Engineered Hardwood

How do I protect my engineered hardwood floors? This question often perplexes homeowners who have invested in the timeless beauty and durability of engineered hardwood flooring. Engineered hardwood offers a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality, but proper protection is essential to maintain its pristine condition over time.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore effective strategies and best practices for safeguarding your engineered hardwood floors from everyday wear and tear. From preventative measures to proactive maintenance techniques, we’ll equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to ensure your flooring retains its luster and charm for years to come. Let’s dive into the world of engineered hardwood floor protection and preserve the elegance of your home’s interior.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose a protective finish that suits your specific needs, such as polyurethane or aluminum oxide.
• Place furniture pads under the legs of heavy furniture to prevent scratching and denting.
• Use area rugs in high-traffic areas to provide extra protection against wear and tear.
• Regularly clean your floors using gentle techniques and avoid excessive moisture or harsh chemicals.
• Control moisture levels in your home to prevent warping or swelling of the engineered hardwood.

Choose the Right Protective Finish

When it comes to protecting your engineered hardwood floors, one of the most important factors to consider is the type of protective finish you choose. The right finish can provide your floors with durability and resistance against scratches and spills, ensuring they stay looking their best for years to come.

There are various options available for protective finishes, each with its own unique benefits. Two popular choices are polyurethane and aluminum oxide finishes.

Polyurethane Finish

Polyurethane is a common and versatile finish used for engineered hardwood floors. It creates a protective barrier that helps prevent stains, scratches, and moisture damage. It is available in both water-based and oil-based formulas and comes in different sheen levels, including glossy, semi-gloss, and matte. The choice of sheen depends on your personal preference and the desired look for your floors.

Water-based polyurethane finishes are popular because they are low in VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and have a faster drying time compared to oil-based finishes. They also offer good UV resistance, preventing your floors from fading due to sunlight exposure.

Oil-based polyurethane finishes, on the other hand, provide a more traditional, amber-toned look and tend to be more durable. They require longer drying times and have a stronger odor during application.

Aluminum Oxide Finish

An aluminum oxide finish is a factory-applied finish that provides exceptional durability and scratch resistance. This finish is highly recommended for areas with high foot traffic or homes with children and pets. It consists of microscopic aluminum oxide particles embedded in the finish, creating a hard surface that is resistant to wear and tear.

Aluminum oxide finishes are typically applied in multiple layers, ensuring maximum protection for your floors. They are known for their long lifespan and low maintenance requirements. Additionally, these finishes often come with warranties from the manufacturer, giving you peace of mind.

When choosing the best protective finish for your engineered hardwood floors, consider factors such as durability, UV resistance, ease of maintenance, and the specific needs of your household. Consulting with a flooring professional can help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and budget.

Ensure Proper Installation and Subfloor Preparation

Proper installation and subfloor preparation are paramount for the longevity and performance of your engineered hardwood floors. Start by thoroughly inspecting the subfloor to identify any issues such as unevenness, moisture problems, or structural deficiencies. Addressing these issues before installation is essential to prevent future problems.

Next, ensure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Any debris, dust, or moisture should be removed, and any necessary repairs should be made. This may involve leveling the subfloor, installing moisture barriers, or addressing any structural issues. Once the subfloor is properly prepared, the installation process can begin.

Choose an experienced flooring contractor who understands the intricacies of installing engineered hardwood floors. They will use the appropriate techniques and materials to ensure a secure and stable installation. Proper acclimation of the flooring materials is also essential to prevent issues such as warping or buckling after installation.

By investing in proper installation and subfloor preparation, you lay the groundwork for a beautiful and durable floor that will stand the test of time.

Use Furniture Pads and Area Rugs

When it comes to protecting your engineered hardwood floors, using furniture pads and area rugs can make a significant difference.

Furniture Pads

Placing furniture pads beneath the legs of your chairs, tables, and other heavy furniture is a simple yet effective way to prevent scratches or dents on your beautiful hardwood floors. These pads provide a cushioning barrier that reduces friction and prevents damage caused by furniture movement. By using furniture pads, you can enjoy functional and stylish furniture without worrying about potential flooring damage.

