Trane has been a trusted provider of heating and cooling products for more than 120 years. Today, the company offers products including air conditioners, gas and oil furnaces, and heat pumps. This guide provides information about Trane home comfort products to help you choose the best options for your needs.

Types of Trane products

Trane manufactures five types of home heating and cooling products: air conditioners, air handlers, furnaces, heat pumps, and packaged systems. This section reviews each type of product.

Trane air conditioners

In a split-system unit, the traditional type of central air conditioner, the compressor and condenser are housed outside the home in a metal, weather-resistant cabinet. The evaporator and other components are located in an indoor cabinet, along with the furnace and indoor parts of the heat pump.

The energy efficiency of an air conditioner is represented by its seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER), which is determined by dividing the cooling output by the amount of electrical energy the unit consumes. A higher SEER rating indicates a more efficient air conditioner, and all new AC units are required to have a SEER rating of at least 13.

Train delivers top-of-the-line air conditioners through its TruComfort series. The 22-SEER XV20i and the 18-SEER XV18 provide auto-adjusting, variable-speed operation for precise climate control. These quiet units are four decibels quieter than models offered by leading competitors.

Other Trane air conditioners deliver SEER ratings ranging from 14.75 to 18. The XR13 is a single-stage unit, and the two-stage XL18i features a durable, weather-resistant housing. The XR16 Low Profile, with a SEER rating of 17, is ideal for homes with limited outdoor space.

Trane air handlers

An air handler holds the indoor parts of an air conditioner or heat pump and circulates conditioned air. New AC units typically include air handlers. However, you may want to upgrade your current air handler without purchasing a new air conditioner. When selecting an air handler, choose a model that is the proper size for your system.

With refrigerator-style insulation and variable-speed motors, models in the Hyperion Communicating series are the best Trane air handlers. These units are compatible with Trane’s ComfortLink II communicating technology for optimized configuration and calibration. Units in the Hyperion series have similar functionality but lack the communicating technology.

Options in the midrange M series include multi-range blowers. The single-stage TMM series and GMU/V series include budget-friendly units with smaller profiles that are ideal for tight spaces.

Trane furnaces

A furnace shares indoor cabinet space, ductwork and a thermostat with the indoor parts of the air conditioner. Furnaces can also be installed independently in homes with no AC unit.

The energy efficiency of a furnace is represented by its annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) percentage. The AFUE rating shows how much energy becomes heat. Higher AFUE ratings indicate more efficient furnaces.

Trane furnaces include gas and oil models. Though each type operates similarly, natural gas is more environmentally friendly and less expensive than oil. Gas furnaces tend to be more efficient than oil models, but they require access to natural gas and are generally more expensive.

Oil furnaces are typically more affordable, but fuel prices depend on the fluctuating oil market. Oil is not as environmentally friendly as natural gas, and oil furnaces require fuel deliveries and regular cleanings. Homeowners in cold climates often choose oil furnaces, which provide more heat per British thermal unit than gas furnaces.

Trane’s most efficient gas furnace is the XC95m, which features a modulating gas valve, a variable-speed blower motor and an AFUE rating of 97.3%. The two-stage S9V2-VS has an AFUE rating of 97%, and the single-stage S9X1 features an efficiency rating of 96%. The two-stage XC80 and the single-stage XB80 are affordable options, each with an AFUE rating of 80%.

Trane offers two oil furnace models, which each feature an AFUE rating of 85%. The XV80 Oil has a variable-speed blower motor, while the XP80‘s blower motor has four speeds.

Trane heat pumps

Heat pumps move air throughout your house to warm your home in winter and cool it in the summer. Those in mild climates often reduce energy costs by switching to a heat pump. Individuals who live in areas with more extreme weather can use a heat pump but may not see energy savings.

Because heat pumps cool and heat your home, each model has both a SEER rating and a heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) rating. The HSPF rating is calculated by dividing the heat pump’s output by the energy consumed. More efficient heat pumps have higher HSPF ratings.

The top-of-the-line Trane heat pump is the XV18 Variable Speed, which has an 18 SEER rating, a 10 HSPF rating and TruComfort technology for auto-adjusting comfort control. Trane’s two-stage models include the XL18i, which has a SEER rating of 18 and an HSPF rating of 9.5, and the XR17, which has a SEER rating of 17.25 and an HSPF rating of 9.6. The single-stage XR14 delivers budget-friendly reliability, with a SEER rating of 14 and an HSPF rating of 8.2. The single-stage XR16 Low Profile features a SEER rating of 17 and an HSPF rating of 10 fits well in tight areas.

