The Ultimate Guide to Buying Hardwood Flooring: Everything You Need to Know

Each plank is a single, solid piece of wood. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, lasting for generations. However, it’s susceptible to moisture and shouldn't be installed in basements or over concrete.

Planks (5 inches or wider) are currently very trendy. They show off the natural beauty of the wood and can make a large space feel more cozy. 6. The "Hidden" Costs

The type of wood determines both the look and the durability (measured by the ).

Raw wood is installed, then sanded and stained in your home. This allows for a perfectly level floor and custom color matching, but it creates a lot of dust and takes several days to dry. 5. Mind the Width

Narrow planks (under 3 inches) make a room look longer and more formal.

When budgeting, remember that the price per square foot of the wood is only part of the story. Don't forget to account for: For moisture barriers or sound dampening.

Always order 10% more than your actual square footage to account for cuts and mistakes.