Yes, you always need a layer—known as an underlayment or vapor retarder—between your subfloor and your new hardwood floor. This layer prevents moisture damage from below, reduces noise, and minimizes friction/squeaking between the wood boards.
Underlayment for Hardwood Flooring
Underlayment isn't always necessary for hardwood, but it will increase the longevity and durability of your wood. An underlayment made of cork or fibrous material works well for sound dampening, while a rubber or felt underlayment provides a moisture barrier.
The best flooring for asthma sufferers is smooth, hard-surface material that doesn't trap dust, mold, or pet dander. Top choices include solid hardwood, tile, cork, and low-VOC luxury vinyl plank (LVP). Always prioritize low-VOC materials and glues to prevent volatile organic compounds from triggering asthma symptoms.
The "Rule of 3" in flooring is a design principle that recommends using no more than three distinct flooring materials or color variations throughout your entire home. Limiting your design to three elements creates visual cohesion, prevents a chopped-up layout, and ensures smooth, intentional transitions from room to room.
Although installing hardwood floors without underlayment is technically possible, it is not advised. Ignoring this fundamental layer can result in a number of issues, such as increased noise, moisture damage, and cracking of your hardwood floors.
Yes, you can install hardwood flooring directly onto a wooden subfloor (like plywood or OSB). In fact, it is the standard and most recommended method for installing solid hardwood.
In 2026, flooring trends revolve around warmth and natural textures, with cool, flat grays officially on their way out. The most popular colors include:
The wrong flooring choice can make a room look off and cause maintenance and cleaning issues. Designers say one of the worst flooring options is luxury vinyl planking for its upkeep and poor quality. Other flooring choices to avoid include mosaic tile, dark wood floors, and shiny wood flooring.
100% waterproof flooring—typically made of Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), SPC (Stone Polymer Composite), or waterproof laminate—is highly stain-resistant, pet-proof, and safe for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Prices generally range from $1.50 to $7.00+ per square foot depending on the wear layer and underlayment.
Healthier flooring options include solid wood, natural linoleum, cork, bamboo, tile and stone. A key feature of all of these is that they are easily cleaned of dust and dirt.
Anti-dust mite laundry detergents (or additives) break down and wash away the protein-rich waste matter from dust mites. Many feature fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and plant-based formulas that effectively neutralize allergens even in cold or warm water, eliminating the need for frequent, fabric-damaging hot water washes.
Yes, absolutely! The carpet remains a favorite for bedrooms because it's soft, warm, and quiet. Plus, new technology makes modern carpets more durable and easier to maintain than ever.
Typically, an underlay is a layer of material installed between the subfloor and your new hardwood floor. While some flooring materials can be installed directly on top of an existing material there are definite benefits to taking the time to create a flat and seamless foundation.
Timeless wood colors are natural, organic hues that bridge the gap between warm and cool without relying on passing fads. The most classic choices are pale, natural wood and mid-tone browns. These choices highlight natural grain patterns and adapt easily to changing furniture and decor styles.
The best overall subfloor for hardwood floors is tongue-and-groove plywood (specifically CDX grade or higher). It provides superior dimensional stability, holds nails and staples securely, and resists moisture much better than OSB (Oriented Strand Board) or particle board.
Gray-toned hardwood and laminate. Wide plank farmhouse-style wood. Painted floorboards. Artificial or fake-looking wood.
What makes it look cheap: A lack of continuity disrupts the home's visual and physical flow, subtly cheapening the overall experience. Mismatched flooring, abrupt ceiling changes, or lighting that feels disconnected from nearby spaces can make the kitchen feel compartmentalized instead of cohesive.
In 2026, the dominant wood style embraces organic warmth, moving away from cool greys and uniform finishes in favor of natural textures and earthy character.
Solid hardwood floors typically last 30 to 100+ years, while engineered hardwood generally lasts 20 to 30 years. Solid wood can be sanded and refinished multiple times to extend its life, making it a potential lifetime investment. Longevity heavily depends on maintenance, traffic levels, and climate.
Flooring trends prioritize grounding warmth and natural beauty. Dominant styles include wide-plank light oak, intricate patterns like herringbone and chevron, low-sheen matte textures, and the practical durability of Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP).
What flooring never goes out of style?
Dark Flooring
Dark-stained floors create a dramatic backdrop that allows furniture to stand out against the rich, velvety darkness. Additionally, the dark color absorbs and reflects light, adding depth and visual interest to the space throughout the home.
In the end, the best choice depends on the unique proportions of your home, the amount of natural light, and the atmosphere you want to create. Whether you choose dark floors to ground your space or lighter floors to lift it, color balance between walls and floors can completely transform how your home feels.
The most popular hardwood floor colors emphasize warmth, natural aesthetics, and versatility. The overarching trend leans away from cool, sterile grays and toward earthy, natural tones. Top trending and timeless choices include: