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There are two different types of oiled floors: Hardwax oiled and UV oiled. Hardwax oiled requires more frequent oiling. UV oiled means that the oil has been applied and cured under UV light to make it more durable. UV oiled floors do not need oiling post installation. HARDWAX OIL FINISH – QUICK GUIDE Oil after installation – vacuum, wash and oil as soon as possible after installation Oil annually to feed the wood and maintain protection against staining Top up oil in high-traffic or dry areas as needed Spot treat scratches with oil Never use solvents, chemicals, steam mops or excessive water (damp mop only) Use a floor ‘soap’ for oiled floors only Do not rub the floor hard – the oil finish may be removed HOW TO OIL THE FLOOR Vacuum/sweep floor. Do not introduce any moisture to the floor until Maintenance Oil has been applied. Wash floor using a damp mop and Floor Soap solution. Allow to dry. Apply Maintenance Oil according to our instructions (separate sheet) – we recommend Ciranova Maintenance Oil which can be applied with a standard microfibre mop. This should be done at least annually to protect the floor surface, or more often if necessary, in high traffic areas or if the wood is looking dry. See tutorial video: https://vimeo.com/146767775 1 litre of Maintenance oil covers approximately 100m2. Oil takes 6-12 hours to dry fully but can be walked on immediately with socks. Good airflow helps, humidity may slow drying. Do not use water or cleaning solutions on floor for the first 10 days after maintenance oil application; take care to ensure the floor surface is kept free from dirt and moisture during this time. Vacuum/sweep floor only during this time. HOW TO OIL THE FLOOR Ad Ciranova maintenance oil (shake well before use) to be used sparingly (1 litre is sufficient for approx. 70 – 100 m2). Distribute the oil evenly with the use of an oil-sponge, soft cloth or spray can. The quantity of maintenance oil applied may vary due to the different absorption of the wood. Polish the floor using a polishing machine and a white pad. Buff off with cotton cloths applied over the white pad. Small areas can be treated by hand using a white polishing pad or a soft cloth. Polish thoroughly. Do not apply the oil thickly. Ensure an even distribution of the oil in order to avoid differences in the overall shine once the floor has dried. Allow the floor to dry for approx. 24 hours, taking extra care during this period to prevent any contact with moisture. Note: this is best done by a flooring installer or experienced technician. NORMAL CARE (10 days after oil applied and thereafter): Vacuum/sweep floor If dirty/sticky/dull, wash with damp mop and Floor Soap for oiled floors (we recommend & supply Ciranova or Admonter). Use approx. 1 cap per litre of warm water for Admonter or Ciranova floor cleaners. TREATING STAINS Vacuum/sweep floor Wash floor with damp mop and Floor Soap solution, allow to dry If stain persists: Dilute a small amount of Floor Soap with water 1:1, use a cloth to wipe the stained area with this solution in the direction of the wood grain. Allow to dry. If stain persists: Use a microfiber cloth to spot-apply straight Floor Soap in the direction of the grain. Wipe away excess. If stain persists: Use a green Scotch pad to gently rub Floor Soap into the stained area in the direction of the grain. Wipe away excess. Please note: Frequent staining may indicate the need for an application of Maintenance Oil (this should be applied annually for oiled floors and bi-annually for UV oiled floors). Regular oiling of your floor will protect and feed the wood while enhancing its natural patina. Oiled floors acquire character over time and, with the correct care and maintenance, never require refinishing. Vienna Woods provide a floor oiling service – please call or email us to book a time. SCRATCH TREATMENT Buff a small amount of maintenance oil into the scratch using a cloth. Wipe away excess and allow to dry To repair especially deep scratches, contact us at HQ in Ballymount. UV OIL FINISH – QUICK GUIDE No need to oil after installation Oil every 18-24 months to feed the wood and maintain protection against staining Top up oil in high-traffic or dry areas as needed Spot treat scratches with oil Never use solvents, chemicals, steam mops or excessive water (damp mop only) Use a floor ‘soap’ for oiled floors only Do not rub the floor hard – the oil finish may be removed All other cleaning care etc. is the same as for hardwax oiled floors, with the exception of oiling regularity. ALL OILED FLOORING DOS AND DON’TS Oil is a traditional finish