Wood is a dynamic medium which has stood the test of time. Because of it's natural classic beauty and hygenic properties, it has once again surfaced as a major flooring choice. General Information :
There are many exotic and domestic species of hardwood available, the most common being Oak. All wood comes in various grades, determined solely by appearance. The durability and strength are equal in all grades. The degree of knots or colour variance in the boards determine the grade.

TYPES :

1) Solid Unfinished :	Generally 3/4" thick, the boards can be various widths, the most common being 2 1/4". These boards are unfinished when they are installed. After installation, the entire floor is given at least three sandings and three coats of finish are then applied.
Advantages :	- Custom colouring can be obtained - Large variety of wood available - Unlimited design possibilities -Even surface - Wood is sanded to follow subfloor
Disadvantages :	- Time consuming - Risk of dust and dirt particles imbedded in the finish - Possible shrinkage and/or expansion depending on the weather (This can be minimized with a Power Humidifier.)
2) Prefinished :	Prefinished wood can be either solid or engineered. It often has a bevel on 2 or 4 sides, but is also available with square edges.
Advantages :	- Finish is perfected in a factory controlled environment - Work can be completed much quicker - Bevel can decrease scratching (ie. hard particles can settle into bevelled area and be vacuumed out.)
Disadvantages :	- Possibility of slight height variance with square edge boards - Bevel must be vacuumed to remove soiling between boards - Wood species, grade, colouring, and finish is limited
3 ) Engineered :	This type of hardwood flooring is usually prefinished. The surface layer is Hardwood, the core can be either particle board or plywood. Thickness can vary anywhere from 3/8" to 5/8", width from 2 1/4" to 8"
Advantages :	- It is more stable, less effected by humidity - It can be installed over most subfloors including concrete, on, above or below grade and over radiant heat
Disadvantages :	- Limited colouring and finish choice - Limited selection of species and grades - Possibility of slight height irregularities

Finishes :

There are a number of finishes that can be applied to Hardwood flooring.
They each have their own advantages. The most common finish used in Canada is Polyurethane

Summary :

Hardwood Flooring is a natural product.
It is subject to fluctuating weather conditions, it will shrink and expand accordingly.