THE BUILDDIRECT BUYING GUIDE
Find the warmth, character and feel of real wood. Here’s how to choose a floor that fits your space, your style and your everyday life.
01 / KNOW YOUR FLOOR
The beauty comes from genuine hardwood on the surface. Underneath, a layered core helps the plank stay more dimensionally stable as indoor conditions change.
The species, grain and finish you see and feel. This top wood layer is also called the wear layer.
Supporting layers beneath the hardwood. Construction varies by product, including plywood and composite cores.
The bottom layer helps balance the plank. It is not a substitute for required subfloor moisture control.
More stable does not mean waterproof. Always check the specific floor’s approved rooms, moisture limits and installation instructions.
02 / MAKE IT YOURS
Start with the look you love. Then compare the specifications that matter in your home.
Oak, hickory and walnut each bring a different grain and personality. Select looks are more uniform; character looks celebrate knots and variation.
Compare several room photos. A small sample cannot show the full range of a natural floor.
Wide planks create a different rhythm from narrower boards. Longer boards mean fewer end joints; random lengths bring a more varied pattern.
Check the full length range and thickness, especially where your new floor meets another surface.
This is the real wood above the core, measured in millimeters. It is different from the total plank thickness and from the protective finish.
If future sanding matters, confirm the manufacturer’s refinishing guidance. Thickness alone does not promise a set number of refinishes.
Smooth, wire-brushed and distressed finishes feel different underfoot. Compare matte and higher-sheen finishes in both daylight and evening light.
For busy homes, compare the finish warranty and care instructions. No wood floor is scratch-proof.
Living rooms and bedrooms are a natural starting point. Concrete, basements, kitchens and radiant heat need a closer look at the product’s installation and moisture requirements.
For bathrooms or regularly wet spaces, ask about flooring specifically approved for that environment.
03 / COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS
The difference is beneath the surface. Let your subfloor, room conditions and long-term plans guide the choice.
Swipe to compare all columns.
| What matters | Engineered hardwood | Solid hardwood |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Real hardwood surface over a layered core. | One piece of wood from top to bottom. |
| Seasonal movement | Generally less expansion and contraction. Indoor humidity still matters. | Generally more responsive to changes in moisture and humidity. |
| Concrete & basements | An option when the product and moisture conditions are approved. | Typically for on- or above-grade spaces. Confirm the approved subfloor. |
| Installation | Floating, glue-down or fastener installation, depending on the product. | Commonly nailed or stapled; other methods require product approval. |
| Refinishing | Depends on remaining wear layer, construction, condition and manufacturer guidance. | Usually offers more sanding potential; remaining wood and condition still matter. |
| Best starting point | You want a layered construction or more options for your subfloor. | You want traditional solid construction and your installation conditions suit it. |
Radiant heat needs specific product and system approval with either construction. Never assume compatibility.
04 / PLAN THE DETAILS
Choose the installation method your floor is designed for. Share the product instructions with your installer before placing the order.
Compatible boards connect to one another without being fixed directly to the subfloor. Use the specified underlayment, follow expansion requirements and confirm whether the product is actually approved to float. Tongue-and-groove floors may need joint adhesive rather than a click connection.
Planks bond to an approved subfloor using the specified adhesive. Subfloor flatness, moisture testing, adhesive selection and working time all matter. Concrete may need a compatible moisture mitigation system.
Fasteners secure approved products to a suitable wood subfloor. Follow the specified fastener type, spacing and equipment settings. Some wider planks require glue assistance when the manufacturer specifies it.
Check subfloor flatness and moisture, indoor conditions, acclimation requirements, expansion space and transitions. Your product’s installation guide sets the requirements.
05 / SEE THE WHOLE PROJECT
Compare complete project totals. The flooring is one part of the cost; preparation and finishing details can change the budget.
Measure each space, include closets, then add the waste allowance your installer recommends for the layout. Round up to full cartons.
Include removal, disposal, leveling, moisture control and labor, plus approved adhesive or underlayment.
Plan for transitions, trim, stair pieces, delivery and applicable tax. Confirm availability before scheduling the installer.
Ready to price your room? Product pages calculate carton coverage from your square footage. An expert can help with the full materials list.
Talk to a flooring consultant
06 / BRING IT HOME
A screen gets you started. A sample brings it into focus. Compare your favorites at home with free samples of eligible flooring.
A FEW MORE THINGS
Yes. The surface is real hardwood bonded to supporting layers. The core may be plywood or another engineered material, so read the product construction details when comparing floors.
Do not assume so. Standard engineered hardwood is sensitive to moisture. Products marketed as water-resistant or waterproof have specific terms, approved uses and exclusions. Review those details and clean spills promptly.
Some products can be sanded and refinished; others cannot. The remaining wear layer, construction, floor condition and previous sanding all matter. Ask the manufacturer and a qualified refinishing professional before planning a resand. A maintenance recoat is a different process.
It can be, with the right expectations and care. Compare species, finish and warranty terms. Keep grit off the floor, add furniture pads, trim pet nails and clean accidents promptly. Natural wood can still scratch or dent.
Only when the specific product is approved for your subfloor or heating system. Confirm moisture limits, temperature limits, installation method and any required moisture control with your installer before ordering.
Remove dust and grit regularly with a soft broom or a vacuum on its bare-floor setting. Clean spills promptly and use the cleaner recommended for the finish. Avoid steam mops and wet mopping, and maintain the indoor conditions specified by the manufacturer.
The right waste allowance depends on the room shape, plank layout, pattern and product. Have your installer confirm it, then round up to whole cartons. Consider keeping matching spare boards for future repairs.
Further reading: NWFA wood flooring typesNWFA care guidanceNWFA refinishing guidance
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