Hardwood Floors October/November 2025

AT THE SITE

Smarter Floors for Shared Spaces: Hardened Wood in Multifamily Projects

Fortunately, wood flooring has evolved. Recent advancements such as hardened wood combine enhanced durability with the natural appearance of traditional hardwood. These qualities make it especially effective in multifamily environments, where performance and longevity are essential. UNDERSTANDING THE EVOLUTION OF WOOD FLOORING When selecting wood floors for multifamily projects, it’s important to understand the distinctions between solid wood, engineered wood, and hardened wood. Solid wood flooring, made from a single piece of timber, is valued for its traditional look and ability to be sanded and refinished multiple times. However, it is prone to expansion and contraction due to humidity changes. Engineered wood consists of several layers, including a solid wood top layer. This layered construction increases dimensional stability, reducing sensitivity to moisture fluctuations. It also allows for more flexible installation methods, such as in floating applications.

In multifamily housing, where residents live above, below, and beside one another, flooring is a key consideration for both design and performance. The right floor can improve tenant satisfaction, reduce maintenance, and support a building’s long-term success. For developers and contractors, however, finding a solution that is both aesthetically appealing and built to last isn’t always straightforward.

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