hardwood floor
-
4 mins
Hardwood Floors

Hardwood flooring guide for your Medford home

Hardwood flooring is a timeless choice that can add elegance and warmth to your Medford home. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose, install, and maintain hardwood floors:
 

Types of Hardwood Flooring

  1. Solid Hardwood:

    • Characteristics: Made from a single piece of wood, typically ¾ inch thick.
    • Pros: Can be sanded and refinished multiple times, long-lasting, authentic look.
    • Cons: Susceptible to humidity and temperature changes, requires professional installation.

  2. Engineered Hardwood:

    • Characteristics: Composed of multiple layers of wood veneers with a solid wood top layer.
    • Pros: More resistant to moisture and temperature changes, can be installed over concrete, easier to install.
    • Cons: Limited refinishing options, may not last as long as solid hardwood.

Choosing the Right Wood Species

  1. Oak:

    • Pros: Durable, widely available, and relatively affordable. Comes in red and white varieties.
    • Cons: Common, may not be as unique as other species.

  2. Maple:

    • Pros: Hard and durable, smooth grain.
    • Cons: Can be challenging to stain evenly.

  3. Cherry:

    • Pros: Rich color, smooth grain, develops a beautiful patina over time.
    • Cons: Softer, more prone to dents and scratches.

  4. Walnut:

    • Pros: Dark, rich color, and unique grain patterns.
    • Cons: Softer, can dent and scratch more easily.

  5. Hickory:

    • Pros: Extremely hard and durable, unique grain patterns.
    • Cons: More challenging to work with, can be more expensive.

Installation Methods

  1. Nail Down:

    • Ideal for solid hardwood.
    • Requires a wood subfloor.

  2. Staple Down:

    • Similar to nail down but uses staples.
    • Faster and easier to install than nails.

  3. Glue Down:

    • Used for engineered wood and solid wood.
    • Can be installed over concrete.

  4. Floating:

    • Ideal for engineered hardwood.
    • Not attached to the subfloor, planks are attached to each other.

Maintenance Tips

  1. Regular Cleaning:

    • Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris.
    • Use a damp mop with a hardwood floor cleaner.

  2. Avoid Water Damage:

    • Wipe up spills immediately.
    • Use mats in high-traffic areas and near entryways.

  3. Protect the Surface:

    • Use furniture pads to avoid scratches.
    • Consider area rugs to protect high-traffic areas.

  4. Refinishing:

    • Solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished every 7-10 years.
    • Engineered hardwood can be refinished depending on the thickness of the top layer.

Cost Considerations

  • Material Costs: Vary widely depending on wood species and quality. Solid hardwood typically ranges from $5 to $10 per square foot, while engineered hardwood ranges from $4 to $7 per square foot.
  • Installation Costs: Professional installation can add $3 to $5 per square foot.
  • Additional Costs: Include underlayment, adhesives, and finishing materials.

Environmental Considerations

  1. Sustainability:

    • Look for hardwood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure it’s sustainably sourced.

  2. Reclaimed Wood:

    • Consider using reclaimed wood for a unique look and to reduce environmental impact.

Final Tips

  • Consult Professionals: For installation and refinishing, it’s best to hire professionals to ensure the best results.
  • Consider Your Lifestyle: Choose a wood species and finish that can withstand your household’s activity level.


By considering these factors, you can choose the perfect hardwood flooring to enhance the beauty and value of your Medford home.