Frequently Asked Question

How long does hardwood flooring installation take?

Installation typically takes 2–5 days, depending on project size, subfloor condition, and the type of hardwood. Additional time may be required for acclimation and finishing.

Do hardwood floors need to acclimate before installation?

Yes, hardwood should acclimate for 7–14 days before installation to prevent expansion or contraction due to temperature and humidity changes.

How should I prepare my home for hardwood installation?

• Remove all furniture from the installation area.(5280 floors offers furniture moving services)
• Maintain a stable indoor climate (60-80°F, 35-50% humidity).
• Ensure the subfloor is clean and level. (5280 Floors can provide subfloor prep and leveling)

Can hardwood be installed over concrete?

Yes, but it requires a moisture barrier or an engineered hardwood product designed for glue-down or floating installation.

Is hardwood suitable for kitchens and bathrooms?

Hardwood works well in kitchens with proper care but is not ideal for bathrooms with showers due to high moisture exposure. However, we offer a unique hardwood from Mafi that works in wet areas. LVT or LVP are also great alternatives.

Should I choose prefinished or unfinished hardwood?

• Prefinished: Factory-applied finish, faster installation, more durable.
• Unfinished: Custom staining, seamless look, requires on-site finishing.

How do I maintain my hardwood floors?

• Sweep or vacuum regularly.
• Use a damp mop with a hardwood-safe cleaner.
• Avoid excessive moisture and direct sunlight exposure.
• Use felt pads under furniture such as dining room chairs.
• Schedule regular power scrubs to keep dirt out of the grains.
• Recoat at first signs of wear, approximately 5-7 years of age.
• Engineered Hardwood vs. Site Finished Hardwood

What is the difference between engineered hardwood and natural hardwood?

Feature
Natural (Solid) Hardwood
Engineered Hardwood

Material
100% solid wood
Top layer of real wood over plywood or HDF core

Durability
Can be refinished 7–10 times
Limited refinishing potential (2–4 times)

Moisture Resistance
Prone to moisture damage
More moisture-resistant

Installation
Nail-down or glue-down
Floating, glue-down, or nail-down

Lifespan
50+ years with proper care
20–30 years

Cost
Higher upfront cost
More budget-friendly

Which is better for my home: engineered or natural hardwood?

• Choose natural hardwood if you want a long-lasting floor with refinishing options and a classic, high-end look.
• Choose engineered hardwood for areas with moisture concerns (like basements) or if you need a more budget-friendly, easy-to-install option.

Can engineered hardwood increase home value?

Yes! While solid hardwood is often preferred, high-quality engineered hardwood can still increase home value, especially in areas where moisture resistance is important.

 What are the main differences between hardwood,LVT/LVP, and laminate?

Feature
Hardwood
LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) / LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank)
Laminate

Material
• Natural wood
• Synthetic (PVC-based)
• Composite wood with a printed surface

Durability
• Can scratch/dent but is refinishable
• Highly scratch and dent-resistant
• Scratch-resistant but can chip

Water Resistance
• Susceptible to moisture
• 100% waterproof
• Water-resistant but not waterproof

Installation
• Nail-down, glue-down, or floating
• Click-lock, glue-down, or loose lay
• Click-lock floating system

Maintenance
• Requires refinishing over time
• Low maintenance
• Low maintenance but not refinishable

Cost
• Higher upfront investment
• More budget-friendly
• More affordable than hardwood, similar to LVT

Resale Value
• High
• Moderate
• Lower than hardwood and LVT/LVP

Which flooring is more durable?

LVT is more resistant to scratches, dents, and water damage, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Hardwood is durable but may require refinishing over time.

Is hardwood or LVT better for resale value?

Hardwood has higher resale value due to its timeless appeal and refinishing capability, while LVT can still add value with high-quality designs.

Which is more water-resistant?

LVT is 100% waterproof, making it a better choice for bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. Hardwood can warp or stain when exposed to moisture.

What are the cost differences?

Flooring TypeCost per sq. ft. (materials & installation) Hardwood $12–$25 + LVT/LVP/Laminate $8–$12