If you’re looking for a beautiful way to update your floors, exotic hardwood flooring is a perfect fit. This durable, beautiful material adds a sophisticated component to your home. With the right products and the right design, you can literally transform any room of your home and make it uniquely stunning. Read on for some exotic hardwood flooring design ideas and inspiration that will encourage you to try this flooring in your own home.

Elevate Your Outdoor Space

You might think exotic wood flooring is just for the indoors, but there are outdoor options, too. Ipe Tropical Hardwood Deck Tiles can be installed anywhere, even over rooftop terraces, concrete, and directly onto the ground. The gorgeous ipe wood is extremely dense, so it’s tough enough to handle everything from inclement weather to lots of foot traffic. Each tile features slats for drainage, and they’re gorgeous when installed in an outdoor spa area. With this unique form of tropical wood flooring, you’ll instantly add beauty to your deck, update an old patio, or create a stunning walkway. Each tile slat may vary since this wood species naturally varies in color, which makes it an even better choice if you’re looking for a more organic look outdoors.

Get creative with these wood tiles and lay them in different patterns. You can place them in one uniform direction or try them in varying directions to create a parquet-style floor. If you’re looking for something to add style to your deck but you’re not ready for a brand-new addition, these hardwood deck tiles are an excellent alternative. No glue or screws are needed, and the smooth surface feels wonderful under bare feet.

Warm-up a Cold Home Office

If you work from home, make your space more inviting with some tropical hardwood flooring. The Vanier Brazilian Exotic Collection blends engineered hardwood flooring with the beauty and warmth of exotic South American wood. From Brazilian cherry to oak, walnut, and pecan, you’ll find this flooring in a wide range of inviting finishes. The natural grain and smooth finish give any office space an air of sophistication. The understated semi-gloss acrylic finish is UV-cured to prevent fading so you can enjoy working in an office with plenty of natural light.

This exotic hardwood flooring comes in light, medium, and warm brown tones that work in any style of home. The subtle sheen is beautiful yet strong enough to stand up to foot traffic and the scooting of office chairs. Micro-beveled edges give this flooring a nice clean look that keeps the eyes focused on the beauty of the wood. It can be nailed, glued, stapled, or floated for easy installation and enjoyment indoors in your office, living room, and beyond.

Create a Hygge-Inspired Living Space

While tropical wood flooring is often known for its depth of color, you’ll also find it in lighter tones, too. For example, Jasper Engineered Hardwood Exotic Collection features this beautiful flooring in a clean shade titled “Cathedral White” that makes it easy to create a calming, Hygge-like atmosphere. This creamy white color works wonderfully in any environment, and it makes every room feel crisp and modern. This flooring features a unique vertical pattern that adds instant modernity and uniqueness to the home. The flooring is built with a sturdy plywood core and is twice as dent resistant as conventional wood floors.

Jasper’s line of exotic flooring comes in other finishes, too, and it features eight coats of ceramic-based aluminum oxide finish to provide exceptional scratch and wear-resistance. The textured surface makes each plank of this durable flooring look and feel unique and natural. Installation is easy thanks to the tongue and groove edges. Simply nail, glue, or float them and enjoy these long-lasting floors for years to come. The Cathedral White color gives your space a clean and crisp aesthetic that perfectly sums up the Hygge design style.

Design an Exotic Abode

If you want to recreate the look of a tropical island, be sure to try Vanier Hardwood Brazilian Exotic Collection in the finish Tigerwood Natural. This gorgeous flooring features natural color variations and grains that will give any part of your home a luscious, jungle vibe. With its earthy warmth and bold, vivid colors, you can transform a sunny living space into an island-inspired getaway. Thanks to the smooth surface of this flooring, it’s also stunning in a bedroom, too.

Add some velvet furniture and fun décor to your living room to make this stunning exotic wood flooring stand out. A large potted tropical plant in a corner and a fun, colorful area rug are easy ways to complement this flooring choice. Apply tropical patterned wallpaper to the walls of your living room to round out the exotic theme. Thanks to the easy installation and ultra-rich colors, this tropical wood flooring will be a long-time favorite in your home.

Elegant Herringbone Floors

A classic herringbone pattern lends sophistication and elegance to any home. Try the Mamza Hardwood Exotic Kempas Collection flooring to create your own custom herringbone designs. Crafted from a tropical wood called kempas, this durable exotic hardwood flooring allows you to enjoy the durability of hardwood at an affordable price. It looks stunning when installed in a herringbone design since the species blends from reddish-brown into natural colors that darken over time. Each piece includes an interlocked or spiraled grain pattern that takes classic herringbone to a whole new, exotic level.

You can enjoy herringbone floors in any room, but it’s especially beautiful in an entryway or living room. The straightforward nail down installation of these floors makes it easy to create this pattern with just a nail gun. The UV finish ensures an exceptional surface resistance against scratches and scuffs. Thanks to the rich colors and smooth texture with a satin gloss, these kempas floors are sure to stun. When installing your flooring in a herringbone pattern, be sure to layout and cut each piece in advance for a beautiful outcome.

Exotic Flooring for Busy Homes

You can enjoy the stunning look of exotic wood flooring without worrying about damage thanks to new products like the Lamton Laminate Exotic Collection. These beautiful floors are made of laminate, but they feature hand-scraped surfaces and grain patterns that perfectly mimic exotic hardwood. Rated for residential use, you’ll love the way they look while enjoying an affordable floor that lasts. The easy click-lock system makes the floors easy to connect and adjust, yet they’re perfectly solid and sturdy once the flooring is complete. If you want to enjoy the beauty and splendor of exotic hardwoods but you’re concerned about longevity, this laminate alternative is a great pick. Lamton offers this flooring in your choice of beautiful color so you can create a modern or warm environment that looks high-end and sophisticated. The brand also sells moldings that are carefully selected to be the closest match possible to the floors for a seamless finish. Try this option if you’re in love with the concept of tropical wood floors but don’t want to worry about damage from little paws or feet. It’s a great way to design your home in a beautiful way that’s easy and worry-free.

