"Edwin Pawlowski" wrote in message
t...
"tiny dancer" wrote in message
...
Any opinions as to which way to go? I originally wanted solid,
unfinished
oak but dh is telling me there are types of flooring that is *hardwood*
but
prefinished? I'm not sure that would be called *laminate*? He's not
here
right now for me to ask. The only reason I'm hesitating on the
unfinished
solid oak, is the amount of time it takes to install and poly it a
number
of
coats. That means we and the dogs will have to locate elsewhere for
probably close to a week?


There are at least four types of wood style flooring.

Unfinished hardwood, such as the oak you mention. (many other woods
available too http://www.cwghardwoodoutlet.com/flooring/display.html )
Real
hardwood is my choice of best quality, 100+ year longevity. IMO, the
"BEST")

Pre finished hardwood. Similar to above, but with a factory finish. (I
don't know a lot about it in use)

Engineered hardwood. Like a plywood base with a nice finished wood on
top.
Very durable, easy to DIY install. See examples at www.mannington.com I
put that in my family room and like it very much. It is over concrete so
it
is a good choice for that.

Laminate. This is a plastic material. Some look like plastic, others
look
close to real wood but some simulate marble or granite. Very durable,
cleanable. www.wilsonart.com I have this on a stairway and foyer and
has
been for over 10 years. Still looks like new. I'd use the engineered wood
if I was doing it today.


Thanks for the links! At the rate we are plodding along in our
kitchen/dining room remodel, I have time to consider all the options, as the
flooring will be our last step. I've consistently leaned towards solid oak,
if only it didn't take so long to install and finish it.


td