for wood flooring and is widely accepted to be the most attractive finish. Natural oil gives the wood a soft, natural sheen that mellows and improves with age and wear. Although the wood is no longer growing, it is a natural material which responds to light, humidity, temperature and wear. DO Expect some movement in your floor. It will expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. Expect the colour of your floor to change slightly. This is a normal response to UV light. Move rugs if necessary, to allow the colour to even or refrain from putting down for 6-12 months until colour has settled. Remove dirt and grit by vacuuming and sweeping regularly. This reduces micro-scratches. Clean up spills immediately with a water-dampened cloth or mop. Water or oils may stain the floor. Keep a bottle of floor soap solution pre-mixed somewhere handy for cleaning up spills. Wash your floor by mopping with the specified cleaner to maintain the oil finish. Replenish the protective oil coating regularly – we recommend an annual application of Maintenance Oil. Use a door mat at exterior doors. Ensure that mats and rugs have natural material backings (synthetics and rubber may discolour oil finishes). Put felt pads/glides under furniture legs and change these regularly to prevent scratches. These stick very well and are superior to standard felts. Contact us on 01 211 9120 if you have any questions or concerns. DON’T Steam clean/ steam mop your floor. This will damage both the wood and the finish. Use dusting sprays or other household cleaners on your floor. Expose the floor to excessive water/moisture. No wet mopping, only damp. Put pot plants directly on the floor. A trivet/stand will allow much better air circulation. Scrub the floor aggressively. This may remove the finish. Do not attempt to sand off the finish without contacting us first. Wear stiletto heels on the wooden floor. These may crack, dent or scratch the finish. Drag heavy furniture over the floor

After many years of supplying and installing engineered timber floors, we can say from our experience that glue down is the best method of installation and the only method we recommend. A glue down Engineered wood floor gives you a superior sound and feel unlike a floating floor. Although gluing down a timber floor does cost more, we believe that if you want to add value to your property it is a cost that you won't regret! You can re-sand it - A glue down engineered floor can be re-sanded down the track - up to 5 times depending on the thickness of the veneer. Quality feel - Although more costly it gives a quality feel - firm and solid-feeling which is what you want from a timber floor Quiet underfoot - Because the floor is fixed directly to the substrate it is much quiet to walk on. Unlike a floating floor that can creak. Can install in large areas- You can easily install in a large areas without the need of ugly trims and transition bars. Kitchen cabinetry can be installed on top glued down flooring Adds value - A long-term investment that will add more value to your property. Perfect for your forever home. WHY WE DON'T RECOMMEND FLOATING FLOORS You cannot sand it - Many people do not know this but you cannot easily sand a floating engineered timber floor no matter the thickness of the timber layer. As a floating floor is on a foam underlay it causes the floor sander to bounce , resulting in unsightly sanding marks on the floor. These sanding scuff marks are then highlighted when the floor is stained making the floor look damaged. Makes creaking noises - because a floating floor is 'floating' on top of an underlay and not fixed down in any way a wood floating floor moves a lot because wood needs to breathe. This causes the floor to creak and make noises, especially in the evening when it is cooling down. Cheap sounding to walk on - As a floating floor is not fixed down with adhesive they are noisy and hollow-sounding to walk on. It gives you a click clack sound which cheapens the feel. Needs expansion trims - The larger the floor area, the more expansion a floating floor needs. Large areas also require expansion trims which are not pleasing to the eye. Cheapens your investment - Floating a timber floor will make a quality product sound and feel cheaper than it is - you have invested in a beautiful natural timber floor, why cheapen it by floating it. Cannot install under kitchen cupboards - A floating floor must be installed after kitchen cabinetry as the kitchen cannot sit on top of the floor as it must be allowed to breath/expand and contract and the kitchen will stop this. More of a short-term investment, does not add as much value to your property

