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[Lyn08]

I need to replace my maple engineered wood floors in my kitchen and hallway. I have solid maple wood cabinets in my kitchen. My kitchen is only 8' x 10', and my hallway is typical apartment-style (T-shape) with no outside light. I'm also considering removing carpeting in my den (10' x 13') and having engineered wood flooring installed. I have to watch what I spend, as I'm on a limited budget. My best friend's husband will do the installation work.

Do any of you have engineered wood flooring installed in your kitchen? How has it held up for you over the years? The flooring needs to be installed over concrete, so it can't be nailed down. I have arthritis, so I don't want anything really hard on my floor (like ceramic tile).

The flooring I need replaced is defective, but the store I bought it from and the flooring manufacturer are both out of business (although the flooring supposedly had a 25 year warranty). I liked the look of the flooring when it was first installed, but it didn't hold up well (the boards are splitting, it's delaminating, and it's not worth the cost of having the damaged boards replaced).

Also, what type and color of wood flooring would go best with maple cabinets (oak, ash, etc.)? I think I don't want to use maple again. I also need something light enough for the entry way, which is a bit dark, unless the light is on in the hallway.

Thanks for any recommendations.