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Flooring wood density doesn’t have to be particularly difficult to understand though. Choosing flooring with the ideal density and hardness for your space can also help ensure that your home or commercial floors look their best for many years to come.

In the end, a little research can save you quite a bit of money and ensure that you’re happy with the final results. Use this guide to learn more about wood flooring density and why it matters.

What is Flooring Wood Density?

Flooring wood density is all about hardness. To test hardness, the Janka Scale has been used since about 1972 in the United States. The test dates back to 1906 though, when Gabriel Janka, an Austrian wood researcher, developed it for use.

The test is a simple one that basically applies brute force to different types of hardwood to see when they will dent or show signs of wear. During the test, a 0.444″ diameter steel ball is driven into a particular plank of wood with more and more force as the test goes on. Eventually, the wood will show signs of wear and a final Janka Scale score is determined.

How Does it Impact My Flooring Choices?

Wood density might seem like a term that doesn’t really matter much or like some sort of scientific data point that really isn’t important for the end user. Wood density does matter when it comes to how long your floors are expected to last and how they’ll look over time.

With hard, dense flooring materials, you’ll get wood that is resistant to scratching and damage longer. That means that day-to-day wear like your dog’s toenails, dropped packages, backpacks and the movement of furniture will have less of a visible impact. Softer woods will show signs of wear much more quickly.

High-quality hardwoods can cost more than soft or engineered wood materials, but not in all cases. Depending on what style you’re looking for, both domestic and exotic hardwoods can be quite affordable.

When you do pay more, the initial cost is typically offset considering that your durable hardwood floors will likely remain in your home for a lifetime. Maintenance and repair costs will also be greatly reduced, allowing you to enjoy your floors a lot longer without having to go through the headache and expense of an upgrade.

Why Can’t I Use Softwood for Flooring?

Softwoods can be used for flooring material, but they simply don’t have the long-term durability of their harder brethren. Before long, they will show obvious signs of wear, including scuffs, dings, dents and scratches.

Woods with low hardness ratings are particularly problematic in high-traffic spaces like kitchens, entry areas, living rooms, family rooms and hallways. They are generally not suitable for commercial spaces either.

If you do love the look of a particular soft wood, you’ll need to find a place where foot traffic is minimal. A private master bedroom suite or guest room may be your best option. Hardwoods are still preferable in these areas though.

What About Bamboo and Engineered Wood?

Bamboo and engineered wood are two distinctly different materials that often don’t get discussed when talking about wood flooring density. That’s because bamboo is actually a grass product, while engineered wood is made from a combination of real hardwood veneer and plywood underneath. Some engineered wood varieties may contain other natural or man-made materials besides plywood as part of their substrate as well.

Bamboo Density

Bamboo flooring, along with other unique materials like eucalyptus, tend to fare well on the Janka Scale. Some types of bamboo flooring are even harder than certain natural hardwoods. That makes bamboo an excellent flooring option if you like the look.

Engineered Hardwood Density

Engineered wood is relatively strong and high-quality products can stand the test of time. However, engineered wood typically does not perform as well as the harder varieties of natural hardwood like cherry, walnut, ebony or oak. That’s because the lower layer of engineered wood is simply not as strong as a solid plank.

Still Unsure?

Looking to add high-quality hardwood flooring that will stand up to lots of foot traffic or a busy family lifestyle? Natural hardwood with a high wood flooring density or hardness rating is your best bet. Combining a look you love with serious durability, hardwood flooring can stand up to lots of abuse and continue to look excellent minimal maintenance.

Still confused as to which hardwood flooring material will work for your home or commercial space? Reach out to one of our trained representatives today. We can help you with your project from the planning phase to delivery, ensuring that you get the materials you need so you can complete your job on-time and on-budget.

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Hardwood floors are a sought-after flooring in new and historic homes alike. With so many different species of wood available, it is easy to find a flooring that enhances any style of decor. Whether you are looking to refinish original hardwood flooring or you’re installing it for the first time, choosing a non-toxic hardwood floor finish is essential to improving indoor air quality and creating a healthier atmosphere in the home. Many traditional paints and stains contain harmful VOCs. Fortunately, today’s focus on making more environmentally friendly choices has encouraged many manufacturers to create non-toxic alternatives.

Understanding VOCs

Many stains and coatings contain volatile organic compounds, otherwise known as VOCs. These materials are capable of releasing vapors such as formaldehyde in the home at a normal temperature. These vapors can cause, long-term health problems, especially in people that have re-existing lung problems or diseases. When certain paints and coatings are used in the home, there can be between 2 to 5 times more VOCs in the air inside the home that occur outside, reducing overall air quality.

Over time, exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause lung issues, nausea, liver damage, kidney damage, eye irritation, throat irritation, and nervous system issues. These greenhouse gasses aren’t just dangerous to humans, they are also bad for the environment. Lowering the VOC levels in the home starts by paying attention to the contents of paints, sealers, waxes, adhesives, cleaning supplies, manufactured wood, and upholstery treatments.

When looking for healthier options, you’ll find one of three ratings:

• No VOCs: these finishes are crafted from natural earth minerals and are completely free of VOCs.
• Zero VOCs: There are some substances with 5 grams of VOCs per liter or fewer that receive a zero VOC rating. While these are a much safer choice than other options, there are still some VOCs present.
• Low VOCs: This category of paints and stains can contain up to 200 grams of VOCs per liter, which is much lower than a traditional paint or stain but not as healthy as a no VOC or zero VOC rating.

