Hardwood Flooring

Beyond Tradition: the Hardwood Flooring Advantage
Hardwood flooring is looked upon by many as the flooring option that lends a sense of permanence to an interior. Pre-finished and Unfinished Hardwood Flooring

For pre-finished hardwood flooring, the obvious advantage is that of convenience. No sanding is required for these types of hardwood floors, and therefore more time is saved on preparation as well a mess; sanding a hardwood floor involves both. This means extra protection against moisture, the hardwood floor's most dangerous enemy. Hardwood Flooring Surfaces and Stains

Some hardwood flooring is planned evenly at the mill, offering a smooth, refined surface that many consumers have come to admire in hardwood flooring. But another variety of hardwood flooring that is becoming popular with flooring professionals and homeowners is that of the handscraped hardwood flooring. The variations in hardwood flooring are further extended by the variety of stains available as well. Hardwood Flooring: the Luxury of Choice

Overall, hardwood flooring is not just an option which relies upon tradition, although hardwood flooring has been relied upon for centuries because it is such a durable material. What hardwood flooring offers is the luxury of choice and an ease of integration into an interior design. Popular Species of Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring "Dos" and "Don'ts"
Do:
•  Hire a professional installer if you have little or no experience in installing a hardwood floor.
•  In the case of an unfinished hardwood flooring option, consult with contractors or local retailers about which finish or stain is most appropriate for your choice of hardwood flooring
•  Expect color variations, as hardwood is a natural material.
•  Allow your hardwood flooring to "acclimate" before you install it. Being a natural material, hardwood flooring expands and contracts according to climate
•  Install hardwood flooring in an area that will be subject to excessive moisture.
•  Use wax-based cleaners or harsh detergents that will dull the finish of the hardwood flooring
•  Use steel wool or any other abrasives to clean a hardwood floor
•  Use excessive water when cleaning a hardwood floor
•  Walk on your hardwood flooring with athletic spikes or high-heels
•  Install hardwood flooring over radiant heat.
•  Leave damp rugs on the surface of hardwood flooring for an extended period.
Contractors and sales reps that specialize in hardwood flooring can often serve as excellent resources before, during, and after your hardwood flooring purchase.