Paris has a character all its own. Historic homes line the streets near the courthouse, horse farms roll out across Bourbon County, and many families live in houses that have been loved for generations. Hardwood flooring fits right in. It brings warmth, natural beauty and lasting value, and with the right care it can serve a family for decades. At Plaza Carpets, we have helped Central Kentucky homeowners choose hardwood since 1977, and we know how many decisions go into finding the right floor.
This guide covers the main types of hardwood, how to choose a species and finish, what Kentucky's climate means for wood floors, and how to plan a smooth installation.
The Quick Answer
For most homes, start by choosing between solid and engineered hardwood, then pick a species that suits your traffic and style, and finally choose a finish that fits your lifestyle. Oak remains a favorite for its durability and grain, engineered hardwood offers extra stability in humid summers and over basements, and matte or satin finishes help hide everyday wear.
Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood
Solid Hardwood
Solid hardwood is milled from a single piece of wood. It can be sanded and refinished several times over its life, which makes it a long-term investment. It works best on or above ground level, installed over a wood subfloor.
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood has a real wood top layer bonded to a stable core of layered wood. This construction makes it less likely to expand and contract with humidity. It can often be installed in more places, including over concrete and in some basements.
Which Is Right for You?
Choose solid hardwood for main-level living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms where you want a floor that can be refinished many times.
Choose engineered hardwood for areas with more humidity swings, over concrete slabs, or where you want a wide plank with extra stability.
Choosing a Wood Species
Red Oak
A classic choice in many Kentucky homes, red oak has a warm tone and a pronounced grain that hides everyday wear.
White Oak
White oak has a tighter grain and a slightly cooler, more neutral tone. It is very popular for modern farmhouse and transitional styles.
Hickory
Hickory is one of the hardest domestic woods, with dramatic color variation. It suits rustic and farmhouse interiors and stands up well to busy households.
Maple
Maple is hard and smooth with a subtle grain, ideal for a clean, contemporary look.
Walnut
Walnut offers rich, deep brown tones. It is softer than oak, so it suits lower-traffic rooms such as formal dining rooms and primary bedrooms.
Finishes and Textures
The finish affects how your floor looks and how well it hides daily wear.
Matte and satin finishes look natural and hide scratches and dust
Wire-brushed textures add depth and help disguise small dents
Hand-scraped textures create a time-worn, rustic character
Smooth finishes offer a classic, polished appearance
For homes with dogs or children, a matte, textured finish is often the most forgiving.
Hardwood and the Kentucky Climate
Wood is a natural material that responds to moisture in the air. Central Kentucky's hot, humid summers and dry, heated winters can cause boards to expand and contract slightly through the year. A few steps help keep your floor stable:
Keep indoor humidity steady with your heating and air conditioning
Consider a humidifier during dry winter months
Use mats at entries to catch snow, salt and mud
Allow new hardwood to acclimate before installation, as your installer recommends
Engineered hardwood is a smart option for homeowners who want extra peace of mind through seasonal changes.
Hardwood in Historic and Older Homes
Many Paris homes have original wood floors or older subfloors. When you add new hardwood next to older floors, matching species, plank width and stain color helps the home feel consistent. In some cases, refinishing original floors and adding new hardwood in other rooms can create a seamless look throughout.
Our team can help you compare options and choose a product that respects the character of your home. Explore our selection of hardwood flooring in Lexington, KY, including brands such as Hallmark Hardwood, Bruce, Mohawk and Shaw Floors, and bring samples home to see them in your own light.
Where Hardwood Works Best
Living rooms and dining rooms, where its warmth makes a strong impression
Bedrooms, where it pairs beautifully with area rugs
Hallways and entries, with mats to protect high-traffic spots
Home offices, where it adds a classic, professional feel
For full bathrooms and laundry rooms, luxury vinyl or tile is usually a better fit because of standing water.
Planning Your Hardwood Project
Start With a Free In-Home Estimate
Our flooring experts measure your rooms, check your subfloor and discuss how each room is used. This helps us recommend the right type and species.
Try Shop at Home
Our shop at home service brings samples to you by appointment, so you can compare colors next to your walls, trim and furniture.
Plan the Timing
Hardwood may need time to acclimate before installation. Our team will give you a clear schedule so you can plan around family events and holidays.
Explore Financing
Flexible financing options can help you invest in hardwood that lasts.
Caring for Hardwood
Sweep or vacuum with a soft brush attachment
Clean with a product made for hardwood, never a soaking wet mop
Add felt pads under furniture
Trim pet nails regularly
Use rugs in high-traffic paths
Frequently Asked Questions
Is engineered hardwood real wood? Yes. Engineered hardwood has a genuine wood top layer over a stable core.
Which species is best for homes with dogs? Harder species such as hickory and white oak, with a matte or wire-brushed finish, are strong choices.
Can hardwood go in a basement? Some engineered products can. Our team will check your basement conditions before recommending a floor.
Bring Timeless Beauty Home
Hardwood adds warmth and lasting value to Paris homes, from historic houses near downtown to farmhouses on the edge of town. Visit our Russell Cave Road showroom, ask about shop at home, or book a free in-home estimate. Reach out to us at Plaza Carpets, and our team will help you choose a hardwood floor your family will enjoy for years.