Choosing a Non-Toxic Hardwood Floor Finish

A new understanding of VOCs and the dangers of them has encouraged more companies to formulate low-VOC options for stains and coatings. When you’re goal is to create the healthiest environment inside the home, choosing a non-toxic hardwood floor stain and sealer is essential.

Polyurethane

When it comes to choosing a polyurethane there are two main options, oil-based polyurethanes and water-based polyurethanes. Typically, oil-based polyurethanes contain much higher level of VOCs. Water-based polyurethanes are a much heather option. They dry clear in minimal time and produce very little odor. The fast-drying nature of the water-based version make it faster to apply multiple coats. Unfortunately, water-based polyurethane his a higher price point than their oil-based counterparts and can wear down faster as well. To combat this, simply reapply the polyurethane as instructed. As an added benefit, water-based polyurethanes are not explosive or flammable.

Hardwood Floor Oils

When you want to draw out the natural wood grain and coloration of hardwood floors, using an oil is a great option. Oils, such as linseed or tung oil, penetrate the wood rather than sitting on top of it. Choose a clear option to keep the look natural or select an oil with a stain to create a deeper color. Oils applied to wood floors results in a low-sheen look. Because there is not as thick of a coating as a polyurethane, the floor can be more susceptible to dents and scratches over time. While the oils themselves do produce an odor, the odor is free of VOCs, making it safe for use in the home or office.

Sealants

Historically, most sealants contain VOCs. Fortunately, some companies have started to produce a healthier line of sealants designed to keep the air in the home healthier to breathe. Make sure to check labels for environmentally-friendly sealants that offer low or no VOCs. Make sure to read the labels carefully for one of the three VOC ratings. Keep in mind that if the sealant is sold in quantities less than a liter, VOC levels will not be as carefully monitored. For that reason, choose sealants in a larger quantity.

Tungston Hardwood – Unfinished Oak / SKU: 10095300

Tips for Applying Your Finishes

If you have an older home and worry that the previously used floor finishes are releasing VOCs, start by sanding down the old finish, making sure the wear the proper protective gear as you strip away the old coating. Once the old finish is gone, test the new finish in an inconspicuous area to make sure you like the look. Once you see it on your specific hardwoods, it is time to coat the rest of the floor in the polyurethane, oil, or sealant of choice. Make sure to follow manufacturer instructions carefully to achieve the best results possible.

Making environmentally-friendly choices throughout the home will help to lower your carbon footprint and provide a clean environment for everyone who spends time inside. With a renewed focus on producing healthier products, it is easy to find low or no VOC options that provide the look you want for your hardwood floors while improving the air quality inside the home. Choosing healthy choices for the home doesn’t just include wood floor coatings. You can also choose non-toxic wall paint.

The post How to Choose a Non-Toxic Hardwood Floor Finish appeared first on Learning Center.

Hardwood floors are exceptionally beautiful, and they’re extremely durable for any room of the home. When it comes to maintaining hardwood floors, the process can be a bit labor-intensive. Some homeowners consider refinishing the floors to give them a new look or to update the color. If you’ve been thinking of refinishing your hardwood floors yourself, this refinish hardwood floors DIY project comes with quite a bit of patience and effort. Before you dedicate yourself to doing the project on your own, read on to learn more about the refinishing process.

Factors to Consider

Before you can even begin to perform a refinish hardwood floors DIY, you’ll need to rent a floor sander machine. These machines are extremely heavy and they can weigh up to 100 pounds or more. If you’re not extremely strong, the sander can move in all kinds of directions, making the sanding process uneven and extremely frustrating. Unless you have experience using a floor sander, it’s not necessarily a good idea. The floor might look great after you sand it, but once you apply the finish, you’ll probably notice all the flaws start to show through.

Sanding hardwood floors takes a lot of time and energy. You’ll need a combination of a steady hand, strength, and patience if you want things to go smoothly. Before you even consider refinishing your floors, you need to be absolutely sure that they are in fact real hardwood. If they’re laminate or engineered hardwood, you can cause irreparable damage to them, resulting in complete removal and re-installation.

After you’re finally sanded your floors, you’ll need to prepare for the new finish. Stay away from oil-based stains and finishes since they require an extremely steady hand with a paintbrush and can take a very long time to apply. If you have uneven brushstrokes, you’ll end up with multiple shades of brown which will look awful once everything is dry. Oil-based products should be handled with care, too, since they’re highly combustible and could cause a fire. In addition, you’ll likely need to apply at least two, maybe even three coats of finish no matter which kind you choose.

When it comes down to it, you will need to rent a variety of tools to completely refinish your hardwood floors yourself. At the end of the day, you might not even save that much money. And, if you end up having to correct several mistakes, it could cost you even more. If you’re still set on refinishing the floors yourself, don’t cheap out on supplies. Consider asking for a demo if you rent a floor sander so you have a better idea of how to use it correctly before you begin.

Using a Professional

Since you run the risk of permanently damaging your hardwood floors if you try to refinish them yourself, it’s a good idea to consider hiring a professional instead. The pros have been doing this a long time, and they can get the job done quickly and make your floors look beautiful again. In the end, the cost is likely the same as if you were to do everything yourself. In some cases, it may even be cheaper. Here are a few perks of using a professional to refinish your hardwood floors instead of doing it DIY:

• Professional sanders and refinishers can do an entire room or even an entire home in a fraction of the time it would take you to do it yourself. This not only lowers your stress level, but you can get back to your daily routine at home much more quickly.
• The pros have the background, skills, and knowledge to get things done right the first time. And if they don’t, you should have a warranty on the work so they can return to make any corrections or repairs.
• A professional flooring refinishing company uses high-end equipment and tools. Instead of a rented floor sander, they have equipment that they own and maintain themselves which means it’s much more reliable.
• Refinishing hardwood flooring can be messy. With a professional company, they’ll clean up the mess and they also know how to do the work to keep mess to a minimum from the start.

