Choosing the right hardwood flooring for your Raleigh home doesn’t have to be complicated. With a variety of styles, structures, and finishes available, the key is matching the right type of wood floor to your space, lifestyle, and long-term needs. Whether you’re remodeling a single room or upgrading your entire home, here’s a helpful breakdown of the most popular hardwood flooring options.
1. Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood is a timeless classic known for its natural beauty and long lifespan. It’s milled from a single piece of wood and is available in three popular styles:
- Strip Flooring: Thin and narrow planks that create a traditional, clean look.
- Plank Flooring: Wider boards that showcase the wood grain and offer a more rustic or modern feel.
- Parquet Flooring: Decorative geometric patterns made from small wood slats, often used for elegant or custom designs.
Solid wood flooring is available both unfinished and pre-finished. Unfinished wood is sanded and sealed after installation, while pre-finished boards are ready to install and walk on sooner.
2. Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered hardwood is a layered alternative that’s more affordable and versatile than solid wood. It features a top layer of real hardwood over a core of plywood or high-density fiberboard. Engineered floors are more resistant to moisture and temperature changes, making them ideal for basements, kitchens, and areas where humidity is a concern.
Although less durable than solid hardwood, engineered wood requires less maintenance and is easier to install—making it a great choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
3. Acrylic-Impregnated Wood Flooring
Looking for extreme durability? Acrylic-impregnated hardwood is infused with sealant and color throughout the entire board—not just the surface. This makes it one of the hardest, most wear-resistant options available. Often used in commercial spaces or homes with heavy traffic, this flooring holds up well to daily wear and tear and is highly resistant to scratches.
How to Choose the Best Option
When deciding which type of hardwood floor is best for your Raleigh home, consider the following factors:
- Budget: Engineered wood is typically the most affordable; parquet and solid hardwood can be more costly due to installation complexity.
- Durability: Solid hardwood is long-lasting, but acrylic-impregnated is the most durable.
- Installation: Engineered flooring is easier for DIYers. Plank and parquet installations may require professional flooring installation.
- Maintenance: Solid hardwood can be refinished several times, extending its life over decades.
Custom Looks, Lasting Value
Whether you prefer the clean look of strip flooring or the elegance of parquet, there’s a hardwood style to match your home’s personality. Solid, engineered, or acrylic-impregnated floors all offer distinct advantages depending on your needs. And with the right maintenance, your new hardwood floors can bring beauty and value to your Raleigh home for years to come.
Need inspiration or help choosing? Explore more about Raleigh flooring options or browse examples on Houzz’s hardwood flooring gallery.
Work with Trusted Local Pros
Burch Brothers Flooring proudly serves Raleigh, Garner, Clayton, and surrounding communities. Our experienced team will guide you through the selection process and ensure a flawless installation, whether you choose hardwood, laminate, vinyl, or carpet.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find the hardwood flooring that’s right for your Raleigh home.
