In view of these facts, enough space
should be left for expansion and wood should be
acclimated. Nail-down installations are most
appropriate for these floors. The possibility of
re-coating and refinishing increases the life and
appearance of solid hardwood floors. Generally solid
hardwood floors are made up of ash, maple, red oak
and white oak.
Solid wood floorings are divided
into three sub categories: strip flooring, plank
flooring and parquet flooring.
Thickness of strip flooring varies between
5/16 inch and ¾ inch. Available widths are 1 ½ inch, 2
inch and 2 ¼ inch. Though plank flooring is sold in two
thicknesses, width can range between 3 inches and 8
inches. Parquet flooring has geometrical patterns that
are created with wood slats.
Hand-scraped hardwood floors are hand crafted. Character
markings on handscraped hardwood floors (hand sculptured
floors) are a unique feature.
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These floors offer the
best finishes for either the modern world look or the
old reclaimed wood floor look. Both engineered and solid
hand sculpted floors are sold. 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. Handscraped floor is costlier than
distressed version, but both floorings offer a rich
look. |
Hardwood floors should be cleaned with products
recommended by the manufacturer. Regular use of a vacuum
cleaner will clean dirt, mud, grit and small stones that
may spoil the finish. Welcome mats at the entrance for
wiping feet before walking on the floor are of great
help in protecting the finish. When choosing furniture
for you home, do not buy products with sharp metal or
wooden legs to prevent denting and scratching. Use of
furniture coasters or felt protectors for all legs will
prevent scratching. Non-staining and wide rubber cups
are a must for heavy items like piano. The use of a
paste wax on the hardwood floor with a polyurethane
finish damages the finish. Spills on hardwood floors
need immediate attention. Clean them with a paper towel
or damp white cloth and dry the area.
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