Best Wood Floor Brand? (Top 3 May Shock You!)

Choosing the right wood floor is a big deal, isn’t it?

It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about durability, value, and how well it fits your lifestyle.

Trust me, after years in the flooring business, I’ve seen it all – the good, the bad, and the downright ugly.

In this article, I’m going to pull back the curtain on some surprising wood floor brands that might not be household names, but deliver exceptional quality.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Section 1: Budget Options for Wood Flooring

Let’s be real, budget is always the first thing on everyone’s mind.

Figuring out how much you’re willing to spend is crucial. It helps narrow down your choices and keeps you from falling in love with something way out of reach.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at different price points:

Low Budget Options ($1-$3 per sq. ft.)

At this price, you’re mostly looking at laminate or engineered wood.

Laminate is basically a photograph of wood on top of particleboard, while engineered wood has a thin layer of real wood veneer over a core of plywood or MDF.

Brands to Consider:

• Pergo: Known for its laminate flooring, Pergo offers decent durability at an affordable price.

• TrafficMaster (Home Depot): A budget-friendly option for homeowners looking to cover a large area without breaking the bank.

Trade-offs:

Durability and aesthetics are where you might see compromises. Laminate can look less realistic than real wood, and the thin veneer on some engineered options can be easily damaged.

Mid-Range Options ($3-$7 per sq. ft.)

This is the sweet spot where you can find a balance between cost and quality.

Expect better quality engineered hardwood or lower-end solid hardwood.

Brands to Consider:

• Bruce: A well-known brand that offers a wide variety of engineered and solid hardwood options. They’ve been around for ages!

• Armstrong Flooring: Another reliable brand with a solid reputation. They offer a good selection of engineered hardwood with decent warranties.

Value Proposition:

In this range, look for thicker veneers on engineered wood and solid hardwoods with good warranties.

Also, keep an eye out for eco-friendly options with sustainable sourcing.

High-End Options ($7+ per sq. ft.)

Now we’re talking luxury!

This is where you’ll find solid hardwood, exotic woods, and high-quality finishes that will make your jaw drop.

Brands to Consider:

• HomerWood: Known for their handcrafted, American-made hardwood flooring. They focus on unique textures and finishes.

• Carlisle Wide Plank Floors: Specializes in wide plank flooring with exceptional craftsmanship. These are investment pieces.

Longevity and Investment Value:

High-end flooring is an investment. It’s more durable, looks stunning, and can significantly increase the value of your home.

Section 2: Criteria for Evaluating Wood Floor Brands

Okay, so how do you actually judge a wood floor brand? Here are the key things I look for:

• Quality of Material: What kind of wood are they using? Is it sustainably sourced?

• Durability: How well will it stand up to daily wear and tear?

• Aesthetic Appeal: Does it look good? Does it fit your style?

• Ease of Installation: Can you DIY it, or do you need a professional?

• Warranty and Customer Service: What kind of warranty do they offer? Are they responsive to customer issues?

Let’s break these down:

Quality of Material

The type of wood matters.

Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are more durable than softwoods like pine.

Also, consider where the wood comes from. Is the brand committed to sustainable forestry practices? Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).

Durability

How long will your floor last?

Solid hardwood can last for generations if properly cared for, while engineered wood has a shorter lifespan.

Look for wear layer thickness (on engineered wood) and finish quality. A good finish will protect the wood from scratches, stains, and fading.

Aesthetic Appeal

This is subjective, of course, but consider the color, grain pattern, and finish.

Do you want a rustic look with lots of knots and character? Or a more modern, uniform appearance?

Think about how the flooring will complement your furniture, walls, and overall design.

Ease of Installation

Are you a DIY enthusiast?

Some flooring is easier to install than others.

Click-lock engineered wood is relatively simple, while nail-down solid hardwood requires more skill and specialized tools.

Factor in the cost of professional installation if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.

Warranty and Customer Service

A good warranty is a sign that the brand stands behind its product.

Read the fine print carefully. What does the warranty cover? How long does it last?

Also, check online reviews to see what other customers say about the brand’s customer service. Are they responsive and helpful?

Section 3: The Top 3 Wood Floor Brands (Surprising Choices)

Alright, here’s where it gets interesting.

These are brands that consistently impress me with their quality, value, and innovation.

They might not be the biggest names, but they deserve your attention.

Brand 1: Lauzon

1. Brand Overview:

   Lauzon is a Canadian company that’s been around for over 30 years. They’re known for their commitment to sustainability and their high-quality finishes.

2. Product Range:

   Lauzon offers a wide range of solid and engineered hardwood flooring, with a focus on North American species like maple, oak, and birch.

   Their Ambiance Collection is particularly noteworthy for its stunning colors and durable finishes.

3. Consumer Perception and Reviews:

   Customers rave about Lauzon’s beautiful finishes and the durability of their flooring.

   They’ve won several awards for their environmental practices and product innovation.

4. Value Proposition:

   Lauzon offers a great balance of quality, sustainability, and style.

   Their finishes are top-notch, and they’re committed to responsible forestry practices.

   Compared to some of the bigger brands, Lauzon offers a more curated selection with a focus on quality over quantity.

Brand 2: Somerset

1. Brand Overview:

   Somerset is a family-owned company based in Kentucky. They control every step of the manufacturing process, from harvesting the timber to finishing the flooring.

2. Product Range:

   Somerset specializes in solid and engineered hardwood flooring, with a focus on Appalachian hardwoods like oak and maple.

   Their Color Strip Collection is popular for its consistent color and clean lines.

3. Consumer Perception and Reviews:

   Customers appreciate Somerset’s consistent quality and the fact that their flooring is made in the USA.

   They’re known for their excellent customer service and their commitment to sustainable forestry.

4. Value Proposition:

   Somerset offers exceptional value for money.

   Because they control the entire manufacturing process, they can offer high-quality flooring at competitive prices.

   Their Appalachian hardwoods are known for their durability and beauty.

Brand 3: Provenza Floors

1. Brand Overview:

   Provenza Floors is a California-based company that specializes in high-end, designer-focused flooring. They’re known for their innovative styles and unique finishes.

2. Product Range:

   Provenza offers a wide range of engineered hardwood flooring, with a focus on European oak and other exotic species.

   Their MaxCore waterproof flooring is a standout product, offering the look of real wood with the durability of vinyl.

3. Consumer Perception and Reviews:

   Customers love Provenza’s stylish designs and the durability of their flooring.

   They’re a popular choice for designers and architects looking for something unique and high-end.

4. Value Proposition:

   Provenza is a great choice if you’re looking for something that’s both stylish and durable.

   Their innovative finishes and waterproof options set them apart from the competition.

Section 4: Conclusion

So, there you have it – my top three surprising wood floor brands.

Remember, choosing the right flooring is a personal decision.

Consider your budget, your lifestyle, and your design preferences.

Don’t be afraid to explore options that might not be widely known.

Sometimes, the best finds are the ones that surprise you!

I hope this article has been helpful.

Happy flooring!

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