Hardwood Flooring FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about engineered hardwood
Is engineered hardwood real wood?
Yes — engineered hardwood features a real wood veneer on top of a multi-ply plywood core. The surface layer is genuine hardwood (oak, acacia, hickory, maple, or ash depending on the collection) with natural grain patterns and character marks. The engineered plywood core underneath provides superior dimensional stability compared to solid hardwood, resisting warping, cupping, and seasonal expansion.
Can engineered hardwood be installed in basements?
Yes — unlike solid hardwood, engineered hardwood can be installed below grade in basements. The multi-ply plywood core resists moisture-related expansion and contraction that would cause solid hardwood to buckle or gap. CALI's engineered hardwood works well over concrete subfloors, making it an excellent basement flooring option. Always ensure the subfloor is dry and level before installation.
How do you maintain hardwood flooring?
Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the surface. Use a hardwood-specific cleaner for periodic damp mopping — avoid excess water, steam mops, and all-purpose cleaners. Place felt pads under furniture legs and use area rugs in high-traffic zones. Wipe up spills promptly to prevent moisture damage. With proper care, engineered hardwood maintains its beauty for decades.
Can you refinish engineered hardwood?
Yes — most CALI engineered hardwood has a thick enough wood veneer to support 1-2 refinishes over the life of the floor. Refinishing involves lightly sanding the surface and applying a new finish coat to restore the original beauty. This is a significant advantage over vinyl and laminate flooring, which cannot be refinished. Check the specific collection's veneer thickness for refinishing guidance.
What's the difference between solid and engineered hardwood?
Solid hardwood is a single piece of wood throughout — typically 3/4 inch thick. Engineered hardwood has a real wood veneer on top of a multi-ply plywood core. Engineered hardwood is more dimensionally stable, meaning it resists warping, cupping, and gapping from humidity changes. It can be installed in basements and over concrete, while solid hardwood cannot. Both offer the warmth and beauty of real wood, and both can be refinished.
Is hardwood flooring good for dogs?
With care, yes. Hardwood is a popular choice for homes with dogs, though it requires more attention than vinyl or laminate. Use area rugs in high-traffic zones, keep dog nails trimmed, and place felt pads under furniture. Hardwood can scratch more easily than vinyl or laminate, but the advantage is that it can be sanded and refinished to remove scratches — something synthetic floors can't do.
How long does engineered hardwood last?
With proper care, engineered hardwood flooring lasts 50+ years. The real wood surface can be refinished 1-2 times to extend its lifespan even further, restoring the original beauty without replacing the floor. This makes engineered hardwood one of the longest-lasting flooring investments you can make.
What is the best room for hardwood flooring?
Hardwood flooring is ideal for living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and home offices. These rooms benefit from hardwood's natural warmth, beauty, and resale value. Avoid installing hardwood in full bathrooms and laundry rooms where standing water is common. Engineered hardwood can be installed in basements and kitchens with proper precautions — wipe up spills promptly and use area rugs near sinks.
Is CALI hardwood good quality?
Yes. CALI is one of the most trusted flooring brands in the United States, known for premium materials and rigorous quality standards. Their hardwood collections feature real wood veneers, multi-ply engineered cores, and tongue-and-groove joinery for a precise fit. CALI offers six distinct hardwood collections spanning classic white oak to exotic species like acacia, hickory, maple, and ash.
What wood species are available?
CALI hardwood flooring is available in multiple wood species across six collections. The Barrel, Barrel First Press, Cellar, and Meritage collections feature white oak and European oak in various finishes and plank sizes. The Varietals collection offers exotic hardwoods including acacia, hickory, maple, and ash. The Whiskey & Wine collection features reclaimed barrel wood character. Each species offers unique grain patterns, color tones, and character marks.