Area Rugs

In high-traffic areas of your home, such as the living room or hallway, using area rugs can offer an additional layer of protection for your engineered hardwood floors. Area rugs not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space, but they also act as a buffer between foot traffic and the flooring surface. By absorbing the impact of footsteps, area rugs help minimize wear and tear on your hardwood floors, maintaining their longevity and beauty.

Investing in furniture pads and area rugs is a prudent choice to safeguard your engineered hardwood floors from potential damage. By taking these preventive measures, you can enjoy your floors for years to come, knowing that they are well-protected.

Practice Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning plays a crucial role in maintaining the beauty and longevity of your engineered hardwood floors. By adopting proper cleaning techniques and avoiding damaging factors, you can ensure that your floors remain in pristine condition for years to come.

When it comes to cleaning engineered hardwood floors, it’s important to use the right tools and methods. Start by removing loose dirt and debris with a soft-bristle broom or a microfiber mop. This will prevent scratches caused by abrasive particles.

For a more thorough clean, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. Make sure to choose a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for hardwood floors to avoid any potential damage.

Avoid using excessive moisture when cleaning your engineered hardwood floors. Water can seep into the wood and cause warping or swelling. Instead, use a slightly dampened microfiber mop or a specially formulated hardwood floor cleaner that is recommended by the manufacturer.

Additionally, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as they can strip the protective finish of your floors. Stick to gentle, pH-neutral cleaners that are specifically designed for hardwood floors.

By practicing regular cleaning and following these maintenance tips for engineered hardwood floors, you can keep your floors looking their best and protect them from unnecessary wear and tear.

Control Moisture Levels

Excess moisture can be detrimental to the condition of your engineered hardwood floors, leading to issues such as warping, cupping, or swelling. To prevent moisture damage and maintain the longevity of your floors, it’s crucial to implement proper moisture control measures.

One of the most effective ways to regulate moisture levels is by maintaining optimal humidity in your home. Aim for a humidity range of 35% to 55% to keep your engineered hardwood floors in best condition. If the humidity is consistently high in your area, consider using dehumidifiers or air conditioners to reduce excess moisture in the air.

In addition to controlling humidity, it’s essential to promptly clean up any spills on your engineered hardwood floors. Moisture left standing on the surface can seep into the wood and cause damage. Use a clean cloth or mop to quickly absorb the liquid and dry the area to prevent moisture-related issues.

Protect Against Sunlight Exposure

Engineered hardwood floors can be vulnerable to sunlight exposure, which can lead to fading and discoloration over time. Protecting your floors from harmful UV rays is essential to preserve their natural beauty.

There are several effective methods you can employ to shield your floors from sunlight damage:

Install Blinds or Curtains

Installing blinds or curtains in your windows can help block out direct sunlight and limit its impact on your engineered hardwood floors. By adjusting the blinds or pulling the curtains during peak sunlight hours, you can effectively reduce the amount of UV rays that reach your floors.

Apply UV-Protective Window Film

UV-protective window film is an excellent investment for preventing UV damage to your floors. The film acts as a barrier, filtering out harmful UV rays while still allowing natural light to penetrate the room. Consult a professional to ensure proper installation and maximum effectiveness.

Rearrange Furniture Periodically

To minimize sunlight exposure on your floors, consider periodically rearranging your furniture. By moving couches, tables, and other pieces, you can help distribute the sunlight’s impact evenly, preventing specific areas from fading more than others.

Implementing these sunlight protection measures will help maintain the appearance and longevity of your engineered hardwood floors, allowing you to enjoy their beauty for years to come.

Avoid High Heels and Sharp Objects

One of the most effective ways to prevent scratches and damage to your engineered hardwood floors is to avoid high heels and sharp objects. These can easily leave unsightly marks and indentations on the surface, detracting from the beauty of your flooring.

Firstly, consider implementing a no-shoes policy in your home, especially during social gatherings or parties. Encourage your guests to remove their shoes at the entrance and provide a designated area for them to store their footwear. By doing so, you can minimize the risk of high heels causing scratches or dents.

