Woodhills® Waterproof Wood Flooring Vs. Traditional Hardwood: A Modern, Cost-Effective Choice

April 03, 2025

msi-featured-image-woodhills-waterproof-wood-flooring-vs.-traditional-hardwood-flooring

Balancing aesthetics, durability, and cost is paramount when selecting the perfect flooring. Traditional hardwood floors have been cherished for their timeless beauty and natural charm. However, advancements in flooring technology have introduced innovative alternatives like MSI's Woodhills® Collection of waterproof wood flooring, offering the authentic appeal of hardwood with enhanced performance and practicality.

Aesthetic Appeal and Authentic Wood Experience

The allure of genuine hardwood lies in its unique grains, textures, and natural warmth. Woodhills® captures this essence by featuring a 1.2mm hand-crafted wood top with real sliced-cut oak and hickory veneers, ensuring each plank showcases the rich and natural aesthetic of premium hardwood without repetitive patterns. This meticulous craftsmanship gives homeowners the authentic look and feel of traditional wood flooring, complemented by a lightly crafted wire brush finish that enhances its natural beauty.​

Cost Considerations: Woodhills® vs. Traditional Hardwood

kings-buff-wood-flooringKings Buff® Wood Flooring

Upfront Investment

Traditional hardwood flooring often entails a significant initial investment, encompassing material costs and professional installation fees. In contrast, Woodhills® offers a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising quality or aesthetics. Its engineered design allows for efficient production and cost savings, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners.​

Installation Savings

Installing wood floors can be labor-intensive, requiring specialized tools and skills, leading to higher installation costs. Woodhills® simplifies this process with a patented click-lock installation system, eliminating the need for glue or nails and allowing for straightforward installation over most existing floors. This user-friendly approach reduces labor costs and project timelines, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

Long-Term Value

While hardwood floors can last for decades, they often require periodic refinishing and are susceptible to water damage, leading to additional maintenance expenses. Woodhills® addresses these concerns with its 100% waterproof design, featuring MSI's exclusive DryLuxe technology and a waterproof stone-based core and backing. This innovation ensures long-term durability and reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements. ​

Durability and Performance

liora-wood-flooringLiora® Wood Flooring

Scratch Resistance

Traditional hardwood is prone to scratches and dents from daily activities, pets, and furniture movement. Woodhills® enhances durability with the CrystaLux Ultra protection layer, providing a robust, scratch-resistant, pet-friendly shield against everyday wear and tear. This feature ensures the flooring maintains its pristine appearance, even in high-traffic areas.

Waterproof Properties

A significant limitation of natural wood is its vulnerability to moisture, leading to warping and swelling. Woodhills® overcomes this challenge with its 100% waterproof construction, making it suitable for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. The resilience of its genuine wood veneer construction offers homeowners peace of mind, knowing their flooring can withstand spills and humidity without compromising integrity. ​

Safety

Woodhills® also prioritizes safety, incorporating MSI's proprietary ZeroSlip technology. This advanced feature significantly boosts traction, going beyond traditional industry benchmarks for anti-slip surfaces. Engineered to be a permanent solution, it requires no further maintenance, and its integrity lasts throughout the product's life. Whether in busy family homes or commercial spaces, ZeroSlip offers peace of mind by reducing the risk of slips and falls, making Woodhills® a safer flooring choice for all environments.

Longevity

The engineered structure of Woodhills®, combined with its protective layers, ensures a long-lasting flooring solution. Unlike real wood that may require refinishing over time, Woodhills® maintains its beauty with minimal maintenance, providing enduring value for homeowners.​

Maintenance and Ease of Care

coral-ash-wood-flooringCoral Ash® Wood Flooring

Simple Cleaning Routine

Maintaining hardwood flooring often involves specialized cleaning products and techniques to prevent damage. Woodhills® offers a more straightforward, low-maintenance routine, requiring only regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping to keep it looking its best. Its stain-resistant surface further simplifies upkeep, making it ideal for busy households.​

No Need for Refinishing

Over time, natural wood floors may need sanding and refinishing to restore their original luster, which can be time-consuming and costly. Woodhills® eliminates this necessity, retaining its finish and appearance throughout its lifespan without refinishing.​

Comfort and Installation

aaron-blonde-in-kitchenAaron Blonde Wood Flooring

Underfoot Comfort

While hardwood can feel rigid underfoot, Woodhills® incorporates a pre-attached 1mm premium pad, providing added comfort and sound insulation. This feature enhances the overall feel of the flooring, making it a pleasure to walk on, whether barefoot or in shoes.

Easy Installation

The patented click-lock system of Woodhills® streamlines the installation process, allowing for a floating floor setup that can be placed over most existing surfaces. This design saves time and reduces installation costs, making it a practical choice for various projects. ​

Eco-Friendly Considerations

chestnut-heights-wood-flooringChestnut Heights Wood Flooring

Sustainable Manufacturing

Woodhills® is crafted with sustainability in mind, utilizing eco-conscious materials and processes. Its engineered design requires less natural wood than the wood flooring of the past, contributing to forest conservation efforts.​

Longevity and Waste Reduction

The durability of Woodhills® means fewer replacements over time, reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility. Homeowners can enjoy the beauty of wood flooring while aligning with sustainable practices.​

Why Woodhills® Is a Smart Choice

When comparing waterproof wood-like flooring to traditional hardwood, it's evident that Woodhills® offers a compelling blend of authentic aesthetics, enhanced durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance. Its innovative features address common concerns associated with hardwood, providing a flooring solution that meets the demands of modern living without compromising on style.​

Explore the Woodhills® Collection today and discover how this advanced flooring option can transform your space, offering the timeless elegance of wood with the practical benefits of modern engineering. Chat with us online, visit an MSI showroom, or find waterproof wood flooring at an authorized retailer near you to experience Woodhills® in person.