An Alternative to Sanding: Recoating

Sanding your hardwood floors is the most frustrating and laborious part of the process. Thankfully, you might be able to recoat your floors instead. If you only have shallow or very minimal damage to the floor that has not reached the wood, recoating can be a great alternative. Recoating involves adding a new coat of polyurethane directly over the old finish. This process will make your floors look shiny and new as well as keep them protected.

Before you proceed with floor recoating, you’ll need to clean the floors thoroughly and touch up any deep scratches wherever possible. Then, you’ll need to roughen the finish using sanding screens to help the new coat adhere. This part of the process is a bit time-consuming, but the second step of applying the new coat can take around an hour or even less. You don’t need to have a lot of skill or experience to try recoating. It’s also a lot less messy than sanding the floors down to the bare wood. Sanding can also remove the top layer of your hardwood floors, which can become an issue if you do it several times.

You can try recoating anything from solid hardwood to laminated wood and parquet floors. Just make sure that the new coat of polyurethane sticks to the finish before you begin the process. Try a test area to check this before you start. Older floors may have a coat of varnish or shellac, and polyurethane will not adhere to this material. Some floors have a wax coating which can cause a thick buildup on your floors. Make sure the current finish will allow the recoating material to apply properly.

Now that you know more about attempting a refinish hardwood floors DIY project, you can be better prepared for the process. Consider hiring a professional who will make sure that your floors look as good as new.

The post Should You Ever Refinish Hardwood Floors Yourself? appeared first on Learning Center.

Hardwood flooring is an often sought-after flooring, especially for more traditional or historic homes. The natural wood construction makes it easy to sand down and refinish as time goes on. As with many flooring types, hardwood flooring comes in a variety of different grades. The different grades of the floors speak to their characteristics and effect the price point of the product.

Hardwood Flooring Grades

The grade of the hardwood flooring is determined by the features of the planks. The numbers of knots, variation of color tone, and imperfections in each plank all go into determining what grade the flooring will receive. One thing that all flooring grades have in common is that they are well-constructed and designed to last. The hardwood flooring grades include:

• Prime Grade (AB)
• Select Grade (ABC)
• Natural Grade (ABCD)
• Rustic Grade (CD)
• Utility Grade (Cabin)

First-quality hardwood floors are chosen for their lack of imperfections, impeccable milling, and overall uniformity of design. Cabin grade flooring is considered the lowest of all the hardwood flooring grades and includes the pieces that did not make the cut to be a higher grade. It is also commonly referred to as shop grade, rustic grade or tavern grade flooring because of its rustic characteristics. The variations are largely due to the fact that these flooring planks are harvested from the outer edges of the tree, as opposed to the more uniform inside of the tree.

Characteristics of Cabin Grade Hardwood Flooring

Each of the flooring grades offers distinct characteristics. Cabin grade flooring appreciates the natural imperfections that occur in each piece of wood and provide a casual look. With these floors in place, you won’t be afraid to wear shoes in the house or have pets because the light damage that they could cause to the floors will only further enhance the distressed look of the planks.

Perfectly Imperfect

Because hardwood flooring is sourced from a natural product, variations including knots, pinholes, dents and streaks occur. Cabin grade hardwood flooring is characterized by the ample imperfections running throughout each plank. These imperfections may be in the center of the plank or extend to the edges of the planks. The amount of imperfections can vary greatly from one floor to another, resulting in a rustic and worn look once the floor is installed. The natural variations of these plank call attention to the natural beauty of the wood.

Natural Color Variations

The tone of cabin grade flooring can vary greatly from one plank to another. The natural color variations give cabin grade flooring a distinct character, much unlike the uniform look of some higher hardwood flooring grades. The natural color variations make these floors easy to coordinate with many different furniture finishes.

Thickness Variations

In addition to offering color variations, cabin grade flooring also offers slight differences in the thickness. Slight variations during the milling process cause the variations in thickness, which is how many of the planks receive a cabin grade rating. The length of the flooring can also vary from one piece to another. You may find that many of the planks are shorter in length than with first-quality hardwood flooring grades.

Highly Affordable

Cabin grade flooring is the most affordable of all hardwood flooring grades. The low cost of this flooring makes it more accessible for a variety of budgets and can make it a good choice for expansive spaces.

Tips for Installing Cabin-Grade Hardwood Flooring

As with any flooring, there are some tips and tricks to get the best finished look out of your cabin grade hardwood. Mixing up planks and using the right boards in the right places will help to cut back on the waste you have throughout the installation process.

Mix Up Planks

Because the planks can vary so much in appearance from one piece to another, it is important to open multiple boxes of flooring and mix them up during installation. This will help to disperse pieces from different boxes into each area so the whole room has a more cohesive look. Throughout the installation process, make sure to have multiple boxes open to pull from.

Thoughtfully Place Boards

If you run across boards that aren’t ideal for the center of a living room or bedroom, save them for installation in a closet or another inconspicuous place instead of scrapping them all together.

Purchase 20 Percent Extra Flooring

Because it is a lower grade flooring, you are bound to come up with some planks you don’t want to use at all. Purchase an overage of about twenty to twenty-five percent to account for any planks that will be discarded. Make sure to factor this overage in when determining which grade of flooring to purchase

When you want a well-loved and rustic look for your space, choosing cabin grade hardwood flooring makes a great option. It is much less expensive than higher grade hardwood flooring and features numerous natural characteristics. Cabin grade flooring isn’t just a great option for lodges and cabins. It is a suitable choice for any casual living area, including guest bedrooms, family retreats, and game rooms. You can achieve the same rustic look with enhanced durability by opting for luxury vinyl floors.

The post What is Cabin Grade Hardwood Flooring? appeared first on Learning Center.

