While you can add an elegant appeal to most any room with the rich, traditional color and texture of hardwood flooring, there are some guidelines to follow in deciding which type of hardwood to select or whether to choose hardwood at all.

Since colonial times, solid hardwood has been a preferred choice for enhancing formal rooms and hallways with a beautiful, inviting ambiance. It's also an excellent choice for areas where you may want to change looks at a future date, since it can sanded and refinished to meet changing tastes.

However, solid hardwood is not recommended for installation below grade (basements) or in rooms where excess moisture is present, such as kitchens, baths, saunas, and enclosed porches. It also tends scratch easier than engineered hardwoods, so careful consideration should be given to use with large pets.

Engineered hardwood is a perfect alternative virtually any place solid hardwood is used, except where you might want to change the look since engineered hardwood generally cannot be sanded and refinished. In addition, engineered hardwood is especially recommended for use below grade in basements and other areas where scratch resistance and added longevity are important. While it tends to resist moisture better than solid hardwood, it still may not be the best choice for kitchens and bath.