Choosing the perfect hardwood flooring for your home is an exciting step — but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many wood species, finishes, color variations, and performance factors to consider, it’s easy to get stuck.
At Best Floors & More, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in O’Fallon, MO find hardwood floors they love. In this expert guide, we share the Top 10 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Hardwood Flooring — practical advice that simplifies decisions, avoids costly mistakes, and ensures your investment adds lasting value and beauty to your home.
Whether you’re remodeling your living room or planning a whole-home upgrade, these tips will help you choose hardwood flooring that looks amazing and performs beautifully for years to come.
1. Understand Different Hardwood Species
Not all hardwoods are created equal. Oak, maple, hickory, and walnut each have unique grain patterns, hardness levels, and color ranges.
- Oak: Versatile and classic
- Maple: Light and modern with smooth grain
- Hickory: Durable with rich, rustic character
- Walnut: Warm, luxurious tones
Choosing the right species influences durability and style — so start with your lifestyle and aesthetic goals.
2. Prioritize Hardness & Durability
Hardwood floors differ in hardness — measured by the Janka hardness scale. Higher ratings mean better resistance to dents and scratches.
Tip: Homes with kids or pets often do best with harder woods like hickory or oak.
3. Choose the Right Finish
The finish protects your hardwood and affects how the wood looks.
- Matte: Subtle, modern, hides scratches
- Semi-gloss: Balanced sheen, easy maintenance
- Gloss: Rich shine, highlights grain
A good finish boosts longevity and complements your design.
4. Consider Board Width and Length
Hardwood boards come in varying widths and lengths:
- Wide planks: Elegant and expansive feel
- Narrow boards: Traditional, classic look
Wide planks often cost more but can make small rooms feel larger and more open.
5. Decide Between Prefinished & Site-Finished
- Prefinished: Installed with protective coatings already cured — faster project, cleaner job site
- Site-finished: Applied after installation — seamless look, customizable sheen
Both options have strong benefits; your choice depends on timing, budget, and finish preferences.
6. Account for Moisture & Humidity
Basements and below-grade areas need special consideration. While solid hardwood isn’t typically recommended in damp areas, engineered hardwood can provide stability and moisture resistance.
For living rooms, hallways, and main-level spaces in O’Fallon, traditional solid hardwood is usually ideal.
7. Sample Before You Buy
Never choose hardwood flooring based only on swatches.
Tip: Bring multiple samples home and view them in your space at different times of day — lighting dramatically affects color and tone.
8. Match Flooring to Your Home’s Style
Your hardwood floor should complement your interior design:
- Modern homes: Light, wide-plank boards
- Traditional spaces: Medium tones and classic grains
- Rustic or farmhouse looks: Distressed, wider boards
Good design harmony enhances resale value and everyday enjoyment.
9. Plan for Long-Term Maintenance
Hardwood floors need care to stay beautiful:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly
- Use microfiber mops
- Avoid harsh chemicals
A quality finish and proper maintenance help your floors look new for decades.
10. Work with Professional Installers
Perfect hardwood flooring isn’t just about the material — it’s about how it’s installed.
At Best Floors & More, we provide expert guidance from selection through installation, ensuring proper subfloor prep, acclimation, and precision placement.
👉 For inspiration and to see how the right hardwood flooring transforms a space, check out our project: Transform Your Living Room with the Perfect Hardwood Floor in O’Fallon, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect hardwood flooring doesn’t have to be confusing. With the right knowledge and professional guidance, you can select a floor that enhances beauty, comfort, and value in your home. If you’re ready to get started, visit Best Floors & More for expert help choosing and installing hardwood flooring that fits your lifestyle and aesthetic.
