Floor Finishers Plus

September 14 2023

Best Wood Choices for your Floor

The best wood for floors depends on various factors, including your budget, design preferences, and how much wear and tear the floor will endure. Here are some popular wood options for flooring:

Oak: Oak is one of the most popular choices for hardwood flooring due to its durability and timeless appearance. It comes in two main varieties: red oak and white oak. Red oak has a reddish tint, while white oak is more neutral in color.
Maple: Maple is a hard and dense wood that resists wear and tear well. It has a light, creamy color that can add a bright and clean look to a space.
Cherry: Cherry wood is known for its warm and rich reddish-brown tones. It darkens over time, which can add character to your floor.
Hickory: Hickory is a very hard wood with a distinctive grain pattern. It’s an excellent choice for high-traffic areas due to its durability.
Walnut: Walnut has a luxurious appearance with deep, dark brown hues. It’s often chosen for its rich, elegant look.
Bamboo: Bamboo is not a hardwood, but it’s an eco-friendly and sustainable option for flooring. It’s available in various styles and colors.
Ash: Ash wood has a pale color and a pronounced grain pattern. It’s moderately hard and can work well in many settings.
Mahogany: Mahogany is a high-end wood with a rich, reddish-brown color and a luxurious feel. It’s often used in upscale settings.
Pine: Pine is a softer wood compared to hardwoods like oak and maple. It’s often used in rustic or cottage-style homes due to its natural, knotty appearance.
Teak: Teak is a hardwood known for its resistance to moisture and insects. It’s commonly used in bathrooms and outdoor applications.

When selecting the best wood for your floors, consider factors like your budget, the level of foot traffic in the area, the style and ambiance you want to create, and the maintenance required for the specific wood species. Additionally, proper installation and maintenance are crucial to the longevity and performance of your wood floors, regardless of the wood type you choose.

prepare-for-fall-floor-finishersplus-1024x337-1150x350

September 7 2023

Maintaining Wood Floors During the Fall

floor Floor Finishers Plus

The fall season can have a significant impact on wood floors due to changes in temperature and humidity. Here are some important considerations for maintaining wood floors during the fall season:

Temperature and Humidity Control:
- Fall often brings cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels. Wood floors are sensitive to fluctuations in humidity, which can cause them to expand and contract. To prevent this, use a humidifier to maintain a stable indoor humidity level, typically around 30-50%.
Floor Mats and Rugs:
- Place doormats at entryways to prevent dirt, leaves, and moisture from being tracked onto your wood floors. These can scratch the surface and trap moisture that may damage the wood.
Regular Cleaning:
- Sweeping or vacuuming your wood floors regularly is essential during the fall season to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the surface. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor attachment.
Avoid Excessive Water:
- Be cautious about moisture on your wood floors, especially during the fall when rain and wet leaves are common. Wipe up spills promptly, and avoid using excessive water when cleaning the floors.
Protect from Furniture:
- Use furniture pads or felt protectors under the legs of chairs, tables, and other furniture to prevent scratches and dents on your wood floors.
Prevent Sun Damage:
- While fall may not be as sunny as summer, it’s still important to protect your wood floors from UV rays. Use blinds or curtains to reduce direct sunlight on your floors to prevent fading and discoloration.
Seasonal Maintenance:
- Consider refinishing your wood floors before the fall season begins if they are due for maintenance. This can help protect them from seasonal changes and provide a fresh look.
Inspect and Repair:
- Periodically inspect your wood floors for any signs of damage, such as cracks, gaps, or loose boards. Address these issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners:
- When cleaning your wood floors, use a pH-balanced hardwood floor cleaner that is specifically designed for wood surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish.
Use Area Rugs:
- Placing area rugs in high-traffic areas and under furniture can help protect your wood floors from wear and tear during the fall season.

By following these tips and maintaining a consistent indoor environment, you can help protect your wood floors and keep them looking their best throughout the fall season and beyond.