Trane packaged systems

Those who need heating and cooling but have limited indoor space may prefer a packaged system. All components of a packaged system are housed in a single outdoor unit that can be installed on your roof or on an outdoor concrete pad.

Three Trane packaged systems combine an 81% AFUE gas furnace with an electric air conditioner. The XL16c has a SEER rating of 16.6, the XL15c has a SEER rating of 15 and the XR14c has a 14 SEER rating.

An EarthWise Hybrid dual-fuel unit combines an 81% AFUE gas furnace with a heat pump and is ideal for customers who live in cold regions. The XL16c EarthWise Hybrid has a SEER rating of 16, while the XL14c EarthWise Hybrid has a SEER rating of 14.25.

Trane pricing

Trane’s prices are similar to those of other HVAC manufacturers. Most central air conditioner units cost $1,000 to $3,500. Gas furnaces generally cost $1,000 to $3,000, while most oil furnaces cost $2,100 or less. The prices of heat pumps vary widely, from about $1,500 to $13,000. These prices do not include installation costs. Contact a local HVAC professional to receive an accurate estimate for a Trane product.

Trane reviews

Reading customer reviews can help you learn more about Trane products. Factors to consider when selecting a model include size, ease of use, reliability and energy efficiency. You can read reviews at freshome.com.

Frequently asked questions

How much is a Trane air conditioner?

Factors that affect the price of an air conditioner include its type, size, and features. Installation costs depend on your geographic area, the size of your home and the complexity of the installation. Contact a local HVAC professional for a comprehensive estimate based on an in-home assessment.

Where can I order Trane products?

Trane maintains a network of specialists across the United States. You can find a local Trane specialist through Trane’s website.

Where are Trane units manufactured?

Trane products are manufactured in the United States.

Which is better, Trane or another AC brand?

Trane has a solid reputation as an innovator in home heating and cooling. Whether Trane products are better than another brand depends on your personal needs and preferences. Consider researching multiple brands to find the best option for your home.

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Optimum Internet: Reviews, Pricing & Performance

Optimum Internet

If you live in or near New York, then you might have heard of Optimum. Optimum delivers cable-based high-speed internet to about 4 million people in select areas of the Northeast, including Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York. In addition to internet plans, Optimum provides phone and TV throughout its service area and over 2 million WiFi hotspots, providing customers with connectivity even when away from home.

Optimum Internet Packages

Optimum offers seven different packages, from affordable to fast and powerful. Since some plans are only available in select areas, check their website to see which plans are offered in your location.

Altice Advantage Internet

A joint effort by Optimum and Suddenlink, this package provides discounted Internet service for participants in the National School Lunch Program, New York City residents attending a New York Public School, veterans receiving state or federal public assistance, and people age 65 and over who are eligible for Supplemental Security Income. In addition to discounted installation and a free Smart Router and Modem, participants get 30 Mbps download speeds for only $14.99 a month.

Optimum 10

The most basic plan without eligibility requirements, Optimum 10 provides connectivity with limited speed at XXXX Mbps and costs $24.95 per month.

Optimum 20

Upgrading from the basic Optimum Internet plan provides additional speeds of XXXX Mbps with only a small increase in price at $29.99 per month.

Optimum Online

This plan represents Optimum’s standard package, with speeds up to XXXX Mbps and a cost of $64.95 per month. The plan is the minimum requirement to upgrade to one of Optimum’s premium high-speed packages. For customers who lease one of their modems at an additional $10 per month, Optimum offers a Smart Router that is only available to Optimum Online subscribers.

Optimum 200

The first of their premium add-on packages, Optimum 200 increases speeds up to 200 Mbps for an additional $20 per month. At these speeds, customers can stream High Definition quality video to multiple devices and support multiplayer online gaming. Optimum 200 packages are only offered in select locations, so check their website for availability.

Optimum 300

Optimum 300 offers speeds up to 300 Mbps for an additional $55 per month. Users can stream 4K Ultra High Definition video on multiple devices while other household devices continue to run without interruption. As with the Optimum 200 package, the Optimum 300 package is only offered in select locations. Check the website for availability.

Optimum 400

Optimum’s top-tier package supports up to 400 Mbps network speeds, sufficient for even heavy-duty broadband usage. This high-end plan is available for an additional $66 per month. Optimum 400 premium packages are available in select locations; check their website to learn if it’s available in your area.

