Solid wood flooring consists entirely of hardwood that’s been milled from lumber. Being a natural material, hardwood reacts to environmental changes such as moisture and temperature fluctuations, which can cause it to expand or contract. Solid hardwood floors can be sanded and refinished multiple times throughout their lifespan.
Due to its sensitivity to moisture, solid hardwood is not recommended for installation below ground level or in bathrooms. Originally used structurally, these floors were installed perpendicular to the building’s wooden support beams, boasting a thick wear surface that allows for frequent sanding and refinishing.
Unlike engineered wood, solid wood floors cannot be installed as floating floors due to their susceptibility to environmental changes. Installation options are limited to nailing or gluing down the boards. Typically, solid wood flooring arrives unfinished, necessitating on-site sanding and finishing, which is best handled by a professional installer due to its complexity.
