Hardwood flooring brings warmth and character to any home—and in Fairfax, VA, it’s a popular choice for good reason. But before you commit, asking the right questions can make all the difference in finding the right fit for your space and lifestyle.
At Carpet City & Flooring, we’ve been helping homeowners navigate this decision for over 30 years. Here are the most important questions to ask when considering hardwood floors.
Should I Choose Solid or Engineered Hardwood?
A good starting point is figuring out if solid or engineered hardwood makes more sense for your home. Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of wood and can be sanded and refinished many times. It’s a great option for rooms above ground level with stable humidity levels.
Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is made with a real wood top layer and layered core for added stability. It performs better in areas where moisture levels fluctuate—like basements, kitchens, or over concrete subfloors.
It’s worth considering where the floor will be installed and how much moisture or temperature change the space typically sees.
Which Wood Species Fits My Lifestyle?
Not all hardwood is created equal. Some species are harder than others, which makes them more resistant to wear and tear.
If your home sees a lot of foot traffic or if you have pets or young kids, consider a harder species like oak, maple, or hickory. These hold up better to dents and daily activity, especially when paired with a strong factory finish.
Think about how much daily activity the room gets—especially if you have pets or kids who put floors to the test.
What Color and Finish Will Work Best in My Home?
In 2025, warmer tones like golden brown and rich walnut are gaining popularity, but timeless natural finishes are still a top pick. You’ll also want to think about plank width—wider boards tend to give rooms a more open feel, while narrow planks lean more traditional.
Texture matters, too. Hand-scraped or wire-brushed finishes can add depth and help mask minor wear over time.
Ask yourself: What tones and finishes will complement my home’s existing design—and make cleaning easier?
Who Will Install the Floor?
Even the best hardwood flooring won’t perform well if it’s not installed correctly. Proper acclimation, subfloor prep, and installation techniques are essential for long-term results.
Carpet City & Flooring offers professional installation services and handles every detail—from helping you choose the right material to ensuring it’s expertly installed.
What Will Maintenance Look Like?
Hardwood is relatively low-maintenance, but your choice of finish can make a big difference in how it wears. A matte or satin finish can hide dust and scuffs better than high-gloss. And while all hardwood should be swept regularly, some finishes resist staining and moisture better than others.
Ask yourself: How much time do I want to spend keeping my floors looking their best?
Not Sure Where To Start? Contact Us, We Are Here To Help.
Our experienced staff at Carpet City & Flooring is ready to educate you on all of your flooring needs, as well as help you decide on the best options for your particular Fairfax, VA area home. Contact us with questions or to get started—we’ll walk you through the process and make choosing hardwood flooring simple and stress-free.