Engineered hardwood flooring is a type of flooring that combines the natural beauty of hardwood with the durability and stability of engineered materials. This type of flooring is created through a multi-step process that involves several stages of manufacturing, including slicing, layering, and pressing. The end result is a beautiful and long-lasting flooring option that provides a unique look and feel to any space. The first stage of the manufacturing process involves harvesting the hardwood logs that will be used to make the flooring. This typically involves felling trees in a sustainably managed forest and transporting the logs to a sawmill, where they are cut into rough planks. The quality of the logs will determine the quality of the final flooring product, so care is taken to choose logs that are free of knots, cracks, and other imperfections. Once the rough planks have been cut, they are then processed into thin sheets of hardwood veneer. This is done through a process called slicing, where a rotating blade is used to cut the logs into thin sheets, one layer at a time. The veneers are then sorted and stacked, with the best quality veneers being reserved for the top layer of the flooring. The next stage of the manufacturing process involves layering the hardwood veneers. This involves arranging the veneers on top of each other and gluing them together to form a solid panel. The top layer of the panel is typically made from the best quality hardwood veneers, while the bottom layers are made from less expensive veneers or from engineered materials such as MDF or HDF. This combination of natural hardwood and engineered materials provides the stability and durability that is necessary for a long-lasting flooring product. Once the panel has been assembled, it is then placed in a press, where it is subjected to high pressure and heat. This process is called pressing and it helps to bond the veneers together and to create a solid and stable panel. The panel is then cut into individual planks, which are then sanded and finished to remove any rough spots or imperfections. The final stage of the manufacturing process involves the application of a finish to the planks. This may involve the use of a stain, a sealant, or a combination of both. The finish is applied to protect the wood from moisture and to enhance its natural beauty. It is important to choose a finish that is appropriate for the environment where the flooring will be installed, as well as the desired look and feel of the space. Once the flooring has been finished, it is then packaged and shipped to retailers and distributors. The flooring can be installed either by a professional contractor or by a do-it-yourself homeowner. The installation process typically involves laying the planks down over a subfloor, attaching them to the subfloor, and then applying a final finish. In conclusion, engineered hardwood flooring is a beautiful and durable flooring option that provides a unique look and feel to any space. The manufacturing process involves several stages, including harvesting the hardwood logs, slicing the logs into veneers, layering the veneers, pressing the veneers into a solid panel, and finishing the panel with a protective coating. With proper care and maintenance, engineered hardwood flooring can last for many years, providing a beautiful and long-lasting addition to any home or business.

There's no question that to refinish hardwood floors in your home is a huge facelift to your room; it's rejuvenating, making things look brand new. And in most cases, the cost of refinishing compared to replacing is cheaper. Also, as wood is a natural product, natural variations are a big part of its appeal, and these can be highlighted when refinishing hardwood floors. It's all part of the character of the wood and home. No amount of modern manufacturing can replicate original hardwood floors. Whether you have some well-loved wood floors to revitalize or carpeting has been hiding your hardwood and you want to consider hardwood floor refinishing, there are five main things you need to know about. 1. Hardwood Floor Cleaning Restoring dirty hardwood floors that have no sheen left can seem straightforward; a good deep cleaning can restore their former glory. It will require sweeping and vacuuming, mopping with concentrated cleaners; and then ongoing work to keep the floor in tip-top shape. If that wasn't successful, your wood floor can be refinished even without sanding, using certain products. Some hardwood floors are beyond a quick fix because getting the job done is lengthy and labor-intensive. 