AHF Products Flooring 101

SOLID HARDWOOD (SWF)

  • Most traditional and preferred type of flooring by homeowners – made from a single layer – Oak, Hickory and Maple are the most common species
  • More than 99% is 3/4˝ thick (remaining is 5/16˝ thick) – nail-down installation and can be sanded and refinished multiple times

ENGINEERED HARDWOOD (EWF) WITH PLY CORE

  • Since surface is a layer of wood veneer more species are available – enhanced structural stability allows for wider planks
  • The core is made from multiple thin layers of wood, typically three layers; can be installed below grade (basements) – multiple installation methods

ENGINEERED HARDWOOD (EWF) WITH HDF CORE

  • Surface is a thin layer of wood veneer
  • The core is comprised of one layer of High Density Fiberboard composite (HDF) and features the same benefits of a plywood core, but at a lower cost

LAMINATE

  • Realistic wood visuals are protected by a melamine wear layer and are highly durable and waterproof from top-down moisture
  • HDF core features a locking installation and is ideal for residential and light commercial installations

RIGID CORE / WOOD PLASTIC COMPOSITE (WPC)

  • Most popular flooring, 100% waterproof with superior dent resistance, ideal for residential and commercial applications
  • Fast and easy locking installation floats across the space, requires very little subfloor preparation

LUXURY VINYL TILE (LVT)

  • Available in planks or tiles and is composed of a core and base layer topped with a realistic print film and protective clear vinyl layer
  • Versatile and easy installation

HOMOGENEOUS (HOM)

  • Consists of a single layer of vinyl plastic resins, pigments and additives; the through-color of the flooring means less visual impact from gouges
  • Installation includes welded seams allowing for use in sterile environments

HETEROGENEOUS (HET)

  • Comprised of multiple layers
  • Stone and wood designs are embossed with texture for more realistic looks and greater design versatility
Updated on July 31, 2024

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