Selecting a Wood Floor
Selecting a Wood Floor
There are several things to keep in mind when selecting a wood floor. By considering the questions below, you can ensure that your purchase will meet your needs and provide years of beauty and durability.
- On what grade (elevation) will the flooring be installed?
- On-grade or on the ground floor
- Above-grade, or on an upper floor
- Below-grade, such as a basement
- If you are installing your floor below grade, be sure to use an engineered or laminate product. Solid wood floors should not be used below grade.
- What sub floor will you be installing on?
- Concrete slab
- A solid wood floor is not a good choice over a concrete slab since it should be nailed or stapled to the subfloor.
- Plywood
- Existing floor such as vinyl or wood
- Concrete slab
- What installation method will you use?
- Nail or Staple
- Glue
- Floating
- For Glued or Floating installations your best choice is an engineered or laminate floor.
- What color tones do you prefer?
- Dark
- Medium
- Light
- Reddish
- Golden
- Do you have a species of wood in mind?
- White oak
- Red oak
- American cherry
- Brazilian cherry
- Santos mahogany
- Other
- No preference yet
- What width of boards do you prefer?
- Strips from 1 1/2 to 2 1/4 inches
- Planks from 3 to 5 inches
- Planks from 5 to 8 inches
- Parquet
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