UNFINISHED - SOLID HARDWOOD
Characteristics
- Real Wood You Can Sand And Refinish Over And Over
Pros
- Real hardwood look & feel/aesthetics
- Can withstand multiple re-finishings
- Longer lifespan
- Higher resale value
- Renewable resource
- Good insulator
- More customizable – color/stain options
Cons
- Vulnerable To Humidity, Hardwood Is Not Recommended For Below-Grade Basements
PRE-FINISHED SOLID HARDWOOD
Characteristics
- Real Wood You Can Sand And Refinish Over And Over
Pros
- Real hardwood look & feel/aesthetics
- No on-site sanding/finishing required
- Renewable resource
- Good insulator
- Easy one-day install
- Resists more scratches than on-site finishing
ENGINEERED HARDWOOD
Characteristics
- Layered products created of real thin slice of hardwood on top of a high quality plywood base
- Can be installed as a floating floor like traditional wood planks or glue down
- Appropriate for any floor in any home
Pros
- Excelling hardwood alternative for concrete and other moist sub-floor environments (ie. Basement)
- Real wood finish
- Versatile and available in many colors
- Can be stained, refinished
- Great for use with radiant heating
Cons
- Fewer choices of wood species vs. solid hardwood
- You can sand it but once or twice lightly
- Because the surface is thin, its overall durability is not as long as solid hardwood
LAMINATE
Characteristics
- Synthetic wood flooring with a real wood aesthetic with a wide range of choices
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Water resistant (not waterproof)
- Low maintenance
Cons
- Cannot be repaired, refinished or stained
- Once damaged, laminate planks must be completely replaced
LUXURY VINYL PLANKING
Characteristics
- Budget friendly flooring option that mimics hardwood with a wide range of styles and options
- Good for high traffic areas or spaces that require an elegant finish
Pros
- Low cost and long lasting
- Low maintenance
- Good option for bathrooms & kitchens
- Usable in heavy traffic areas & commercial buildings
- Soft surround absorbent, good insulator
- Moisture resistant
Cons
- Minimal Return on Investment
- Cannot be refinished or polished