Top Hardwood Floor Brands? (2 Stand Outs!)
Think about it. A cozy living room with warm, oak hardwood floors just screams “relax and stay awhile.” A sleek, modern kitchen with light, maple hardwood floors? Clean, contemporary, and inviting. And an elegant dining area with rich, dark walnut hardwood? Pure sophistication.
I’ve seen it all, and I can attest that the right hardwood flooring can transform a space, making it feel more luxurious, timeless, and just plain good. Choosing the right brand, though, that’s where things can get tricky.
That’s why I’m here to help. I’m going to walk you through the importance of selecting the perfect hardwood brand for your needs, ensuring both stunning aesthetics and long-term satisfaction. Let’s dive in!
Section 1: Overview of Hardwood Flooring
So, what exactly is hardwood flooring? Well, it’s not just any wood plank nailed to the floor. It’s a whole world of choices, each with its own benefits and characteristics.
First, let’s talk types. You’ve got two main categories: solid hardwood and engineered hardwood.
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Solid Hardwood: This is the real deal – a single piece of wood from top to bottom. It’s durable, long-lasting, and can be refinished multiple times. Think classic, heirloom quality.
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Engineered Hardwood: This is made of multiple layers of wood veneer glued together, with a solid hardwood layer on top. It’s more stable than solid hardwood, making it less prone to warping or buckling in humid environments. Great for basements!
Now, let’s talk wood species. This is where things get fun. Each species has its own unique grain pattern, color, and hardness. Here are some popular choices:
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Oak: A classic choice, known for its durability and distinctive grain. It’s also relatively affordable.
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Maple: A lighter-colored wood with a smooth, uniform grain. It’s a great choice for modern interiors.
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Cherry: A rich, reddish-brown wood that adds a touch of elegance to any room.
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Walnut: A dark, luxurious wood with a beautiful, complex grain. It’s a high-end option that makes a statement.
The finish and texture also play a huge role in the overall look and feel of your hardwood floors. You can choose from a variety of finishes, such as:
- Gloss: A shiny, reflective finish that adds a touch of glamour.
- Satin: A smooth, low-sheen finish that’s easier to maintain than gloss.
- Matte: A flat, non-reflective finish that creates a more natural look.
- Hand-scraped: This texture gives the floor a rustic, worn look.
- Wire-brushed: This texture accentuates the grain of the wood, creating a more tactile surface.
Why Choose Hardwood?
Hardwood flooring isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also a smart investment. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Longevity: With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades, even generations.
- Ease of Maintenance: Hardwood floors are relatively easy to clean and maintain. A quick sweep or mop is usually all it takes.
- Increased Property Value: Hardwood floors are a major selling point for homes. They can significantly increase your property value. A 2023 study by the National Association of Realtors found that homes with hardwood flooring sold for an average of 2.5% more than homes without.
- Timeless Style: Hardwood floors never go out of style. They’re a classic choice that will complement any interior design.
- Healthier Indoor Air Quality: Unlike some other types of flooring, hardwood floors don’t trap dust, pollen, or other allergens.
Ultimately, choosing the right hardwood flooring is about reflecting your personal style and complementing your interior design trends. I’ve seen clients go from drab, lifeless rooms to stunning, inviting spaces simply by choosing the right hardwood.
Section 2: Criteria for Evaluating Hardwood Floor Brands
Okay, so you’re sold on hardwood. Great! But how do you sort through the countless brands out there? As a pro, here are the key criteria I use to evaluate hardwood floor brands:
- Durability: This is HUGE. You want a floor that can withstand daily wear and tear, from kids and pets to heavy foot traffic. Look for brands that use high- quality wood and durable finishes.
- Quality of Materials: The type of wood used, the thickness of the veneer layer (for engineered hardwood), and the quality of the finish all play a role in the overall quality of the flooring.
- Environmental Sustainability: I’m a big believer in responsible sourcing. Look for brands that are certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which ensures that the wood is harvested from sustainably managed forests.
- Variety of Styles: You want a brand that offers a wide range of wood species, finishes, and styles to choose from. This will allow you to find the perfect flooring to match your personal taste and interior design.
- Pricing: Hardwood flooring can be a significant investment, so it’s important to find a brand that offers good value for your money. Compare prices across different brands and consider the long-term cost of ownership (including maintenance and refinishing).
- Customer Service: Let’s face it, things can go wrong during installation. You want a brand that has responsive and helpful customer service to address any issues that may arise.
- Warranty Offerings: A good warranty is a sign that the brand stands behind its products. Look for brands that offer comprehensive warranties that cover defects in materials and workmanship.
