Prefinished Flooring Buying Guide
Our comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about prefinished flooring before buying.
What’s in this article:
- Should you hire an installer for prefinished flooring?
- Color
- One of a kind wood floors
- Species
- Photosensitivity
- Cut
- Plainsawn
- Rift & Quartered
- Live Sawn
- Texture
- Wire brushing
- Hand scraping
- Saw marks
- All together now: Mixing textures for a unique look
- Width
- Multiple Widths
- Engineered vs. Solid
- Solid Wood Flooring
- Engineered Wood Flooring
- Rotary Cut Veneers
- Sliced Cut Veneers
- Sawn Cut Veneers
- Can I re-sand my prefinished flooring?
- Installation Area
- Above Grade
- On Grade
- Below Grade
- Walls & Ceilings
- Radiant Heat
- Home Environment
- Lifestyle
- Accessories
- Maintenance
- Warranties
- Be careful of relying on lifetime warranties as a measure of quality.
- Make the best choice for your home
- Download this guide for free

What is prefinished flooring?
Short answer: Prefinished hardwood flooring is already sanded, stained and finished right out of the box. There are no further steps to finish the floor after you install the boards. It’s ready to walk on!
Traditionally, to have a wood floor installed in your home meant that raw tongue and groove wood flooring boards would be nailed or glued to a subfloor, then sanded, stained, and finished inside the home. This long process takes time, creates a lot of dust and fumes inside the home, and gives more chances for mistakes to be made during the process.
Today, prefinished wood floors solve all of those issues while providing many people with a floor that looks great and lasts a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.
Instead of on-site sanding and finishing, these steps are done in a factory controlled environment with precise calibrated equipment. The finished flooring boards are fully cured, then carefully wrapped and boxed to be delivered to the job site. They can then be installed in one step without creating dust or fumes.
The whole process can take a day or less depending on the job size, and homeowners can walk on their new prefinished hardwood floors right away.

Should you hire an installer for prefinished flooring?
Short answer: Yes, you probably should.
There are a lot of benefits to choosing prefinished wood flooring for your home or next flooring job. Although prefinished wood flooring is overall a simpler product, installing wood floors is an intermediate to advanced level home improvement project.
Our recommendation is to work with a professional installer that will make sure your floor is installed correctly. The benefits of having a professional install your wood flooring are:
- You don’t have to worry about measuring your home accurately. They will take care of that and will factor in additional flooring for waste.
- Your installer will inspect your home and subfloor to make sure wood flooring is the right choice for you.
- They will measure moisture in your home, new flooring and subfloor to know when the new flooring is properly acclimated and ready to install.
- No need to learn how to use the equipment. Professionals will know, and already have, the right tools for the job and the specific flooring you picked out.
- A pro will prepare your subfloor to be clean, dry, sound and flat prior to installing new wood floors.
- They will ensure the flooring is installed straight, and be able to handle complicated angles, doorways, and meeting up with other flooring surfaces.
All of these things require knowledge and experience to do well, which is why we highly recommend working with a professional when it comes to wood flooring.
That said, it is possible to DIY your own hardwood floors. There are good resources available that can help someone who is comfortable with intermediate to advanced home improvement projects do a good job.
If you don’t have an installer and would like a referral, we can help! We are the go-to wood flooring supplier throughout the Midwest. Contact one of our 12 locations and we can steer you towards a professional that will do a great job for you.
You can also stop by one of our showroom locations to get inspiration for your wood flooring project and get connected with an authorized retailer or installer.
Color
We believe color is the most important aspect in choosing a floor for your home. If the color isn’t right for your home and your style, nothing else really matters.
Take time to consider the other elements in your home that you don’t want to change. These could be paint colors, trim, cabinets, other floor coverings, furniture, etc. Then consider whether a light, medium, or dark wood floor would work best. This will narrow down the choices and help you focus on the floors that you know will work in your home.
One of a kind wood floors
Have you ever wanted something truly unique? Something that wasn’t mass produced, and looked just like what everyone else has?