Tungston Hardwood – Unfinished Oak / SKU: 10095300

Due to its beauty, versatility, and durability, flooring has become a popular choice for the home. If you’re thinking about having hardwood floors installed in your home, you’ll discover two basic alternatives: finished and unfinished. While finished hardwood flooring is more common, there are some circumstances when unfinished hardwood floors are more desirable. Learn more about the advantages of unfinished hardwood flooring to see if it’s the right option for you.

Customization

Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of unfinished hardwood floors over the finished style is that unfinished wood offers many attractive ways you can customize your floors. Since working with unfinished flooring is basically like working with a piece of raw wood, it’s like having a clean slate, and you can do anything you want to it.

If you’re going for a certain style or look in your home, unfinished wood makes it easy to get exactly the appearance you want. When you select unfinished floors, you can customize them with colors and stains that perfectly suit your interior decor. Often, these colors aren’t available in finished floor products, so you’ll get to enjoy a unique look when you opt for unfinished hardwood floors and finish them yourself.

If you’re interested in a one-of-a-kind look for your floor, you can ask the installer about inlays, borders, and other custom features that simply aren’t possible with flooring that’s finished at the factory. Since unfinished hardwood floors are sanded on-site, it’s also possible to customize your floors with different edge profiles. For example, you can ask for a smoother edge that’s easier to keep clean than the micro-beveled edge that comes with most factory-finished floors.

Unfinished flooring also comes in a wider variety of wood species. This is ideal if you’re installing new floors in your dining room and either want something exotic or want them to match the existing floors in your living room. If you’re interested in an uncommon plank size, you might only be able to find it by selecting unfinished hardwood.

Installation Flexibility

Unlike finished hardwood floors, unfinished hardwood floors offer outstanding flexibility during the installation process. You can install the floor at any time you want. You can even wait until everything else in the house is finished before installing the floors. Plus, if you’re trying to make your new floors match existing flooring or other features inside your home, selecting on-site hardwood finishing makes it easier to get that coordination.

If you want the most flexibility possible when installing floors in any area of your home, you need to turn to hardwood. For example, since solid hardwood isn’t recommended for below-grade applications, such as in basements, many homeowners turn to engineered hardwood floors instead. This is because hardwood can handle changes in moisture level and humidity. Of course, finished hardwood flooring only has select stains and colors available. To get the look you really want, you need to choose unfinished hardwood.

Unfinished hardwood has another advantage if keeping your floors clean is a top priority. Since traditional hardwood flooring is finished at the factory, installers don’t apply a sealing agent to the seams between the planks when they put in the floor.

This lack of sealing agent can make it easier for dirt and other debris to get caught in the seams. Open seams are also susceptible to water penetration, which can cause mold to grow beneath the surface and permanently damage your floor. However, when you finish your floors on-site, you can get this sealing agent applied to the entire floor.

The Color Options Are Endless

With unfinished hardwood, you can change the look of the floor by applying a stain finish before you seal the wood. This gives you the opportunity to use colors that you can’t find in finished wood products, and your color options are almost endless. Along with traditional stain colors, you can also combine stains to create a truly distinctive look. You’ll also find an impressive range of finishes available, including matte, semi-gloss, and high-gloss.

When you get finished wood directly from the manufacturer, the stain and finish are already applied, so you can’t change the color if it isn’t what you were expecting. However, since the staining on unfinished hardwood is happening in your home, you can adjust as you go. Did the stain look darker in the store but now that it’s in your home it’s too light? You can easily add another coat or go with an entirely different color on the same floor.

It’s Cheaper Than Finished Hardwood… Usually

Another advantage that unfinished hardwood floors have over finished floors is that they’re usually cheaper. If you’re working with a tight budget, you’ll appreciate these savings. Of course, you do have to keep in mind that while the product itself is typically cheaper, you’ll need to consider installation and finishing costs when you’re calculating your budget for flooring.

Natural Wood Look

Tungston Hardwood – Unfinished Oak / SKU: 10083305

Though you have a large choice of colors, you can also choose to go with no stain at all when you select unfinished hardwood floors. This is an ideal way to go if you’re trying to get a more natural look in your home. In this case, you simply leave the natural wood as it is and then finish it.

You then get to enjoy the simple and pure beauty of the wood without any unnatural colors or stains. When you install unfinished hardwood in your home and finish it after installation, you’ll help preserve the natural characteristics and elegance of the wood.

If you’re considering hardwood flooring for your home and can’t decide between a finished or unfinished style, you now know the several advantages that unfinished floors offer. To enjoy the most control over the appearance of your floors, you may want to select unfinished hardwood floors.

Resources:

https://www.builddirect.com/blog/how-to-choose-an-engineered-wood-floor/

http://sequoia-ltd.com/2015/10/16/the-benefits-of-unfinished-engineered-wood/

https://blog.cityfloorsupply.com/unfinished-vs-prefinished-engineered-hardwood-flooring/

https://www.ambiencehardwoodflooring.co.uk/wood-flooring-guide/advantages-of-unfinished-hardwood-floors/

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/prefinished-or-unfinished-wood-flooring/

https://www.thespruce.com/prefinished-hardwood-floors-pros-and-cons-1314693

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Keeping your home clean when you have furry friends can be a challenging task. It’s easier to remove fur from hardwood floors than deep carpeting, but they still require regular care. The right vacuum will help you keep up with the challenge by simplifying your routines and doing much of the hard work for you. When shopping for a vacuum, consider its features carefully to make sure you have the best one for the job.

Is a Robot Vacuum Right for You?