If you have pets, it’s important to keep their nails trimmed regularly. Sharp claws can easily scratch the protective finish of your engineered hardwood floors when your pets roam around the house. Additionally, consider placing mats or rugs in areas where your pets frequently walk or rest to provide an extra layer of protection.

When it comes to furniture, it’s essential to take preventive measures against sharp objects. Attach protective felt pads to the legs of chairs, tables, and other pieces of furniture. These pads serve as a cushion between the furniture and the floor, preventing scratches and scuffs that can occur when moving or rearranging items.

By following these simple tips and taking proactive measures, you can ensure that your engineered hardwood floors remain in excellent condition, free from scratches caused by high heels and sharp objects.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Maintaining and inspecting your engineered hardwood floors on a regular basis is crucial for their longevity and overall condition. By performing routine maintenance tasks and thorough inspections, you can identify potential issues early on and address them promptly, ensuring that your floors stay in pristine condition for years to come.

Refinishing

Refinishing your engineered hardwood floors is an essential maintenance task that helps restore their natural beauty and protect them from wear and tear. Over time, the protective finish may wear off, leading to scratches and dullness. By refinishing the floors, you can apply a fresh protective coating, revitalizing their appearance and extending their lifespan.

Resealing

Resealing your engineered hardwood floors is another important maintenance step to prevent moisture damage and maintain their durability. Over time, the sealer on your floors may wear off, making them more susceptible to moisture infiltration. By resealing the floors, you create an additional barrier that safeguards against spills and prevents warping or cupping.

Inspecting for Wear and Tear

Regular inspections are necessary to identify any signs of wear and tear on your engineered hardwood floors. Inspect the floors for scratches, dents, or any other damages that may require repair. Additionally, check for loose or damaged boards, as fixing them promptly can prevent further issues and ensure the structural integrity of the flooring.

Schedule Professional Inspections

While regular visual inspections are essential, it’s also recommended to schedule professional inspections from time to time. Professionals have the expertise and tools to thoroughly assess the condition of your engineered hardwood floors, detecting any hidden issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. By conducting thorough inspections, professionals can identify potential problems such as water damage, subfloor issues, or wear and tear in high-traffic areas. This proactive approach allows for early intervention, preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems that could compromise the integrity of your flooring.

Moreover, professional inspectors can provide valuable advice on maintenance and repair, tailored to the specific needs of your engineered hardwood floors.

Whether it’s recommending appropriate cleaning products, addressing scratches or dents, or conducting necessary refinishing or resealing procedures, their expertise ensures that your floors receive the care they require to remain in optimal condition.

By entrusting your engineered hardwood floors to professionals for periodic inspections, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that any potential issues are addressed promptly, preserving the longevity and beauty of your flooring investment for years to come.

Professional Assistance and Warranty Coverage

While there are several measures you can take to protect your engineered hardwood floors, there may come a time when professional help is needed. These experts have the knowledge and experience to address deep cleaning and repair issues effectively, helping preserve the longevity and beauty of your flooring investment.

Professional assistance becomes particularly crucial when your engineered hardwood floors require specialized treatments or restoration. They can provide professional grade cleaning techniques, utilizing the appropriate products and equipment to remove stubborn stains or deep-seated dirt without causing any damage.

In addition to professional help, it’s essential to thoroughly understand your flooring warranty and coverage options. By familiarizing yourself with the terms and conditions, you can ensure that repairs or replacements are performed by authorized technicians, avoiding any potential voiding of the warranty. This knowledge enables you to make informed decisions and protect your investment in the long run.

Remember, seeking professional assistance and being aware of your warranty coverage go hand in hand when it comes to maintaining and protecting your engineered hardwood floors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, safeguarding your engineered hardwood floors is essential to preserving their beauty and longevity. By implementing the strategies and best practices outlined in this guide, you can effectively protect your flooring from everyday wear and tear, ensuring it maintains its luster and charm for years to come.

Additionally, when it comes to professional services for engineered hardwood floors, Tri Point Flooring stands out as a trusted provider. With our expertise in installation, refinishing, and maintenance, we can help you keep your floors looking their best. Whether you need repairs or ongoing care, Tri Point Flooring’s commitment to quality ensures exceptional results that exceed expectations.

