Solid Hardwood Flooring

Solid hardwood flooring is milled from a single piece of wood from top to bottom. It is one of the most timeless and long-lasting flooring options available -- a well-maintained solid hardwood floor can be sanded and refinished many times over its lifetime and can last a century or more. It adds warmth, character, and consistent resale value to any home.

Solid hardwood planks are typically 3/4 inch thick, which allows for multiple refinishing cycles over the life of the floor -- often five to eight times or more depending on how much material is removed each time. This is one of solid hardwood's biggest advantages over engineered hardwood and vinyl options. Each refinish restores the surface to like-new condition, effectively resetting the floor's lifespan.

Solid hardwood should not be installed in bathrooms, below-grade basements, or any space with significant moisture or humidity fluctuation. Wood expands and contracts with changes in moisture content, and environments that cannot maintain stable humidity will cause solid hardwood to cup, warp, gap, or buckle over time. For below-grade or moisture-prone spaces, engineered hardwood or waterproof engineered hardwood is a better choice.

The best species depends on your lifestyle and aesthetic goals. For durability in high-traffic areas, hickory, white oak, and hard maple are among the hardest domestic species. White oak has become the most popular choice in recent years for its grain character and versatility across modern and traditional styles. Red oak is a classic, widely available option. Softer species like pine or cherry are beautiful but scratch more easily and suit lower-traffic spaces better.

Solid hardwood installation is more demanding than click-lock LVP or laminate and is generally not recommended as a first DIY flooring project. Nail-down installation requires a pneumatic flooring nailer and experience reading subfloor conditions. Glue-down installation over concrete adds another layer of complexity. If you are experienced with flooring or construction, it is achievable -- but most homeowners benefit from professional installation to protect the investment in the material.

Solid hardwood should acclimate to the temperature and humidity of the room it will be installed in for at least three to five days before installation, and sometimes longer depending on the starting conditions and the product. This allows the wood to adjust to its new environment and minimizes movement after installation. Store the planks flat in the room, not in a garage or storage area with different conditions. Check the manufacturer guidelines for the specific acclimation requirements of the product you purchased.