Wood Flooring FAQ

19 Jun, 2015 Wood Flooring 0 Comments 0

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Can a solid wood floor be installed over a concrete slab?

Usually this type of installation is not recommended. But this is a possible process and has successfully been done before.

This method is in the need of many additional steps compared to installing over another subflooring material. You firstly need a plastic underlayment laid over the slab and taped at the seams. You now need to attache a moisture-resistant marine plywood. Furthermore, the solid wood floor needs to be installed. Double check the manufacturer’s recommendations. AcouBond is a new underlayment product available on the market. This item helps installing in an easier manner the solid wood over the concrete slab. Before anything, check the manufacturer’s warranty information to make sure that it covers this installation.

What type of wood floor can I install over a concrete slab?

We have to tell you that manufacturers do not recommend using solid hardwood flooring over a concrete slab. With improvements in wood floors, engineered plank floors can be installed over a concrete slab. Those type of materials can be glued directly to a clean, dry, and well-cured concrete slab. Another fact you might consider is that some of the engineered flooring could be floated over the slab with a special underlayment. The next step is gluing at the tongue and groove for installation. “Hybrid” engineered hardwood floors use a floated glueless “click lock” system for installation. If you need more information go see: How To Install Hardwood Floor Over Concrete Slab.

Note: Keep in mind that before installing any wood floor over a concrete slab, it’s a must to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for guidance. You have to make sure that this installation will not void the warranty.

Can I install a hardwood floor over an already existing vinyl floor?

Yes, this is possible but it may not be a solution for your home. If the vinyl floor is thin and tightly secured to the subfloor, you can float a wood floor over it. You need to check with the manufacturer before starting this kind of process.

How can I remove scratches from my wood floor?

This depends on the type of wood floor, finish and depth of the scratches.

In case of minor scratches, (for example those in the surface of the urethane finish) you can easily buy a touch up kit from the same location which provided you with the flooring. Don’t forget to use the manufacturer’s recommended finish products to keep the warranty. You should firstly test the product in a small area hidden by furniture. This way you will make sure that the product answers correctly to your demands.

In case of deep scratches, we recommend you asking for professional advice. This process is in the need of special screens in order to sand the surface of the floor. Furthermore, this allows the new coat of urethane protectant to adhere to the surface of the wood. You should also keep in mind that some types of wood floor are easier to repair by replacing the damaged boards.

If I have pets, can I install a hardwood floor?

Yes. The only issue might be that the floors are not really built to put up with the wear and tear pets can create. Minor scratched might occur due to the pet’s claws. Another problem may be that the chemicals in the urine can permanently discolor the floor. Floor must be sanded and refinished in order to remove this type of damage.

Can I refinish an engineered wood floor?

Depending on the quality of the floor, there may or may not be enough of a real hardwood finish layer to sand down and refinish. The higher quality engineered wood will have about 1/8’’ finish layer. This layer can be sanded and refinished one or two times before the entire floor would need to be replaced.

Can I use throw rugs on my hardwood floor?

Yes, you can. All you have to remember before using any rug on the floor is checking is the rug is “non-staining” (so the colors from the rug won’t stain the floor). The second aspect is checking the rug’s backing to make sure it is not rough. When cleaning your home, remember to lift the rug and clean the dirt, dust, and other debris out from under it.

How do we stop from gapping a solid hardwood floor?

Since wood swells and contracts naturally with the change in humidity, gapping cannot be entirely stopped. We recommend you using a humidifier during hotter months to keep the year round humidity relatively stable. Keep in mind that some species of wood will expand and contract more than others.

What should I use under furniture legs?

Some furniture shops carry felt pads created for using under furniture legs. While some brands may stick to the bottom of the furniture, other may need the pad to be nailed into the furniture leg.

Always follow the indications which come with the pads. Prevent future damage by periodically checking the pads. When cleaning the floor, remember to also clean under the pads.

What is solid wood flooring?

Solid wood flooring is made from continuous planks of wood.

Will solid wood floors increase the value of my home?

Solid wood floors are made of high quality material. They have a timeless lasting and are fully renewable. In addition to that, they are aesthetically pleasing.

Are solid wood floors expensive?

As more customers realize the benefits of solid wood floors, increased demands have lately caused the prices to fall.

What is the difference between solid wood and laminate?

Solid wood flooring is made from one plank, with no engineering or gluing. Laminate flooring is a high-density base, with a photographic image of a wooden plank, finished with an acrylic lacquer.

What is engineered flooring?

Engineered flooring is made from plies of wood stacked in alternating patterns and finished with a hardwood veneer. Enginneered flooring is more flexibility than solid hardwood flooring

Is solid wood flooring suitable for use with radiant heat underfloor heating systems?

Yes. Just be careful that the heating tubes will not touch the wood. We recommend placing a plastic underlayment sheet in between the tubing and the wooden floor.

Can I install solid wood on stairs?

Yes, but it is possible to be slippery. Consider your circumstances before any decision. It may not be a good choice if you have children or pets.

Is there a type of hardwood more durable than others?

Yes but harder hardwoods are generally not durable.

Which solid wood should I select?

We think tt is important to choose a solid wood that complements all the other elements in the room (for example the walls).

Where can I install solid wood flooring?

We do not recommend installing solid wood in basements where water is an issue since it can cause expansion and contraction of the wood. Install your solid wood flooring anywhere above ground installations in rooms other than the bathrooms.

Which installation method is best?

This depends on the type of wood flooring, the installation area and also the type of subfloor. Installation methods are: nail down, glue down, and floating. Solid floors can be nailed down. Laminate floors can be glued down. In case of floating, it is recommended attaching the wood floor to an underlay.

What is floating flooring?

Planks are glued together and then attached to a plastic sheet or underlay, which is secured to the floor. This is ideal in situations where tearing the existing floor out or installing on the real subfloor is not practical

Is solid wood floor difficult to maintain and clean?

No, this is not the case. All you have to remember is not to use a damp mop.

How can I clean and maintain my wood floor?

You could sweep the dirt away by using a soft cloth broom. Never use water to clean the wood floor.

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