FAQ regarding Hardwood and Engineered floor installation
Hardwood flooring is made entirely of natural wood, while engineered flooring consists of a thin layer of real wood on top of a plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF) core. Engineered flooring is more suitable for areas with moisture, while hardwood flooring offers a timeless, authentic look.
The choice between hardwood and engineered flooring depends on factors such as your budget, location, and personal preferences. Hardwood flooring provides a classic, high-end appeal, while engineered flooring offers greater versatility and durability in moisture-prone areas.
Both hardwood and engineered flooring can be installed in basements, provided proper moisture mitigation measures are taken, such as moisture barriers and adequate subfloor preparation. Generally, hardwood flooring is not recommended to be installed in the basement.
Hardwood flooring is prized for its natural beauty, longevity, and the option for refinishing. Engineered flooring offers enhanced stability and can be more cost-effective, especially in areas with fluctuating humidity levels.
The installation time for hardwood or engineered flooring varies depending on factors like the size of the space, the complexity of the installation, and the acclimation requirements. It typically takes several days to complete the installation.
In most cases, hardwood or engineered flooring can be installed over existing flooring, as long as the subfloor is structurally sound, clean, and level. However, it’s important to consult with a professional to assess the specific conditions.
Both hardwood and engineered flooring should be acclimated to the environment where they will be installed to prevent potential issues related to expansion or contraction. Acclimation typically involves storing the flooring in the installation area for a specified period before installation.
The recommended installation method for hardwood or engineered flooring depends on factors such as the product type, subfloor condition, and personal preference. Common methods include nail-down, glue-down, and floating installations.
While DIY installation is possible for experienced individuals, professional installation ensures proper techniques, reduces the risk of errors, and provides warranties or guarantees on the workmanship.
To clean and maintain hardwood or engineered flooring, it is generally recommended to sweep or vacuum regularly, avoid excessive moisture, use appropriate cleaning products recommended by the manufacturer, and promptly address any spills or stains
High-traffic areas may require additional considerations, such as selecting more durable wood species or using protective measures like area rugs or furniture pads to minimize wear and tear.
Hardwood and engineered flooring can be installed over radiant heating systems using full glue down method of installation, but it’s important to follow specific guidelines provided by the flooring manufacturer to ensure compatibility and prevent any damage.
If your hardwood or engineered flooring gets damaged, the appropriate action depends on the extent of the damage. Minor scratches or dents can often be repaired through sanding and refinishing, while more significant damage may require board replacement.
Questions relating to refinishing hardwood floors
Hardwood floor refinishing involves sanding down the existing finish, removing imperfections, and applying new stain and protective coatings to restore the beauty and durability of the floor.
The frequency of refinishing hardwood floors depends on factors such as wear, damage, and the type of finish. Generally, it is recommended to refinish every 7-10 years, but it may vary based on individual circumstances.
Signs that your hardwood floors may need refinishing include visible scratches, dull appearance, discoloration, or difficulty in cleaning and maintaining the finish.
Engineered hardwood floors can be refinished, but it depends on the thickness of the top veneer layer. Thicker veneers can withstand refinishing multiple times, while thinner ones may have limitations.
The process of refinishing hardwood floors involves sanding the existing finish, repairing any damages, applying stain (optional), and then sealing the floor with a protective coating like polyurethane.
The duration to refinish hardwood floors depends on various factors, including the size of the area, the extent of repairs needed, drying time between coats, and the type of finish used. On average, it can take around 3-5 days.
Refinishing hardwood floors can significantly reduce the appearance of scratches and dents, but it may not eliminate them entirely, especially deep or severe ones.
Yes, you can change the color of your hardwood floors during the refinishing process by applying a new stain in the desired shade.
It is generally recommended to stay off the refinished hardwood floors until the finish has fully cured, which usually takes around 24-48 hours.
After refinishing hardwood floors, it’s crucial to allow sufficient time for the finish to cure before walking on them. The curing time can vary depending on the type of finish used, such as water-based or oil-based urethane.