August 11 2023

Vinyl Plank Flooring

floor Floor Finishers Plus

Vinyl Plank Flooring

Vinyl plank refers to a type of flooring material used in residential and commercial spaces. It’s designed to mimic the appearance of hardwood flooring while offering several advantages. Here’s some information about vinyl plank flooring:

Vinyl plank flooring is a modern alternative to traditional hardwood or laminate flooring. It’s made from synthetic materials, primarily layers of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) that are fused together to create a durable and resilient flooring option. Vinyl plank flooring comes in planks that are designed to resemble the look of various wood species, complete with realistic textures and grain patterns. It’s available in a wide range of colors and styles, making it a versatile choice for different interior designs.

Advantages:

Durability: Vinyl plank flooring is known for its durability. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces.
Water Resistance: One of the key advantages of vinyl plank flooring is its water resistance. It is highly resistant to moisture, making it suitable for areas prone to spills or moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
Easy Maintenance: Vinyl plank flooring is relatively easy to clean and maintain. Regular sweeping or vacuuming, along with occasional damp mopping, is usually sufficient to keep it looking great.
Affordability: Vinyl plank flooring is often more budget-friendly compared to traditional hardwood flooring, while still providing a similar aesthetic.
Installation: Many vinyl plank products are designed for easy installation. They often come with click-and-lock mechanisms that allow for a floating floor installation, which means the planks don’t need to be glued down.
Comfort: Vinyl plank flooring tends to be softer underfoot compared to hardwood, which can be more comfortable for long periods of standing.

Considerations:

Environmental Impact: Vinyl plank flooring is made from PVC, which is a synthetic material. Some people prefer more environmentally friendly flooring options, such as natural hardwood, bamboo, or cork.
Appearance: While vinyl plank flooring can closely resemble hardwood, it may not have the exact same texture or feel. Some higher-end vinyl products offer more realistic textures, but there can still be a noticeable difference.
Indentation: While vinyl plank is durable, heavy furniture or sharp objects can potentially cause indentations or damage to the flooring.
VOC Emissions: Some vinyl plank flooring products may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which could potentially impact indoor air quality. It’s a good idea to look for low-VOC or VOC-free options if indoor air quality is a concern.

When considering vinyl plank flooring, it’s essential to assess your specific needs, preferences, and the intended use of the space. Additionally, reading reviews and consulting with flooring professionals can help you make an informed decision.

July 31 2023

Hardwood Floor Refinishing

floor Floor Finishers Plus

hardwood floor refinishing

Hardwood floor refinishing is the process of restoring worn or damaged hardwood floors to their original beauty and luster. Over time, hardwood floors can become scratched, faded, or dull due to regular use, exposure to sunlight, and other factors. Refinishing involves sanding down the top layer of the floor to remove imperfections and then applying new finishes to protect and enhance the wood’s appearance.

Here is a general overview of the hardwood floor refinishing process:

Inspection: A professional will inspect the hardwood floors to assess their condition. They will check for deep scratches, stains, uneven areas, and any signs of water damage or wood rot.
Preparation: Before starting the refinishing process, the area needs to be prepared. Furniture and other items are removed from the room, and the floor is thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt and debris.
Sanding: The next step is sanding the hardwood floor. The contractor will use a floor sander with progressively finer grits of sandpaper to remove the old finish, scratches, and stains. This process creates a smooth, even surface for the new finish to adhere to.
Staining (Optional): If you want to change the color of your hardwood floor, this is the stage where you can apply wood stain. Staining is optional, as some people prefer to keep the natural color of the wood.
Sealing: After sanding and optional staining, a sealer or wood conditioner is applied to the floor. The sealer helps to enhance the wood’s color and prevent the new finish from being absorbed too deeply into the wood.
Finishing: Finally, a protective finish is applied to the hardwood floor. This can be a polyurethane, varnish, or another type of wood finish. The finish protects the wood from stains, moisture, and wear, while also adding a beautiful sheen to the floor.
Drying and Curing: The finish needs time to dry and cure properly. Depending on the type of finish used, this process can take several days. During this time, it’s essential to keep the area free from foot traffic and furniture to avoid damaging the newly refinished floor.

