HARDWOOD
Pros
Modern hardwood flooring, another popular home flooring option, is now available in both solid and engineered woods. Engineered hardwood is made up of layers, with the top and bottom layers being true hardwood sandwiched between a middle, composite layer similar to plywood.
The engineered version is usually less expensive than the solid version and is more scratch-resistant, which is ideal if you have children or pets. You can also add texture to engineered hardwood by having it hand-scraped, which involves using tools to create natural-looking dents and marks in the wood.
One of the biggest advantages of solid wood is that you may refinish it at any moment to alter the style of your home. This is ideal for someone who enjoys changing the look of their home on a regular basis.
Cons
One disadvantage of solid hardwood is that it expands and contracts due to humidity, leaving gaps between your boards. This is especially concerning for residents of southern Indiana, where extreme humidity is typical.
Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is adaptable enough to resist these changes. Another disadvantage of solid or manufactured hardwood is that darker colors show more dirt and scrapes. For this reason, if you insist on hardwood, we normally prefer lighter tones.
Care
As with LVT, spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible – don’t let water remain on the hardwood for an extended period of time! To wipe up spills, use a moist cloth or a cleaning product designed specifically for hardwood.
Here’s a list of cleaning products to avoid, as well as some terrific hardwood cleaner recommendations. To avoid scratches, use a handheld or canister vacuum with a soft brush attachment. If you have dogs, make sure to keep their nails cut to avoid scratches.