I have been reading the posts here and doing a good bit of general research prior to installing 1220SF of wood flooring in my home. I have found that my two top choices are Mirage Engineered Maple in the Alaska color or Hartco Valenza in the Sakura (Japanese Cherry). From what I gather Mirage appears to be considered the "Cadillac" of engineered floors and would appreciate any feedback from those who have installed their floors. Same for the Hartco. Does anyone know if Japanese Cherry has different characteristics from American cherry (i.e. hardness, coloration, photo-sensitivity, etc...)?

That is comparing a Caddy to a Kia or Yugo.

Mirage, hands down.


Hartco, Bruce, and Robbins, are basically the same floors. All made by Armstrong.