Hardwood floor refinishing can breathe new life into your floors and make them look like new again.

It’s a complex process that requires skill and experience, so it’s generally recommended to hire professional floor refinishing services to achieve the best results.

July 26 2023

Wood Floor Installation

floor Floor Finishers Plus

Wood Floor Installation

Wood floor installation is the process of laying down wooden flooring in a building or room. It’s a popular choice for its natural beauty, durability, and ability to enhance the overall aesthetics of a space. Here’s a general overview of the wood floor installation process:

Preparation:
- Measure the area: Determine the square footage of the room or space where the wood flooring will be installed. This measurement helps in estimating the amount of flooring material needed.
- Acclimate the wood: Allow the wood flooring to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for a few days before installation. This helps prevent issues like warping or shrinking after installation.
Gather Materials and Tools:
- Purchase the wood flooring of your choice, ensuring you have enough for the entire area plus some extra for cutting and future repairs.
- Prepare the necessary tools, including a circular saw, a miter saw, a nail gun, a rubber mallet, a tape measure, a chalk line, a level, and safety equipment like goggles and knee pads.
Subfloor Preparation:
- Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, level, and free of any debris or protruding nails.
- If the subfloor is uneven or has imperfections, you may need to use a floor sander or leveling compound to create a smooth surface.
Moisture Barrier (Optional):
- In some cases, especially for installations on concrete slabs, a moisture barrier may be required to prevent moisture from seeping up and damaging the wood.
Layout and Marking:
- Plan the layout of the wood planks, considering the direction of the wood grain and the aesthetics of the room. Typically, wood flooring is installed parallel to the longest wall.
- Use a chalk line to create reference lines for the first row of planks.
Installation:
- Start at one corner of the room and lay the first row of wood planks, making sure they are snugly fitted together.
- Use a nail gun to secure the planks to the subfloor, placing nails at an angle through the tongue of each plank.
- Install subsequent rows, using a rubber mallet to tap the planks together tightly.
- Stagger the end joints between rows to create a more stable and visually appealing pattern.
Finishing:
- Once the entire floor is installed, add baseboards or molding around the edges of the room to cover the expansion gap between the flooring and the walls.
- Sand the floor lightly to ensure a smooth surface and remove any imperfections.
- Apply a protective finish, such as polyurethane, to protect the wood from wear and tear and to enhance its appearance.

Wood floor installation can be a DIY project for those with some experience in carpentry and flooring work. However, for a more professional and flawless result, it’s often best to hire a skilled flooring contractor.

July 26 2023

Hardwood Floor Sanding

floor Floor Finishers Plus

Hardwood Floor Sanding

Hardwood floor sanding is a process used to restore or refinish hardwood floors that have become worn, scratched, or damaged over time. Sanding the hardwood floor involves using a sander to remove the top layer of wood, which can eliminate imperfections and reveal a fresh surface. It’s a crucial step in the refinishing process and requires some skill and care to achieve the best results.

Here’s an overview of the steps involved in hardwood floor sanding:

Clear the area: Remove all furniture, rugs, and any obstacles from the room to ensure a clear working space.
Inspect and prepare the floor: Check for any protruding nails or staples on the surface. Fix or remove them as necessary. Also, fill any large gaps or cracks with wood filler or putty and let it dry completely.
Choose the right equipment: Select the appropriate floor sander for the job. There are different types of sanders available, including drum sanders, orbital sanders, and edge sanders. For larger areas, a drum sander is commonly used, while an orbital sander is ideal for smaller spaces and refinishing jobs.
Sanding process:
- Start with a coarse grit sandpaper (e.g., 36 or 40 grit) to remove the old finish, stains, and scratches. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the floor.
- Gradually move to finer grit sandpapers (e.g., 60, 80, and 100 grit) for a smoother finish. Repeat the sanding process with each grit until the floor’s surface is even and blemish-free.
Sanding edges and corners: Use an edge sander to reach areas that the drum or orbital sander cannot access, such as edges and corners.
Hand sanding: For intricate spots and hard-to-reach areas, you may need to do some hand sanding with sandpaper.
Clean the dust: After sanding, thoroughly clean the floor to remove all the dust and debris. A vacuum cleaner and a tack cloth are useful for this purpose.
Optional: Stain (if desired): If you want to change the color of the floor, you can apply a wood stain at this point. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.
Apply a finish: After sanding and optionally staining, apply a protective finish to the hardwood floor. Common options include polyurethane, varnish, or wax. Apply multiple coats, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.
Allow proper drying time: Make sure to give the finish enough time to dry and cure before placing furniture or walking on the floor.

