Hardwood FAQs

You can still install hardwood flooring if you have pets. Just keep in mind that harder wood species can better withstand wear and tear from pet nails. You'll also need to be diligent about cleaning up spills and accidents, as hardwood is prone to moisture damage.

It’s perfectly natural for wood flooring to yellow, darken, or lighten over time, depending on the species. Exposure to direct sunlight accelerates this process. For this reason, it's a good idea to move furniture and rugs occasionally to allow your floor to age evenly.

You can refinish your hardwood more than once if you opt for solid hardwood over engineered hardwood. A solid hardwood floor, about 3/4” thick, can be refinished about ten times throughout its life. Engineered hardwood can usually only be refinished once. In some cases, it can be refinished up to three times, depending on the thickness of the wood layer.

If you want to install hardwood over a radiant heat system, a floating engineered floor is recommended. Check your manufacturer’s warranty for exact specifications and to make sure the floor will still be covered.

There are a few hardwood finishes to choose from. Satin or glossy finishes offer the most shine and will reflect the most light. Semi-gloss finishes tone down the light and reflection. Matte or flat finishes offer the least shine. Keep in mind that sheen makes scratches more noticeable.