Hardwood and wood-laminate floors are very much in style in new homes and in floor re-modeling projects. The wood comes in all kinds of patterns, board widths and thicknesses. You can get engineered wood that is put down over an under pad and there are other kinds of flooring that can be put directly over solid surfaces or vinyl. Wood flooring also comes in a wide range of prices and it is still possible to replace old wood flooring, carpet, or vinyl economically with well-made, attractive wood flooring. With some study and “how-to” steps from the Internet or the library, you can even install the wood flooring yourself. If you are not handy or have some serious reservations about your ability to handle such a task, it is better to let a professional do the installation part. Wood flooring is a big investment and you do not want to diminish the aesthetic effect with a poor installation effort.