Leading brands excel in these areas, setting the stage for the two stand-out brands I’m about to share with you. By focusing on these criteria, you can make an informed decision and choose a hardwood flooring brand that will provide you with years of beauty and enjoyment.
Section 3: Stand Out Brand 1: Armstrong Flooring
Armstrong Flooring is a name that resonates with quality and innovation in the flooring industry. Let’s delve into why it stands out.
Brand History and Reputation
Armstrong Flooring has a rich history dating back to 1860 when it started as a cork-cutting shop. Over the decades, it evolved into a global leader in flooring solutions. Their reputation is built on decades of experience, innovation, and a commitment to quality. They’ve been a trusted name in homes and businesses for generations.
Product Range
Armstrong Flooring offers a diverse range of hardwood flooring options, including solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, and even rigid core flooring that mimics the look of hardwood. They have a vast selection of wood species, from classic oak and maple to exotic options like hickory and walnut.
- Solid Hardwood: Traditional and timeless, offering durability and the ability to be refinished.
- Engineered Hardwood: Provides greater stability, making it suitable for various environments, including basements.
- Rigid Core: Waterproof and highly durable, ideal for high-traffic areas and homes with pets or children.
One unique offering from Armstrong is their Performance Plus finish, which provides exceptional scratch and stain resistance. This is a game-changer for homeowners with active lifestyles.
Quality and Durability
Armstrong Flooring is known for its commitment to quality and durability. Their products are crafted using high- quality materials and advanced manufacturing processes. They adhere to strict industry standards and conduct rigorous testing to ensure their floors can withstand the rigors of daily life.
They also have certifications like FloorScore®, ensuring their products meet stringent indoor air quality standards.
Customer Experience
Customer feedback on Armstrong Flooring is generally positive, with many praising the brand’s quality, durability, and wide range of styles. Online reviews often highlight the ease of installation and the long-lasting beauty of their floors.
For example, here’s a snippet from a customer review on Houzz: “We installed Armstrong hardwood in our living room and it looks absolutely stunning! The quality is excellent and it’s so easy to clean.”
Sustainability Practices
Armstrong Flooring is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. They source their wood from responsibly managed forests and use eco-friendly manufacturing processes. They also offer products that are certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
They also have initiatives to reduce waste and conserve energy in their manufacturing facilities.
Section 4: Stand Out Brand 2: Shaw Floors
Shaw Floors is another industry giant known for its innovation, quality, and extensive product offerings. Let’s explore why it’s a top contender in the hardwood flooring market.
Brand History and Reputation
Shaw Floors has been in the flooring business for over 50 years, growing from a small carpet company to a global leader in flooring solutions. Their reputation is built on innovation, customer service, and a commitment to sustainability. They’re known for their cutting-edge technology and their ability to adapt to changing market trends.
Product Range
Shaw Floors offers an impressive array of hardwood flooring options, including solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) that mimics the look of hardwood. They have a wide selection of wood species, finishes, and styles to suit any taste and budget.
- Solid Hardwood: Classic and timeless, offering durability and the ability to be refinished.
- Engineered Hardwood: Provides greater stability, making it suitable for various environments, including basements.
- Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Waterproof and highly durable, ideal for high-traffic areas and homes with pets or children.
One standout product from Shaw Floors is their Repel water-resistant hardwood. This innovative technology helps protect your floors from spills and stains, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
Quality and Durability
Shaw Floors is committed to quality and durability. Their products are crafted using high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing processes. They also use a variety of finishes to protect their floors from scratches, stains, and wear.
Their products also come with warranties that protect against manufacturing defects.
Customer Experience
Customer feedback on Shaw Floors is generally positive, with many praising the brand’s quality, style, and customer service. Online reviews often highlight the beauty and durability of their floors.
For example, here’s a snippet from a customer review on Lowe’s: “We installed Shaw hardwood in our kitchen and it looks amazing! It’s so easy to clean and it’s held up really well to spills and messes.”
Sustainability Practices
Shaw Floors is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. They have a comprehensive sustainability program called Shaw Green, which focuses on reducing waste, conserving energy, and using recycled materials.
They also offer products that are certified by organizations like the Cradle to Cradle Certified Products Program.
Conclusion: Summary and Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hardwood flooring brand is a big decision, but it’s one that can have a significant impact on the look, feel, and value of your home. Armstrong Flooring and Shaw Floors are two stand-out brands that offer a combination of quality, durability, style, and sustainability.
Investing in quality, aesthetically pleasing flooring can significantly enhance a home’s appeal and value. Remember, the best brand for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
Call to Action
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Have you had any experience with Armstrong Flooring or Shaw Floors? Or perhaps another brand that you think deserves a shout- out? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! Which brand resonates with you the most? Let’s discuss!
