I’m standing in my living room, sunlight streaming through the windows, bouncing off the rich, warm tones of my Hurst Hardwood floors. It’s been a year since I made the decision to go with Hurst, and I can confidently say it’s one of the best home investments I’ve ever made.
If you’re on the hunt for flooring that combines durability, beauty, and value, Hurst Hardwoods deserves your attention. Trust me, you’ll want to keep reading to see why these floors are a game-changer for any home, and how they stack up against the competition.
My Journey With Hurst Hardwoods
When I decided to renovate my home, the flooring was my top priority.
I wanted something that screamed elegance but could handle the chaos of my daily life—two kids, a dog, and a husband who’s not exactly graceful with his coffee mug.
I spent weeks researching, visiting showrooms, and sifting through reviews.
That’s when I stumbled across Hurst Hardwoods, a company that’s been in the game for over 25 years.
Their reputation for quality and transparency hooked me, and I decided to take the plunge.
I chose their prefinished oak planks in a warm, honey-toned finish. The ordering process was a breeze—Hurst’s online store is user-friendly, with clear descriptions of wood species, grades, and finishes.
They even had a contractor’s corner with discounted options, which was a pleasant surprise for my budget-conscious self. When the planks arrived, I was struck by their craftsmanship. Each board had a consistent grain and a smooth, low-gloss finish that felt premium to the touch.
Installation was another win. I hired a local contractor, but Hurst’s detailed guides made it clear that DIYers could tackle it too, thanks to the tongue-and-groove design. Once laid, the floors transformed my space.
The oak’s natural grain added warmth, and the prefinished surface meant I didn’t have to deal with the hassle of onsite staining. A year in, these floors still look as good as the day they were installed, despite muddy paw prints and the occasional juice spill.
My experience with Hurst has been nothing short of fantastic, and I’m excited to share why these floors are worth your consideration.
The Pros of Choosing Hurst Hardwoods
- Unmatched Aesthetic Appeal
Let’s talk about the wow factor. Hurst Hardwoods offers a range of species—oak, maple, hickory, and even exotic options like Tigerwood—that bring a timeless beauty to any room.
I went with oak, and the natural grain patterns add a depth that makes my living room feel both cozy and sophisticated. You can choose from various stains and finishes, so whether you’re after a modern matte or a classic glossy look, Hurst has you covered.
The visual appeal is a huge selling point, and it’s something you’ll appreciate every time you walk into your home.
- Durability That Stands the Test of Time
These floors are tough. I’m not gentle with my space—between my kids’ toys and my dog’s zoomies, my floors take a beating. Hurst’s solid and engineered options are built to last.
The solid oak planks I chose are thick enough to be sanded and refinished multiple times, meaning they’ll stay gorgeous for decades.
Even in high-traffic areas like my hallway, there’s barely a scratch. Hurst’s prefinished boards come with a protective coating that resists wear, which is a lifesaver for busy households like mine.
- Variety and Customization
One thing I love about Hurst is the sheer variety. You’re not stuck with one or two options—they offer everything from budget-friendly contractor-grade planks to premium exotic woods. Want wide planks for a rustic vibe?
They’ve got them. Prefer a sleek, narrow board for a modern look? That’s there too. I appreciated being able to customize the width and finish to match my home’s style.
Plus, their transparency about wood grades means you know exactly what you’re getting, whether it’s a clear, knot-free board or something with more character.
- Eco-Conscious Options
If you care about the environment, Hurst doesn’t disappoint. They source their wood responsibly, and many of their products comply with strict environmental standards. I felt good knowing my floors weren’t contributing to deforestation.
They also offer reclaimed wood options, which add a unique story to your home while being kinder to the planet. It’s a small detail, but it made me feel like my purchase aligned with my values.
- Cost-Effective Quality
Hurst strikes a balance between quality and affordability. While solid hardwood isn’t cheap, their prices are competitive, especially when you consider the longevity.
My oak floors cost around $5 per square foot, which was reasonable compared to other brands I researched. The contractor’s corner on their site is a goldmine for deals, and even their premium lines feel like a steal for the craftsmanship.
You’re investing in something that’ll last, not just a quick fix.