So, as you embark on your journey to protect your engineered hardwood floors, consider enlisting the support of Tri Point Flooring for unparalleled service and expertise. With our assistance, you can enjoy the beauty and durability of your flooring for generations to come, making every step a testament to quality craftsmanship. Contact us to know more.

The durability of flooring is a critical consideration for homeowners and businesses alike, prompting the common inquiry: “Are engineered hardwood floors durable?” This question stems from the desire for a flooring solution that combines aesthetic appeal with resilience. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of this query and provide insights into the lasting strength and beauty that engineered hardwood floors can bring to your environment.

Key Takeaways

• Engineered hardwood floors are designed to mimic the look of solid hardwood while offering added durability and stability.
• The construction of engineered hardwood floors is crucial in determining their durability, with high-quality materials and finishes playing an important role.
• Thick wear layers and proper maintenance can further enhance the longevity of engineered hardwood floors, making them a wise investment.
• While there are a few potential drawbacks to consider, the long-term value and durability of engineered hardwood floors make them a popular choice for homeowners and commercial spaces alike.

Understanding Engineered Hardwood Floors

Engineered hardwood floors are an attractive and practical alternative to traditional solid hardwood floors. While they look and feel like the real thing, they are constructed using multiple layers of wood veneer, with a top layer of real hardwood that provides the authentic appearance. This top layer can be made from a variety of hardwood species, including oak, maple, cherry, and walnut, among others.

The inner layers of an engineered hardwood floor are typically made from high-density fiberboard (HDF) or plywood. These layers are designed to provide extra stability and durability compared to traditional solid hardwood flooring. Thanks to their construction, engineered hardwood floors are less prone to swelling, warping, or cupping, making them an excellent choice for areas with fluctuating moisture levels.

Construction of Engineered Hardwood Floors

The construction of engineered hardwood floors is key to their durability. They consist of a core layer made from high-density fiberboard (HDF) or plywood, offering added strength and stability. On top of this core layer, there is a layer of real hardwood veneer that gives the floor its authentic look.

Engineered hardwood floors are becoming a popular alternative to traditional hardwood floors because of their durability and convenience. Unlike solid wood floors, engineered wood floors have a construction that allows them to withstand changes in temperature and humidity without warping or buckling.

By using a cross-layering technique, the HDF or plywood core layer of engineered hardwood floors can resist moisture and prevent expansion or contraction. This makes them ideal for installation in areas with high humidity and moisture, such as bathrooms and basements.

Additionally, the hardwood veneer layer in engineered hardwood floors can range from 0.6 mm to 6 mm in thickness, depending on the manufacturer and the specific product. This layer of real wood not only gives the floor an authentic look and feel, but it also offers durability and longevity.

The combination of the core layer and the hardwood veneer layer is what makes engineered hardwood floors so durable and long-lasting. By choosing high-quality materials and proper construction, these floors can withstand years of wear and tear, making them a worthy long-term investment for any space.

Durability Factors in Engineered Hardwood Floors

Engineered hardwood floors have gained popularity in recent years due to their durability. But what makes them so resilient? Let’s take a closer look at the factors that contribute to the longevity of these floors:

Quality of Materials Used

The quality of materials used in the construction of engineered hardwood floors is one of the most crucial factors in their durability. Opting for high-quality hardwood veneer and a sturdy core layer made from HDF or plywood ensures that the floor can withstand daily use and remain resilient over time. Poor quality materials can lead to warping, cupping, or buckling, compromising the structural integrity of the floor.

Thickness of the Wear Layer

The wear layer is the topmost layer of engineered hardwood floors that protects the underlying layers from scratches and stains. The thickness of this layer determines how well the floor can withstand wear and tear. Thicker wear layers provide enhanced durability and can be refinished multiple times over the lifespan of the floor. On the other hand, thinner wear layers may show signs of age and wear much sooner than their thicker counterparts.

