Hardwood flooring is a timeless investment that enhances the beauty, durability, and value of your home. However, selecting the right hardwood flooring is more complex than simply choosing a color or wood species. Many homeowners make costly mistakes during the selection and installation process, leading to issues like premature wear, warping, and mismatched aesthetics.
To ensure you make an informed decision, this guide will walk you through the 12 most common mistakes to avoid when choosing hardwood flooring. By understanding these pitfalls, you can select a floor that not only suits your home’s style but also stands the test of time.
Why Avoiding These Mistakes Matters
Making the wrong choices when selecting or installing hardwood flooring can result in various long-term problems, including:
- Premature damage and excessive wear – Poor-quality wood or improper installation can lead to scratches, dents, and early deterioration.
- Moisture-related issues – Inadequate acclimation or incorrect wood selection can cause warping, swelling, or shrinking.
- Aesthetic mismatches – The wrong color, finish, or wood species can clash with your décor or appear different under home lighting.
- Increased maintenance and repair costs – Low-quality materials and improper installation often result in expensive repairs or replacements.
- Negative environmental impact – Unsustainable wood sourcing can contribute to deforestation and ecological damage.
If you're considering installing high-quality hardwood flooring in New Hampshire,
Minuteman Floors provides professional installation and refinishing services in the
Manchester area.
Contact us today to schedule a free in-home consultation, where we
bring flooring samples to your home, allowing you to see how they look in your space
before making a decision.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Hardwood Flooring
Selecting the perfect hardwood flooring involves more than just picking a color or finish. Many homeowners make crucial mistakes that can lead to premature wear, maintenance headaches, or an overall unsatisfactory look. To ensure you make the best choice for your home, let’s explore the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Choosing the Wrong Wood Species
Not all hardwood floors are created equal. Different wood species have unique characteristics, including hardness, durability, grain patterns, and resistance to wear and moisture. Failing to consider these factors can result in a floor that doesn’t perform well in your home environment.
For example, if you install a softwood like pine in a high-traffic area, it may dent and scratch easily. On the other hand, choosing an excessively hard wood like Brazilian walnut can make refinishing difficult in the future.
To make an informed choice:
- Consider the Janka Hardness Rating, which measures a wood species' resistance to wear and impact. Harder woods like oak and hickory are great for busy households, while softer woods are better suited for low-traffic areas.
- Factor in your home’s climate. Some woods expand and contract more than others, which is crucial if you live in a humid or dry environment.
- Match the wood species to your lifestyle. If you have pets or children, opt for scratch-resistant options like oak or maple.
2. Incorrect Installation Methods
Even the highest-quality hardwood flooring can fail if it’s not installed properly. Many homeowners and even inexperienced contractors make critical installation mistakes that lead to problems such as warping, uneven surfaces, and premature damage. Proper installation is essential to ensure longevity, stability, and a flawless finish.
Here are the most common installation errors and how to avoid them:
Failing to Prepare the Subfloor
One of the most overlooked steps in hardwood flooring installation is subfloor preparation. If the subfloor is uneven, damp, or has debris, it can lead to squeaky floors, gaps, or buckling over time. Before installation:
- Ensure the subfloor is level and free of imperfections.
- Remove moisture-trapping materials like carpet padding or old adhesives.
- Use a moisture barrier if installing over concrete or in humid environments.
Skipping the Acclimation Process
Hardwood is a natural material that expands and contracts based on the humidity levels in your home. Failing to let the wood acclimate before installation can result in warping, shrinking, or gaps between planks. To prevent this:
- Allow hardwood planks to sit in the room where they will be installed for at least 3-5 days before installation.
- Maintain consistent indoor temperature and humidity during this time to match normal living conditions.
Neglecting Moisture Testing
Ignoring moisture levels is a common mistake that leads to serious issues like cupping, warping, or cracking. Before installation:
- Test the moisture levels of both the subfloor and the hardwood planks.
- Keep indoor humidity between 30-50% to maintain wood stability.
- Use engineered wood in high-moisture areas instead of solid hardwood.
Improper Plank Alignment and Fastening
If planks are not installed correctly, gaps, shifting, or an uneven surface may occur. Avoid these mistakes by:
- Using the correct fastening method based on the flooring type (nail-down, glue-down, or floating).
- Staggering plank joints to create a natural, seamless look.
- Leaving appropriate expansion gaps (at least ¼ inch) around the perimeter to accommodate natural wood movement.
Choosing the Wrong Finish
The type of finish applied to hardwood affects its durability and maintenance. Some homeowners make the mistake of selecting a finish based solely on appearance without considering foot traffic and lifestyle factors.
- For high-traffic areas, opt for a durable polyurethane finish.