The Cons of Hurst Hardwoods
- Upfront Cost Can Sting
Let’s be real—hardwood isn’t cheap, and Hurst is no exception.
While their prices are fair for the quality, the initial cost can feel steep, especially if you’re covering a large area.
My 800-square-foot project wasn’t pocket change, and if you’re on a tight budget, you might need to save up or opt for their more affordable grades.
It’s an investment, but one that pays off over time.
- Moisture Sensitivity
Hardwood and water don’t always get along, and Hurst’s solid wood floors are no different. I learned this the hard way when a spilled glass of water sat unnoticed for a few hours, leaving a slight warp in one board.
While their prefinished coatings help, solid wood can still swell or cup in humid environments. If you live in a damp climate or want floors in a bathroom, you might need to consider their engineered options or extra sealing.
- Installation Requires Care
Installing hardwood isn’t a weekend whim. While Hurst’s tongue-and-groove system makes it easier, you’ll still need precision to avoid gaps or uneven boards. I hired a pro, but if you’re DIYing, expect some trial and error.
Engineered wood is more forgiving, but solid hardwood demands proper acclimation to your home’s humidity. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to plan for.
- Limited Warranty on Some Products
Hurst’s warranties vary by product, and some of their budget-friendly options come with shorter coverage—sometimes just 10 years. My oak floors have a lifetime finish warranty, which is great, but not all lines offer that.
If you’re banking on a long-term guarantee, double-check the fine print. It’s not a major issue, but it’s worth noting if you’re comparing brands.
Maintenance Tips For Keeping Hurst Hardwoods Pristine
- Regular Cleaning is Key
Keeping your Hurst floors looking fresh is easier than you might think, but it starts with a routine. I sweep my floors daily with a soft-bristle broom to catch dust and dirt before they scratch the surface.
A microfiber dust mop works wonders too. For a deeper clean, I use a damp mop with a hardwood-specific cleaner—nothing too wet, as excess moisture can seep into the wood and cause trouble.
Stick to products recommended by Hurst to avoid damaging the finish. A quick wipe-down once a week keeps my floors gleaming.
- Protect Against Scratches
Scratches are the enemy of hardwood, and I’ve learned a few tricks to keep them at bay. Felt pads on furniture legs are a must—trust me, your dining chairs will thank you. I also have a strict no-shoes policy in the house, which saves my floors from gritty soles.
If you’ve got pets, keep their nails trimmed; my dog’s claws haven’t left a mark since I started regular trims. For high-traffic areas, consider area rugs—they add style and protect your investment.
- Manage Humidity Levels
Wood is sensitive to humidity, and Hurst floors are no exception. I live in a fairly humid area, so I use a dehumidifier to keep levels between 35-55%. This prevents swelling or shrinking, which can lead to gaps or warping.
A hygrometer is a cheap way to monitor your home’s humidity. In winter, when the air gets dry, a humidifier can help prevent cracks. It sounds like extra work, but it’s a small price to pay for floors that last a lifetime.
- Refinishing for Longevity
One of the best things about Hurst’s solid hardwood is that you can refinish it. After a few years, if you notice minor scratches or fading, sanding and refinishing can make your floors look brand new.
I haven’t needed to yet, but I know it’s an option down the road. Engineered wood has a thinner veneer, so check how many refinishes it can handle. When the time comes, hire a pro or rent a sander—just don’t skimp on prep to avoid uneven results.
- Spill Prevention and Quick Action
Spills happen, but they don’t have to ruin your floors. I keep a stash of microfiber cloths handy for quick cleanups. If you spill something, blot it immediately—don’t let it sit. For sticky messes like juice or wine, a damp cloth with a bit of hardwood cleaner does the trick.
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, which can strip the finish. My floors have survived countless spills, and quick action has kept them flawless.
Comparing Hurst Hardwoods To The Competition
- HydroShield Flooring
HydroShield markets itself as a water-resistant wonder, and it’s a solid contender if moisture is your main concern. I considered it for my basement, where humidity can be an issue.
Its engineered wood construction, with a real wood veneer over a composite core, makes it less prone to warping than solid hardwood. It’s also priced competitively, often around $4-$6 per square foot.
