There are two main types of wood construction in the hardwood flooring category.
The first is, of course, solid wood. These pieces are from one piece of lumber, and are solid throughout the entire construction. You can refinish them multiple times over their lifespan, so that they always look brand new. You can install them over existing wooden subfloors, usually only on the ground level of your home.
The second construction type for hardwood flooring is engineered wood. This option is still hardwood, but only as a veneer that is adhered to a core and backing material that is not. Engineered wood can be placed anywhere in the home, even in basements. Also, it can be installed over both wood and concrete subfloors. Lengths of engineered wood are usually shorter than hardwood, so they're much easier to work with. They can also be refinished a couple of times during their lifespan. It is recommended, however, that you do not try to do so on your own.
There are three main ways to install a hardwood floor, depending upon your particular needs:
- Floating Installation – This option is only available for engineered wood. The boards are attached to one another, but not to the underlying subfloor.
- Glue Down – This method uses an adhesive to attach the flooring to the subfloor.
- Nail Down – With this method, staples or nails are used to attach the flooring to the subfloor, and usually only works with wooden subfloors.