Why engineered wood
Seasonal humidity in the region is hard on solid wood. Engineered planks use cross-laminated plies under a real hardwood surface, which limits movement and allows glue-down over concrete. See the hardwood flooring category and Anderson Tuftex engineered hardwood, made in South Carolina.
Matching and extending older floors
A frequent project in Chevy Chase, Kensington and Northwest DC is extending original 2 1/4 inch red oak into a new addition or kitchen. Exact matches need unfinished solid strip flooring woven into the old floor, then sanding and finishing everything together. We will tell you honestly when a new engineered floor in a separate room is the better choice.
Humidity after installation
Keep indoor relative humidity roughly between 35 and 55% year round. In practice that means a humidifier in winter and air conditioning or a dehumidifier in summer. Most seasonal gapping complaints come from dry winter air.
Prefer an oiled finish? Pair a new floor or a refinish with natural oil refinishing.
Common questions
Can engineered hardwood be installed in a kitchen?
Yes, with care. Wipe spills promptly and use mats at the sink and dishwasher. If water resistance is the priority, consider waterproof flooring instead.