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HARDWOOD

What To Know Before You Buy Hardwood

The Different Hallmarks of Hardwood

Each wood has its own unique characteristics. The color of the wood is determined by what part of the tree the wood originally came from. The grain pattern is determined by the species and how the wood is cut. Natural variations in the color and grain are normal and to be expected. All hardwood floors will fade, darken, or change shades over time. Exposure to sunlight will greatly increase this process. Window treatments are recommended as well as rotating rugs and furniture to allow floors to age evenly from sunlight exposure.

Hardwood Flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile
Hardwood Flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile

Understand the Cost of Hardwood

The cost per square foot of your hardwood flooring is just one component of the entire project cost. To ensure that there are no surprises and that the hardwood you select fits into your overall budget, be sure to ask us to calculate the total cost of your floor covering project. There are many potential additional expenses that you may incur, such as furniture removal or replacement, demolition and disposal of old floor coverings, subfloor preparations, adhesives, product delivery, and installation.

Understand That Wood Moves

Wood floors will expand and contract due to moisture and temperature changes. This can cause hairline cracks and slight height variations. It will not expand and contract equally in all directions. This is not considered a defect, but instead a result of using a natural product.

Subfloors are also not typically level. There isn’t a subfloor that will be perfect. You may hear hollow sounds where your subfloor’s surface dips and ridges. This does not affect the integrity of the hardwood.

Hardwood Flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile

Hardwood Flooring Species

Different wood species have different colors, grains, hardness, and other characteristics. Find out what to consider when you're deciding on the type of hardwood flooring to purchase.

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hickory wood flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile
Hickory
maple wood flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile
Maple
oak wood flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile
Oak

Hardwood Flooring Types

Choose between solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. Both offer beautiful style and durability!

Hardwood Flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile
Hardwood Flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile
Hardwood Flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile

Hardwood Care

By following these care guidelines, your new hardwood floor can stay attractive for many years.
Hardwood Flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile

Hardwood Installation

Being ready for your hardwood installation will make the entire process go more efficiently.
Hardwood Flooring | Dolphin Carpet & Tile

Hardwood Trends

Each hardwood style and trend has its own characteristics and performance capabilities, which you'll need to consider.

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