Wide Plank Flooring
Wide plank hardwood flooring reduces the number of end, and edge seams, which creates a floor with a more subtle look. It works perfectly for a more traditional, rustic, cabin-like look. The width showcases a bigger footprint of the wood’s grain, knots, and gorgeous imperfections. If you prefer to avoid knots and imperfections, be sure to choose a select grade wide plank flooring. It is available in varying widths from 5 to 12 inches, where traditional hardwood is between 2 and 4 inches wide. Wide plank is available in both solid wood, and engineered varieties. However, engineered wide plank is used most often because of its versatility. You may use radiant subfloor heating, and place engineered planks directly on a concrete subfloor. Solid wood will not work for these applications. In addition, solid wide plank flooring is less tolerant to big changes in humidity.
Wood Tile Flooring
It is all in the name. Wood like tile flooring is actually ceramic or porcelain tile that gives the appearance of wood. It is the most sustainable and durable wood like flooring. Wood like tile has found a niche in many bathrooms where the moisture cause damage to other types of flooring. When the grout lines are thin, it is hard to tell the difference between wood tile and real hardwood. Some things to keep in mind are that wood tiles tend to be colder to the touch than other wood like flooring, and are louder to walk on.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate is the most popular wood like flooring alternative to real hardwood, and with good reason. Dont mistake laminate for actual hardwood. They look nearly identical. In addition, the feel of solid hardwood is duplicated closely by laminate. Laminate wood like flooring is several layers of particle board. It has a sealed photographic layer on the surface. It is manufactured with a tongue and groove joint to hold the floating floor in place. While the cost of laminate flooring can range from being extremely affordable to very high end, no matter the cost, it must be replaced once it is worn through the top layer. Laminate wood like floors cannot be sanded and refinished.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered wood like flooring is very similar to laminate in that it is made from several layers of material. However, most of these layers are plywood. The photographic top layer is replaced by real wood. This duplicates the look of solid hardwood perfectly at a decreased cost to the homeowner. In addition, you can refinish it like hardwood. However, this is only possible once or twice in the life of the floor. When engineered wood like flooring is well maintained, it lasts 20+ years. Keeping this floor clean is the same process as cleaning solid hardwood, so you won’t get a maintenance break like with laminate.
Vinyl Wood Flooring
One of the most popular wood like flooring options is vinyl. Some versions look just like hardwood, others do not. It is one of the most cost effective varieties of flooring. Vinyl is moisture resistant. Therefore, it is perfect for utility rooms.
Still unsure what wood like flooring is ideal for you? Call or email Flooring Masters & Professional Remodelers today for a free consultation. We know you only want the best in flooring and remodeling. That’s why it’s important to hire the best in the business, and at Flooring Masters & Professional Remodelers, we can guarantee you that’s us.
Flooring Masters & Professional Remodelers have been flooring and remodeling Kentuckiana for over 30 years. Our certified installers have the ingenuity and know-how to assist you in choosing the perfect floors for your home. Don’t take matters into your own hands—let us guide your next project.