Optimum Availability

With coverage in Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York, Optimum Internet provides a large population with high-speed broadband connections.

Optimum Features

Optimum’s broadband connection can broadcast WiFi throughout the entire house. They also offer WiFi coverage through over 2 million hotspots throughout the three-state area. Customers can connect to an Optimum internet WiFi hotspot and enjoy the same protection, responsiveness, and speed as their home connection. The password-protected WiFi hotspot also includes McAfee cloud-based virus and malware protection.

Optimum Fees and Charges

The basic monthly cost doesn’t cover all of your internet service expenses. If you don’t have a modem and router, which must be a brand and model supported by Optimum, then you can lease a modem for $10 a month. If you lease a modem and have at least the Optimum Online plan, you can add a Smart Router for no additional charge. A network enhancement fee of $3.50 per month is also included in every bill.

To start your service, you must pay a one-time charge of $99 for standard installation or $149.99 for premium installation. Standard installation sets up one device wirelessly with a maximum of two outlets but does not include hardwiring. Premium installation allows customers to request hard wiring with Ethernet to a single device, Smart TV, gaming system, computer, or alarm system. It also includes setting up all available wireless devices and three outlets, with additional outlets costing $25 each.

Check Optimum’s website for additional services and charges.

Optimum Reviews

The American Customer Satisfaction Index compares Optimum against a number of other Internet service providers as well as other companies. Scoring 63 out of 100 in 2019, Optimum ranks highly among Internet service providers. In prior years, the company was ranked even higher, securing second place in 2016 and third in 2017 and 2018. If 63 out of 100 seems low, note that Internet service providers and TV providers are ranked last among all industries, causing their highest ratings to fall short of other industry averages.

Reviews.org gives Optimum a 3.5 out of 5, but it’s common for dissatisfied customers to take the time to post reviews, so this rating may not be representative of all customer opinions.

ConsumerAffairs gave Optimum a 1.9 out of 5 based on 724 ratings submitted. While there were a number of four- and five-star ratings, many reviews were one star, dragging their overall rating down dramatically.

Summary

Optimum offers high-speed internet at competitive rates in the New York area. If you need to connect outside your home, you’ll find their 2 million WiFi hotspots a major benefit. Review Optimum’s website to discover the packages available in your area and find the right service for your needs.

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Best internet in Winston-Salem, NC

Find the best internet in Winston-Salem, NC by comparing providers and prices.

How to find the best internet in Winston-Salem, NC

Winston-Salem is a burgeoning, up-and-coming city in North Carolina’s Piedmont Triad area.  Downtown Winston-Salem has been recognized as one of the nation’s best, and Winston-Salem as a whole is ranked at one of the nation’s top 10 cities for retirees.

“The City of the Arts and Innovation” cultivates an interest in theater and fine arts. At the same time, it is a hub of technological research. At Kaleideum North, children revel in hands-on science experiences. Baseball fans head to BB&T Park to see the Winston-Salem Dash play. Tanglewood Park offers outdoor enjoyment minutes away. Attendance at the park’s annual Festival of Lights is a holiday tradition for many residents.

Area residents benefit from strong competition among internet providers. Based on the coverage area, Winston-Salem’s leading internet providers include AT&T, Spectrum, Viasat and HughesNet. Based on speed, top providers include AT&T Fiber, Spectrum, CenturyLink, Windstream, and EarthLink.

Many providers bundle internet, TV and/or phone services. Some customers arrange for internet service only. Some bundles also include Netflix, Sling, Hulu or YouTube TV.

Winston-Salem Internet Providers

Winston-Salem’s internet providers include AT&T, Spectrum, Viasat, HughesNet, CenturyLink, Windstream, and EarthLink. Local providers deliver internet speeds from less than 10Mbps up to 1Gbps (or 1,000Mbps). Gigabit internet is great for families streaming HD video on many devices at once. Speeds under 50Mbps still meet the needs of many residents who only use one or two devices at one time.

Use the chart below to learn more about the range of internet speeds and prices each company offers. Listed packages often feature the lower speed listed for each provider. Introductory rates apply for 3-24 months.

 
When you compare services, note one-time fees that may apply. Some providers charge for installation, while others do not. Some have monthly equipment leases or other fees. Always confirm your total monthly costs when you set up internet service.

Qualifying low-income residents save a significant amount with Spectrum Internet Assist. You can qualify if you have a student in the National School Lunch Program or if any member of your household receives social security. This service costs $14.99 per month.