Type of Finish Applied

The finish applied to engineered hardwood floors adds an extra layer of protection and enhances their durability. Different types of finishes, such as polyurethane or aluminum oxide, provide varying levels of resistance against scratches, spills, and UV damage. Choosing the right finish can significantly impact the longevity of the floor. Proper maintenance of the finish can also prolong the life of the floor.

By considering these three factors, homeowners can ensure that they are getting the most durable engineered hardwood floors possible. Investing in high-quality materials, a thick wear layer, and a protective finish can provide long-lasting value and enjoyment.

Quality of Materials Used

The quality of materials used in the construction of engineered hardwood floors plays a vital role in determining their durability. Opting for high-quality hardwood veneer and a sturdy core layer made from HDF or plywood ensures that the floor can withstand daily use, foot traffic, and remain resilient over time. The use of high-quality materials also contributes to the appearance of the floor, enhancing its natural beauty.

Thickness of the Wear Layer

The thickness of the wear layer is a critical factor that affects the durability of engineered hardwood floors. The wear layer serves as a protective barrier against scratches and stains, and it determines how well the floor can endure daily wear and tear.

Thicker wear layers provide enhanced durability and can be refinished multiple times if needed. It is essential to consider the expected level of foot traffic and usage when selecting the thickness of the wear layer. A high-traffic area requires a thicker wear layer for better protection and longevity.

Additionally, thicker wear layers provide more design options since they can be distressed, wire brushed, or hand-scraped to add character and texture to the floor without compromising its integrity.

Type of Finish Applied

The finish applied to your engineered hardwood floors can make a significant difference in their overall durability.

There are several types of finishes available, each with its benefits. Polyurethane finish provides excellent protection against scratches and stains. Its water-resistant properties make it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas like entryways and hallways. Another popular option is the aluminum oxide finish, which is known for its exceptional durability against heavy foot traffic or pet claws.

It’s essential to choose the right finish for your particular needs. Your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preference should all factor into this decision.

“Choosing the right finish can significantly impact the longevity of the floor.”

Once you have settled on a finish, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s care and maintenance instructions to ensure the longevity of your floors. Routine cleaning and preventative measures like using protective furniture pads can help keep your floors looking new.

Durability in High-Traffic Areas

Engineered hardwood floors are an ideal flooring choice for areas that experience high-traffic. Due to their robust construction and protective finishes, they can withstand daily wear and tear without showing signs of damage. This makes them an excellent option for both residential and commercial spaces that encounter heavy foot traffic.

The core layer made from high-density fiberboard or plywood adds stability and strength to the floor, making it resistant to dents and scratches. The top layer made from real hardwood veneer provides an authentic look to the floor, while the finishes applied provide protection against spills and stains. With proper maintenance and care, engineered hardwood floors can maintain their durability in high-traffic areas for an extended period.

Maintenance and Care

Engineered hardwood floors are designed for durability, but proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure their longevity. Follow these simple upkeep tips to keep your floors looking their best for years to come:

1. Sweep or vacuum regularly: Dirt, dust, and other debris can scratch the surface of your floors over time, so it’s important to keep them clean. Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor setting to remove dirt and debris.
2. Damp mop occasionally: While engineered hardwood floors are more moisture-resistant than solid hardwood, it’s still important to avoid excess water. Use a damp (not wet) mop with a hardwood floor cleaner to remove any stubborn dirt or stains. Avoid using steam cleaners, which can damage the floor’s finish.
3. Use protective pads: Furniture legs can scratch or dent your floors over time, especially if the furniture is moved frequently. Use felt pads under all furniture legs to protect the floors.
4. Avoid excessive moisture: While engineered hardwood is more moisture-resistant than solid hardwood, it’s still important to avoid excess moisture. Wipe up spills immediately and avoid using excessive water when cleaning.

Following these simple maintenance and care tips can help protect your engineered hardwood floors and keep them looking their best for years to come.

Enhancing Durability with Underlayment

Installing underlayment beneath engineered hardwood floors can greatly enhance their durability and longevity. The underlayment acts as a supportive layer and creates a moisture barrier, preventing potential issues that might damage the floor. Additionally, it minimizes noise, creating a more peaceful and comfortable living space. With the added benefits of underlayment, the engineered hardwood floors can better withstand common challenges of daily use.