2. Prepping the Floor and Room for Wood Floor Maintenance Everything needs removal; remember, anything that is left inside will be exposed to plenty of dust and debris. Check that the room will be sealed off as much as possible so no dust spreads through the house. Check that all vents, doorways, and electrical outlets that will need to be covered. If necessary, thoroughly sweep and mop the floor to clean it before refinishing. 3. Sanding and Refinishing Doesn't Fix Gaps For your information - quality hardwood floors can be sanded down and refinished up to about five times before needing to be replaced. People ask if it's possible to refinish a floor without sanding it. But frankly, if floors are not sanded, the staining doesn't penetrate the hardwood correctly. If the floors are damaged, for example, a more aggressive sanding tool might be required to smooth out the floors. If you notice gaps between the boards before the job will be started, those gaps will still be there afterward - some minor gaps might improve with refinishing. It is also good to remember that there are likely to be color variations in the boards and some knots. Sometimes it's not possible to see these until after finishing coats have been applied, but the wood floor color trends will truly bring out the floor's uniqueness and beauty. After sanding the floors, the powdery dust will be allowed to settle on the floor from the air, then be vacuumed out, and finally dry-tacking the floor with soft microfiber cloths. 4. Updating Your Hardwood Floor with a New Color When a hardwood floor starts showing wear and tear, you need to refinish it. With all that time and effort, you want to make sure that your floor looks amazing. It's best to let the work be carried out by professionals. After sanding down the floor to its natural state, you have the opportunity to change the appearance of the floor radically with a new color. Some people like the hardwood floor color stains as they believe it enhances the natural color of the wood. Here too, you might not find the exact color for your needs; hardwood darkens over time; nevertheless, hardwood floors can be made darker or lighter. Give us a call today for an advice needed. Cleaning products also can make a difference in the color. If the same color was used in another section and then compared it to flooring that was refinished 5-10 years ago, it's not going to be exact, but fairly close. 5. Expect to Repaint the Skirting after Hardwood Refinishing Sanding and refinishing is going to scuff up the skirting boards and you will get some stain and colour on them - they will need painting afterwards. The same applies to the steps, stair risers, stringers, and spindles. If the carpeting was removed off the floor, there might be gaps where the paint on the skirtings is missing. The walls, too, might get scuffed because the edgers will need to get to the floor edges but this is a rare occurrence. Plan on painting, but only after the floors have been refinished. If you plan on skirtings to be replaced, please note they need to be removed before refinishing the floors and installing them after refinishing. To have your floors sanded correctly, its best to leave it to the professional as its a labour intensive process with a lot of skill required.

Most proud homeowners make it their priority to update and add features that create a warm and inviting place to live whilst adding significant value to their investment. One of the best ways to improve aesthetics and add physical value is with addition of high quality timber floorboards. Forte Flooring is one of Ireland’s leading manufacturers of premium engineered hardwood timber flooring and we understand just how valuable oak floorboards can be to homes of all architectural styles and designs. Let’s explore just some of the many reasons why homes with premium oak timber flooring are worth more in the property market. Timeless Appeal Timber flooring doesn’t date, it isn’t a fad or trend that you will look back on in years to come and wonder why you ever considered it. With a seemingly endless array of colours, grains, sizes, styles and finishes, there are timber floorboards to suit any style of home from classic to contemporary. For coastal or Hamptons style homes, whitewashed boards add a subtle textural element perfect for beachside living, while heritage and period houses featuring chevron flooring and darker timbers exude a sense of grandeur and luxury. Low Maintenance One of the benefits of engineered timber flooring is that it can last for decades with some simple maintenance and cleaning. Unlike other flooring types which may succumb