- If you prefer a natural look, oil-based finishes provide a softer, classic appearance but may require more maintenance.
- Consider UV-resistant finishes to prevent sun-induced fading in rooms with direct sunlight exposure.
3. Using Low-Quality Materials
The quality of hardwood flooring materials plays a crucial role in the durability, appearance, and long-term value of your floors. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives, using low-quality wood, subpar finishes, or poor adhesives can lead to costly repairs and replacements down the line. Investing in high-quality materials upfront ensures that your floors remain beautiful and resilient for years to come.
How Low-Quality Hardwood Flooring Can Cost You More
Choosing budget-friendly hardwood may seem like a smart financial decision at first, but it often results in:
- Shorter lifespan – Inferior materials wear out faster, requiring refinishing or replacement sooner than expected.
- Frequent damage – Cheap wood is more prone to scratches, dents, and moisture-related issues like warping or swelling.
- Higher maintenance costs – Floors made from low-quality wood require more frequent refinishing, sealing, and repairs.
Signs of Low-Quality Hardwood Flooring
Before purchasing hardwood flooring, watch out for these red flags:
- Thin wear layer – Engineered hardwood with a thin top layer cannot be refinished multiple times, reducing its longevity.
- Inconsistent grain patterns – Poorly milled hardwood may have irregular grain patterns, knots, or weak spots that can compromise durability.
- Cheap finishes – Low-quality finishes wear off quickly, leading to premature damage and a dull appearance.
- Unreliable sources – Some manufacturers cut corners by using improperly dried wood, which can result in shrinking, expanding, or cracking.
Why Investing in Premium Hardwood Flooring is Worth It
Instead of choosing the cheapest option, consider high-quality hardwood flooring for better durability, aesthetics, and long-term savings. Here’s what to look for:
- High Janka Hardness Rating – Ensures the wood is resistant to dents and scratches.
- Proper kiln-drying process – Reduces moisture content and prevents future warping.
- Reputable brands and suppliers – Ensure that your wood is ethically sourced and properly processed.
- Protective finish layers – Opt for floors with multiple coats of high-quality polyurethane or oil-based finishes for enhanced durability.
4. Overlooking Maintenance Requirements
Hardwood flooring is a long-term investment, but its lifespan and beauty largely depend on proper maintenance. Many homeowners make the mistake of choosing a hardwood floor without considering its upkeep, leading to premature wear, scratches, and costly refinishing. Understanding the maintenance needs of different wood types and finishes will help you choose a floor that fits your lifestyle and ensures it stays in top condition for years to come.
Why Maintenance Matters
Neglecting maintenance can result in:
- Dull and faded flooring due to a lack of proper cleaning and refinishing.
- Increased scratches and dents, especially in high-traffic areas or homes with pets.
- Water damage and warping from improper cleaning techniques or excessive moisture.
- Shortened lifespan, requiring more frequent refinishing or replacement.
Common Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid
✅ Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
✅
Neglecting Regular Maintenance
✅ Ignoring
Humidity and Temperature Control
Choose Hardwood That Fits Your Lifestyle
Not all hardwood floors require the same level of care. Some species, like oak and hickory, are more resistant to wear, while softer woods like pine require extra attention. Similarly, matte and satin finishes tend to hide scratches better than glossy finishes.
5. Selecting Trendy Over Timeless Designs
Trends come and go, but your hardwood floors should last for decades. One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is choosing a flooring style based purely on what’s trending at the moment, only to regret it a few years later when the trend fades. Instead of focusing solely on the latest styles, it's best to select timeless hardwood flooring that complements your home’s architecture and interior design for years to come.
Why Trend-Driven Flooring Can Be a Costly Mistake
While bold colors, distressed finishes, or exotic wood species might look stylish today, they can quickly feel outdated. Choosing trendy flooring can lead to:
- Resale value concerns – Potential buyers may not share your taste in flooring, making your home harder to sell.
- Expensive replacements – Once a flooring trend becomes outdated, replacing hardwood floors is costly and time-consuming.
- A clash with long-term decor – Your home’s furniture, cabinetry, and wall colors may evolve, and trendy floors might not match future updates.
How to Choose a Timeless Hardwood Floor
✅ Stick to Classic Wood Species
✅ Opt for
Neutral, Natural Tones
✅ Choose a Finish That
Ages Gracefully
✅ Consider Long-Term Trends
Instead of Short-Term Fads
6. Mismatching Wood Tones
Selecting the right hardwood floor is not just about choosing a beautiful wood species—it also needs to complement the existing wood tones in your home. Many homeowners make the mistake of choosing a floor based on a showroom sample, only to find that it clashes with their furniture, cabinetry, or trim once installed. Ensuring harmony between different wood elements is key to achieving a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look.
