FAQ's
(click on the question for the answer)

Are Solid Wood floors expensive? Top Page

Solid Wood floors can cost more up front than other alternatives like Laminates, Engineered Wood, Carpet or Vinyl, but not always.  However, a Solid Wood floor will last as long as the home itself if maintained properly.  Solid Wood flooring is typically the best value because of its strength and long term durability.  It's the best choice of all hardwood flooring options. 

Years down the road, after other flooring types have to be completely replaced, a refinish or a screen sand and coat is all a Solid Wood floor will require.  A Solid Wood floor also increases the value of your home and improves its marketability if you ever decide to sell.

Wood floors, in general, are easier to keep clean and aren't as likely to harbor dust mites or allergens.  They also won't absorb atmospheric toxins, which could cause health problems down the road.

So, consider your hardwood floor an investment, both in your home and in your health.

Are wood floors easy to maintain? Top Page

Yes.  Usually, a light vacuuming or sweeping will keep the floor clean.  Laminates and Engineered Floors can be cleaned with a wide variety of products.  A Solid Wood floor requires cleaning with a flooring cleaner that doesn't leave a residue.  Using the proper cleaning product will keep your Solid Wood floor looking great. 

If in doubt about which cleaning product to use for Solid Wood floors, it's best to consult with a retail flooring outlet or your flooring contractor.  Don't select a cleaning product just because it is advertised on tv as being good for Solid Wood floors.  Using the wrong cleaning product can cost you money down the road.


What are the main differences between Prefinished Solid Wood floors and jobsite finished Solid Wood floors? Top Page

The big difference is that a Prefinished Solid Wood floor, by definition, already has been finished by the time it is installed.  If the Prefinished Solid Wood floor is 3/4" thick, as jobsite installed Solid Wood floors are, the pre-applied coating is the only difference. 

The Prefinished Solid Wood floor plank typically has an aluminum-oxide coating added to the finish in the factory for additional durability during the first wear cycle.  Once a Prefinished Solid Wood floor is refinished, however, it has no durability advantages over a jobsite finished Solid Wood floor.

The edges of the planks on a Prefinished Solid Wood floor usually have a bevel to hide any height discrepancies from plank to plank.  Due to variations in the subfloor, getting each Prefinished Solid Wood floor plank to match in height is difficult.  These bevels can sometimes act as hiding places for dirt or bacteria, but it isn't usually a significant problem. 

If a customer doesn't like bevels in their floor, the way to get a nice, smooth, even finish is to purchase a Jobsite Finished Solid Wood floor.  These floors are sanded down to a uniform height after installation, before a stain and finish are applied.  Many people prefer the look of a Jobsite Finished Solid Wood floor because of its smooth surface, warmth, beauty and value. 

Another reason they prefer Jobsite Finished Solid Wood floors is that several stain samples can be applied to the newly installed floor by the flooring contractor, allowing the customer to view various color combinations before making a final decision.  They'll know what the floor will look like in their home before it is actually finished.  With a Prefinished Solid Wood floor stain and finish choices often have to be made in a showroom and may look different when actually installed in the customer's home.  Also, the choices are limited to what the manufacturer decides to offer you.

What are the main differences between Engineered and Solid Wood (prefinished and jobsite finished) floors? Top Page

An Engineered Wood floor is a man-made product.  It consists, typically, of three to five layers: the base, the inner core and the tread layer.  The layers are typically run and glued in opposite directions during manufacturing to increase the dimensional stability of the product.  This product is great for basement installations because of this stability and because it can be glued down.  The humidity in a basement will typically cause Solid Wood floors to warp or cup, while the engineered product will not. 

The finish is typically applied in a factory for Engineered Wood products, similar to Prefinished Solid Wood.  However, it can be purchased unfinished and be finished on the jobsite, just like a traditional Solid Wood floor. 

What is a Laminate floor? Top Page

A Laminated floor is a manufactured product as well.  It is typically a vinyl and pressed wood product that contains no wood veneers or solid wood.  It is much thinner than Solid Wood floors and is highly resistant to spills and stains.  It should not be confused with an Engineered Wood floor.  A Laminate floor cannot be refinished.  It is typically the lowest priced option when compared to Solid Wood or Engineered Wood products.

Can I install a Solid Wood floor in my basement?  Top Page

No.  You should never install a Solid Wood floor below grade due to moisture and humidity considerations.  This is the perfect environment for an Engineered Wood product.

How many species options do I have for a Solid Wood floor? Top Page

The options are almost limitless.  From traditional red or white oak to Brazilian Walnut, African Perdauk or Merbau, there are literally hundreds of choices.  Which one you select is dependent on the style of your home or place of business, your furnishings, traffic, availability and cost.  Mixing wood species can create dramatic design effects for your home or business.

Will a Solid Wood floor work in my kitchen? Top Page

Absolutely!  Homeowners are installing Solid Wood floors in their kitchens often because of its beauty, warmth and durability.   Don't be afraid of wood in this part of your house!  It works!

How often do I have to refinish my wood floor? Top Page

It really depends.  It depends on how well you maintain your floor and how much traffic it bears.  With average wear and tear, a finish should last at least 10 - 15 years.  If you use the proper cleaning products, you'll get by with a screen sand and coat when it's time for a new finish, rather than a complete sanding, staining and finishing.  A screen, sand and coat job is less expensive than a full refinish and creates less of a mess.

How many refinishes can I get out of a Solid Wood floor vs. an Engineered or Laminate floor? Top Page

Typically, you'll get up to eight refinishes on a 3/4" Solid Wood (jobsite finished or prefinished) floor.  The Engineered Wood products vary in tread thickness, so the number of refinishes you can get will vary.  You won't likely get as many as you will with Solid Wood.  You cannot refinish a Laminate floor.