to staining and require frequent scrubbing, resealing or re-sanding, engineered timber floor boards will look as good in many years to come as they do today. Incredibly durable and highly resistant to discoloration, regular sweeping and vacuuming along with dry mopping is all you need to keep your engineered timber floors looking immaculate so they stand the test of time. Eco-Friendly Sustainability is a great concern these days, and eco-friendly materials are high up on the wish list of many home owners and potential new home buyers. At Forte Flooring, we source our wood from ethical suppliers in Europe to ensure the most guilt-free, luxury wooden floor products available. We have also gone one step further, in 2022, we joined Carbon Neutral’s Plant-A-Tree Program, an initiative that aims to restore landscapes and reproduce natural ecosystems with hundreds of trees already planted across Ireland. Our engineered timber flooring is visually stunning, gives the texture and warmth of solid hardwood, is incredibly robust to withstand the rigours of modern family life and is helping to create a better future for our planet. Remember, Not All Timber Floorboards Are Equal Whether you are updating your property for sale or looking to renovate and want the best possible return on your investment, installing timber floorboards is one of the easiest and most effective ways to add value and attract buyers. However, there are many timber flooring suppliers in Australia and many of them supply inferior quality products that likely won’t add value, and may even end up costing you in the long run. At Forte Flooring we source only the best, sustainable European timber and have developed an innovative nosing system that means every panel fits perfectly with the next. This results in a seamless, high quality finish that will be sure to add the most value to your property. For the best European and French oak floors for your home, get in touch with our friendly and experienced team today. With showrooms in Dublin and London, beautiful oak floors for your new build or renovation are just a consultation away. Book an appointment to discuss your requirements online now or call your nearest Forte Flooring office today.

Engineered wood flooring is a type of flooring that is made from multiple layers of wood, including a top layer of real hardwood, that is glued together and designed to look like solid hardwood. This type of flooring has become increasingly popular due to its affordability, durability, and versatility. However, with so many different brands and types of engineered wood flooring on the market, it can be difficult to determine which is the best quality. Here are some key factors to consider when determining the quality of an engineered wood floor. The thickness of the top layer of hardwood is one of the most important factors to consider when determining the quality of an engineered wood floor. The thicker the top layer, the better the quality. A top layer of 2mm or less is considered low quality, while a top layer of 4mm or more is considered high quality. High quality engineered wood flooring will have a top layer that is between 4mm and 6mm thick. The type of hardwood used for the top layer can also play a role in determining the quality of the engineered wood floor. High quality engineered wood flooring will have a top layer of real hardwood, such as oak, maple, or hickory. Cheaper, low quality engineered wood flooring may have a top layer made from a lesser quality hardwood or a composite material. The construction of the engineered wood flooring is also important. High quality engineered wood flooring will have a cross-ply construction, with the top layer being glued to the core layer at a 90-degree angle. This creates a strong and stable floor that is less likely to warp or buckle over time. While price is not always a reliable indicator of quality, it is important to keep in mind that high quality engineered wood flooring will often cost more than low quality options. However, it is important to remember that a high quality engineered wood floor will last longer, be less likely to warp or buckle, and provide a better overall look and feel. In conclusion, there are several factors to consider when determining the quality of an engineered wood floor. These include the thickness of the top layer, the type of hardwood used for the top layer, the construction of the flooring, the warranty offered, and the price. By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that you are choosing a high quality engineered wood floor that will provide you with years of beauty and durability.