Internet Availability in Winston-Salem 

There are many internet providers in Winston-Salem. Some focus on residential service while others specialize in business services.

Spectrum’s internet services cover almost all the city. AT&T combines fiber and DSL to deliver approximately 85 percent coverage in Winston-Salem. Windstream, CenturyLink, and EarthLink each cover roughly half the city. Viasat and HughesNet cover the entire community.

For more information, visit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website. The FCC compiles data on broadband services nationwide.

Five Fastest Internet Providers in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem internet providers continue to extend ultra-fast services to more neighborhoods throughout the area.

The providers with the fastest services use optical fiber, hybrid DSL/fiber or cable. AT&T Fiber, Spectrum, CenturyLink, EarthLink, and Windstream are five examples. Speeds as high as 1,000 Mbps (fiber) or 940 Mbps (coaxial cable) are possible. At these speeds, it’s possible to download an HD movie in 60 seconds or less. Gigabit service is perfect for today’s ultra-connected smart homes.

AT&T Fiber offers its Internet 1,000 service at select locations. The price of the 1,000Mbps service is $70.00 per month for the first year. Spectrum Internet Ultra is a 940Mbps service delivered via coaxial cable. It costs $109.99 per month. CenturyLink offers internet speeds up to 940 Mbps for $65.00 per month. Kinetic Gig Internet from Windstream is available at select locations for $75.00 per month for one year. EarthLink’s one gigabit (1,000 Mbps) service is $99.95 per month. If you don’t need ultra-fast speeds, these same providers usually offer lesser speeds at discounted prices.

Do you plan to move to an apartment or condominium? It’s very efficient for providers to run fiber or cable through new residential developments. Many newer apartment complexes offer ultra-fast internet to attract tenants. AT&T already offers ultra-fast gigabit service at more than two dozen multi-family complexes in the greater Winston-Salem area. Throughout the nation, AT&T already runs fiber to more than 3 million apartments and condominiums.

Best Internet Deals

Use Freshome to find the best internet deals in Winston-Salem, NC. It is easy to find an internet provider that has the ideal service for you. Find the combination of cost and speed that best fits your budget and lifestyle.

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Comparing providers and rates can help you find the best internet services in Raleigh, North Carolina. Companies including AT&T, CenturyLink, Spectrum, HughesNet and Viasat provide internet service for most of Raleigh. Some Raleigh internet providers, including AT&T, CenturyLink, and Google Fiber, offer internet speeds as fast as 1,000Mbps. Spectrum’s cable internet service delivers speeds up to 940Mbps.

Raleigh residents need reliable internet service to complete work assignments and relax with streamed shows and movies. Review your options to choose the internet provider that best fits your needs.

Raleigh: a prosperous state capital

The “City of Oaks” is North Carolina’s state capital. Raleigh is one of America’s fastest-growing cities and, along with Durham and Chapel Hill, is part of the Research Triangle.

Many residents enjoy outdoor activities. Two state parks are near Raleigh: Falls Lake State Recreation Area and William B. Umstead State Park. In 2017, Men’s Health ranked Raleigh as the third sportiest city in the country. Raleigh is home to the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes, and it has the seventh most basketball hoops per capita in the nation. Raleigh also has several concert venues, including the Walnut Creek Amphitheatre and the Red Hat Amphitheater.

Raleigh internet providers

Many consumers need fast internet service to download HD movies and stream videos and games. Fast internet allows families to use multiple devices simultaneously and provides a responsive gaming experience.

The table below details the speeds available from each internet provider. When choosing a company, also review the cost of internet packages. Many service providers offer introductory rates, which means the monthly rate increases after a set period of service. Introductory rates often apply for the first year.

CenturyLink takes a different approach, offering rate security through its Price for Life program. Speeds up to 100Mbps cost $49 per month. CenturyLink locks in your rate for as long as you live at the same address.

Many Raleigh internet providers help customers save money by allowing them to bundle internet with television service, phone service or both.

One-time fees, such as installation costs and equipment charges, may apply to new services. Additionally, recurring charges such as taxes and fees may increase your monthly bill. Confirm the full cost of a monthly service before making a commitment. One-time termination fees may also apply when you end service.

If your household receives Supplemental Security Income or includes a student who participates in the National School Lunch Program, you may qualify for Spectrum Internet Assist. This special service delivers moderate internet speeds of 30Mbps and costs $14.99 per month. You can add a WiFi router for an extra $5 per month.

