How do I care for my hardwood floors?
Hardwood floors are easy to maintain and keep clean. Regular dust mopping or vacuuming is the most effective method for keeping hardwood floors clean. Occasionally, a moist mop with a very mild cleaning solution can be used to eliminate any dirt that has adhered to the floor.
Isn’t hardwood flooring very expensive?
In general, the cost of hardwood flooring is comparable and sometimes less than other flooring types. When you consider the longevity of hardwood floors compared to other flooring options such as carpet, tile and laminate, hardwood floors have superior value.
After several years of wear and tear other flooring options would need to be replaced, whereas, a simple recoat will revitalize and bring new life to your hardwood floor. There is no question that the benefits of hardwood over the other alternatives make it an excellent investment for any home. Solid hardwood flooring can last a lifetime and even longer.
Are hardwood floors practical in high traffic areas?
YES. Hardwood floors are very practical in high traffic areas, even in a kitchen. They are easy to maintain compared to the other alternatives such as carpet, tile, vinyl or laminate which need replacing every few years. Hardwood floors can stand up to the wear and tear of active households since simple cleaning such as vacuuming, dust mopping and wiping spills is all that is required to keep them clean. Nevertheless, hardwood floor finishes will not last lifetime. Therefore, hardwood floors should be recoated when the original finish shows signs of wear. A simple recoat will eliminate any surface scratches and bring new life to worn out, dull looking floors.
Do I need a humidifier/dehumidifier for my hardwood floors?
YES. Wood plank and parquet flooring are natural wood products of Mother Nature and will absorb excess moisture under humid conditions and release their normal moisture content under excessively dry conditions. In other words, all wood flooring expands in the humid summer weather and shrinks in the winter under dry conditions.
WHEN THE FURNACE OR OTHER HEATING SYSTEMS ARE OFF:
During this period in the later spring, summer and early fall we recommend the use of a dehumidifier in your basement. As well as protecting your wood floor from excessive humidity which could result in expansion of the planks or parquet bars, a dehumidifier will safeguard your furniture, drapes, furniture coverings, wall paneling, etc. from excessive dampness and also protect your home from harmful molds.
WHEN THE FURNACE OR OTHER HEATING SYSTEMS ARE ON:
During this period in the late fall, winter and early spring we recommend the use of a humidifier system. With the advent of more efficient insulation and/or electric heating systems, many home tend to have very dry air. As a result of a dry atmosphere, individuals are more prone to health problems such as colds, sore throats, sinus conditions and dry cracked skin. As well as protecting your health, a humidifier system will also provide the moisture in the air to avoid the shrinking (cracks between planks or parquets bars) in your wood floor.