Many of our prefinished floors undergo a special reactive stain process that react with tannins in the wood to create a unique look.
Factors like soil composition, amounts of sunlight and moisture, altitude and temperature can all affect how much tannin is in a tree. A reactive stain creates a special color in a relatively small batch of flooring, and will give you a truly one of a kind hardwood floor.
We place a special sticker on our flooring samples that undergo a reactive stain process to bring attention to the uniqueness of the color. When you look at these samples, you are seeing a color concept that is created through a special process. No two boards will be a like, and colors can vary from lot to lot.
“The reactive staining process allows the natural beauty of the tree to fully express itself.” – Nathan Elbrecht, Real Wood Floors.
For this reason, it’s especially important to approve these floors before they are installed in your home. It’s best to even order a box of the current lot before you make your final decision to see what the floor will look like in your home.
See more at our Prefinished Flooring Gallery.
Species
Wood flooring is a natural forest product. The species of tree that is used for lumber determines the species of your floor.
Every species has its own distinct characteristics and appearance – no two trees are exactly alike. In addition to the width and color of your flooring planks, the species you choose will be one of the main factors in determining how your floor will look.
One consideration is the density (or hardness) of each species, which is measured by a Janka rating. The higher the number, the denser (or harder) the wood is. Oak, Hickory, Birch, Maple and Walnut are all suitable hardwoods for flooring. Hickory and Northern Maple are considered very hard, while Walnut is on the lower end of the Janka scale. Oak is considered average.
There is no right or wrong choice here. The questions to consider are:
- How much traffic your floor will be getting?
- Will there be a chance heavy objects could be dropped or moved on it?
- Is it in a commercial setting?
In some of these situations, a denser (harder) species may be advisable. See the differences between each species in our Prefinished Flooring Gallery.
See More
Silvian Metsa (Forest)See More
Ponderosa Hickory PecosSee More
Brick & Board White Oak MantelSee More
Saltbox PlymouthSee More
Legends White Oak TitletownSee More
Legends White Oak Sunset BeachSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak DrafthouseSee More
1875 Collection White Oak PutneySee More
Chalet MorzineSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak DistillerySee More
Legends White Oak NaturalSee More
Ponderosa Rio GrandeSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak RailyardLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Brick & Board Hickory LibrarySee More
1875 ChiswickSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Cocoa MintBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River NaturalSee More
Silvian Luonto (Nature)See More
Navigator Admiral4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite Mesa VerdeSee More
Silvian Laakso (Valley)See More
Graf Custom Hardwood ChampagneSee More
Saltbox Maple SturbridgeBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River MesaSee More
Ponderosa Buena VistaSee More
Steadfast Maple HeritageSee More
1875 Collection White Oak BrunelSee More
Chalet MeribelSee More
Legends White Oak Fox RiverSee More
Steadfast Hickory PeacefulSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood MochaSee More
Ponderosa SilvertonLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
1875 St. AlbansSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Metal GraySee More
Brick & Board Hickory PorticoSee More
Navigator VoyageSee More
Saltbox Hickory Bedford4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite RainierSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak TavernSee More
Legends White Oak Mountain BaySee More
Chalet TremblantSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood SlateSee More
Ponderosa SedonaSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood CharcoalSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood NaturalSee More
Steadfast Hickory HonestDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango CaramelSee More
Chalet WhistlerLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood CafeSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak MillhouseSee More
1875 Collection White Oak SurreySee More
Storehouse White Oak CaskDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped White Oak
Durango Timber4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite ShenandoahSee More
Legends White Oak ThornberryLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old Frisian4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite YellowstoneSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak BoweryDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped White Oak
Durango BarleySee More
Storehouse Hickory BarrelSee More
Brick & Board Hickory ParlourChalet Meribel from Real Wood Floors
Chalet MeribelSee More
Silvian Kivi (Stone)4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite AcadiaSee More