Internet availability in Raleigh

Not all customers in Raleigh can access service from all providers. However, most residents can choose from three or four providers. AT&T, CenturyLink, HughesNet, Spectrum, and Viasat each covers much of the city.

AT&T uses a combination of fiber and DSL networks to cover 89 percent of the city. CenturyLink covers about 97 percent of Raleigh. Viasat and HughesNet deliver satellite internet, which is available to 100 percent of residents. Spectrum’s cable internet services also cover all of Raleigh.

The Federal Communications Commission compiles data on broadband services in Raleigh and across the United States.

Five fastest internet providers in Raleigh

As demand increases for live streaming and smooth gaming, Raleigh’s internet providers work to deliver faster speeds to more locations. The fastest internet speeds are available through optical fiber, coaxial cable, and hybrid DSL/fiber connections. Fiber-based services are very fast and can allow customers to download a feature-length HD movie in less than 60 seconds. Unlike other companies, which use fiber optics, Spectrum owes its 940Mbps speeds to the use of coaxial cable.

Google Fiber’s fastest service delivers 1,000Mbps speeds and costs $70 per month. AT&T Fiber also includes speeds of up to 1,000Mbps and costs $70 per month for the first 12 months. The CenturyLink Fiber 1,000Mbps plan costs $65 per month. Earthlink’s HyperLink service provides 1,000Mbps speeds and costs $99.95 per month. Many companies offer slower fiber-based services for lower monthly rates. Spectrum delivers cable internet service for $49.99 per month for the first 12 months.

Gigabit speeds are only available at select addresses. Newly constructed apartment complexes are often wired with optical fiber or coaxial cable, which can help attract tenants. Google Fiber is already available at 28 Raleigh apartment complexes.

Some companies provide employees with ultra-fast internet. Google Fiber’s business plans deliver speeds from 100 to 1,000Mbps. Fiber Business 100 costs $70 per month, and Fiber Business 1,000 costs $250 per month. With internet speeds of 1,000Mbps, you could back up 10 GB of data in two minutes.

Best internet deals

Visit Freshome.com to find a great internet deal in Raleigh, North Carolina. Consider your internet usage, lifestyle, and budget to decide which internet service is best for you.

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How to find the best internet in Durham, NC

Home of Duke University and its famous basketball team, Durham is the fourth-most populous city in North Carolina, with a population of about 275,000. The city offers access to some of the top internet service providers (ISPs) in the country, including popular household names like AT&T, CenturyLink, EarthLink, Google Fiber, HughesNet, Spectrum, and Viasat. Durhamians can choose from DSL, cable, fiber, or satellite internet connections, depending on where they live.

Download speeds vary depending on the type of internet connection you choose. For example, DSL internet plans start from as low as $29.99 per month and offer download speeds of up to 50 Mbps. If your data requirements are higher, you can go for fiber plans that start from $70 per month and deliver download speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps. With these lightning-fast speeds, you can easily stream HD videos on multiple devices or play online games without a glitch.

Not sure which internet service provider is right for you? This guide covers everything you need to know about the best internet service providers in Durham.

Durham internet providers

Durham residents can choose from popular DSL and fiber internet service providers, including AT&T, CenturyLink, EarthLink, Frontier Communications, Google Fiber, and Spectrum. In areas where cable internet is unavailable, Durhamians can choose from satellite internet connections offered by Viasat and HughesNet.

Internet availability in Durham

Durham receives an average download speed of 25 Mbps. Most residents have access to DSL and cable internet connections. A small part of the city also enjoys access to fiber internet, while satellite internet connection is available for the entire city.

Make sure to check the availability in your area, as plans and speeds vary by location.

Spectrum/Charter Communications

Covering 99% of the city, Spectrum is the largest cable internet service provider in Durham. Plans start from $49.99 per month, offering download speeds of up to 100 Mbps. The company also offers a broad network of WiFi hotspots across the country.

Frontier Communications

Frontier offers extensive internet coverage in Durham. More than 90% of Durham residents enjoy access to the company’s DSL and fiber internet connections. Frontier internet plans start from $29.99 per month, offering speeds of up to 50 Mbps.

Viasat

If you’re living in an area where cable or DSL internet connection isn’t available, then consider Viasat’s satellite internet connection. Internet plans start at $70 per month and offer reliable download speeds of up to 12 Mbps.

