In a quiet Texas neighborhood, a newly minted homeowner struck restoration gold. Just one day after closing on their 1920 Craftsman bungalow, they peeled back a loose plank of gray luxury vinyl tile (LVT)—and found what every old-home lover hopes for: original hardwood floors.
Shared with the r/centuryhomes community, this discovery turned a leap of faith into a floor lottery jackpot. Beneath layers of cold, modern LVT lay warm-toned wood, scratched but strong, patiently waiting to breathe again.
Uncovering a Century-Old Treasure
The reveal began in a closet—an unassuming corner where a single loose plank gave away the secret below. Fueled by hope, the homeowner spent the rest of the day demoing nearly 90% of the gray LVT, uncovering hardwood floors that had been hidden for who-knows-how-long.
Though worn with time, the floors told a story of craftsmanship and durability. The contrast was striking—the muted gray of modern vinyl giving way to rich wood grain that instantly restored the home’s character. The homeowner now intends to meticulously repair the floors, adhering to the Craftsman style, which emphasizes genuine materials, well-considered design, and classic warmth.
Wisdom from the Community
With excitement came thoughtful advice. One r/centuryhomes member chimed in, “That looks like soft wood to me—get a reputable refinisher. Someone with no idea what they were doing tore up the gorgeous red pine floors in the house where I lived.
The homeowner replied, “Interesting. I was guessing red oak, since we don’t really have soft woods local to Texas, but I’ll definitely double-check before any sanding.”
That exchange served as a gentle reminder—restoring history means listening, learning, and doing things right. Whether red oak or pine, these floors deserve the care and respect they’ve earned after 105 years of service.
A Strong Start to a Craftsman Revival
With most of the LVT now gone, the home feels lighter—both literally and emotionally. The scuffs and scratches on the hardwood are no longer flaws but signs of life, soon to be softened by skilled hands and a respectful touch. For the homeowner, this first project has already reconnected the bungalow to its roots, setting the tone for a restoration filled with heart.
A Bungalow’s Bright Future
This 1920 Craftsman, once buried beneath gray vinyl, now stands ready to shine again. As the new owner plans the next phases of restoration, the floor reveal reminds old-home lovers everywhere: beneath the surface, beauty and history often wait patiently.
With each plank uncovered, the soul of this bungalow returns—and with it, a promise that the next hundred years will be just as full of life, warmth, and care.