However, the wood veneer is thinner than Hurst’s solid planks, limiting how many times you can refinish it. The aesthetic is decent, but I found HydroShield’s finishes less varied than Hurst’s, leaning heavily on trendy grays that didn’t suit my traditional style.
If you need waterproofing on a budget, HydroShield’s a good pick, but it lacks the longevity and customization of Hurst.
- Pergo Outlast Flooring
Pergo Outlast is a laminate, not hardwood, but it’s a popular choice for those wanting a wood-like look without the price tag. I looked at it for my kitchen, drawn by its waterproof claim and $3-$4 per square foot cost.
The click-lock system makes installation a breeze, and it’s tough—perfect for homes with kids or pets. But when I saw it in person, the synthetic texture didn’t compare to Hurst’s natural grain.
Some users report seam separation over time, especially in high-traffic areas, which worried me. Pergo’s durability is impressive for laminate, but it can’t match the authentic feel and refinishing potential of Hurst’s hardwood.
- AquaProof Flooring
AquaProof is another laminate option, boasting full-coverage waterproofing that’s ideal for bathrooms or basements.
It’s priced similarly to Pergo, around $3-$5 per square foot, and its click-lock design is DIY-friendly.
I considered it for my laundry room, where spills are common.
However, like Pergo, it lacks the genuine wood feel of Hurst. The patterns mimic wood well, but up close, you can tell it’s not the real deal.
AquaProof’s warranty is decent, but some users note issues with fading in direct sunlight, which wasn’t a concern with my Hurst floors. If authenticity isn’t your priority, AquaProof’s a practical choice, but it doesn’t hold a candle to Hurst’s craftsmanship.
- Mullican Hardwood Flooring
Mullican is a direct competitor to Hurst, offering both solid and engineered hardwood with a focus on quality. Their Chatelaine and Muirfield lines, which I checked out, are stunning, with hand-scraped finishes that rival Hurst’s premium options.
Prices are similar, around $5-$8 per square foot, and their wood species selection is robust. However, Mullican’s online presence isn’t as user-friendly as Hurst’s, and I found fewer budget-friendly options.
Their warranties are comparable, but Hurst’s contractor discounts gave it an edge for me. Mullican’s a strong contender, but Hurst’s transparency and variety tipped the scales in its favor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
From my experience, oak from Hurst Hardwoods offers the best bang for your buck. It’s durable, versatile, and widely available in various grades, making it affordable without sacrificing quality. At around $5 per square foot for solid oak, you get a floor that can be refinished multiple times and lasts decades. Compared to pricier exotics like Tigerwood, oak delivers timeless appeal and excellent durability for the cost.
Engineered wood, like Hurst’s engineered options, has a thinner real wood veneer, so you can only refinish it a few times before hitting the composite core. It’s also less valuable for resale compared to solid hardwood. In high-humidity areas, even engineered wood can warp if not properly sealed. Lastly, some brands skimp on the veneer thickness, which can wear out faster, so always check the specs.
Hurst Hardwoods stands out for engineered hardwood. Their multi-layer construction ensures stability, and the thick veneer allows for refinishing. Mullican also produces top-tier engineered floors, with their Chatelaine line offering hand-scraped textures that feel luxurious. Both brands prioritize quality, but Hurst’s variety and transparent grading give it a slight edge for me.
Exotic wood brands like Bella Cera and Kahrs often top the price charts, with costs reaching $10-$15 per square foot for rare species like Brazilian Cherry. Hurst and Mullican, while premium, stay more affordable, rarely exceeding $8 per square foot. The high cost of exotic brands comes from sourcing rare woods and intricate finishes, but they’re not always worth the splurge for everyday homes.
Why Hurst Hardwoods Wins My Heart?
After a year with Hurst Hardwoods, I’m still in love with my floors. They’ve elevated my home’s style, stood up to my family’s chaos, and proven that quality doesn’t have to break the bank.
Whether you’re renovating or building new, Hurst offers the perfect blend of beauty, durability, and value. Trust me, you won’t regret choosing Hurst for your flooring journey.
It’s an investment that’ll make your home shine for years to come.