Comments on: How to Choose Hardwood Flooring

By: Greg

Greg — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 16:22:33 +0000

I wish to install a wood floor for my 3rd floor condo kitchen. Because of the possibility of liquid spills, is it advisable to glue along seams and joints? What underlayment is recommended?

Additionally, I would love to redo the entire apartment with wood/laminate flooring but HOA rules prohibit this due to noise considerations. In the decades since those rules were written, what has been done to help soundproof wood/laminate flooring? Is there a chart available that compares carpet vs. wood? I’ve lived on first floors beneath carpeted units, and I can not tell any difference in sound reduction. Kids are noisy at all levels. Anything you can provide to help me make my argument to the HOA in favor of wood with soundproofing would help.

Thanks,
Greg

By: BuildDirect Product Expert Team

BuildDirect Product Expert Team — Tue, 08 Dec 2015 18:12:14 +0000

In reply to Bea Coffino. Hi Bea, Thank you for getting in touch! Yes, tile would be a much better option for you. Any natural wood product, like hardwood; engineered hardwood or laminate, is susceptible to expansion and contraction based on the change in humidity and temperature in the area. Also, these products are not moisture resistant so high humidity could cause water damage. Another option that could work would be luxury vinyl plank flooring. These are water resistant and can be a bit sifter under foot than tile. Please let us know if you have any other questions!

By: Bea Coffino

Bea Coffino — Thu, 03 Dec 2015 04:09:18 +0000

I was told that hardwood is not suggested for areas that are moist. I live in southern Florida and as you know it is very humid here a good part of the year. Am I better off with the porcelain look alike? I would want to do my whole apartment , approx 880 sq ft.

By: BuildDirect Product Expert Team

BuildDirect Product Expert Team — Fri, 27 Nov 2015 17:28:05 +0000

In reply to Richard. Hi Richard, Thank you for getting in touch! Brazilian Cherry, Cumaru, Ipe or Hickory would be good options for you because they are extremely durable. Most of these options will have some color variation but if you choose a stained product over a natural, pre-finished option you will have less variation. I definitely suggest taking a look through some options on our website and getting some samples to compare colors and durability. Please let us know if there is anything else we can help out with!

By: Richard

Richard — Sun, 22 Nov 2015 16:14:24 +0000

What is a good choice of hardwood for high traffic areas and dogs? I have a double level condo. I was told by a designer that Brazilian Cherry was a good choice however I wanted something with a more even tone.

Thanks
Richard

By: Renu

Renu — Sun, 22 Jul 2012 22:40:49 +0000

Which is a better wood for hardwood flooring,reliable,I heard Brazilian jato a is not good but I like the look of it.any suggestions on it,my second choice is maple,which is better canadian maple or one which comes from china, also how can you know if it is canadian maple or from china.

By: Chicagoland Pro

Chicagoland Pro — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:06:27 +0000

There are many factors to consider when selecting a wood, including color, grain, durability and versatility. Different types of wood can give your home a unique, new look. Some types of wood take color easily, while others look best with a natural finish. Woods like oak and maple are durable, and resist dents well. The most common wood used on floors is 3/4" x 2 1/4" red oak, because oak takes various types of stain the best. As professional hardwood installers, we help our clients choose the best fit for their needs.