AT&T

AT&T covers over 48% of Durham. Internet plans start at $50 per month, delivering download speeds of up to 100 Mbps. There’s also a fiber plan that costs $70 per month and offers blazing-fast speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps. Additionally, AT&T has a network of 30,000+ Wi-Fi hotspots across the country, so you can stay connected on the go.

Durham, NC fastest internet

For those prioritizing speed, we cover ISPs with the fastest internet speeds in Durham below.

AT&T

AT&T’s Internet 1000 plan offers lightning-fast speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps at $70 per month. You can also take advantage of bundle options to get TV and phone service along with the internet.

CenturyLink

CenturyLink’s Internet 1Gbps plan offers speeds of up to 940 Mbps at $125 per month. The company also offers savings through TV and phone bundles.

Google Fiber

Get blazing-fast speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps with the Fiber 1000 plan from Google Fiber. The plan costs $70 per month.

Spectrum

Enjoy download speeds of up to 400 Mbps with Spectrum’s Internet 400 Mbps plan, which costs $44.99 per month. You can save money by bundling it with TV and phone services.

HughesNet

HughesNet’s satellite internet plan offers download speeds of up to 25 Mbps and costs $59.99 per month. The company also offers a voice service that provides unlimited calling in the US and Canada.

Find the best internet in Durham, NC

With so many options to choose from, finding the best internet for your needs can get complicated. The best way to pick an internet plan for your home is to calculate the actual speeds you need so that you don’t end up spending more than necessary on your internet bills.

If you need an internet connection for basic surfing and email, a 5 Mbps internet plan is probably sufficient. However, if you plan to stream HD videos on multiple devices, then you may want a high-speed internet plan that delivers speeds of up to 100 Mbps. A fiber plan is best suited for connected homes and households with multiple devices.

Are you looking to save more on your internet costs? Browse Freshome.com to find the best internet deals in Durham.

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Hardwood Floors Buying Guide

Hardwood floors are one of the most popular types of flooring, increasing the resale value of homes and beautifying them in the process. But there are many considerations to make when choosing and installing hardwood floors, such as type, species, size, cost, and brand. This guide covers everything you need to know about hardwood flooring so that you can make the best choice for your home.

What is a hardwood floor?

Hardwood floors can be comprised of a variety of wood species, such as bamboo, oak, or teak. Regardless of the species, all hardwood floors are stained to bring out their rich color and grain, as well as sealed to prevent nicks, dents, and other damage. Hardwood floors are rated from soft to hard, but the softest hardwood is still pretty tough. Over time, however, even the hardest species begins to show wear. Instead of having to replace it, as you would with carpeting, you can refinish a hardwood floor and restore it to its original appearance. The cost of refinishing a hardwood floor is much less than purchasing and installing a new one.

How to buy the best hardwood floor

To find the right hardwood floor for your needs, you need to weigh factors like cost, foot traffic, and type. For example, the harder the wood, the less likely it is to be damaged, but harder woods are also more difficult to work with during installation, which may mean higher installation costs. Another factor to consider is the location of the flooring and the type of traffic you expect in that area. A high-traffic area is better served by a very hard species of wood, for example. The following sections outline the primary considerations you should make when choosing hardwood flooring. 

Types of hardwood floors

You can choose between two types of hardwood flooring: solid and engineered.  Solid flooring features a single species, while engineered flooring is constructed of layers of wood, usually at right angles. Consider the following factors when choosing between solid and engineered flooring. 

• Solid flooring can be refinished many times, while engineered flooring, depending on the thickness of the hardwood layer, may only stand up to two or three refinishings. Therefore, solid flooring can last for several decades longer than engineered flooring.
• Engineered flooring can be installed in more environments than solid flooring. While engineered flooring can be floated over many surfaces, glued to concrete, or nailed to a subfloor, solid flooring must be nailed or stapled to a subfloor and should not be installed below the grade, such as in basements, due to fluctuations in humidity.
• Solid flooring is slightly more expensive than engineered flooring, but the price difference is small in most cases. 

Choose the right size

Board size is another important consideration. Narrow boards are less expensive, but many people prefer the aesthetic of wider boards, which reduce the number of seams in the floor. The same idea applies to shorter versus longer boarders. The wider and longer a board is, the more expensive it is per square foot and the larger percentage of extra flooring you need to ensure it fits your room. A standard measure is to purchase 10% more square footage than you need, but this may increase depending on the shape of the room.

