Hardwood flooring has long been a favourite choice for Albertan homeowners looking to bring warmth, character, and long-term value into their homes. But with all that popularity comes a surprising amount of misinformation. Whether you’re doing your first reno or finally replacing those tired old floors, it’s important to separate fact from fiction before making a big investment. From outdated advice to outright myths, we’re unpacking the five biggest lies people hear about hardwood flooring—and giving you the facts you need to make a smart, informed choice. Visit Flooring Superstores to explore hardwood options that fit your lifestyle, design vision, and budget.

Lie #1: All Hardwood Flooring Lasts 100 Years

This is one of the most common assumptions out there. While hardwood flooring is definitely known for its longevity, the idea that all hardwood floors last a century without issues is a bit of a stretch. The reality is that the lifespan of your hardwood flooring depends on several factors, including the type of wood, the finish, how it’s installed, and most importantly—how well it’s maintained. Solid hardwood can absolutely last for decades, but it may require sanding and refinishing every so often. Engineered hardwood flooring, on the other hand, may have a slightly shorter refinishing window depending on the thickness of its top layer, but it's also more stable in fluctuating climates (like ours here in Alberta). With proper care, both options can stand the test of time—but 100 years? That’s more the exception than the rule.

Lie #2: Engineered Hardwood Flooring Isn’t “Real” Hardwood

This myth refuses to go away, but let’s be clear: engineered hardwood flooring is real wood. It’s made with a genuine hardwood veneer on top, backed by layers of high-density fibreboard or plywood that provide extra stability. This layered construction makes it ideal for areas where solid wood might struggle—like basements or over radiant heating systems. Many homeowners opt for engineered hardwood flooring because it offers the same natural beauty as solid wood, but with enhanced resistance to moisture and shifting. Brands like Fuzion are known for producing high-quality engineered hardwood that’s both stylish and durable. So, if someone tells you it’s “not real hardwood,” you can confidently correct them.

Lie #3: Dark Hardwood Floors Hide Dirt Better

It’s easy to assume that darker floors will hide dust and debris more effectively, but the opposite is usually true. In reality, dark hardwood flooring tends to show dust, pet hair, and footprints more visibly than lighter or mid-toned woods. It’s similar to how dark cars seem to collect every bit of dust—they look great when clean, but require a bit more maintenance to stay that way. That doesn’t mean you should shy away from dark flooring altogether. Just go in knowing that it may need more frequent cleaning to maintain that rich, sleek look.

Lie #4: Scratches Mean Your Floors Are Poor Quality

Many people see a few surface scratches and immediately assume their hardwood flooring is low quality. The truth? Scratches happen—even to the most expensive floors. Hardwood is a natural material, and everyday life will leave its mark over time. What really matters is how well your flooring handles wear overall. Good-quality hardwood flooring (whether solid or engineered) should resist deep gouges and finish damage with regular use. Minor surface scratches are often just in the finish, not the wood itself, and can be touched up without a full refinish. Choosing a flooring brand like Fuzion, which offers durable finishes and a variety of wood species, can help minimize wear and tear while still giving your space a premium look and feel.

Lie #5: You Need to Refinish Hardwood Floors Constantly

It’s true that hardwood flooring can be refinished, which is one of its major benefits. But constant refinishing? Not necessary. Most modern finishes are built to last and can stand up to years of use without needing a full sand-and-refinish job. Regular maintenance—like keeping floors clean, using area rugs, and adding protective pads under furniture—goes a long way in preserving the look of your hardwood. If your floors are starting to look dull or scratched, a professional screen and recoat (which is less invasive than a full refinish) might be all you need. In fact, refinishing too often can actually shorten the life of your hardwood, especially if it's engineered flooring with a thinner top layer. So don’t feel pressured into scheduling refinishing every few years unless it’s truly needed.

Choose Flooring Based on Facts, Not Myths

Hardwood flooring is a beautiful, timeless investment—but it’s also one that comes with a lot of myths. Whether you’re deciding between solid and engineered hardwood flooring, choosing the right stain colour, or weighing maintenance concerns, the key is to make your decisions based on facts—not outdated advice. By understanding how hardwood really performs in modern homes, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right product for your lifestyle. With trusted brands like Fuzion and expert help available, your perfect flooring is just a few steps away. Visit Flooring Superstores today to browse a wide selection of hardwood flooring options and get the honest advice you need to make your next flooring project a success.