It’s essential to take your time and be patient during the sanding process to achieve a beautiful and long-lasting result.

If you’re not experienced with this type of work, it may be wise to hire a professional hardwood floor refinishing company to ensure the job is done correctly.

July 21 2023

Vinyl Flooring Types and Differences

floor Floor Finishers Plus

types of vinyl flooring

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), Luxury Vinyl Cork (LVC), Stone Plastic Composite (SPC), and Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) are all types of vinyl flooring, each with its unique characteristics and composition. Let’s explore each of them:

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is a high-end variant of vinyl flooring designed to mimic the appearance of real hardwood flooring. It typically consists of several layers:

Wear Layer: The topmost layer is a durable wear layer that protects the flooring from scratches, stains, and wear.
Printed Design Layer: Beneath the wear layer is a printed design layer, which replicates the look of wood or other natural materials. Advanced printing techniques allow for realistic patterns and textures.
Core Layer: The core layer is made of PVC material, providing stability and water resistance.
Backing Layer: Some LVP products have an additional backing layer that adds more support and comfort underfoot.

LVP offers excellent durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance, making it suitable for various residential and commercial applications.

Luxury Vinyl Cork (LVC): Luxury Vinyl Cork (LVC) is a type of luxury vinyl flooring that incorporates a cork backing layer. The inclusion of cork provides additional comfort underfoot and sound absorption properties. The layers in LVC are similar to LVP, with the wear layer, printed design layer, PVC core, and cork backing layer. LVC combines the benefits of luxury vinyl with the natural cushioning and eco-friendliness of cork.
Stone Plastic Composite (SPC): Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) is a type of rigid core vinyl flooring designed to resemble stone or ceramic tile flooring. It is engineered with a unique composition:

Wear Layer: The topmost layer is a robust wear layer that protects against scratches, stains, and UV damage.
Printed Design Layer: The printed design layer imitates the appearance of stone or tile.
SPC Core: The core layer is made of a blend of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and stabilizers. This core provides exceptional rigidity and dimensional stability.
Underlayment (Optional): Some SPC flooring has an attached underlayment for enhanced sound absorption and comfort.

SPC flooring is highly durable, water-resistant, and suitable for areas with high foot traffic, including commercial spaces.

Wood Plastic Composite (WPC): Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) is another type of rigid core vinyl flooring, but it is designed to mimic hardwood flooring rather than stone. The layers of WPC flooring typically include:

Wear Layer: The topmost layer protects the flooring from scratches and stains.
Printed Design Layer: The design layer replicates the appearance of real wood.
WPC Core: The core is made from a blend of wood pulp, plastic (PVC), and foaming agents. This core provides excellent dimensional stability, rigidity, and water resistance.
Underlayment (Optional): Some WPC flooring products come with an attached underlayment for added comfort and noise reduction.

WPC flooring offers the look of hardwood with the practical benefits of vinyl, making it a popular choice for residential applications.

All of these vinyl flooring types (LVP, LVC, SPC, and WPC) are generally easy to install, maintain, and offer a wide range of design options. When choosing the right vinyl flooring for your needs, consider factors such as the wear layer thickness, core type, installation method, and manufacturer’s warranty.