How to Choose the Right Hardwood for Your Home: Helpful Questions to Ask
Thinking about hardwood floors for your Bluffton home but unsure where to start? You’re not alone. With so many wood types, finishes, and installation methods available, choosing the right hardwood can feel overwhelming. The good news is: it doesn’t have to be.
At Old Town Flooring, we believe the best way to make a confident decision is by asking the right questions. Below, we’ll walk you through some important things to consider before selecting your hardwood flooring—so you can find an option that looks great and works well for your lifestyle.
What type of hardwood works best for my home?
Hardwood flooring comes in two primary categories: solid and engineered. Both offer timeless beauty, but they behave differently in certain environments.
- Solid hardwood is milled from a single piece of wood. It’s long-lasting and can be sanded and refinished multiple times. However, it may expand and contract with changes in humidity.
- Engineered hardwood has a top layer of real wood over a stable core. It’s better suited for homes in humid climates like Bluffton, or for installation over concrete subfloors and in basements.
If your home tends to be more humid, engineered hardwood may offer a more stable option without sacrificing the natural look you want.
Which wood species fits my needs?
Different wood species vary in both appearance and hardness. Some of the most popular options include:
- Oak – Classic, widely available, and resistant to wear
- Maple – Smooth grain and a clean, modern look
- Hickory – Naturally varied in tone with a bold grain pattern
- Ash – Light, airy color and excellent shock resistance
Consider how much foot traffic your space gets and how prominent you want the wood grain to appear. At Old Town Flooring, we can help you compare samples side by side to see what fits your home’s overall feel.
What finish and color will suit my space?
Hardwood finishes aren’t just about appearance—they also influence how the floor will age and respond to daily use. Satin, matte, and low-gloss finishes are increasingly popular for their ability to hide minor scratches and reduce glare. Color also plays a role: lighter tones can make a room feel more open, while darker stains add contrast and depth.
Don’t forget to factor in your existing furniture and natural lighting. Our team at Old Town Flooring can bring samples to your home so you can see how they’ll look in your actual space.
What’s the best installation method for my home?
Depending on the type of hardwood and your subfloor, you’ll have a few installation options: nail-down, glue-down, or floating. Our professionals will evaluate your space and recommend the most secure and efficient method.
Proper installation makes all the difference in how your hardwood performs and lasts, which is why we handle every step with precision and care.
Do I want wide planks or traditional widths?
Wide plank hardwood is popular for its modern, expansive look, while traditional widths offer a more classic and uniform appearance. Wider planks can showcase more of the wood’s natural variation, but they may also require a more stable environment to prevent movement over time.
This is something we discuss often with Bluffton homeowners to ensure the right fit for their floor plan and design goals.
Explore Hardwood Flooring in Bluffton, SC
Hardwood flooring is a long-term investment, and asking these key questions will guide you to a choice that’s both beautiful and practical. At Old Town Flooring, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free from start to finish.
If you are thinking about having a stunning hardwood floor laid in your home, we are here to help. Contact us to schedule your free consultation and explore hardwood flooring options for your home in Bluffton, SC.