Chalet WinterburgLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Steadfast Maple HopefulSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Pure WhiteSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Arctic WhiteLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Steadfast Maple LegacyLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
Saltbox Hickory BerkshireSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood ChocolateSee More
Chalet Vail4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite CascadesLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
1875 BrixtonBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River VistaDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango ToastSee More
Saltbox Maple ConcordLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Navigator LighthouseSee More
Steadfast Maple GraceSee More
1875 Collection White Oak ThamesSee More
Saltbox AcadianBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River RyeSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak GristmillSee More
Ponderosa Birch LaredoBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River CanyonSee More
Brick & Board Walnut FoyerSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood EspressoSee More
Ponderosa PagosaSee More
Legends White Oak Baird CreekSee More
Chalet St. AntonSee More
Silvian Jarvi (Lake)See More
Storehouse White Oak CofferSee More
Storehouse White Oak DrumSee More
Navigator CompassSee More
Silvian Maki (Hill)See More
Navigator EnsignSee More
Brick & Board White Oak AtriumSee More
Legends White Oak Astor ParkSee More
1875 Collection White Oak WandsworthChalet Vail from Real Wood Floors
Chalet VailSee More
Navigator JourneySee More
Storehouse White Oak BushelSee More
Brick & Board Hickory Garret4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite DenaliSee More
Steadfast Hickory HonestSee More
Silvian Vuori (Mountain)See More
Legends White Oak Bay BeachSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Antique WhiteSee More
Saltbox QuincySee More
Storehouse White Oak ParcelBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River CharcoalSee More
Legends White Oak Heritage HillSee More
Ponderosa Hickory CortezBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River BarnroofSee More
Legends White Oak Ahnapee Trail4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite SequoiaSee More
Saltbox Hickory AmhearstSee More
Legends White Oak Fonferek GlenSee More
Storehouse Hickory CrateSee More
Legends White Oak LedgestoneSee More
Exotic Hardwood Collection Sappy Ipe NaturalSee More
Chalet TahoeSee More
Silvian Virta (Stream)See More
Storehouse Hickory KegSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood NaturalDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango SorghumBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River SmokeSee More
Legends White Oak Ahnapee TrailSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak HarborsideSee More
Steadfast Maple Tradition
See more in our Prefinished Flooring Gallery.
Photosensitivity
Many species of hardwood are photosensitive, and will change appearance when exposed to UV light.
Species like Walnut, and American Cherry are especially sensitive to color change. Other species like White Oak and Maple are less sensitive.
The reality is that all wood floors will be affected by light over time. You can slow this process down and make it less noticeable by:
- Using window treatments in areas with a lot of direct natural sunlight.
- Rotate furniture and area rugs to expose the floor uniformly to sunlight
- Understand this is a natural process for many hardwood species, and will give your floor a rich, unique patina over time.
Cut
There are three primary ways a log can be cut for prefinished hardwood flooring: plainsawn, rift & quartered, and livesawn.
The way lumber is cut for flooring can have a significant effect on its appearance. Most times, lumber yards and flooring mills are cutting logs for maximum yield. This allows them to use as much of the log for flooring as possible.
Plainsawn


Plainsawn is what the majority of prefinished flooring is cut for because it produces the greatest yield from a log.
Plainsawn wood, also referred to as “flat sawn”, means the log is cut so that the annular growth rings of the tree are 30 degrees or less to the face of the board plank. This results in a “cathedral” grain pattern on the face of the board.
As a premium option, some mills will cut logs in a less efficient way that produces different grain patterns on the face of the board. The two options that can be found in prefinished flooring are “Livesawn” and “Rift & Quartered.”
Rift & Quartered


Quarter Sawn boards are cut with the end grain at a 60-90° angle to the face of the board. At this angle, the grain appears in very straight lines and the medullary rays (lines running through the growth rings in the tree trunk) in the lumber are split open to produce a stunning fleck pattern in the face of the board.
Rift Sawn boards are cut so the end grain is at a 45° angle to the face of the board. This produces a beautiful linear grain pattern and is the least efficient (and most expensive) way to cut lumber.
