- 1). Find out if the wood flooring you're choosing from is bare wood or finished wood. Bare wood will need to be stained and finished yourself to help protect against stains and other damage. However, you can find wood flooring that is already finished, but it's likely to be more expensive.
- 2). Look for a wood flooring thickness that works for the area you're installing your wood floor. Three-quarters-inch solid wood should be used in areas that have a plywood subfloor. If you have a concrete subfloor on the other hand, use 5/16-inch solid wood.
- 3). Find out other options. If you have a concrete subfloor, you can also use ¾-inch engineered wood, which is ideal for your basement. Locking hardwood is a form of engineered wood that locks in place, making it easier for you to install yourself.
- 4). Check out various wood species options for your wood flooring if you're using real wood rather than engineered wood. There are dozens of options to choose from, and some of the more common options are maple, cherry, oak, bamboo and cork. What you choose will depend on the look and price you want. For example, bamboo is a more exotic wood and will be more expensive than conventional wood like oak or maple.
- 5). Look carefully at the color and texture of the wood to make sure it will match your home. Bring home some samples of the wood to help you compare. If you'll be staining the wood, remember that you can change the color based on the type of stain you choose.
- 6). Pay attention to the defect rate for the wood flooring you choose. The defect rate should be over 50% for quality wood, but you can find wood that is nearly defect-free at 95%.
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