If you need an effortless fix for your dusty, hair-covered floor, a robotic vacuum may offer just what you’re looking for. Modern robot vacuums are a far cry from their older counterparts. These autonomous floor cleaners can handle all types of flooring. In addition to cleaning your hardwood floors, these vacuums will also tackle carpet and tile. Today’s products will learn the layout of your rooms so they can systematically clean a pre-programmed space. When they’re finished, these vacuums will dump dirt into a prescribed spot and return to the charging station to await their next task.

Depending on the product, you may adjust the settings on your robot vacuum manually or simply leave it to transition automatically from one surface to the next. Many of these vacuums will even respond to commands sent via a smartphone app. This feature may allow you to clean the house even while you’re at work.

When you have pets in the home, dealing with hair and dander is a daily occurrence. A robot vacuum is a handy automated solution that will help you keep the floors clean and allergen-free with a minimal amount of effort.

Make Sure the Vacuum Can Handle Hair

Whether you go robotic or choose a more traditional manual design, it’s important that you pick a vacuum that can handle pet hair. Unless you have a hairless critter in your home, fur is a never-ending problem around the house. Look for products that specifically advertise their pet hair perks. Some highly rated options include the Dyson Ball Animal 2, Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright NV356E, and Eufy Robovac 11S.

Some specific features to look for when you’re dealing with pet hair include:

• Special attachments and tools to handle corners, edging, and upholstery
• Strong suction to pick up dander and hair
• A bar-free brush that won’t get tangled in fur
• Maneuverability to get in smaller areas of the home where pets may like to spend their time
• Portability, particularly in a multi-level home
• A HEPA filter, especially if you have asthma or allergy sufferers in your home

It’s important to think about all the places pet hair can collect and choose a vacuum that will get to all of it. For a standard vacuum, you may need slim attachments that can slip under the furniture. For a robot vacuum, you’ll want to look for a low-profile design that can sneak beneath the couch. Pet hair can collect nearly anywhere, so look for a vacuum that can get into those places, too.

Can the Vacuum Clean Carpet and Rugs Too?

While your primary concern may be the hardwood floors in your home, you should also think about other surfaces that you may have. If you rugs in some rooms, you’ll want a vacuum that’s up to the task of keeping these spots clean. Even something as minimal as entry rugs will require regular attention if you have pets.

Most vacuums are designed with multiple floor materials in mind. Look for a product that can handle everything you have in your home. Consider the controls and make sure it’s easy to switch the vacuum from a hardwood floor setting to one that’s more appropriate for carpeting. Some robotic vacuums are even designed to sense the difference and make the change for you, so you can enjoy effortless cleaning.

Is the Vacuum Cordless?

Cordless vacuum cleaners are a convenient option for pet owners who want to get into a lot of small corners and crevices. Perhaps your dog likes to hide in the farthest reaches of your closet, where a standard corded vacuum can’t reach. Maybe you want to head outside and vacuum your dog’s backyard sleeping space without hauling an extension cord to the dog house. There are many situations where a cordless vacuum can serve a pet owner well.

There are, however, some limitations to cordless vacuums. A cordless vacuum will typically have a smaller capacity, so you will have to empty the canister more often – even mid-job. These vacuums are limited by their battery life. If the battery can’t keep up with the job, you’ll have to split it up into smaller segments, which could make it more time-consuming. You may find that a cordless vacuum has less suction power as well.

The bottom line is that a cordless vacuum is good if you have a specific need for it, but may not be worth the investment if a more traditional vacuum can get to all of your must-clean areas just as well.

Tips for Keeping Your Hardwood Floors Clean

Keeping your hardwood floors clean is about more than just vacuuming. This is an important part of your cleaning routine, but it’s not the only thing you’ll need to do. Use your vacuum to clean up dust, dirt, and pet hair as the first step in your floor cleaning. Follow this up with a wet mop of the floor to disinfect and clean up more stubborn messes.

To add a simple shine to the floors, polish them with a soft cloth dipped in tea. The tea’s tannic acid brings out the natural gleam in hardwood flooring. With regular care and attention, you can keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful, no matter how much wear and tear they face.

Choosing the right vacuum for hardwood floors and pets will make it faster and easier for you to keep the home clean. Pick the perfect tool for the task and you can help your floors gleam.

See our selection of hardwood floors.

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Hardwood floors are a popular choice for many homeowners because of their classic beauty and excellent durability. Despite all their benefits, the main downside to hardwood floors is that they don’t absorb sound very well. Even if your household doesn’t have pets or children, the simple act of walking across the floor in shoes is sometimes enough to disturb other people in the home. However, with the proper soundproofing techniques, you can minimize the amount of noise your hardwood floors make and enjoy them even more.

Types of Noise: Airborne and Impact

If you want to know how to soundproof your gorgeous chestnut hardwood flooring, it first helps to know the different types of noises. You can classify noises into two categories: airborne or impact. Airborne noises, which are also sometimes called ambient noises, are sounds transmitted through the air before they pass through walls, ceilings, or floors. Examples of airborne noises include a radio or television playing, people talking, or a telephone ringing. The best way to deal with airborne noise is to use sound-absorbing material, such as fiber insulation, inside cavities in the floor and ceiling.

Impact noises are caused when one object makes direct contact with another object. Examples can include someone walking or running on the floor or someone dropping an object on the floor. The sound from an impact noise travels differently from airborne because the impact itself creates vibrations in the structure of the home, such as the beams and wood joists that connect the floors, ceilings, and walls.

Because of this difference in the way impact noise travels, reducing this noise is more difficult. The best way to reduce impact noise in a home is to separate the materials that are normally connected to each other. In the floor, this means installing a flexible and durable subfloor beneath the floor covering.

The best way to reduce either type of noise is to do so as close to the source as possible. Therefore, if the hardwood floors are in the upstairs part of your house and you have access to them, you’ll get better results by treating the upstairs floor rather than treating the downstairs ceiling.