In prefinished wood flooring, these two cuts are usually combined and sold as “Rift & Quartered” flooring.
This is a premium option, and there are only a handful of Rift & Quartered species available as a prefinished wood floor.
Live Sawn


Live Sawn lumber is simply cut straight across the log. The resulting planks have a varied mix of Plainsawn, Rift sawn and Quarter sawn grain.
This cut is mostly used in wide plank flooring that is 6” or wider. Livesawn flooring has become increasingly popular and prevalent in prefinished wood flooring, especially in European Oak.
Durango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped White Oak
Durango BarleySee More
Steadfast Hickory HonestBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River CharcoalLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak BowerySee More
Steadfast Maple TraditionChalet Vail from Real Wood Floors
Chalet VailSee More
Silvian Virta (Stream)See More
Brick & Board Hickory PorticoSee More
Silvian Vuori (Mountain)See More
Legends White Oak Natural4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite CascadesSee More
Brick & Board White Oak MantelSee More
Legends White Oak Fonferek GlenLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
Ponderosa Hickory CortezSee More
Legends White Oak Sunset BeachSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood MochaSee More
Ponderosa Birch LaredoSee More
Saltbox QuincySee More
Ponderosa SilvertonDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango ToastBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River NaturalSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Metal GraySee More
Graf Custom Hardwood NaturalSee More
Ponderosa Hickory PecosSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak MillhouseSee More
Saltbox Maple ConcordSee More
Legends White Oak Bay BeachSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Cocoa Mint4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite SequoiaSee More
Chalet St. AntonSee More
Navigator JourneySee More
Legends White Oak Astor ParkSee More
Storehouse Hickory CrateSee More
Brick & Board Walnut Foyer4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite YellowstoneLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
Saltbox Hickory BerkshireSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak HarborsideSee More
Legends White Oak ThornberrySee More
Chalet VailSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak DistillerySee More
Brick & Board White Oak AtriumSee More
Exotic Hardwood Collection Sappy Ipe NaturalSee More
Storehouse White Oak BushelSee More
Silvian Laakso (Valley)See More
Legends White Oak Heritage HillSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood ChocolateSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood CafeSee More
Steadfast Hickory Honest4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite ShenandoahSee More
Storehouse Hickory KegSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Antique WhiteSee More
Steadfast Maple HeritageSee More
Navigator AdmiralLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Storehouse White Oak DrumSee More
Chalet TahoeSee More
Storehouse White Oak ParcelSee More
Saltbox Maple SturbridgeSee More
Navigator CompassSee More
1875 BrixtonSee More
Legends White Oak TitletownSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood CharcoalSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak GristmillSee More
Legends White Oak Fox RiverSee More
Chalet Tremblant4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite RainierLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Silvian Kivi (Stone)Blue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River SmokeSee More
Chalet MeribelSee More
1875 Collection White Oak Putney4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite DenaliSee More
Ponderosa SedonaSee More
Ponderosa Buena VistaSee More
Silvian Metsa (Forest)See More
1875 Collection White Oak WandsworthSee More
Silvian Luonto (Nature)See More
Legends White Oak Ahnapee TrailSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak RailyardSee More
Legends White Oak Ahnapee TrailSee More
Ponderosa PagosaSee More
Silvian Maki (Hill)See More
1875 St. AlbansSee More
Navigator LighthouseSee More
Navigator EnsignLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Storehouse White Oak CaskBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River RyeSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak TavernSee More
Storehouse Hickory BarrelSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Arctic WhiteSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood EspressoSee More
Chalet MorzineSee More
Saltbox Hickory Amhearst4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite Mesa VerdeSee More
1875 Collection White Oak ThamesSee More
Brick & Board Hickory ParlourSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak DrafthouseSee More
Legends White Oak Baird CreekDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango SorghumChalet Meribel from Real Wood Floors
Chalet MeribelSee More
Legends White Oak Mountain BaySee More
Saltbox PlymouthSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Pure WhiteSee More
Silvian Jarvi (Lake)Longhouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
Brick & Board Hickory GarretSee More
1875 Collection White Oak BrunelSee More
Steadfast Maple LegacySee More
Saltbox AcadianBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River MesaBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River BarnroofLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Steadfast Hickory PeacefulBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River CanyonSee More
Chalet WinterburgDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped White Oak
Durango TimberSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood NaturalSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood ChampagneSee More
Storehouse White Oak CofferSee More
Navigator VoyageSee More
Brick & Board Hickory LibrarySee More
Steadfast Maple GraceSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood SlateSee More
Saltbox Hickory BedfordSee More
1875 Collection White Oak SurreyDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango CaramelSee More
Steadfast Maple HopefulBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River VistaSee More
Legends White Oak LedgestoneSee More
Ponderosa Rio GrandeLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
1875 ChiswickSee More
Chalet Whistler4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite Acadia
See more at our Prefinished Flooring Gallery.