1. Can I use wooden flooring in the kitchen and bathroom? Yes, you can use them in the kitchen and bathrooms as they are hard-wearing floors. However, just know that timber floors are natural floors and are different from other flooring options like marble and tiles—and hence they tend to react to moisture and wear in a different way. Therefore, you must know how to take care of wooden flooring, especially in high spillage and foot traffic areas. Make sure to discuss with your professional flooring installer to assist you in maintaining timber floors in the kitchen and bathroom. 2. What are the benefits of engineered floorboards over solid timber floorboards? Like solid timber flooring, engineered flooring also comes in varieties of styles, finishes and colours. Some of the advantages of engineered flooring are: Highly durable and resistant to moisture and temperature than solid timber and thus less likely to move and warp More sustainable and environmentally friendly options Longer and wider floorboards are available, making them easy to install They are suitable for use with underfloor heating They require no acclimatisation period provided there is no underfloor heating More elegant choices at budget-friendly prices 3. What does an unfinished floor mean? An unfinished timber floor refers to the raw floorboards that do not have any sort of protective layer or sealant applied to them yet. Though you can leave them like that, unfinished floors are more prone to damage from moisture and wear. Hence, they are usually finished on-site with a light floor sanding, followed by the application of the desired protective coatings and stains. 4. What is the most durable finish for solid timber floors? It depends upon the flooring type, its usage and what you are trying to achieve. Not all hardwoods work well with every other flooring finish. Flooring professionals suggest finishes depending upon the hardwood type. At Forte Flooring, we use a wide variety of finishes, including oil base, modified oil, water base, alcohol base, hard wax oil and many more. 6. What does grading mean? Grading is the way of ranking or distinguishing the visual characteristics of the timber floorboards based on their grain patterns, knots, veins, splitting and insect marks. At Forte Flooring, we have three grades of timber flooring: Select grade Standard grade Character grade Check out our supplier for a full range of timber floor styles and grades. 5. Is tongue and groove better than click-lock flooring? Though the click-lock flooring is easy to install and fast, the traditional tongue and groove flooring is the better option. It’s because the tongue and groove floorings are more flexible and can be fitted over any subfloor, including joists. Moreover, they are easy to repair in case of any damage during fitting, while the click-lock cannot be repaired. 7. Which timber flooring is the best? Whether it’s hardwood flooring, engineered, cork or bamboo, choosing one depends on your personal choice and preferences, such as the colour, tone, and texture you like on your timber floors. And the best hardwood species in Europe is Oak and perhaps Ash. 8. How long will my timber floors last? Timber floors last for many decades if you give them the proper care and maintenance. Sanding and polishing your floors helps renew the timber floors and keep them looking new for many years. The thicker your floorboard is, the more life you can expect with professional floor sanding and polishing techniques.

Engineered hardwood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, versatility, and beauty. It is also much more affordable than solid hardwood, which makes it a great option for those on a budget. However, keeping engineered hardwood flooring clean and looking its best requires the use of the correct cleaning products. The first reason why it is important to use the correct cleaning products is to prevent damage to the flooring. Engineered hardwood flooring is made up of several layers of different materials, including a hardwood veneer on top, which can be easily damaged if not cleaned properly. Using the wrong cleaning products can scratch the surface, strip the finish, or cause discoloration. This can significantly reduce the lifespan of the flooring and detract from its beauty. Another reason why it is important to use the correct cleaning products is to maintain the warranty. Most manufacturers of engineered hardwood flooring will specify the type of cleaning products that should be used in order to maintain the warranty. Using the wrong cleaning products can void the warranty, which means that the homeowner will have to pay for any repairs or replacement costs themselves. Additionally, using the correct cleaning products can help to maintain the slip resistance of the flooring. Slip resistance is an important safety feature, especially in areas such as the bathroom and kitchen. If the wrong cleaning products are used, the slip resistance of the flooring can be reduced, which can increase the risk of slips and falls. In order to determine the correct cleaning products to use, it is important to read the manufacturer's instructions. They will usually specify the type of cleaning products that should be used, as well as any specific cleaning techniques that should be followed. It is also important to follow the instructions carefully, as some cleaning products may require dilution or specific application techniques. One of the most important things to consider when choosing cleaning products is the type of finish on the engineered hardwood flooring. Some finishes are more sensitive to certain cleaning products than others, so it is important to choose a cleaning product that is compatible with the finish. For example, if the engineered hardwood flooring has a urethane finish, it is important to choose a cleaning product that is specifically designed for use with this type of finish. Another important factor to consider is the pH level of the cleaning product. The pH level is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the product, and it can have a significant impact on the condition of the engineered hardwood flooring. Cleaning products with a high pH level can damage the finish, causing it to become discoloured or hazy. Cleaning products with a low pH level, on the other hand, can strip the finish and leave the flooring looking dull and lifeless. In conclusion, using the correct cleaning products is essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of engineered hardwood flooring. By choosing the right cleaning products and following the manufacturer's instructions, homeowners can keep their flooring looking its best for years to come. By using the correct products, homeowners can also maintain the slip resistance of the flooring, which is important for safety, and maintain the warranty, which is important for peace of mind.

