Why hardwood flooring is the top choice for homeowners
Nothing transforms a home quite like hardwood flooring. It brings warmth, character, and durability that other flooring options just can’t match. Whether you’re going for a classic, rustic, or modern look, hardwood adapts beautifully. But with so many options—solid vs. engineered, prefinished vs. unfinished—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where we come in. Let’s break it all down so you can find the perfect wood floors for your space.Solid hardwood vs. engineered hardwood: what’s the difference?
Hardwood flooring comes in two main types: solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. Each has its own strengths, so the right choice depends on your home’s needs.
- Solid hardwood flooring: Solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like—each plank is made from a single piece of wood. It’s thick, durable, and built to last. You can refinish it multiple times, meaning it can last for generations with the right care. Plus, it’s available in a wide range of wood species, from rich oak to exotic walnut. The catch? Solid wood flooring expands and contracts with humidity changes. That means it’s not the best choice for basements or areas with high moisture. But in the right conditions, it’s an unbeatable flooring option.
- Engineered hardwood flooring: Engineered wood flooring is a smart alternative to solid wood. It has a thin layer of real hardwood on top, backed by multiple layers of plywood or fiberboard. This structure makes it more stable, meaning it won’t warp or expand as much as solid wood. That makes engineered wood flooring ideal for basements, kitchens, and other areas where moisture is a concern. Plus, it often comes prefinished, so installation is quick and easy. The downside? It can’t always be refinished as many times as solid wood. But with proper care, engineered wood flooring still offers a long lifespan and stunning appearance.
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Prefinished vs. unfinished hardwood: which is better?
When choosing hardwood flooring, you also need to decide between prefinished and unfinished planks. Each option has pros and cons.
- Prefinished hardwood flooring: Prefinished hardwood flooring comes ready to install. The finish is applied in a factory under controlled conditions, making it more durable than most on-site finishes. Plus, there’s no need for sanding or staining—just install it and enjoy. It’s the perfect choice if you want a faster installation with less mess. However, since the finish is applied in advance, there are fewer customization options.
- Unfinished hardwood flooring: Unfinished hardwood offers full customization. You can pick the exact stain and finish you want, creating a look that’s unique to your home. It also allows for a seamless finish if you’re matching existing wood floors. The trade-off? Installation takes longer. The wood needs to be sanded, stained, and sealed on-site, which means more dust and drying time. However, for homeowners who want total control over the final look, unfinished hardwood flooring is the way to go.
Why choose wood floors?
So, why do so many homeowners invest in hardwood flooring? Simple: it offers benefits that other flooring materials can’t match.
- Timeless style: Hardwood flooring never goes out of style. Trends change, but wood flooring always looks sophisticated and inviting. It works with any design—from modern minimalist to classic farmhouse.
- Long-lasting durability: With proper care, wood floors can last for decades, even generations. Solid hardwood can be refinished many times, while engineered wood flooring holds up well in high-traffic areas.
- Easy maintenance: Unlike carpet, which traps dust and allergens, hardwood flooring is easy to clean. A quick sweep and occasional mopping are all it takes to keep it looking great.
- Increases home value: Hardwood flooring is a smart investment. It boosts resale value and makes homes more attractive to buyers. If you’re planning to sell down the road, hardwood is a feature that can make your home stand out.

Visit our hardwood flooring store in Omaha, NE
Ready to upgrade your home with wood floors? We’re here to help. Stop by Carter Kelly Floors to see samples, compare options, and get expert advice. Whether you prefer solid or engineered, prefinished or unfinished, we have the perfect flooring for your style and budget. Our hardwood flooring store in Omaha, NE, serves Omaha, Elkhorn, Gretna, Plattsmouth, Papillion, Valley, and Waterloo, NE, Council Bluffs, and Glenwood, IA. Call today!
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