Potential Drawbacks

While engineered hardwood floors are highly durable and offer long-term value, there are still a few potential drawbacks to consider.

1. Limitations on Refinishing Options: Engineered hardwood floors have a limited number of times they can be refinished due to the thickness of the hardwood veneer. This can be a disadvantage for those who want to change the color or appearance of their floors over time.
2. Susceptibility to Moisture Damage in Certain Cases: Although engineered hardwood floors are more resistant to moisture than solid hardwood, they can still be susceptible to water damage in certain situations, such as flooding or excessive moisture levels. In these cases, the floors may warp or buckle, requiring replacement.
3. Higher Upfront Costs Compared to Other Flooring Options: While engineered hardwood floors offer long-term value, they also come with a higher price tag upfront compared to other flooring options like carpet or vinyl. This can be a deterrent for those on a tight budget.

Despite these potential drawbacks, engineered hardwood floors remain a popular and durable choice for many homeowners and commercial spaces.

Affordability and Long-Term Value

While engineered hardwood floors may have a higher upfront cost compared to some other flooring options, their durability and long-term value make them a worthwhile investment for any space. These floors are built to last for many years without needing replacement, ultimately reducing the overall cost of ownership.

Additionally, the attractive appearance and timeless appeal of engineered hardwood floors can increase the resale value of a property, making them a smart choice for homeowners or property investors looking to maximize their return on investment.

Conclusion

All in all, the durability of engineered hardwood floors makes them a standout choice for those seeking both elegance and resilience in their flooring solutions. As we’ve explored the various factors contributing to their durability, it’s clear that investing in engineered hardwood is a wise decision for long-lasting beauty and functionality.

When considering the installation of engineered hardwood floors, the choice of a reliable and skilled service provider is paramount. Tri Point Flooring emerges as a leading expert in engineered hardwood floor installation, offering a seamless and professional experience. Our commitment to excellence, combined with a team of experts, ensures that your investment in engineered hardwood is not only durable but also aesthetically pleasing.

Tri Point Flooring goes beyond installation, providing a range of options to suit diverse preferences and spaces. Transform your home or business with the timeless appeal of engineered hardwood floors, expertly installed by the trusted professionals at Tri Point Flooring. Choose durability, style, and excellence – choose Tri Point Flooring for a flooring solution that stands the test of time.

It was once difficult to find eco-friendly building materials, whether for your floors or other parts of your home. But today, you have many types of eco-friendly wood flooring from which to make your choice, whether you are building a new home or renovating an older one. Below, we take a look at each of these types of wooden flooring and explore their benefits for your Triangle Area home.

Some of the latest trends are engineered wood, reclaimed wood, cork flooring and American-made wood flooring.

Engineered

Engineered wood flooring is as close as you can get to Nature’s own solid hardwoods. In fact, more people are going for these types of eco-friendly wood flooring over traditional trends. After all, engineered wood flooring is much more environmentally friendly than traditional hardwoods.

Engineered wood has a thin hardwood veneer layered over plywood, fiberboard or other man-made materials. Its core consists of high-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF). This core supports the layered engineered wood plank, including the underlayment. Overall, this product is extremely durable. It is also highly versatile, since you can find all types of finishes.

The professionals of Tri Point Flooring install your engineered wood floors straight out of the box. So, despite it looking like real wood, installation and maintenance are much more convenient. You can expect these types of eco-friendly wood flooring to stay in vogue for decades, too.

Reclaimed

With many household trends turning to eco-friendly materials, it is no wonder that reclaimed wood flooring is a hot topic among homeowners. Reclaimed wood is so popular as a flooring choice because it offers one-of-a-kind appeal with the green consciousness of recycling. Re-using old building materials from decking, barns and timbers gives you the chance to make your hardwood floors a focal point in your home. Among the types of eco-friendly wood flooring available on the market today, this trend is also cost effective and provides timeless appeal.