Compare hardwood floor costs

Costs can range from $1.75 per square foot up to $9 or more, depending on factors like species, width, and type. While engineered hardwood flooring is typically less expensive, the cost compared to solid flooring of the same species is usually just around $1 less per square foot. Additionally, prefinished wood may add another $1 per square foot compared to unfinished wood, but it also means you won’t need to finish it after installation.

One of the most popular species, Red Oak, runs about $4 per square foot unfinished and $5 prefinished, with additional costs for wider boards. More exotic woods or those that are harder and more resistant to wear are more expensive, while softer woods are typically cheaper.

Read hardwood floor reviews

Be sure to investigate the suppliers of hardwood floors, reading reviews and comparing different qualities. Some suppliers specialize in inexpensive flooring, while others offer a wide range of prices. You should also look for reviews on issues like warranties, shipping costs, and available widths. In addition to customer reviews, you should read reviews from contractors who can offer the perspective of someone who handles hardwood floors frequently.

Installation

Solid hardwood flooring is installed by nailing or stapling it to a subfloor, which is more limiting than engineered floors, which can be nailed, glued, or floated on a variety of surfaces, including concrete. Once you decide between solid or engineered flooring, you need to figure out whether you want to install it yourself or enlist a professional to do it. While there are substantial cost savings to installing a floor yourself, it may invalidate your floor’s warranty. Additionally, professional installers usually guarantee their work, giving you the confidence that it will be done right. Installation costs vary depending on many factors, including the species of wood and its hardness, with mid-range hardwoods, like oak, costing between $4 and $8 per square foot to install, according to HomeAdvisor. 

Hardwood floor brands

There are many brands of hardwood flooring available. We outline three popular options below. 

Bruce

A brand offered by AHF Products, Bruce is one of the best-known hardwood flooring companies. They provide value and easy installation as well as wide distribution through big box stores. Limiting their species to only the most common — Hickory, Maple, Red Oak, and White Oak — Bruce provides a variety of finishes and widths.

Kennedale Prestige Plank – Maple

• Solid hardwood
• 3 ¼” width
• Up to 84” length
• ¾” thickness
• Color: Cappuccino (dark brown)

Turlington Lock & Fold – Cherry

• Engineered hardwood
• 5” width
• 10” – 48” lengths
• ⅜” thickness
• Color: Natural (tan)

Hurst Hardwoods

Hurst ships nationwide and offers a variety of solid and engineered flooring, which comes in a range of domestic and exotic species.

European French Oak Matterhorn

• Engineered hardwood
• 10 ¼” width
• Majority 87” lengths
• ⅝” thickness
• Color: Brown tones and hues

Tigerwood Clear Prefinished

• Solid hardwood
• 5” width
• 1’ to 7’ random lengths
• ¾” thickness
• Color: Tiger striped

Mannington 

Mannington specializes in engineered hardwood floors with two main collections: Hand Crafted and American Classics. With a strong environmental stance and a wide variety of woods and finishes, they offer many customization options. 

Mountain View Hickory

• Engineered hardwood
• 3 ¼”, 5” and 6 ½” widths
• Lengths up to 45”
• ⅜” thickness
• Color: Autumn

American Oak

• Engineered hardwood
• 3” wide
• Lengths up to 45”
• ⅜” thickness
• Color: Old Bronze

Summary

When deciding on hardwood flooring, take your time and walk through your decision step-by-step, considering what you want from the flooring, what you are willing to pay for it, and how you plan to install it. Hardwood can last a lifetime, so consider your choices carefully.

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Windstream Internet is an internet provider that uses DSL, fiber, cable, and dialup networks and operates in parts of 18 states in the US. On its website, the company promotes three very high-speed internet packages: Kinetic GIG, Kinetic 500, and Kinetic 200. While its fiber networks are growing, Windstream’s major claim to fame is DSL coverage for rural areas. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), downloads of at least 100Mbps and uploads of 25Mps are available in much of Windstream’s coverage area. Windstream had about 1 million broadband subscribers as of 2018.

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Windstream internet packages

Kinetic GIG Internet

Kinetic GIG Internet by Windstream is a fully fiber-optic Internet service offered in more than 150 communities in the US, providing download and upload speeds of up to 1Gbps and allowing 4K movie streaming. According to Windstream, other advantages of fiber-optic networks include better reliability than copper networks, simultaneous support for multiple devices in the home, and lower latency for faster page loads. Fiber is available in about 6.3 percent of Windstream’s coverage area, according to the FCC.

