A Quick Guide to Hardwood Flooring

At RTR Construction, we know that choosing the right hardwood floor is one of the most important design decisions you’ll make in your home. With so many options available, it helps to understand the basics—quickly.

Here’s a simple breakdown to help you choose the right type of hardwood for your space, style, and budget.

Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood

Solid Hardwood

·      Made from a single piece of wood

·      Can be sanded and refinished multiple times

·      Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and above-grade spaces

·      Not recommended for basements or humid areas

Engineered Hardwood

·      Constructed with multiple layers for added stability

·      Great for areas with moisture or temperature changes

·      Can be installed over concrete or radiant heat

·      May have limited refinishing potential (depends on wear layer)

 Popular Hardwood Species

·      Oak (Red & White): Classic grain, durable, budget-friendly

·      Maple: Light, clean look, slightly harder than oak

·      Hickory: Rustic, extremely tough—perfect for high-traffic areas

·      Walnut: Dark and elegant, softer—best for low-traffic rooms

·      Cherry: Rich red tones, smooth grain, darkens with age

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Finish & Texture Options

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Finishes

·      Prefinished: Factory-sealed, fast installation, durable

·      Site-Finished: Customizable sheen and color, seamless look

Texture Styles

·      Smooth: Clean and traditional

·      Hand-Scraped: Rustic, hides wear well

·      Wire-Brushed: Subtle texture, modern feel

·      Distressed: Vintage, weathered character

Maintenance Tips

·      Sweep and vacuum regularly with appropriate settings to protect the surface

·      Use mats at entryways to reduce grit and moisture

·      Refinish solid hardwood every 10–15 years (as needed)

·      Engineered floors may be refinished once or twice—check the wear layer

Final Tip from RTR Construction

Always bring flooring samples into your home before committing. Lighting, wall color, and surrounding finishes can dramatically affect how the wood looks in your space.

Ready to upgrade your floors?

RTR Construction is here to help you choose, install, and finish the perfect hardwood flooring for your home. Contact us today for a free consultation or to get started on your flooring project.