I'm new to the forum here, I've been researching hardwood floors I'd like to install in my home.

I'll likely be tackling the job as a DIYer.

Before reading here, I was set on LL engineered hardwood flooring. Specifically, the Virginia Mill Works Colonial hand scrapped which is 4.89 per sf.

After reading all the negative comments from the professional installers here, I'm having second thoughts.

A high end flooring like Mirage is out of the budget. I need to keep my cost at around $5 a sf.

How does BR-111 compare? Any other recommendations to stay in my price range?

I wish some of you guys, like floormeinTucson, Rhodeshardwood and KevinD were in my area. I'd gladly buy from you!

There are quite a few H/S engineered hardwoods in that price range that are excellent. Last 2 jobs I installed were Hallmark & Reward....just to name a couple manufacturers, that have great options in their line.

You could buy an unfinished or presanded and finish it yourself cheaper, maybe, depends on the manufacturer and species

Phil:

What's your location? We may be able to send you towards someone we know through the trade.

Anybody notice I changed the title of this forum?

I'm in the DFW area.

Thanks for all the replies.

Phil

YES, Ken!.....Now that you've mentioned it. Good idea

Great forum! Any recommendations for the Raleigh, NC area. I'm planning to do the installation myself. I'm trying to match the red oak (select) already in kitchen/dining area. I'm looking for unfinished 3/4" 2 1/4" for the living/family room. Thanks.

In Raleigh look up Horizion Forest products, they can help you out on unfinished for sure. right now 21/4 select red is running between 2.40-2.75 depending on what mill and size of job.

Real wood's chalet line is that range. Its a nice well made scraped floor. 3mm top, 1-7 ft lenghts. the Halmark Hardwoods is also one thats right in that range.