Hardwood Flooring
November 26, 2008 by Laminate & Hardwood Flooring
Filed under Laminate & Hardwood Flooring
Wood flooring can boost the value of any home. For an addition of class and traditional value, hardwood flooring is one of the best avenues. A high quality maple or oak wood flooring can really put a new face on a home, while also building a base for an elegant atmosphere. Hardwood flooring can be found in almost every imaginable color and shade. Finding the best kind of flooring can be a little daunting, but the process is always rewarding in the end. Although carpet can certainly work in some situations, wood flooring has a traditional appeal that is hard to deny.
The first step to take is to assess the value that hardwood can add to the home. Regions that undergo severe weather conditions and change temperature extremes every season, hardwood may be prone to suffering buckling and warping. High humidity is also a real issue when it comes to hardwoods. Excess moisture can wick up from the subfloor and into the wood through spills, leading to warping and buckling as the years pass. Crowning and cupping are common problems for wood flooring exposed to moisture. When a floor crowns or cups, it loses its originally level form, most frequently in the middle of the floor. This can result in a floor that must be replaced or sanded down to restore its level surface.
Once you have decided that hardwood is the best solution for you and your home, there are many products and manufacturers from which to choose. Maple and oak are more traditional species, while cedar gives a more rustic and natural atmosphere. A higher gloss finish will result in a more reflective surface, while a lower gloss fits in with a darker atmosphere. The thickness of the boards is also crucial when determining the best hardwood. Thicker boards will be more durable and more resistant to moisture.
Moisture is very frequently behind hardwood reliability issues. Avoid exposing wood flooring to moisture as much as possible. If storing wood flooring outdoors before installation, make certain that the wood is protected against moisture. Clean up spills on the wood flooring immediately in order to prevent eventual warping and cracking. If water beads up on the surface of the flooring, it is time for another coat of finishing on the flooring. Protect your investment, and wood flooring can last for generations.
Flooring
November 27, 2008 by Laminate & Hardwood Flooring
Filed under Laminate & Hardwood Flooring
Finding just the right kind of flooring for your home is a very important process that requires a decent amount of time and money. There is no single answer as to what kind of flooring is best, as each type fits a different set of needs. Hardwood can help to provide a sturdy and elegant appearance, while carpet provides a warmer feel.
Tile and stone flooring provides the home with a greater degree of durability in flooring. Deciding which kind of flooring is appropriate for your home requires knowing what the flooring must withstand.
When children and pets are in the home, a more rugged type of flooring may be in order for the home. While carpet gives warmth and comfort, it sometimes is inadequate when children and pets are present. A laminate or tile surface works better when faced with these conditions. Carpet, although it provides warmth and comfort, also absorbs moisture and dirt. Without regular cleaning, carpet has a tendency to become very dirty. Carpet may also take on an odor after a while if it is not cleaned appropriately. With appropriate cleaning, however, carpet is a wonderful investment.
Should you decide on carpet, be sure to select one that has a deep pile. Deep pile carpets are far more resilient, and resist stains more effectively. Carpet has the advantage of comfort over hardwood, which can be rough and cold. Hardwood is a stately and aesthetically pleasing option. Although not as diverse as carpet, hardwood can come in a range of species and shades. Maple and oak are more classical, while cedar provides a rustic feeling that is great in some homes.
Moisture is a big problem for hardwoods, although some are designed specifically to provide greater protection against this. With a hardwood floor, it is important to avoid frequent spills and excess moisture. Doing so will make the hardwood last much longer, and prevent warping and buckling that can occur otherwise. Regular cleaning is an important part of hardwood maintenance, but rough chemicals and excessive amounts of water should not be used. Professional cleaning services must normally be contracted to handle with cleaning carpets.
Tile and stone flooring are a great choice for garages or kitchens. Water, spills, and scuffing are not a problem with these tough surfaces.