Hardwood Floor Underlayment

One way you can soundproof your hardwood floors is by installing the flooring with a resilient underlayment and damping compound. The resilient underlayment separates the construction materials, and the damping compound helps to further disperse sound energy. The damping compound is especially important when dealing with lower frequencies that an underlayment can’t absorb.

When choosing a resilient underlayment, there are several material options available, including fiber, rubber, foam, and cork. One of the best choices for absorbing sound is a shredded rubber mat. It’s heavier than cork or foam, which gives it extra soundproofing abilities.

As long as your subfloor isn’t too thick and is made of a material you can screw into, you can often apply the damping compound directly to the existing subfloor layer. Since the damping compound needs to exist between two hard surfaces to do its job correctly, you must make sure it has a firm layer above it. A cement board is an acceptable choice. However, if the thickness isn’t a concern and you want even more sound isolation, consider a thicker sheet of oriented strand board or medium-density fiberboard.

When you’re ready to install your hardwood floors on top of the underlayment, you want to do so as a floating raft. This means you won’t attach the hardwood floors to the layer underneath with any type of screws, nails, or adhesive. You also want to leave a gap between the edge of the floor and the walls. You can then fill this gap with acoustic sealant. The gap acts as a separator and helps reduce impact noise that carries through the building structure.

Carpets and Rugs

While underlayment is ideal for hardwood floors that haven’t been installed yet, if you already have hardwood floors down and you’re looking to soundproof them, there are several ways to do this. Carpet and pad is the most effective way to reduce noise on your floors. The thicker you can get your carpet and pad, the better they will work at absorbing noise. Carpet and pad will dissipate noise before it even has a chance to enter the structure and carry to other parts of the house.

Of course, installing a carpet and pad means covering your hardwood floors. If you don’t want to give up enjoying the beauty of your hardwood just to cut down on the noise, you have a few other options. Thick area rugs will work to reduce some noise, and they won’t completely cover your floors. You can also use fabric in other spots around your house, such as fabric wall hangings, tapestries, fabric-covered wall panels, and thick drapes, to absorb unwanted airborne sounds.

Before You Build: Do You Have Soundproof Requirements?

Whether you’re considering hardwood floors for an apartment complex or a rental unit in your home, it’s important to note that building codes throughout the United States have certain soundproof requirements between floors. These codes are designed to create a standard of privacy and to make living conditions more comfortable for everyone.

While some building code inspection departments require completed field tests before they’ll issue a certificate of occupancy, others do not. The departments that don’t require field tests typically rely on the specifications and design recommendations from the architect. Purchasing a multi-family unit or renovating your home to create a rental space is a significant investment, and you want to make sure you’re following all the requirements. Take time to understand the regulations and recommendations before you start a project so you don’t waste any time or money doing it incorrectly.

Hardwood floors are easy to maintain and add exceptional style to your home. If you want to enjoy the beauty of your floors and yet control the noise they produce, these tips on how to soundproof your hardwood floors will help.

Resources:

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Whether you’re installing hickory or maple flooring, underlayment is essential. Underlayment may not be visible underneath your beautiful wood floors, but this material offers many key benefits. Along with providing added support and sound protection, underlayment also improves durability and helps your flooring last longer. To get the most out of the underlayment, however, you’ll need to select the right material. Find out how to choose the best underlayment for your new hardwood floors.

Know Your Underlayment Options

Underlayment comes in a range of materials and thicknesses. Take a closer look at some of the most common types of underlayment for hardwood flooring.

• Felt: Perhaps the simplest type of underlayment, felt offers basic sound absorption and moisture barrier capabilities.
• Foam: This material is one of the easiest and most affordable types of underlayment to install. Foam underlayment provides a high level of sound insulation, making it a great option for limiting hollow noises.
• Rubber: This type of underlayment takes sound insulation to the next level, easily absorbing noises and disturbances. Thanks to its pliability and flexibility, rubber underlayment is also one of the easiest types to install.
• Cork: This material offers both temperature insulation and sound absorption. Since it’s made from a natural material, cork underlayment is one of the most eco-friendly options you’ll find.

Consider the Hardwood Species

Not every underlayment material pairs perfectly with each hardwood species. To find the ideal match, consider the type of hardwood flooring you’re planning to install.

• Cherry: This hardwood species is known for its warm, cozy hues, but you may not realize that it’s one of the softest types of wood flooring. Cherry works best with an underlayment that provides extra support and padding, such as cork or rubber.
• Hickory: One of the hardest and most durable hardwood species, hickory flooring doesn’t need much help to withstand traffic and wear. Hickory flooring typically pairs well with flexible foam underlayment.
• Maple: Along with hickory, maple is one of the hardest types of wood flooring. It generally works best with foam or rubber underlayment, as both offer a moderate amount of support and insulation.
• Oak: Whether you choose white or red, oak flooring is on the softer side. Both types of oak pair well with rubber underlayment, which provides the insulation and absorption capabilities white and red oak need.
• Walnut: This type of flooring may look impenetrable, but walnut is one of the softest types of hardwood flooring. Consider pairing it with cork underlayment for extra support and added durability.

Think About the Subfloor Condition

While the hardwood species certainly impacts the type of underlayment you’ll choose, don’t forget to consider the subfloor, too. Take note of both the material and the condition as you make your decision. Subfloors that are damaged or uneven tend to work best with the most flexible underlayment options, as these materials can make up for any subfloor imperfections.

If the subfloor is plywood, opt for an underlayment that’s semi-permeable. This type of underlayment allows both the hardwood floor and the wood subfloor to breathe without trapping mold and mildew or causing the material to rot. If the subfloor is concrete, choose an impermeable underlayment instead. This type of material is designed to stop moisture in its tracks and prevent water from seeping through the concrete and into the hardwood floor.

