Top 5 Lesser-Known Hardwood Flooring Options (That Outperform Standard Domestic Species)

5 hardwood flooring options

The Hardwood Flooring Secret is Out… When most homeowners think of hardwood flooring, they picture Red Oak, Maple, or Hickory—the staples of American homes. While these domestic species are beautiful and well-known benchmarks for durability, color, and grain, they’re far from the only options available. For those who want distinctive color, natural character, and superior …

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Unlocking the Cheapest Ipe Wood Prices

Ipe wood, often hailed as the “king of hardwoods,” is renowned for its unmatched durability, stunning natural beauty, and longevity that can outlast most decking materials by decades. Whether you’re building a luxurious deck, crafting outdoor furniture, or tackling a siding project, Ipe delivers premium performance. But let’s face it—its premium status comes with a …

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Cypress vs. Cedar Lumber: Which Is Better for Your Project?

Choosing between Cypress and Cedar can feel like splitting hairs—both are lightweight, easy to work with, and naturally rot-resistant. But they aren’t identical. If you’re building in a harsh climate or watching the budget, the differences in durability, availability, and price matter. Below is a clear, practical comparison to help you pick the right wood …

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Is Mahogany a Hardwood?

Mahogany Porch Deck

At Advantage Lumber, we often get asked, “Is mahogany a hardwood?” It’s a great question, and the answer is a resounding yes—mahogany is indeed a hardwood, prized for its durability, beauty, and workability. But there’s more to the story, especially when it comes to Genuine Mahogany, its rich history, and why it’s become so hard …

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Are Real Wood Roof Shingles Worth the Money?

If you’re in the market for a new roof, you’ve likely weighed the popular choice of asphalt shingles against more premium options like real wood. Asphalt is affordable and straightforward, but real wood roof shingles—crafted from naturally durable woods—offer a timeless elegance that can transform your home’s exterior. The big question on every homeowner’s mind: …

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What is Prefinished Hardwood Flooring?

At AdvantageLumber.com, we’re passionate about helping homeowners make informed choices for their flooring needs. One question we often hear is, “What is prefinished hardwood flooring?” Let’s discuss what makes prefinished hardwood flooring a fantastic option and why it’s often a smarter choice than unfinished hardwood flooring, especially when considering health, convenience, and cost. Understanding Prefinished …

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Is Ash a Hardwood or Softwood?

thermally modified ash siding & soffit

One common question we hear from customer about Ash wood is: Is ash a hardwood or a softwood? Spoiler alert—it’s a hardwood, and we’re here to explain why that matters, plus spotlight some of our top-selling ash products that are revolutionizing home improvement in 2025. Understanding Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: Where Does Ash Fit In? First …

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