Hardwood FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is hardwood flooring?
Hardwood flooring is crafted from real wood, either as solid planks cut from a single piece of timber or as engineered wood, which consists of multiple layers of wood bonded together. Available in various tree species, hardwood can be found in planks, strips, parquet patterns, and other shapes. It typically comes prefinished from the factory with stain and a protective wear layer, though some may require onsite finishing. While hardwood floors can be sanded and refinished to restore their appearance, this process is often costly and labor-intensive, leading many to replace worn floors instead. Installation usually involves a tongue-and-groove system with planks nailed or stapled into the subfloor or glued in the case of engineered wood. Prior to installation, a moisture test is essential to prevent warping or damage from moisture rising from the subfloor. Hardwood floors commonly use a tongue-and-groove system, allowing planks to interlock securely. Installation typically involves nailing or stapling the planks into the subfloor, though engineered wood may be glued down. Before installation, a moisture test is crucial to prevent warping or damage from moisture rising from the subfloor.
What are the different styles of hardwood flooring?
Today's hardwood floors offer an extensive range of options in colors, grain patterns, finishes, and styles. From pale and glossy to dark and weathered, these choices are influenced by the finishing techniques used. Smooth floors provide a sleek, modern appearance, while hand- scraped floors highlight artisanal craftsmanship with deliberate markings for a vintage look. Wire-brushed flooring combines elements of both, offering a balanced blend of refined polish and rustic charm.
How to select hardwood flooring?
Choosing hardwood flooring involves several key decisions: solid or engineered? Hand- scraped, smooth, or wire-brushed? Stained or natural? Prominent or subtle grain pattern? Light, dark, or somewhere in between? We'll guide you through selecting the best options for your space, considering your budget, timeline, design preferences, lifestyle, and the amount of flooring required.
Will engineered hardwood scratch?
Engineered hardwood floors can offer varying levels of scratch resistance depending on the thickness of their wear layer. Generally, a thicker wear layer provides greater resistance to scratches and other surface damage.
How do I protect my hardwood floors from furniture scratches?
Hardwood floors are naturally durable and resistant to scratches, but you can further protect them by using felt pads on furniture legs to prevent scratches from moving items. Additionally, placing an area rug can cushion and shield your floors while showcasing their beauty.
Can engineered hardwood floors be refinished?
Only sand or refinish engineered wood if the manufacturer specifically permits it. Many wood veneers are too thin for refinishing and sanding them can cause permanent damage.
What can I use to clean my hardwood floors?
Hardwood floors are relatively easy to maintain but following a few basic guidelines will keep them looking their best. Based on extensive experience in the flooring industry, we suggest sweeping daily with a soft-bristle broom to remove fine dirt and grit that could wear down the finish over time. For spills, use a soft cloth and a cleaner specifically formulated for hardwood floors to avoid discoloration or damage. Additionally, using a humidifier can help prevent warping and shrinkage, providing extra protection for your floors.
Can I steam clean hardwood floors?
No, you should not use a steam cleaner on hardwood floors. Steam cleaning can damage your floors by causing them to warp and may void their warranty. Even if some steam cleaner brands claim their products are safe for sealed hardwood floors, both the Wood Floor Covering Association and the National Wood Floor Covering Association do not recommend steam cleaning. Major hardwood floor manufacturers also advise against it. Always check your floor’s warranty and consult with your local Flooring America or Flooring Canada for suitable cleaning methods.
