HOW TO PERFECTLY INSTALL HARDWOOD FLOORING
Hardwood is a popular flooring material due to its beauty, ease of cleaning and long-lasting nature. Hardwood has such timeless appeal that it has remained a top flooring material for hundreds of years. But for you to get the most out of your wood floors, you need to ensure that they are properly installed.
WHERE WILL THE FLOOR BE LAID?
The place where you intend to install the hardwood floor will determine which floor is best suited for it. For instance, if you intend to install floor heating systems, the type of wood flooring you choose should be suited for it. You must follow the manufacturer’s instructions prior to installing the wood type. If the wood flooring is for busy rooms like the kitchen and family room, you’ll need to select a hard type of wood species like oak or ash. Pine, when properly installed and finished, will hold up well too.
HOW TO HANDLE LEAKING DISASTERS
Though kitchens are prone to water and moisture, wood can still be used on the floor. One of the areas where wood is not recommended is in the bathroom. It can be used sparingly in the powder room but not in a full bath. Should you experience a situation where your wooden warm floors are exposed to lots of water such as a leaking dishwasher, make sure you mop off as much water as you can from the surface until completely dry. Avoid sanding down the surface of the wood if the boards begin to wear out due to moisture. The floor should be just fine if given adequate time to completely dry out.
WHAT TO DO WHEN THE HARDWOOD FLOOR IS WORN OUT
If you notice the hardwood floor is worn out, it probably needs a new finish. Most wood floors can be finished using polyurethane. You may also opt for the prefinished floors available in the market. Rather than the extra cost and time spent on finishing the floors on site, these ones come ready to install. Make sure you also take steps to protect your finished floors after installation. Making sure you sweep and vacuum the floors regularly will help to protect the finish from wearing out. You should only use a dry mop to clean the wood floors. Place a mat in front of exterior doors so as to keep dirt and dust at bay. If you have floor heating, ensure it’s regularly inspected to avoid safety issues.
CONSIDER GREEN FLOORING
When you want to renovate using wood floors, opt for options that have been labelled FSC or SFI. This indicates that you are buying a wood floor that has been sustainably harvested. For instance, wood from storm-damaged trees can be harvested to make flooring systems. You may also consider using salvaged wood that wasn’t initially used in flooring. You are likely to require more labor to install the floor but it’s going to be less material costs and an environmentally friendly option. Go through the manufacturer’s instructions prior to installing the floor. Sometimes your installer may not be aware of certain aspects the manufacturer recommends especially if you require heated floors.