Reclaimed wood is getting harder to find, however. As one of the hottest types of eco-friendly wood flooring, it can be hard to locate enough materials to finish an entire home. Still, the effort can prove worthwhile, particularly if you love the reclaimed wood look.

Cork

Cork flooring is another choice among the types of eco-friendly wood flooring. Also, cork is more resilient than you might expect. It has been used on floors for generations and has proven itself able to stand up against daily living in even the most hectic households.

If you raise your eyebrow to the thought of cork flooring, you probably expect it to look much like corkboard. But this is not the case. However, among the types of eco-friendly wood flooring available on the market today, it does have distinctive appeal. It looks softer as part of interior design and easily allows other aspects of your décor to stand out.

With all types wood flooring being popular now, you can expect cork to stick around as a stylish option for generations. Like bamboo, it offers a unique look that appeals to specific homeowners. But no one can doubt your commitment to the environment, when you make this choice among all types of eco-friendly wood flooring.

American-Made

After some rough years on the national home front, Americans are feeling more committed than ever to domestic products. Among the hottest types of eco-friendly wood flooring, American-made wood flooring is taking a stand.

American-made wood flooring is made of locally-sourced and US-manufactured products. In fact, you can also trust that your American-made wood flooring also comes from a manufacturer using domestic machinery to make each plank. Of course, you have fewer options when buying exclusively American than if you consider international goods. But you can take pride in your choice to buy USA-made products for your floors. That commitment to local products, processes and jobs will never go out of style.

All Types of Eco-Friendly Wood Flooring at Tri Point Flooring in North Carolina

You can count on Tri Point Flooring to offer the hottest types of eco-friendly wood flooring. This is true, whether you decide to choose one of the flooring materials above or other options from our broad selection. Serving our local customers in Raleigh, Apex, Cary and nearby areas in NC.  We look forward to helping you achieve the hardwood floors of your dreams in your new home or as part of your renovation project. Call us today at (919) 771-7542.

Have you decided to upgrade your flooring and improve the overall look and feeling of your home? Hardwood flooring provides a beautiful and timeless foundation for all of your decor. But how do you know whether to choose engineered wood flooring? What are the benefits of doing so and how can you use this flooring in your home?

Tri Point Flooring in Cary, North Carolina provides hardwood floor installation and refinishing for customers throughout the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Visit us today to learn more about your flooring options and how to achieve the overall look you want. Engineered hardwood flooring is one option we offer and explore below.

Engineered Wood Flooring vs. Solid Hardwoods

You have many options to choose from when installing hardwood flooring in your home. This makes your choice of which type, style and finish to use a bit harder. One common question people have is, “What is the difference between engineered wood flooring and solid hardwoods?”

In a nutshell, engineered hardwood flooring is crafted of hardwood and plywood layers. As an alternative, solid hardwoods are natural pieces of solid wood without any man-made layers.

Why Should I Go with Engineered Hardwood?

With any hardwood flooring, you provide timeless appeal and functioning for your floors. But why should you make the choice for engineered flooring, when solid hardwoods are widely available on the market?

Benefits of engineered wood flooring include:

• Durable, high performance qualities
• Construction of multiple layers of wood with each layer positioned differently to prevent warping and bowing
• Installation for most home grade levels, even below ground when you add a protective moisture barrier
• Provides the same look of hardwoods, thanks to the top layer of hardwood veneer
• Easy care and maintenance for years of beauty

Styles of Engineered Hardwoods

You have many options when choosing engineered wood flooring for your home.

These options include:

• A range of the most popular wood species, including hickory, maple, oak and more
• Matte, semigloss and high gloss finishes
• A variety of surface effects for visual interest, including hand scraped, time worn, wire brushed or distressed appearance

Just about anyone can find an engineered wood flooring to suit their home decor, from classic to contemporary styles. This flooring provides a beautiful and visually appealing statement wherever you choose to install it. It also offers the durability you need to stand up to foot traffic, furnishings, family life, pets and other everyday wear and tear.

Engineered wood flooring is usually between 3/8 to 3/4 inches thick. This very closely compares to the 1/2 to 3/4 inch thickness of solid hardwoods.

