The Species Decision That Affects Daily Life for Decades Hardwood flooring species selection is one of the most aesthetically consequential and least systematically understood decisions in residential flooring. Most homeowners select a wood species based on appearance — they like the color, the grain character, or the general look — without fully understanding how the species will perform under their specific household's demands. The floor...

The Floor With the Longest History and the Most Demanding Care Natural stone flooring — marble, travertine, slate, limestone, granite, and quartzite — is the residential flooring option with the most ancient history and the one that most rewards informed selection and care. Stone floors in Roman villas have lasted two thousand years; stone floors in contemporary American homes develop etch marks and staining within...