Flooring 101

FAQs

Published

June 26, 2026

by Joe Scerri, Owner

  1. What is the best hardwood flooring for my home? How do I choose?

The best hardwood flooring depends on your lifestyle, budget, and design preferences. We help you choose the right wood species, color, plank width, and finish based on your home's needs. Whether you're looking for maximum durability, a timeless look, or a modern style, our team will guide you to the perfect flooring solution.

What is the best hardwood flooring for my home? How do I choose?          

For Maximum durability choose...

  • Brazilian Walnut(Ipe)
  • Maple
  • White oak
  • Hickory

They resist dents and wear better than many other woods.

For Classic appearance choose...

  • White Oak
  • Red Oak

Timeless look, easy to match with many interior styles.

If you want High-end luxury choose...

  • White Oak
  • Walnut
  • Exotic Hardwoods

For Rustic character choose...

  • Hickory
  • Reclaimed Wood

Strong grain patterns and natural variation.

  1. Is there a difference between choosing flooring for a home versus an apartment?

Yes. Apartments often have building requirements for sound control and installation methods, making engineered hardwood the preferred choice due to its stability and resistance to seasonal movement. It will not shrink or expand with temperature and humidity changes like solid wood can.

In homes, you have more flexibility. Solid hardwood can be a great option, especially in narrower planks under 4 inches, where natural movement is less noticeable. We will help you choose the right flooring based on your space, structure, and lifestyle needs.

  1. What is the best flooring to install over a concrete subfloor?

Engineered hardwood and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) are both excellent choices for concrete subfloors. Engineered hardwood is ideal because its layered construction provides stability and reduces expansion and contraction from moisture and temperature changes. LVP is also a great option because it is highly water resistant, durable, and performs well in areas where moisture is a concern. We also recommend choosing the proper moisture barrier and underlayments. (See underlayments blog)

The best option depends on your space, moisture levels, and style preferences. Our team will recommend the right flooring and installation method to ensure lasting performance and durability.

  1. What is the best flooring to install over a plywood subfloor?

Plywood subfloors are compatible with most flooring options, including solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). Solid hardwood works especially well because it can be nailed directly to plywood and offers long-term durability. Engineered hardwood provides added stability and performs well in areas with changing humidity. LVP and laminate are also great choices for affordability, durability, and easy maintenance.

The best choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and design goals. We'll help you select the right flooring for a beautiful, long-lasting result.

  1. Should I choose polyurethane or hardwax oil for my hardwood floors?

Both are excellent finishes, but the best choice depends on your needs. Polyurethane offers maximum durability and low maintenance, making it ideal for busy households. Hardwax oil provides a natural, matte look and is easy to spot repair without refinishing the entire floor. We'll help you choose the finish that best fits your lifestyle and desired appearance.

  1. What floor finish is best for preventing scratches?

No floor finish is completely scratch-proof, but high-quality polyurethane finishes provide the best protection against everyday wear. Matte and satin finishes also help conceal minor scratches better than high-gloss finishes. We'll recommend the right finish based on your home's traffic, pets, and lifestyle.

  1. What is the best hardwood floor finish for homes with pets?

For homes with pets, we recommend a durable polyurethane finish in a matte or satin sheen. These finishes offer excellent protection against everyday wear and help minimize the appearance of scratches from pet nails. Choosing a harder wood species, such as white oak, can also improve long-term durability.

  1. What is the best hardwood floor finish for homes with young children?

For homes with young children, we recommend a durable, low-VOC polyurethane finish in a matte or satin sheen. It provides excellent protection against everyday wear, is easy to clean, and helps hide minor scuffs and scratches. We'll help you choose a finish that's both beautiful and built for busy family life.

  1. How should I clean polyurethane-finished hardwood floors?

Clean polyurethane-finished hardwood floors using a soft broom or vacuum designed for hard surfaces to remove dust and debris. For deeper cleaning, use a damp (not wet) microfiber mop with a pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner. Avoid excess water, harsh chemicals, steam mops, and abrasive tools to protect the finish and extend the life of your floors.

Leave it to the Pros

We specialize in providing custom, handcrafted hardwood flooring. Gone Finishing handles everything from sourcing, design, installation, and finishing.