Texture
Because prefinished hardwood flooring is manufactured in a factory controlled environment, extra steps can be added to the process to put texture into the flooring boards before they are stained and finished. This can be done through wire brushing, hand scraping, saw marks, or a combination of all.
Wire brushing


Prefinished wood flooring that is wire brushed have a hard metal bristle brush applied to the wood surface to brush out the soft grain. This gives the floor a “weathered” look that can add character to a floor.
Hand scraping


Many floors are scraped to add depth and character to the boards. Some manufacturers try to recreate this texture with machines, but it is hard to substitute the look of a true hand scraped floor with no repeating patterns or obviously machined details.
Saw marks


Historically, hardwood floors were not able to be sanded as thoroughly as they are today. This left a lot of the original saw marks in the face of the board.
Today, this look has become more popular with the desire for an authentic vintage or reclaimed style. Many manufacturers are choosing to leave in or add saw marks to their prefinished flooring, creating a stunning appearance.
All together now: Mixing textures for a unique look
Creativity knows no bounds when it comes to texture in prefinished flooring. Many prefinished floors today that are brand new can have the look of a 100-year-old reclaimed floor. Something that would otherwise be prohibitively expensive and impossible to find is now readily available as a prefinished hardwood floor.
See More
Brick & Board White Oak AtriumSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak DistillerySee More
Navigator EnsignSee More
Storehouse Hickory CrateSee More
Saltbox Maple ConcordSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood EspressoSee More
Saltbox QuincySee More
Ponderosa Buena VistaSee More
Navigator JourneySee More
Chalet St. AntonSee More
Silvian Luonto (Nature)See More
Ponderosa PagosaLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood ChocolateSee More
Saltbox PlymouthSee More
Storehouse Hickory KegLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Brick & Board Hickory PorticoSee More
Silvian Vuori (Mountain)See More
Legends White Oak Bay BeachSee More
Ponderosa Rio GrandeLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River CharcoalBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River CanyonSee More
Saltbox Hickory AmhearstSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Natural4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite DenaliBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River NaturalSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood NaturalSee More
Navigator VoyageSee More
Ponderosa SedonaSee More
Steadfast Hickory PeacefulSee More
Storehouse White Oak BushelSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak RailyardSee More
Chalet MeribelSee More
1875 Collection White Oak PutneySee More
Silvian Jarvi (Lake)Durango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango ToastSee More
Ponderosa Hickory CortezSee More
Exotic Hardwood Collection Sappy Ipe NaturalDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango CaramelSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak GristmillSee More
Storehouse White Oak Cask4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite RainierBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River BarnroofSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak BowerySee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Pure WhiteSee More
Saltbox Hickory BedfordLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
Legends White Oak Heritage HillSee More
Chalet MorzineSee More
Chalet WinterburgSee More
Storehouse Hickory Barrel4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite SequoiaLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River MesaLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Steadfast Maple HeritageSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood ChampagneSee More
Silvian Laakso (Valley)See More
Saltbox AcadianSee More
Legends White Oak ThornberrySee More
Graf Custom Hardwood SlateSee More
1875 Collection White Oak BrunelSee More
Brick & Board Walnut FoyerSee More
Chalet Tremblant4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite ShenandoahSee More
Legends White Oak NaturalDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped White Oak
