When it comes to enhancing your home's value and aesthetic appeal, few upgrades make as lasting an impact as hardwood flooring. But before you make the investment, there are some key considerations to explore. In this blog post, we break down the top 10 questions local homeowners should ask before buying hardwood floors in the Greater Kansas City area.
1. What Types of Hardwood Flooring Are Available?
Hardwood flooring generally comes in two main types: solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. Solid hardwood is crafted from a single piece of wood, allowing for multiple refinishing sessions over its lifetime. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is composed of a hardwood veneer atop a plywood core, offering better performance in humid environments—perfect for Kansas City’s varied seasons.
2. What Wood Species Should I Choose?
White oak, maple, hickory, and walnut are among the most popular hardwood species for flooring in the Midwest. Each offering unique grain patterns, color tones, and levels of hardness. These differences not only impact the look and feel of your flooring but also how well it holds up to daily wear—so consider your lifestyle, durability needs, and aesthetic preferences. If you’re remodeling a home in areas like Overland Park or Liberty, it’s also worth thinking about how the wood’s tone and character complement local design trends. Keep in mind that species costs can vary significantly, so your choice may also depend on your overall flooring budget.
3. How Does Hardwood Flooring Handle Moisture?
Engineered hardwood flooring is an ideal choice for areas with humidity swings like we get here in the Midwest. Solid hardwood is best kept out of basements and bathrooms in your Kansas City home, where moisture can be a concern.
4. What Is the Difference Between Prefinished and Unfinished Hardwood?
Prefinished hardwood arrives ready to install with a factory-applied finish, cutting down on mess and installation time. Unfinished hardwood is finished on-site, offering more customization options but requiring a longer and sometimes messier installation process.
5. How Much Does Hardwood Flooring Cost?
Hardwood flooring prices in Kansas City vary based on wood species, flooring type, and installation. On average, you can expect to spend $8 to $15 per square foot, including installation. Always factor in underlayment, trim, and other materials for a complete budget. For a customized quote, request a free flooring estimate from Big Bob’s.
6. How Durable Is Hardwood Flooring?
Durability depends on both the wood species and the protective finish. Harder woods like white oak and hickory stand up well to active Kansas City households and pets. A high-quality finish can also extend the floor's lifespan by resisting scratches and daily wear.
7. What Maintenance Does Hardwood Flooring Require?
Routine care involves sweeping or vacuuming regularly and mopping with a hardwood-safe cleaner. Avoid excessive water, and use area rugs and furniture pads to protect against scratching and scuffing.
8. Can Hardwood Floors Be Refinished?
One of the biggest perks of solid hardwood is its ability to be refinished multiple times, giving it decades of life. Even engineered hardwood can sometimes be refinished, depending on the thickness of its top layer. Ask about refinishing services available at Big Bob’s.
9. Is Hardwood Flooring Eco-Friendly?
Yes—when sourced responsibly. Look for wood that’s certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and finishes that are low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Engineered hardwood can also be a greener option due to its efficient use of materials.
10. Should I Hire a Professional or DIY?
While handy homeowners can attempt DIY installation—especially with click-lock engineered planks—professional flooring installation ensures precise results and protects your warranty. Big Bob’s experienced Kansas City installers can help you get the job done right the first time, saving time and frustration.
Final Thoughts:
Hardwood flooring is a beautiful, timeless upgrade for any Kansas City area home. From choosing the right species to proper maintenance and refinishing, this guide gives you the confidence to make informed choices. Still unsure where to start? Visit a Big Bob’s Flooring Outlet showroom near you or request a free estimate online—we’re here to help every step of the way.
Posted by Joseph Elyachar on June 21, 2025