Why Mismatched Wood Tones Create Design Issues
Hardwood flooring should enhance your interior, not create visual chaos. If the floor doesn’t complement other wooden elements, it can:
- Make your space feel disjointed and unbalanced.
- Create a clashing effect with wooden furniture, cabinetry, or trim.
- Alter the perceived size and warmth of a room—certain tones can make a space feel too dark or overwhelming.
How to Match Hardwood Flooring to Existing Wood Tones
✅ Consider Undertones: Warm vs. Cool
✅ Create Contrast Without Overpowering
✅ View Samples in Natural Lighting
✅ Use
Rugs to Bridge Mismatched Tones
7. Neglecting Room Function and Foot Traffic
Not all hardwood floors are suitable for every room in your home. One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is choosing a one-size-fits-all approach, failing to consider how foot traffic, furniture placement, and daily activities will impact their flooring over time. Selecting the wrong type of wood for a high-traffic or high-moisture area can result in premature wear, dents, scratches, and costly repairs.
Why Room Function Matters in Hardwood Selection
Different rooms in your home have unique flooring demands. Ignoring these factors can lead to:
- Faster wear and tear in high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms.
- Scratches and dents from furniture and pet activity.
- Moisture damage in kitchens, basements, and entryways.
- Uneven aging if different rooms experience varying levels of foot traffic.
How to Choose Hardwood Flooring Based on Room Usage
✅ For High-Traffic Areas (Living Rooms, Hallways, Entryways)
✅ For Kitchens and Dining Areas
✅ For Bedrooms and Low-Traffic Areas
✅ For Basements and Moisture-Prone Areas
✅ For Homes with Pets and Children
8. Installing Hardwood Flooring in High-Humidity Areas
Moisture is one of hardwood flooring’s biggest enemies. Many homeowners make the mistake of installing solid hardwood in high-humidity areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements without proper precautions, leading to warping, cupping, swelling, and even mold growth. If your home experiences fluctuating humidity levels, choosing the right flooring and installation method is crucial for long-term durability.
Why Humidity Affects Hardwood Flooring
Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in moisture levels. When exposed to excessive humidity, hardwood floors can:
- Expand and buckle, causing planks to lift or separate.
- Absorb moisture, leading to mold growth and a weakened structure.
- Develop gaps or cracks when humidity drops too low in winter.
How to Prevent Moisture-Related Issues in Hardwood Flooring
✅ Choose the Right Hardwood Type
✅ Control Indoor Humidity Levels
✅ Use the Right Installation Method
✅ Seal and Protect the Surface
9. Overlooking Warranty Details
When investing in hardwood flooring, many homeowners focus on appearance and price while overlooking the importance of warranty coverage. However, failing to review the warranty details can lead to unexpected costs if issues arise later. Understanding what is and isn’t covered by your hardwood flooring warranty will help protect your investment and prevent frustration down the line.
Why Flooring Warranties Matter
A hardwood flooring warranty provides financial protection and ensures you’re getting a quality product. If defects occur, having a solid warranty can save you from expensive repairs or replacements. However, not all warranties are created equal, and some have limitations and exclusions that homeowners may not realize until it’s too late.
Common Warranty Mistakes Homeowners Make
✅ Not Reading the Fine Print
✅ Improper
Installation Can Void the Warranty
✅ Not
Following Manufacturer’s Maintenance
Guidelines
✅ Assuming All Flooring Brands
Offer the Same Protection
10. Not Hiring a Professional Installer
Many homeowners attempt to install hardwood flooring themselves or hire inexperienced contractors to cut costs. However, improper installation can lead to a range of problems, including uneven floors, gaps, buckling, and premature wear. Hardwood flooring is a major investment, and professional installation ensures that your floors not only look great but also last for decades.
Why DIY or Inexperienced Installation Can Be a Costly Mistake
While DIY projects can be rewarding, hardwood floor installation requires specialized skills, tools, and techniques. Here’s what can go wrong when it’s not done professionally:
- Uneven Subfloor Issues – Failing to properly level and prepare the subfloor can result in squeaky or unstable flooring.
- Incorrect Plank Placement – Improper staggering or tight-fitting planks can lead to expansion problems and gaps.
- Skipping Moisture Testing – Without checking moisture levels in both the subfloor and wood, the flooring may warp, cup, or shrink over time.
- Improper Fastening Techniques – Using the wrong nails, adhesives, or securing methods can cause planks to loosen prematurely.
