Solid Hardwood Floors A Closer Look

Solid hardwood floors should neither be installed over a concrete slab nor below ground level because of high moisture sensitivity. Unsightly gaps appear when moisture dries and the floors contract in the winter heating months. As for the floors, they expand and gaps disappear during summers. Because of excessive moisture, the wood planks may buckle or cup. In view of these facts, enough space should be left for expansion and wood should be acclimated. For these floors, nail-down installations are the most appropriate. The possibility of re-coating and refinishing increases the life and appearance of solid hardwood floors. Generally made up of ash, maple, red oak and white oak are solid hardwood floors.

Solid wood floorings are divided into three sub categories: strip flooring, plank flooring and parquet flooring. As for strip flooring, the thickness varies between 5/16 inch and 3/4 inch. The widths would be11/2 inch, 2 inch and 2 1/4 inch. Plank flooring may be sold in two thicknesses but width can range between 3 inches and 8 inches. There are geometrical patterns in parquet flooring that are created with wood slats.

When it comes to hand-scraped hardwood floors, they are hand crafted. Considered as a unique feature are the character markings on hand-scraped hardwood floors or hand sculptured floors. The best finishes for either the modern world look or the old reclaimed wood floor look are these floors. Also sold are both engineered and solid hand sculpted floors. Beautiful handscraped hardwood floors are very expensive. Engineered handscraped hardwood floors are best suited for a structure erected on a concrete slab and in high humidity conditions. A few companies also market distressed hardwood flooring that has machine made markings unlike hand made markings in handscraped hardwood floor. A rich look is offered by both floorings even though hand-scraped floor is the more expensive version.

It is essential for hardwood floors to be cleaned with products that are recommended by the manufacturer. Regular use of a vacuum cleaner will clean dirt, mud, grit and small stones that may spoil the finish. A great help in protecting the finish are welcome mats at the entrance for wiping feet before walking on the floor. When choosing furniture for you home, do not buy products with sharp metal or wooden legs to prevent denting and scratching. By using furniture coasters or felt protectors for all legs, you can then prevent scratching. A must for heavy items like piano are non-staining and wide rubber cups. The use of a paste wax on the hardwood floor with a polyurethane finish damages the finish. If there are spills on hardwood floors, then immediate attention is needed. Dry the area after you have cleaned them with a paper towel or damp white cloth.

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