Buying Hardwood Flooring? Ask These Key Questions First

Have hardwood floors been on your mind lately? You’re not alone. Homeowners throughout Spring, The Woodlands, and Cypress are turning to hardwood for its timeless look and long-term value. But before you commit to a new floor, it’s worth asking the right questions—especially when you’re making an investment that will shape the feel of your home for years to come.

At Empire Flooring & Remodeling in Spring, TX, we believe informed customers make the best decisions. Here are a few key things to ask before choosing hardwood flooring.

1. Is it solid hardwood or engineered?

Both have real wood surfaces, but they’re built differently. Solid hardwood is cut from a single piece of wood and can be sanded down and refinished multiple times. Engineered hardwood is layered, making it more stable in humid conditions—great for homes in the Spring and Tomball area where humidity can be a factor. Ask which type best suits your space and lifestyle.

2. What species of wood is best for my needs?

Not all hardwoods wear the same. Oak and maple are common choices for busy households thanks to their resilience, while hickory adds rustic character and a bit more toughness. Softer woods like pine may show marks more easily but work beautifully in low-traffic rooms. We’ll walk you through options based on your home’s activity level and your design preferences.

3. What finish and texture options are available?

Do you prefer a smooth, glossy floor or a more natural, matte look with visible grain? Finishes affect not only appearance but how much you’ll see dust and footprints. Hand-scraped and wire-brushed textures, for example, can add character and help hide small imperfections over time.

4. How will the floor react to climate changes?

In places like Spring and Magnolia, changes in temperature and humidity can cause wood to expand or contract. Engineered hardwood often performs better in those conditions, especially in kitchens or near exterior doors. Ask your flooring specialist how different options handle seasonal shifts.

5. What’s included with installation?

Hardwood installation is more than laying down planks. Will your existing flooring need to be removed? Are transitions or new baseboards needed? At Empire Flooring & Remodeling, our team walks you through every step so there are no surprises—from prep to finishing touches.

6. What maintenance will the floor need over time?

Hardwood floors are known for aging well, but they still need some attention. Some finishes are easier to clean and resist wear better than others. Ask how to care for your specific flooring choice to keep it looking great through busy days, pets, and foot traffic.

Visit Our Showroom

Choosing hardwood flooring is more than a design decision—it’s about finding a material that fits your daily life and home environment. At Empire Flooring & Remodeling, we’re here to help homeowners across Spring, The Woodlands, Conroe, and beyond make choices that stand the test of time, both in style and performance.

Visit our store to explore our flooring selections or schedule a consultation to start your journey to beautiful hardwood floors.