Water-based urethane typically has a faster drying and curing time compared to oil-based urethane. Generally, you should wait at least 24 hours before walking on floors with a water-based finish. However, it’s advisable to check the manufacturer’s recommendations as some water-based finishes may require slightly longer curing times.
In the case of oil-based urethane, the curing time is typically longer. It can take anywhere from 48 to 72 hours or even more for the finish to fully cure. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the specific curing time for the oil-based finish used.
During the curing period, it’s essential to avoid placing rugs, furniture, or subjecting the floors to heavy foot traffic. Doing so prematurely may result in scuffs, imprints, or damage to the newly refinished surface. It’s best to err on the side of caution and allow ample time for the finish to cure properly before regular use of the floors resumes.
After refinishing, it’s important to follow proper maintenance practices for hardwood floors, including regular sweeping or vacuuming, using furniture protectors, promptly cleaning spills, and avoiding excessive moisture.
Refinishing hardwood floors in high-moisture areas like bathrooms or basements may pose challenges due to the potential for moisture damage. It’s best to consult with professionals to determine suitable alternatives or preventive measures.
Alternatives to refinishing hardwood floors include options like buffing and recoating, which can refresh the surface without fully sanding down the existing finish. Another option is using area rugs or mats to cover worn-out or damaged areas.
While refinishing hardwood floors can be a DIY project, it requires specialized skills, equipment, and knowledge. Hiring a professional is recommended to ensure proper execution and achieve the desired results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, we are experts in hardwood, and perform the full range of traditional wood services, including refinishing, polishing, waxing and oiling, and flooring repairs and restoration.
One key is the subfloor. Will the flooring be installed over a wood subfloor or a concrete surface? If it is going over a wood surface, then any nail or glue down type hardwood can be used. If the installation is over a concrete, then any laminate or engineered type flooring can be used.
We respect your home as much as you do. Before any wood service, we protect all doors, rooms and areas that aren’t to be sanded. We cover kitchen cabinets, appliances and fixtures to minimize dust. We also use state-of-the-art “dustless sanding” equipment. Even so, you need to know that dust is very fine and some will filter through nearly any barrier. We can’t prevent all of it, but we will use professional techniques to minimize it.
Your Flooring Consultant will be the guide to your specific installation. Every project is different, but typical installations require 500 square feet a day.
Proper care protects your flooring investment. We take no short cuts when laying, sanding and finishing your floor. We use a “three-coat finish” process. Each coat needs to be fully cured for 12-24 hours before another coat is applied. Some companies offer a “three-coat finish” in one day which may violate manufacturer’s guidelines for your floor.
Wood is a product of nature which will expand and contract depending on the relative humidity in the home. Stabilizing relative humidity throughout winter and summer is very important for hardwood flooring. When the humidity is high, the flooring will expand. When the humidity is low, the flooring will shrink. Air conditioners, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers are a must for moisture control
Yes, before we consider a job complete, we do a mandatory walkthrough with you to make sure you’re satisfied with our work. However, with our traditional wood services, walkthroughs aren’t done on the final day of the job. You’ll also get a follow up phone call from us to make sure that everything is as it should be. If problems arise after the job is done, we will be happy to return and address the issues.
Yes, we offer a warranty so you don’t have to worry. If you find something after the walkthrough you’re not happy with, just give us a call. All our work is backed by a one-year craftsmanship warranty.
Yes. We have all the appropriate forms of insurance for the kind of work we do. Currently, our general liability insurance covers up to one million dollars.
Sometimes the initial cost of hardwood and professional installation seems high. But hardwood flooring increases the appraisal value of your home. That’s why many experts consider hardwood flooring an investment. And, because hardwood flooring is so durable, properly maintained hardwood almost never needs to be replaced unless it becomes damaged.
With common sense and a modest amount of care, hardwood flooring will remain beautiful for years, even in homes with active families. See our maintenance guide for more details.
No. Wood is an excellent insulator. It keeps the cold out and the warmth in. You’ll even feel warmer looking at your wood floor.
With the broad selection of woods available, and today’s advanced finishing techniques, hardwood flooring is available in a wide variety of colors ranging from the softest whites to natural golden hues and custom colors.
If you have additional questions or want to find out more about what we do, please contact us.
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