Installing hardwood floors is a great way to increase your home’s value – and catch the interest of prospective home buyers. Although wood floors are generally more expensive to buy and install than carpet or vinyl, they lasts for decades. Before you set out to shop for your new floor, be sure to refer to our guide.
Solid wood flooring is made from one continuous piece of wood. Most is 3/4 inch thick. When you look crosswise at a piece of solid flooring, you may see growth rings or striations, but there are no layers or ply. Wood strips are anywhere from 1-1/2 inches to about 2-1/4 inches wide. Planks are wider than 2-1/4 inches. Most strip and plank flooring is milled with tongue-and-groove edges so boards will fit together, but some planks are flat-edged for a more rustic look.