Hardwood Flooring in Florida Homes: Types of Wood, Installation, Finishes, Sizes & Design Options

HARDWOOD FLOORING

Hardwood flooring remains one of the most desired features in a home renovation. It brings warmth, character, and long-term value — but in Florida, choosing the right wood, installation method, and finish is essential for performance and longevity.

At MULTTI Construction, we help homeowners across Central Florida make informed decisions about hardwood flooring that balance beauty, durability, and climate realities.

Hardwood Flooring in Florida: What Makes It Different

Florida’s climate presents unique challenges:

• Higher humidity levels

• Seasonal temperature changes

• Moisture migration from slabs and subfloors

Because of this, hardwood flooring in Florida requires careful material selection, proper acclimation, moisture control, and professional installation. Skipping these steps often leads to cupping, gaps, or long-term damage.

Which one is the best for my project:

Oak, Maple, Hickory, Walnut or Cherry?

Why MULTTI prefer Euro-Grade top quality woods to work with?

Types of Wood for Hardwood Flooring

Each wood species has its own grain pattern, hardness, and personality. Choosing the right one depends on traffic level, design goals, and maintenance expectations.

Custom Standard Quality typically focuses on solid craftsmanship with widely used construction methods and materials. It offers good performance, reliable finishes, and flexibility in design, making it a practical option for many homes. This level is well-suited for projects where functionality, budget control, and traditional construction standards are the priority.

Euro-Grade Quality, on the other hand, emphasizes precision engineering, advanced materials, and refined manufacturing standards. It often includes tighter tolerances, superior surface finishes, enhanced moisture resistance, and long-term performance advantages. Euro-grade products are designed for consistency, longevity, and a more refined aesthetic, making them ideal for high-end renovations or spaces where durability and design detail matter most.

Oak (Red & White)

• Timeless and versatile

• Excellent durability

• Takes stain well

• Ideal for most areas of the home

Oak is one of the most reliable choices for Florida homes.

Maple

• Smooth, clean grain

• Modern appearance

• Slightly harder than oak

• Best for contemporary interiors

Maple works well in low-to-moderate traffic areas.

Hickory

• Extremely hard and durable

• Strong color variation and rustic character

• Ideal for active households

Hickory is a great option for high-traffic living spaces.

Walnut

• Rich, dark tones

• Elegant and refined

• Softer than other hardwoods

Best suited for bedrooms or formal living areas where visual impact matters more than heavy wear.

Best Type of Wood by Area of the Home

• Living rooms & hallways: Oak or hickory

• Bedrooms: Oak, maple, cherry or walnut

• Dining rooms: Oak or engineered hardwood

• Whole-home flooring: Engineered hardwood with stable cores

Bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other wet areas are not recommended for hardwood.

Hardwood Plank Sizes & Widths

Hardwood flooring comes in various plank sizes, each affecting the look of the space.

Narrow Planks (2”–3”)

• Traditional and classic

• Hide movement better

• Ideal for smaller rooms

Wide Planks (5”–9”)

• Modern and open feel

• Fewer seams

• Require precise installation and moisture control

Wider planks are popular in open-concept Florida homes but demand professional prep.

Hardwood Patterns & Layout Options

Hardwood flooring doesn’t have to be straight-laid.

Popular patterns include:

• Straight lay (classic and clean)

• Diagonal layouts

• Herringbone and chevron (design-forward and precise)

• Border or feature inlays

Pattern choice affects installation complexity, waste factor, and final cost.

Right Steps to Install Hardwood Flooring

Professional installation follows a structured process:

1. Subfloor inspection and leveling

2. Moisture testing and vapor barrier installation

3. Wood acclimation to the environment

4. Layout planning and expansion gap design

5. Proper fastening or adhesive method

6. Clean transitions and trim detailing

Skipping or rushing any of these steps compromises performance.

Hardwood Finishing Options by Wood Type

The finish protects the wood and defines its final appearance.

Oil-Based Finishes

• Warm tone

• Deep penetration

• Longer curing time

Water-Based Finishes

• Faster drying

• Clear, natural look

• Low VOC

Pre-Finished vs Site-Finished

• Pre-finished: Factory consistency, faster install

• Site-finished: Seamless look, customizable sheen

Different wood species react differently to stains and finishes — professional testing is key.

Maintenance & Long-Term Care

Hardwood floors require simple but consistent care:

• Regular sweeping or vacuuming

• Protective pads under furniture

• Controlled indoor humidity

• Timely refinishing when wear appears

With proper maintenance, hardwood floors can last decades.

The MULTTI Approach to Hardwood Flooring

At MULTTI Construction, hardwood flooring is never treated as just a surface.

We:

• Evaluate moisture and subfloor conditions

• Recommend wood species based on lifestyle and climate

• Plan layouts, plank direction, and transitions

• Use proper underlayment and finishing systems

Every detail is planned before installation begins.

Ready to Start Your Renovation?

Hardwood flooring adds lasting beauty and value when done right — especially in Florida homes.

Start Your Renovation with MULTTI Construction and let our team help you select, install, and finish hardwood flooring designed for your home and your lifestyle.