Thinking about installing hardwood floors in your home? It’s one of the most rewarding investments you can make in your space—not just for its natural beauty, but for the craftsmanship and long-term value it brings. But before you choose a product or schedule installation, asking the right questions can make a big difference in getting the floor that fits your lifestyle and goals.
At 50 Grit Flooring, we help Cincinnati homeowners make informed decisions about their hardwood flooring projects. Here are five important questions to ask before making your final selection:
1. Is this hardwood solid or engineered—and what’s the difference?
Understanding the construction of hardwood flooring is key. Solid hardwood is a single piece of wood and can be sanded and refinished many times. Engineered hardwood, like the options we carry from Mullican and Anderson Tuftex, features a real wood veneer over a layered core. Engineered options offer more dimensional stability, especially useful in homes with varying humidity or over concrete subfloors.
2. How will this flooring react to Cincinnati’s climate?
Cincinnati experiences a wide range of seasonal temperatures and humidity levels, which can affect how hardwood performs over time. Engineered hardwood tends to handle fluctuations better, while solid hardwood may expand and contract more noticeably. Be sure to ask how acclimation, installation method, and even subfloor preparation will help prevent issues down the road.
3. What type of finish is best for my lifestyle?
Hardwood finishes influence both the look and wear resistance of your floors. We offer factory-finished options with aluminum oxide coatings as well as custom finishes through our Bona Certified Master Craftsmen. Ask about the differences between matte, satin, or gloss finishes—and how those finishes will look under your lighting or stand up to pets, kids, or high foot traffic.
4. What’s the expected maintenance and refinishing timeline?
Some hardwoods, like Appalachian’s Red Oak Excel Walnut or BOEN’s semi-smoked oak, may show wear more quickly in busy homes. If you’re concerned about scratches or fading, ask how often your floors may need refinishing—and how easy that process is. Because we’re NWFA-Certified Finishers and Inspectors, you’ll get honest advice about the long-term care of any floor you choose.
5. Who is installing the flooring—and are they certified?
A quality installation is just as important as a quality product. At 50 Grit Flooring, our team includes NWFA Certified Installers, Hardwood Inspectors, and Bona Certified craftsmen. That means your project is handled by trained professionals who follow best practices and pay close attention to detail from start to finish.
Why Choose Hardwood Floors From 50 Grit Flooring
Opting for hardwood floors in your Cincinnati, OH, home or office comes with several advantages that set us apart from other flooring stores near you. We offer premium products from trusted brands like Anderson Tuftex, Shaw, Appalachian, and BOEN—installed by experienced, certified craftspeople. Ask us about our mobile showroom and what it means to work with a team that’s Bona 5 Star Certified.
Ready to See Hardwood in Your Space?
Take advantage of our mobile showroom where we bring the showroom to you. You will love seeing the materials in your space, so that you can easily see how they will look in your home. Request your free estimate here.
