The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Hardwood Flooring in New Jersey

Hardwood flooring is an excellent choice for homeowners in New Jersey looking to enhance the beauty and value of their homes. With its timeless elegance, durability, and versatility, hardwood flooring can complement any interior design while standing up to the bustling lifestyle of Garden State residents. However, selecting the right hardwood flooring involves considering various factors, including wood types, finishes, installation methods, and maintenance requirements. This ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision when choosing hardwood flooring in New Jersey.

Understanding Hardwood Flooring Types

Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood

Solid Hardwood is exactly what it sounds like: planks of solid wood. It’s known for its longevity and can be sanded and refinished multiple times. However, it’s susceptible to changes in humidity and is not recommended for basements or over concrete slabs.

Engineered Hardwood consists of a thin layer of hardwood on top of multiple layers of plywood or another type of wood. This construction makes it more stable and less prone to warping with humidity changes, making it a versatile option for any level of your home.

Hardwood Species

The species of wood you choose affects the look, durability, and price of your flooring.

• Oak: Popular in New Jersey for its durability, availability, and timeless look, oak also has the advantage of blending well with both traditional and contemporary decors due to its wide range of colors and grain patterns.

• Maple: Known for its light, creamy color and subtle grain, maple is not only hard and resistant to dents and scratches but also offers a uniform texture that provides a clean, modern look to any space.

• Hickory: Offers a distinctive look with its bold grain patterns and color variations, and it’s extremely durable, making it ideal for high-traffic areas; its unique appearance can serve as a statement piece in any room design.

• Cherry: Cherished for its rich, deep colors that darken over time, cherry is softer than oak or hickory, making it more prone to scratches, but it is highly valued for the warm, inviting ambiance it creates.

• Walnut: Offers a luxurious look with its deep, warm tones and fine grain; it’s softer than oak but can add an elegant touch to any room, making it a favorite for those looking to inject sophistication into their interiors.

Selecting the Right Finish

The finish not only protects your hardwood floors but also affects their appearance and ease of maintenance.

Surface Finishes

Surface finishes are popular for their durability and ease of maintenance, providing a protective topcoat that shields the wood from scratches, stains, and water damage. They are available in a variety of sheens, from high gloss to matte, allowing homeowners to choose the level of shine that best suits their aesthetic preferences. These finishes are ideal for households with high traffic or pets, as they offer a layer of protection that keeps the wood looking beautiful with minimal upkeep.

Oil-based Finishes

Oil-based finishes penetrate deep into the wood, enriching its natural color and bringing out the beauty of the grain. They provide a warm, rich look that evolves over time, gradually deepening to create a patinated effect that is highly sought after. However, they require more maintenance than surface finishes, including periodic reapplication to maintain their protective qualities and aesthetic appeal.

Considerations for New Jersey Homes

Climate Considerations

New Jersey experiences a range of weather conditions, from hot, humid summers to cold, wet winters. Engineered hardwood is often recommended for its stability in fluctuating humidity levels. However, solid hardwood can also be suitable if properly acclimated and installed with appropriate humidity controls in place.

Style and Aesthetics

Consider the architectural style of your home and your personal taste. Traditional homes might benefit from classic species like oak or cherry with a glossy finish, while contemporary homes might look best with the clean lines and natural look of matte-finished maple or walnut.

Installation Methods

Nail-down installation is the traditional method for laying solid hardwood floors and is typically best left to professionals due to its complexity and the precision required. On the other hand, glue-down methods are frequently employed for engineered hardwood, especially when dealing with concrete subfloors, as this approach ensures a stable and secure fit. Meanwhile, floating installations have gained popularity for their ease of installation; in this method, planks are designed to click together without being directly attached to the subfloor, making it an appealing option for those interested in tackling a DIY project. Each of these installation techniques offers distinct advantages and considerations, depending on the type of hardwood chosen and the specifics of the installation site.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Hardwood flooring requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit that can scratch the surface. Use mats at entrances to catch dirt, and felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches. Avoid using wet mops or steam cleaners, which can damage the wood. Instead, use products specifically designed for hardwood floor care.

Cost Considerations

The cost of hardwood flooring in New Jersey can vary widely based on the type of wood, finish, and installation method. Solid hardwood tends to be more expensive than engineered, and exotic species are pricier than domestic ones. Installation costs can also vary, with professional installation adding to the overall expense. However, the investment in hardwood flooring can increase your home’s value and aesthetic appeal, making it a worthwhile investment.

Where to Buy Hardwood Flooring in New Jersey

New Jersey offers a wide range of options for purchasing hardwood flooring, from big-box home improvement stores to specialty flooring boutiques. Local businesses often provide personalized service and can offer unique or custom options not available in larger chains. Additionally, consider seeking out sustainable and locally sourced options to reduce environmental impact and support the local economy.

Learn More About Hardwood Flooring for Your Home 

Choosing hardwood flooring for your New Jersey home involves considering many factors, from the type of wood and finish to installation methods and maintenance. By understanding the options and considering the specific needs of your home and lifestyle, you can select hardwood flooring that enhances your home’s beauty, functionality, and value. Whether you opt for the durability and classic appeal of oak or the unique character of hickory, the right hardwood flooring can provide a foundation of warmth and style for your home for years to come.

Check out our Oak Tree Hardwood Floor Refinishers blog to learn more about professional remodeling for your property.