Can You Install Hardwood Floors in Kitchens or Basements?

Hardwood floors add warmth, character, and long-term value to any home. But many homeowners ask: can hardwood flooring be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, or basements? The short answer is yes—with the right materials and a few precautions.

Let’s look at how hardwood handles these tricky areas and how you can make it work for your home.

Moisture and Wood: What You Need to Know

Wood and moisture don’t always mix. In humid or damp spaces, wood can swell, shrink, or even warp. That’s why solid hardwood has a reputation for being risky in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms or basements.

But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on the idea entirely. Engineered hardwood—a more stable alternative—has made it possible to enjoy the look of wood floors in rooms where you normally wouldn’t.

With the right type of flooring and some smart planning, you can install hardwood even in areas that deal with occasional moisture or humidity.

Can You Install Hardwood Flooring in the Kitchen?

Yes, hardwood flooring works well in kitchens. These spaces may get the occasional spill or splash, but they’re generally not constantly wet or humid. That makes kitchens one of the better places to install wood floors—as long as you’re careful.

If you want hardwood in your kitchen, engineered wood is usually the better choice. It’s more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity than solid wood. Plus, it still offers the natural beauty that makes hardwood so popular.

Make sure to clean up spills quickly, use rugs in front of the sink, and choose a durable finish to protect your floors from everyday wear.

Need help picking moisture-resistant wood floors for your kitchen? Reach out through our Contact page and we’ll help you explore your options.

Is Hardwood Flooring Safe in Bathrooms?

Bathrooms are more challenging. Between steam from hot showers, splashes from the sink, and puddles around the tub, moisture is a constant issue.

Solid hardwood is not recommended for full bathrooms, but if you’re set on the wood look, engineered hardwood can be a good solution. It’s built in layers, which makes it more stable in humid conditions. Just be sure to choose a water-resistant product and install it with care.

Use bath mats in wet areas, seal the boards properly, and keep the room well-ventilated with an exhaust fan.

Still wondering if engineered wood for bathrooms is the right choice for your space? Contact us through our Contact page and we’ll walk you through the pros and cons based on your layout and usage.

Can You Put Hardwood in a Basement?

Basements are below ground, which means they often have higher humidity levels—even if you don’t notice it right away. That’s why solid hardwood is not recommended for basements. The risk of long-term damage is just too high.

However, engineered hardwood is designed to handle these conditions better. Its multi-layer construction helps prevent warping and buckling, especially when paired with a moisture barrier during installation.

Before installing any flooring in a basement, it’s important to check for leaks or excess humidity and resolve any issues first. That’s a key step in protecting your flooring investment.

If you’re considering installing hardwood flooring in a basement, we’re here to help. Visit our Contact page and we’ll help you choose the right product and walk you through the preparation process.

Tips to Help Hardwood Last in Moisture-Prone Areas

If you’re thinking about hardwood in kitchens, bathrooms, or basements, follow these tips to extend the life of your floors:

• Clean up spills as soon as they happen
  

• Use rugs or mats near sinks, tubs, and exterior doors
  

• Keep your indoor humidity between 35% and 55% year-round
  

• Choose high-quality engineered wood with a sealed finish
  

• Always use a moisture barrier on concrete or basement subfloors
  
  

These small habits can make a big difference over time.

Yes, You Can—With the Right Flooring and Planning

So, can hardwood flooring be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, or basements? Yes, it can. The key is using engineered hardwood where needed, managing moisture carefully, and choosing the right finish and installation method.

When done right, you can enjoy the beauty of real wood throughout your home—even in the most challenging spaces.

Ready to get started? Visit our Contact page and tell us what room you're working on. We’ll help you find the perfect floor for your space and your style.