Hardwood flooring: timeless beauty for every space

Oak: Oak is a classic hardwood flooring choice that is known for its prominent grain pattern and high durability. Red oak brings warm undertones, while white oak has a cooler, more contemporary look.
Maple: With a subtle, even grain, maple offers a smooth, understated appearance. It’s a durable choice and works well in high-traffic areas. Maple’s light color is perfect for brightening up any room.
Walnut: Walnut has a rich, dark tone and a distinctive grain that adds a touch of luxury to any space. Though softer than some other hardwoods, walnut’s elegance and warmth make it a popular option for bedrooms or living areas.
Hickory: One of the hardest domestic woods, hickory has a striking grain pattern and a mix of light and dark tones. It’s excellent for rustic and country-style homes, where a bit of character is a must.

Hardwood flooring has long been a top choice for homeowners. With its natural warmth, unmatched durability, and elegance, hardwood is more than just a floor covering—it's an investment in your home’s style and value. Here at Elite Flooring of Central Fl, we know how to help you choose the right hardwood for your needs, whether you’re dreaming of classic solid wood or the versatility of engineered wood. Let's explore why hardwood flooring is a great choice, the types we offer, and what makes each wood species unique.

Solid wood vs. engineered wood: what’s the difference?

When it comes to hardwood flooring, there are two main types: solid wood and engineered wood. While both give you the beauty of real wood, they have distinct benefits, depending on your space and lifestyle.

Solid wood flooring: Each plank of solid wood is a single, continuous piece of wood. It’s known for its durability and can be sanded and refinished numerous times over its lifetime. However, solid wood is more sensitive to moisture and temperature changes, making this floor less ideal for areas like kitchens or bathrooms. But in living rooms, bedrooms, and other main areas, solid wood floors bring unbeatable authenticity and lasting appeal.
Engineered wood flooring: Engineered wood is crafted with a real wood veneer layer on top of multiple layers of plywood or fiberboard. This structure makes it more stable and able to handle moisture and temperature fluctuations better than solid wood. Engineered wood flooring is better suited for kitchens, or anywhere you might need a bit more resilience. It also allows for more installation flexibility, like floating or glue-down methods.

Both types are crafted from real wood, so you won’t compromise on style or quality. Your choice will come down to where you’re installing and how you want to maintain your floors over time.