Life Expectancy of Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood flooring can vary in its life expectancy. Factors determining how long your flooring will last include its top veneer layer thickness, quality and maintenance methods. If you take good care of your quality flooring, it can last a lifetime.

This type of floor works well in just about any room. Even bathrooms and basements benefit from its beauty and durability, as long as you install a protective moisture barrier and keep humidity levels down to a normal range. For most homeowners, the biggest benefit of engineered wood flooring is its lower cost than natural hardwoods.

Call Tri Point Flooring in Cary, NC to learn more about your wood flooring options. We provide a full range of services to help you make the best decision for your home and start enjoying your beautiful new or restored hardwoods quickly. Reach out to us at (919)771-7542 for a free estimate today.

Organic reactive pre-finished flooring refers to engineered hardwood flooring crafted using special techniques and in a wide range of styles. These remarkably attractive wooden floors provide natural-looking beauty that endure daily wear and tear with timeless style. This type of flooring even helps your family live a healthier lifestyle.

Organic reactive pre-finished methods are not new to the flooring world. In fact, the processes used to make this broad selection of flooring options is over a century old. To accomplish a custom flooring look, the hardwoods go through a smoking process that exposes them to organic substances.

The organic reactive pre-finished process guarantees a custom look to your flooring that looks like hand-hewn and finished hardwoods. This method creates contrast in the woods, bringing out natural darkness and highlights in the grain patterns and individual planks. This is different from painted woods or those stained using a less intensive process. Those quicker methods create a flatter and more uniform appearance that does not speak of the quality and style of organic reactive woods.

While creating a more stylish and authentic appearance for your floors, the organic reactive pre-finished process provides another key benefit. Instead of just staining or coloring the surface of the wood, these old-world methods enable the color to permeate into the veneer. This means that the surfaces resist showing scuffs and scratches.

The Tannins’ Role in Organic Reactive Pre-finished Flooring

Tannins do not just relate to the wines you drink. These chemical substances exist in many types of plants, including woods used to make hardwood flooring. Tannins are part of the plant’s defense mechanisms, protecting it from diseases and even animal consumption. Craftsmen have long harnessed the power of tannins in tanning leather and clarifying wine. This organic chemical is also in many astringents, such as witch hazel.

Tannins affect how the wood looks. This interesting chemical brings on leaf color changes every autumn. It also changes the color of wood as part of a natural aging process. Also, designers have long loved the look of wood that has aged naturally, providing the rustic appearance mastered by Nature and long mimicked through man-made methods.

For organic reactive pre-finished hardwood flooring, the century-old process involves speeding up natural aging methods. Engineering of these beautiful floors starts with the introduction of multiple organic agents like ammonia and iron acetate. Today’s craftsmanship only involves low-VOC or non-VOC agents.

Introducing these organic agents to the atmosphere around the woods or by applying them directly onto the surfaces initiates oxidization. Through the oxidative reaction, the wood’s tannins rise to the surface. There, they naturally weather the wood. As a result of the tannin reaction, each piece of wood deepens in contrast and color richness. Plank grain patterns take on greater darkening and highlighting.

As man has learned how to harness the power of tannins over the past 100 years, organic reactive pre-finished woods have only become more beautiful. Today’s reactive flooring looks more stunning and sophisticated than ever before. Also, this is why so many elite designers and architects prefer organic reactive prefinished flooring options.

Safer Breathing Indoors, Thanks to Low-VOC Curing

Using organic reactive pre-finished woods for your floors means healthier breathing for your whole family. For years, scientists have recognized that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) cause adverse health effects. VOCs like formaldehyde have long been part of the flooring industry, making VOC presence indoors as much as 10 times higher than outdoors. But organic processes of organic reactive flooring only use low-VOC or non-VOC chemicals.

Select from a Broad Range of Organic Reactive Pre-Finished Flooring Options

TriPoint Flooring is your resource for beautiful hardwood flooring in Cary, Apex, and Raleigh, North Carolina. Also, our selection includes organic reactive pre-finished woods that add a luxurious look to your home at an affordable price. Lastly, call Tri Point Flooring at (919)771-7542 today for a refinishing or installation consultation.