I would not do tile floors in a mountain home they are cold and IMO do not suit that type of climate. I think wood is still the answer just make sure it is acclimatized before install this time

Thank you so much for your input. We have in floor heat which had solved the cold tile floor issue. IMO means what?

In My Opinion. You could do high quality Engineered wood floors. I dont know why your designer would suggest against it. You can even finish the floors on site like regular solid wood floors.

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If you finish the floors on site with a product like Bona Traffic or Streatshoe you will be in good shape. Its a very durable finish and you can also pick any stain color you like to go over the planks.

This is great suggestion!! I was hoping the Engineered wood would be a great option. And this product sounds like the help I need to make it as low maintenance as possible. Thank you!!

That is correct. Its the best of both worlds. Let me know if you have any other questions. joel@oakandbroad.com

Based on the problems you've had with your floor finishes, I would recommend wood-lookalike porcelain tile. They're a breeze to maintain, and unlike travertine, you can have thin grout lines that won't collect dirt. Try to match the grout color as closely as you can to the tile. I tiled a bathroom with a gray tile and grout, and it's nearly impossible to see dirt!

Thank you for your comment. We actually did that same gray wood like tile in a bathroom. Although it has small grout lines, it is not a high traffic area, so it is hard for me to see how it would hold up! Looks great in the bathroom!!!

I would love to see engineered wood in your home...but the problems with the solid hardwood is concerning. The humidity requirements for solid hardwood is identical to engineered. Engineered is a bit more stable...but it still requires a constant humidity of 45%-60% (most woods prefer to sit at 50% every day...all day...all year...all their life).

Before moving to an engineered hardwood, please check your HVAC system requirements. The acclimation for a solid hardwood can be a little longer than engineered...but the overall requirements once installed are the same. You will need humidity control (either a dehumidifier or a humidifier...or a combination of both depending on year round climate).

The type of radiant heat can be an issue as well. Most manufacturers allow their wood floors to be installed over hydronic (water/oil/gel) or forced air (the old systems from the 50's). When installing over in-floor radiant heat, there are very specific steps that must be taken (by the installer and home owner) leading up to and including the day of install. You will need to help the installer figure this out and work together.

Just a little bit of homework for you to ensure that you can have a happy wood floor installed in your home.

Thank you so much for this information!! Very important to understand ALL the pieces. Before and after!! I really need to do my homework- its clear!!!