- No Expansion Gaps – Wood naturally expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes. Without proper expansion gaps, floors can buckle.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Hardwood Floor Installer
✅ Expert Subfloor Preparation
✅ Proper
Acclimation and Moisture Control
✅ Precision
Cutting and Seamless Installation
✅
Manufacturer Warranty Protection
✅ Time
and Cost Savings
11. Not Researching Eco-Friendliness
With growing environmental awareness, more homeowners are looking for sustainable flooring options. However, many still make the mistake of overlooking the environmental impact of their hardwood flooring choices. Failing to research eco-friendly options can contribute to deforestation, habitat destruction, and increased carbon footprints, while also affecting indoor air quality due to chemical finishes and adhesives.
Why Eco-Friendly Hardwood Flooring Matters
Choosing sustainable hardwood flooring not only helps the environment but also benefits homeowners by ensuring:
- Sustainable sourcing – Ethical harvesting practices protect forests and promote reforestation.
- Better indoor air quality – Low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) finishes reduce harmful emissions inside your home.
- Long-term durability – High-quality, responsibly sourced hardwood tends to last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
How to Choose Environmentally Friendly Hardwood Flooring
✅ Look for FSC Certification
✅ Opt for
Reclaimed or Recycled Wood
✅ Consider
Engineered Hardwood with Sustainable Core Materials
✅
Choose Low-VOC Finishes and Adhesives
✅
Select Hardwood Species with Fast Regrowth
Rates
12. Understanding Budget Constraints
Many homeowners make the mistake of focusing only on the upfront cost when choosing hardwood flooring, without considering the long-term costs of ownership. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, failing to account for installation, maintenance, and refinishing expenses can lead to unexpected costs over time. A well-planned budget ensures that you get the best value for your investment while avoiding hidden expenses.
Common Budget Mistakes to Avoid
✅ Focusing Only on Initial Cost, Not Long-Term
Value
✅ Overlooking Installation
Costs
✅ Ignoring Maintenance and Refinishing
Expenses
✅ Failing to Plan for Unexpected
Expenses
Get the Best Hardwood Flooring Within Your Budget
At Minuteman Floors, we help homeowners in New Hampshire find high-quality hardwood flooring that fits their budget without compromising on durability or style. Our experts provide transparent pricing, detailed cost breakdowns, and professional installation to ensure you get the best value for your investment.
Need help budgeting for your new hardwood floors? Contact us today for a free in-home consultation and personalized estimate!
FAQs About Choosing Hardwood Flooring
1. Will all hardwood flooring fade over time?
Some woods, like red oak and mahogany, darken or lighten with UV exposure. Use UV-resistant finishes, rugs, or curtains to minimize fading.
2. What is the Janka Hardness Rating?
It measures wood’s resistance to dents. Higher ratings (e.g., hickory, oak) mean more durability, ideal for high-traffic areas.
3. What hardwood species are best for high-traffic areas?
Oak, hickory, and maple are highly durable. A matte or satin finish helps hide scratches.
4. Can I install hardwood in basements or bathrooms?
Solid hardwood isn’t ideal due to moisture. Use engineered hardwood, LVP, or water-resistant laminate instead.
5. How do I maintain hardwood flooring?
Sweep often, use wood-safe cleaners, keep humidity at 30-50%, and use felt pads under furniture.
6. Can I refinish scratched hardwood floors?
Yes. Solid hardwood can be refinished multiple times, while engineered wood can only be refinished if it has a thick wear layer.
7. Prefinished vs. site-finished hardwood—what’s better?
Prefinished is faster to install and more durable; site-finished allows for custom stains and a seamless look.
8. Is hardwood flooring good for homes with pets?
Yes, but choose hard species like oak, use satin finishes, and trim pet nails to prevent scratches.
9. How do I know if hardwood flooring is eco-friendly?
Look for FSC certification, reclaimed wood options, and low-VOC finishes.
10. How much should I budget for hardwood flooring?
Expect $5–$15 per sq. ft. for materials and $3–$8 per sq. ft. for installation, plus extra for underlayment and finishes.
Our Quality Flooring Services Are Backed by a 1-Year Warranty
At Minuteman Floors, we take pride in delivering top-quality hardwood flooring installation, refinishing, and repair services. Our experienced team ensures precision craftsmanship and long-lasting durability, making your investment worthwhile.
Beyond hardwood, we also offer expert installation for carpet, luxury vinyl, and laminate flooring, catering to various styles and budgets. Whether you're upgrading your home or need a professional flooring solution for your business, we provide personalized consultations to help you choose the best option.
To give you peace of mind, all our flooring services come with a 1-year warranty, ensuring quality and customer satisfaction.
Get a Free In-Home Consultation Today!
Let us bring flooring samples to your home, so you can see how they look in your space before making a decision.
Call us today at 603-782-1942 to schedule your consultation in Manchester, NH, and surrounding areas.