Evaluate the Purpose of the Room

In many cases, the room itself determines the ideal underlayment. For example, a condo or apartment on a higher level of a building may need a rubber underlayment which can provide additional sound insulation and vibration absorption and prevent disruptions in the unit below. Along the same lines, a family room or entryway that experiences a high level of traffic may need a cork underlayment, an underlayment which is more supportive and can boost durability.

Accommodate Radiant Heating Needs

If your new wood flooring needs to accommodate radiant heating, you’ll need to be more selective with the type of underlayment you choose. You’ll want to rule out any underlayment options made with asphalt, as this material tends to produce strong odors when heated. Since radiant heating can cause temperature fluctuations that may produce condensation, you’ll also want to choose an underlayment type that can handle moisture without damaging either the hardwood floor above or the subfloor below.

Mazama Hardwood – Handscraped Acacia Collection / SKU: 10082300

Assess Environmental Concerns

Whether you want to keep harmful chemicals out of your home or you want to minimize your carbon footprint, you’ll also want to assess any environmental concerns with your underlayment choice. Many types of rubber underlayment are made with recycled materials that make this option more sustainable than most. In addition, cork is easy to recycle after use, making it one of the most eco-friendly options on the market. Before you choose an underlayment, check the specifics to confirm the materials and the environmental impact.

Check the Building Requirements

If you’re installing hardwood flooring in a larger building, remember to check the building requirements for underlayment. Your building may require you to use an underlayment with a certain impact isolation class (IIC) rating, which absorbs footsteps, or a particular sound transmission class (STC) rating, which refers to noise reduction.

Your building may also regulate materials for safety or durability reasons. Before proceeding with your hardwood floor installation, make sure your underlayment choice meets or exceeds what your building requires, or you could have to schedule a second renovation project sooner than you had planned.

Confirm the Manufacturer’s Approval

Finally, don’t forget to confirm the flooring manufacturer’s approval. Many hardwood flooring manufacturers recommend certain types of underlayment for use with their products. You’ll want to make sure that the underlayment’s material, thickness, and installation requirements are compatible with the flooring. After all, selecting the best underlayment for the hardwood flooring ensures that your floors will look fantastic, feel comfortable, and last for years to come.

Keep the tips above in mind as you pair the ideal underlayment with your hardwood of choice. Once you’ve chosen the right underlayment, you’ll be one step closer to installing new hardwood floors and creating your dream home.

Resources:

https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/wood-floors-guide

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/types-of-hardwood-flooring/

https://www.builddirect.com/blog/5-hardwood-flooring-options-to-match-the-style-of-rooms/

https://www.builddirect.com/blog/hardwood-flooring-installation-5-tips/

https://www.builddirect.com/blog/what-to-ask-when-shopping-for-hardwood-flooring/

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Whether this is your first time working with a contractor or you’ve already completed several home improvement projects with professional assistance, knowing what to ask is critical. Before hiring an experienced professional to install new hardwood floors, ask your contractor the following eight questions.

1) What Type of Hardwood Flooring Is Best for My Home?

Image via Flickr by TRAstudio

If you’ve already decided to install hardwood flooring in your home, you might have a good idea about the type of hardwood flooring you want. An experienced contractor can offer expert advice about the type of flooring that will work best with your home’s style. For instance, you might not have considered one of the hardest options, like hickory, or one of the more sustainable options, like bamboo.

A contractor can also recommend the right kind of hardwood for your home’s natural environment. If you live in an area with high humidity levels, for instance, your contractor can help you decide on a type of hardwood that won’t warp due to moisture.

2) What Is Your Anticipated Installation Timeline?

Whether you need new hardwood flooring installed quickly or your timing is relatively flexible, a professional contractor is able to explain the installation process, the timeline, and related expectations. For instance, be sure you understand who’s responsible for moving furniture and other belongings out of the installation area. Also ask whether the contractor will remove the old flooring and other construction materials, as well as if there’s any additional costs involved for this work.

3) How Will You Handle Unexpected Issues or Installation Problems?

Your contractor might have a relatively straightforward plan for your hardwood flooring installation, but it’s important to remember that issues can arise at any time during the process. If your subfloor has some damage, for instance, it might need significant repairs or even replacement before installing the hardwood flooring. Ask whether your contractor can handle these issues and how they might affect the total cost and timeline.

4) What Do You Charge for an Installation Estimate?

You shouldn’t hire a contractor without getting an accurate in-home estimate. Some contractors offer free estimates, while others charge a standard fee. Neither method is better than the other, as long as you know what to expect ahead of time.

5) What Does Your Flooring Warranty Include?

Most contractors offer at least one-year warranties on materials and labor, but some offer more extensive warranties. Find out if your contractor needs certification by the flooring manufacturer or if there are other restrictions in place for the warranty to work.

6) Are You Insured to Install Hardwood Flooring?

Image via Flickr by hnnbz

You don’t want anything to go wrong during the installation, but planning for the unexpected is essential. Make sure that any contractor you hire has the proper contractor insurance in place before starting work in your home. Request specifics or a copy of the policy if necessary.

7) Are You a Member of the National Wood Flooring Association?

A National Wood Flooring Association membership indicates that a contractor is highly qualified and follows industry guidelines for hardwood flooring installation. While you don’t need a contractor who is a member, it’s generally a sign of higher standards and commitment to the industry.

8) Can You Provide References?

Speaking with a contractor’s references is often the best way to get a sense of how your experience with the same contractor might go. Don’t hesitate to ask your contractor for references, and follow up to ask previous customers for details. If they were highly satisfied with your contractor’s work quality and professionalism, that’s a sign you’re in good hands.

No matter where you live, you’ll find many flooring contractors in your area. Make sure you’re hiring the right person for the job by asking your contractor these questions first.

Have you ever used a contractor for a wood flooring installation? Share your experience in the comments section below.

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