What direction is your hardwood / wood laminate installed? I have read to install parallel with the direction light comes in through the window. I have also read to install across the longest length of the room. Which one is it if the direction light comes in is not the longest length of the room?
If you're talking about real hardwood, I would recommend running it perpendicular to the joists if you would like it to stay nailed down. If you're talking about laminate, it doesn't matter but I would guess the joints would be less visible if you installed it parallel to the sunlight like you said.
I have hardwood laminated flooring and I was just thinking of asking this question about the ones that do have it. What do you use to clean it? I use Zap hardwood floor cleaner and have now for like 3 years..BUT, it doesn't shine when I'm done cleaning. I have tried a few other things as well. I want it to shine afterwards. Any tips? Sheri