Durango BarleySee More
Storehouse White Oak ParcelSee More
Steadfast Hickory HonestSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Metal GraySee More
Legends White Oak Ahnapee TrailSee More
1875 ChiswickSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood MochaDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped White Oak
Durango TimberSee More
Legends White Oak TitletownSee More
1875 St. AlbansLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Arctic WhiteSee More
1875 Collection White Oak WandsworthSee More
Steadfast Maple Legacy4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite YellowstoneSee More
Storehouse White Oak DrumSee More
Silvian Virta (Stream)See More
Legends White Oak Astor ParkBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River SmokeSee More
Chalet VailBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River RyeSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak DrafthouseSee More
1875 BrixtonSee More
Silvian Kivi (Stone)See More
Ponderosa SilvertonSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak TavernSee More
Navigator AdmiralSee More
Brick & Board Hickory LibrarySee More
Brick & Board Hickory ParlourSee More
Legends White Oak Ahnapee TrailSee More
Steadfast Hickory HonestSee More
1875 Collection White Oak SurreySee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Cocoa MintSee More
Legends White Oak Baird CreekLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak MillhouseSee More
1875 Collection White Oak ThamesSee More
Saltbox Hickory BerkshireSee More
Storehouse White Oak CofferLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Ponderosa Birch LaredoSee More
Saltbox Maple SturbridgeSee More
Legends White Oak Fox RiverSee More
Steadfast Maple GraceSee More
Chalet TahoeSee More
Legends White Oak Fonferek GlenSee More
Brick & Board White Oak MantelSee More
Legends White Oak Mountain Bay4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite Mesa VerdeChalet Vail from Real Wood Floors
Chalet VailSee More
Steadfast Maple HopefulBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River VistaSee More
Legends White Oak Sunset BeachSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak HarborsideSee More
Navigator CompassSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood CafeSee More
Steadfast Maple Tradition4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite AcadiaSee More
Navigator LighthouseSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood CharcoalSee More
Legends White Oak LedgestoneSee More
Chalet WhistlerSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Antique White4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite CascadesChalet Meribel from Real Wood Floors
Chalet MeribelSee More
Silvian Metsa (Forest)See More
Ponderosa Hickory PecosSee More
Brick & Board Hickory GarretSee More
Silvian Maki (Hill)Durango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango Sorghum
See more at our Prefinished Flooring Gallery.
Width
In addition to color and species, one of the most important choices to make when considering an unfinished wood floor is how wide the planks will be.
Unlike the thickness or construction type of the floor, this is a choice you will be reminded of when you or your client look at the floor every day.
Most solid prefinished hardwood flooring is available in 3-¼” and 5”, some will also be available in 2-¼” or 4”.
Engineered prefinished hardwood floors are typically 5” and wider, up to 8” with some manufacturers having options for even wider planks.
Multiple Widths


Many prefinished flooring manufacturers have options for multiple width floors. For instance, you could have a floor with 4″, 6″ and 8″ planks in alternating rows.
This multi-width layout is a great design choice, and can help provide a unique look to your floor. It is also eco-friendly as using varied board widths helps make the most use of the log, leading to less waste.
The choice of your flooring widths is largely a matter of taste and what you want your floor to look like.
One thing to consider when choosing a solid prefinished hardwood floor is that the wider the floor, the more significant the movement of the board can be when it is exposed to either a very dry or very moist environment. Wider planks can gap more significantly in dry weather, or swell and cup more noticeably in very moist conditions. Engineered boards are less affected by big swings in moisture.