Kinetic 500 Internet 

Kinetic 500 Internet is advertised as offering download speeds of up to 500Mbps. Windstream uses DSL for Kinetic 500 and most other plans, except for Kinetic Gig. According to the FCC, however, only about 1.76 percent of Windstream’s DSL service area achieves download speeds of 500Mbps, while another 1.76 percent can download at 250Mbps. 

However, these small numbers say more about the low availability of very high-speed DSL packages than whether Windstream delivers on promised DSL speeds. In the FCC’s most recent actual-to-advertised speeds report, the company scored between 86.52 percent and 99.71 percent, signifying that you usually get the speeds you pay for from Windstream.

Kinetic 200 Internet 

As its name suggests, Kinetic 200 Internet, another DSL service is advertised as supplying download speeds of up to 200Mbps. The FCC does not track 200Mbps download speeds. However, download speeds of at least 100Mbps are available in 38.2 percent of Windstream’s DSL coverage area.

Lower-speed internet packages

Windstream also offers a wide range of lower-speed internet packages, which vary considerably by speed and price in different locations. In Pittsburgh, PA, for example, Windstream offers four different plans, with none achieving a download speed above 100 Mbps. The plans in Pittsburgh range from a 15Mbps package called Standard Kinetic Internet to a 100Mbps package known as Premium Kinetic Plus. Windstream also offers Internet/phone/TV bundles in some areas, including Pittsburgh. 

To find out which packages are available in your area, you must provide your street address and zip code to Windstream.  Generally, the FCC found that about 96.8 percent of Windstream’s overall service area can achieve download speeds of at least 4Mbps. About 93 percent can receive 10Mbps or better and 78.1 percent can get 25Mbps and up. DSL is offered in 99.2 percent of the overall service area.

Windstream availability

Windstream is offered in 18 states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Texas. Services are only offered in certain parts of each state, and speeds vary considerably.

Windstream provides Kinetic GIG to select communities in 16 states, but communities are increasingly receiving coverage. When the gigabit service first launched in 2016, the initial locations included Lincoln, NB; Lexington, KY; Sugar Land, TX; and seven communities in North Carolina: China Grove, Concord, Davidson, Harrisburg, Kannapolis, Lewisville, and Matthews.

Windstream features

Unlike some other internet providers, Windstream doesn’t manage network congestion by capping an individual customer’s usage or throttling a customer’s service once a certain amount of usage is exceeded. No contracts are required, and services can be ordered on a month-to-month basis. 

All Windstream customers gain access to free email addresses. Internet security, cloud storage, data backup, tech support, and wire maintenance services are offered as paid add-ons. These add-ons are supplied through four Internet Shield security packages, each sold at monthly pricing.

Three of these paid Internet Shield packages come with McAfee Multi-Access (MMA), a multi-level package for protecting devices that include PCs, Macs, and Android smartphones and tablets. Supporting all browsers, MMA includes anti-virus, anti-phishing, firewall, PC optimization, a mobile device locator, and advanced threat protection for safeguarding your privacy. With MMA protection through Windstream, you can manage up to three supported devices from a single account whenever you go online.

• Windstream’s Shield Lite offers basic security to protect your identity and data, including MMA, online data backup with file protection, up to 100GB in cloud storage, and identity theft protection with credit monitoring.
• Shield Standard offers all of the same features as Shield Lite while adding unlimited 24/7/365 tech support for up to three PCs through Tech Help, along with wire maintenance protection for your home through a Protection Plus plan. 
• Shield Premium has all of Shield Standard’s features, in addition to PC Protect and whole-home tech help. You get coverage for computer hardware malfunction as well as for accidental damage to PCs. You also receive remote, enhanced tech support for up to 10 internet-connected devices on a 24/7/365 basis.
• Windstream’s Premium Wi-Fi device connectivity support offers expert tech help with Wi-Fi issues like installation and activation. It also comes with Protection Plus to cover repair costs for equipment, such as wiring and jacks. This is the only Internet Shield package from Windstream that doesn’t include internet security software from McAfee.

Conclusion

Windstream provides DSL, fiber, cable, and dial-up internet services in pockets of 18 states in the US. Services are available at a wide range of speeds and price points, depending on where you live. The company boasts reasonably priced DSL connectivity at 100Mbps or less in rural regions. Windstream also offers fiber connectivity at Gig speeds in 150 communities in 16 states, with plans to expand.

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