Your Ultimate Guide to Hardwood Flooring in Chicago: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to upgrading your home, hardwood flooring is one of the most sought-after options due to its elegance, durability, and timeless appeal. Whether you're remodeling an existing space or building a new home, hardwood floors add significant value and beauty to your property. At Artistic Flooring, one of the leading hardwood flooring companies in Chicago, we have over 42 years of experience in hardwood flooring installation, refinishing, and maintenance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hardwood flooring in Chicago—from types of hardwood floors, the installation process, to tips on how to maintain your hardwood floors for long-lasting beauty.

Why Choose Hardwood Flooring in Chicago?

Hardwood flooring is one of the most popular and timeless choices for homeowners in Chicago, offering unmatched durability, beauty, and long-term value. Whether you're remodeling a space or building your dream home, hardwood floors enhance the aesthetic appeal of any room with their warm, natural look that complements various interior styles, from traditional to modern. In addition to their timeless appeal, hardwood floors are known for their exceptional durability, lasting for decades with proper care and maintenance. This longevity not only makes hardwood a great investment but can also increase the value of your home.At Artistic Flooring, one of the leading hardwood flooring companies in Chicago, we offer a wide variety of hardwood flooring options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you're interested in classic oak, rich walnut, or exotic materials like bamboo or teak, hardwood floors come in a range of species, colors, and finishes to fit your home's unique style. Furthermore, hardwood is easy to clean and maintain—regular sweeping and occasional refinishing will keep your floors looking pristine for years. Unlike carpet or other flooring materials, hardwood does not trap dust or allergens, making it a healthier choice for your home. With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why hardwood flooring remains one of the top choices for Chicago homeowners.

Types of Hardwood Floors

Choosing the right hardwood flooring for your home is an important decision. The type of wood and the finish can drastically impact the look and feel of your space. At Artistic Flooring, we offer both solid hardwood and engineered hardwood options, depending on your needs and budget. 
Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood floors are made from a single piece of wood, typically 3/4 inch thick. They are the classic choice for homeowners who prefer a traditional, high-quality hardwood floor. Solid wood is versatile and can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it an excellent long-term investment. Popular solid hardwood options include oak, maple, and cherry. 
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring is made from multiple layers of wood, with the top layer being real hardwood. This type of flooring is ideal for areas with fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels, such as basements or kitchens. Engineered hardwood floors offer enhanced stability and can be installed over concrete subfloors, making them an ideal option for homes in Chicago. Click here to read our article on engineered hardwood flooring. 
Exotic Hardwood Flooring
For homeowners looking to make a bold statement, exotic hardwood flooring such as bamboo, teak, mahogany, or herringbone is a great choice. These woods are harder, denser, and more durable than domestic hardwoods, making them perfect for high-traffic areas. Exotic hardwoods also bring a unique, luxurious look to any room.
Prefinished Hardwood Flooring
Prefinished hardwood flooring comes with the stain and finish already applied at the factory, making installation faster and cleaner. Since no on-site sanding or sealing is required, it’s a hassle-free option that saves time. Available in a variety of wood species, colors, and finishes, prefinished hardwood offers the same durability and beauty as unfinished wood, but with added convenience.

Hardwood Flooring Installation

When you choose hardwood flooring for your home, professional installation is essential to ensure the best results. At Artistic Flooring, we offer expert hardwood flooring installation services in Chicago, with over 42 years of experience in the industry. Here’s what you can expect during the hardwood flooring installation process:Consultation and Design: We work with you to understand your vision and help you select the perfect hardwood flooring option for your space.Subfloor Preparation: Proper preparation is key to a successful installation. We’ll inspect your subfloor, check for moisture levels, and ensure it’s level and clean before installation begins.Installation Process: Our expert team installs your hardwood floors with precision, ensuring a seamless finish. We handle all aspects of the installation process, including acclimating the wood to your home’s temperature and humidity levels before laying it down.Final Touches: After installation, we ensure your floors are properly sealed and cleaned, leaving you with a flawless, ready-to-enjoy floor.

Hardwood Refinishing and Staining

If your existing hardwood floors are showing signs of wear and tear, refinishing and staining can restore their original beauty. As one of the top hardwood flooring companies in Chicago, we offer professional hardwood floor refinishing services, including sanding, staining, and sealing. Refinishing your hardwood floors can extend their lifespan and improve the overall look of your home.Sanding: We remove the old finish and smooth out imperfections in your hardwood floors.Staining: Choose from a variety of stain colors to enhance the natural beauty of the wood and give your floors a refreshed, modern look.Sealing: A protective topcoat is applied to preserve your floors and protect them from daily wear and tear.

Costs of Hardwood Flooring

The cost of hardwood flooring in Chicago can vary depending on factors like the type of wood, the size of your space, and the complexity of the installation. While hardwood floors are generally considered an investment, they can add significant value to your home. To get an accurate estimate for your hardwood flooring installation or refinishing project, contact us today for a free consultation and detailed quote.