How to Properly Acclimate Hardwood Flooring Before Installation

 Hardwood flooring has become a classic choice for homeowners who want to add warmth and elegance to their home. This natural material is available in a wide range of styles, from traditional to contemporary and many manufacturers offer specialized options, such as hand-scraped or handstained wood floors. In addition, there are different color choices that can create different looks. Many people also choose to pair hardwood with an underlayment to protect the floor against moisture and heat damage.

Most common types of wood floors

The most common types of wood floors include maple, oak, hickory and cherry. Other types of wood, such as pine, birch and walnut, have less dramatic grain patterns and tend to look more contemporary. Each species has its own distinct color and durability characteristics. Oak and hickory, for example, have dramatic color variations and are very tough (rated 1820 on the Janka scale). Their distinctive grain pattern complements many decor styles. Cherry is a popular choice because of its rich color tones. All of these woods can be used with a variety of finishes, including stain and wax.

 Floors are designed to be installed

When comparing wood floors, it is important to consider how much the cost will be for the type you are considering. It is also important to consider what type of installation will be required. Depending on your needs, some floors require professional installation and may need to be refinished. Other floors are designed to be installed over existing floor coverings and do not need to be installed with a subfloor.

 Three basic types of hardwood flooring

There are three basic types of Hardwood flooring : solid, engineered and laminate. Solid hardwood floors are one piece of wood all the way through and are susceptible to humidity, heat and moisture damage. Engineered floors have a layer of plywood on the bottom and a veneer of real wood on top. Several different types of wood veneer are available, and the cutting method and thickness have an impact on price.

 Laminate and engineered wood

For those who do not want to invest in a solid wood floor, laminate and engineered hardwood are an excellent option. Laminate and engineered wood are durable and look very similar to solid hardwood floors, but they are more resistant to moisture, heat and humidity damage. Engineered wood is also available with a cork underlayment to reduce noise and vibrations.

 Great option is to buy hardwood

Another great option is to buy hardwood from a local mill. This cuts out the middleman and allows for lower prices. One great company that does this is Doma. They manufacture both solid and engineered hardwood and offer a wide range of widths and lengths. Their products can be purchased through licensed flooring professionals in your area.

Conclusion

Many people think that the more expensive the hardwood, the better quality it will be. However, this is not necessarily true. The most important thing is to pick the wood that you love. Many hardwood floors have pronounced mineral streaks and knots, which can enhance a rustic/traditional style or provide contrast to modern styles. However, some species of hardwood, such as maple and hickory, have more subtle coloring and grain patterns and therefore are not as dramatic.