For nail down installation of planks that are 5” and wider, we recommend that a glue assist method be used in addition to the nails to keep the boards from moving as much.
As always, for any solid or engineered it is important to keep the humidity in the home controlled between 35-55% RH. This is the range in which wood flooring is most stable.
Blue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River RyeSee More
1875 Collection White Oak ThamesLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Ponderosa Hickory CortezSee More
Storehouse Hickory KegDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango CaramelSee More
Chalet TremblantSee More
1875 Collection White Oak BrunelBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River VistaSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood EspressoSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak GristmillSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood CafeSee More
Saltbox Hickory BedfordLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood SlateSee More
Brick & Board White Oak MantelSee More
Legends White Oak Heritage HillSee More
1875 BrixtonSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak TavernSee More
Steadfast Maple HeritageSee More
Silvian Laakso (Valley)See More
Chalet St. Anton4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite SequoiaSee More
Brick & Board White Oak Atrium4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite CascadesSee More
Steadfast Hickory PeacefulSee More
Brick & Board Hickory ParlourSee More
Chalet VailLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old Frisian4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite DenaliSee More
Saltbox Maple ConcordSee More
Legends White Oak Fox RiverSee More
Steadfast Hickory HonestSee More
Steadfast Hickory HonestSee More
Storehouse White Oak BushelSee More
Storehouse Hickory CrateSee More
Ponderosa Buena VistaSee More
1875 Collection White Oak PutneyChalet Meribel from Real Wood Floors
Chalet MeribelSee More
Silvian Maki (Hill)Longhouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped White Oak
Durango BarleyDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango ToastSee More
Saltbox PlymouthSee More
Chalet WinterburgSee More
Storehouse Hickory BarrelSee More
Brick & Board Hickory PorticoSee More
Ponderosa PagosaSee More
Navigator LighthouseSee More
Steadfast Maple HopefulSee More
Ponderosa Rio GrandeSee More
Steadfast Maple LegacySee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak MillhouseLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Legends White Oak Fonferek GlenSee More
Saltbox Hickory AmhearstSee More
Saltbox AcadianBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River BarnroofSee More
Silvian Luonto (Nature)See More
Legends White Oak LedgestoneSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Antique WhiteSee More
Ponderosa SedonaLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Chalet Morzine4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite RainierSee More
Legends White Oak NaturalSee More
Navigator JourneySee More
Chalet TahoeSee More
Brick & Board Hickory LibraryDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango SorghumSee More
Ponderosa SilvertonSee More
Navigator AdmiralSee More
Legends White Oak TitletownSee More
Saltbox Hickory BerkshireBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River MesaSee More
Silvian Metsa (Forest)See More
Navigator CompassSee More
Legends White Oak Astor ParkSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood NaturalSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Pure White4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite AcadiaSee More
Chalet WhistlerSee More
Silvian Kivi (Stone)See More
Legends White Oak Ahnapee TrailSee More
Legends White Oak ThornberryLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped White Oak
Durango TimberLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
Storehouse White Oak ParcelSee More
Storehouse White Oak CofferSee More
1875 Collection White Oak SurreyBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River CharcoalSee More
Chalet MeribelSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood CharcoalSee More
Saltbox QuincySee More
Graf Custom Hardwood MochaSee More
Storehouse White Oak Drum4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite YellowstoneSee More
Navigator EnsignSee More
Legends White Oak Sunset BeachSee More
Exotic Hardwood Collection Sappy Ipe NaturalSee More
Legends White Oak Bay BeachSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak DistilleryChalet Vail from Real Wood Floors
Chalet VailSee More
Ponderosa Hickory PecosSee More
Silvian Virta (Stream)See More
Graf Custom Hardwood ChampagneSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak RailyardSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Cocoa MintBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River NaturalSee More
Legends White Oak Ahnapee TrailSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Metal GrayBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River SmokeSee More
1875 Collection White Oak WandsworthSee More
Silvian Jarvi (Lake)See More
1875 St. AlbansSee More
Brick & Board Walnut FoyerSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Arctic WhiteSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak DrafthouseSee More
Ponderosa Birch LaredoSee More
1875 Chiswick4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite ShenandoahSee More
Storehouse White Oak CaskSee More
Steadfast Maple GraceBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River CanyonSee More
Legends White Oak Mountain BaySee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak BowerySee More
Saltbox Maple SturbridgeSee More
Legends White Oak Baird CreekSee More
Silvian Vuori (Mountain)Longhouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak HarborsideSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood ChocolateSee More
Brick & Board Hickory GarretSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Natural4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite Mesa VerdeLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
Navigator VoyageSee More
Steadfast Maple Tradition
See more at our Prefinished Flooring Gallery.
Engineered vs. Solid
True hardwood floors can either be made from one solid piece of lumber or engineered with a real hardwood veneer on top of a plywood core. While you can get the same beautiful hardwood look from both types, they also have their own benefits.
See More
Storehouse White Oak CofferSee More
Brick & Board Hickory LibrarySee More
Brick & Board Walnut FoyerSee More
1875 Collection White Oak PutneySee More
Chalet MorzineSee More
Ponderosa Rio GrandeSee More
Steadfast Hickory PeacefulSee More
Storehouse White Oak CaskDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped Hickory
Durango CaramelSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood EspressoSee More
Steadfast Maple LegacySee More
Steadfast Maple GraceSee More
Brick & Board Hickory PorticoSee More
Navigator EnsignSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood SlateSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak DrafthouseSee More
Chalet Tremblant4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite ShenandoahSee More
Saltbox Hickory BedfordBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River MesaLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
1875 St. AlbansSee More
Saltbox Hickory BerkshireSee More
Storehouse White Oak DrumSee More
Legends White Oak ThornberrySee More
Silvian Metsa (Forest)See More
Steadfast Hickory HonestSee More
Storehouse White Oak BushelSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood ChampagneSee More
Storehouse Hickory KegSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood NaturalSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood NaturalSee More
Graf Custom Hardwood Antique WhiteSee More
Legends White Oak Ahnapee TrailLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Steadfast Hickory Honest4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite Mesa VerdeBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River RyeLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
1875 Collection White Oak ThamesSee More
Navigator JourneySee More
Storehouse White Oak ParcelSee More
Navigator AdmiralSee More
1875 Collection White Oak SurreyLonghouse Plank Heorot from Real Wood Floors installed by Revolve Design in Denver.
Longhouse Plank HeorotSee More
Silvian Laakso (Valley)Blue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River VistaSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak GristmillSee More
Chalet WhistlerBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River CharcoalLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianBlue River, Euro Hard Birch - Multiple Widths (3-1/4" - 4" - 5"), 3/4" Solid Hardwood, Genuine Handscrape
Blue River CanyonLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Legends White Oak Astor ParkLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Brick & Board White Oak MantelSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak HarborsideSee More
Navigator LighthouseSee More
Saltbox Maple Concord4-5-6" Handscraped Engineered From Real Wood Floors
Yosemite DenaliLonghouse Plank Old Frisian from Real Wood Floors installed in Nashville.
Longhouse Plank Old FrisianSee More
Chalet St. AntonSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak BowerySee More
Navigator CompassSee More
Ponderosa Hickory CortezSee More
Silvian Virta (Stream)See More
Legends White Oak Fonferek GlenSee More
Legends White Oak Heritage HillSee More
Silvian Luonto (Nature)See More
Legends White Oak Mountain BaySee More
Silvian Maki (Hill)See More
Graf Custom Hardwood MochaSee More
Ponderosa Buena VistaSee More
Legends White Oak Sunset BeachSee More
Vintage Loft European White Oak DistilleryChalet Meribel from Real Wood Floors
Chalet MeribelDurango Collection ¾" x 2-1/4" - 3-1/4" - 4" Handscraped White Oak
Durango BarleySee More
Saltbox QuincySee More
1875 Chiswick