Engineered wood flooring is a type of flooring that is made from multiple layers of wood, including a top layer of real hardwood, that is glued together and designed to look like solid hardwood. This type of flooring has become increasingly popular due to its affordability, durability, and versatility. However, with so many different brands and types of engineered wood flooring on the market, it can be difficult to determine which is the best quality. Here are some key factors to consider when determining the quality of an engineered wood floor. The thickness of the top layer of hardwood is one of the most important factors to consider when determining the quality of an engineered wood floor. The thicker the top layer, the better the quality. A top layer of 2mm or less is considered low quality, while a top layer of 4mm or more is considered high quality. High quality engineered wood flooring will have a top layer that is between 4mm and 6mm thick. The type of hardwood used for the top layer can also play a role in determining the quality of the engineered wood floor. High quality engineered wood flooring will have a top layer of real hardwood, such as oak, maple, or hickory. Cheaper, low quality engineered wood flooring may have a top layer made from a lesser quality hardwood or a composite material. The construction of the engineered wood flooring is also important. High quality engineered wood flooring will have a cross-ply construction, with the top layer being glued to the core layer at a 90-degree angle. This creates a strong and stable floor that is less likely to warp or buckle over time. While price is not always a reliable indicator of quality, it is important to keep in mind that high quality engineered wood flooring will often cost more than low quality options. However, it is important to remember that a high quality engineered wood floor will last longer, be less likely to warp or buckle, and provide a better overall look and feel. In conclusion, there are several factors to consider when determining the quality of an engineered wood floor. These include the thickness of the top layer, the type of hardwood used for the top layer, the construction of the flooring, the warranty offered, and the price. By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that you are choosing a high quality engineered wood floor that will provide you with years of beauty and durability.

Engineered hardwood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, versatility, and beauty. It is also much more affordable than solid hardwood, which makes it a great option for those on a budget. However, keeping engineered hardwood flooring clean and looking its best requires the use of the correct cleaning products. The first reason why it is important to use the correct cleaning products is to prevent damage to the flooring. Engineered hardwood flooring is made up of several layers of different materials, including a hardwood veneer on top, which can be easily damaged if not cleaned properly. Using the wrong cleaning products can scratch the surface, strip the finish, or cause discoloration. This can significantly reduce the lifespan of the flooring and detract from its beauty. Another reason why it is important to use the correct cleaning products is to maintain the warranty. Most manufacturers of engineered hardwood flooring will specify the type of cleaning products that should be used in order to maintain the warranty. Using the wrong cleaning products can void the warranty, which means that the homeowner will have to pay for any repairs or replacement costs themselves. Additionally, using the correct cleaning products can help to maintain the slip resistance of the flooring. Slip resistance is an important safety feature, especially in areas such as the bathroom and kitchen. If the wrong cleaning products are used, the slip resistance of the flooring can be reduced, which can increase the risk of slips and falls. In order to determine the correct cleaning products to use, it is important to read the manufacturer's instructions. They will usually specify the type of cleaning products that should be used, as well as any specific cleaning techniques that should be followed. It is also important to follow the instructions carefully, as some cleaning products may require dilution or specific application techniques. One of the most important things to consider when choosing cleaning products is the type of finish on the engineered hardwood flooring. Some finishes are more sensitive to certain cleaning products than others, so it is important to choose a cleaning product that is compatible with the finish. For example, if the engineered hardwood flooring has a urethane finish, it is important to choose a cleaning product that is specifically designed for use with this type of finish. Another important factor to consider is the pH level of the cleaning product. The pH level is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the product, and it can have a significant impact on the condition of the engineered hardwood flooring. Cleaning products with a high pH level can damage the finish, causing it to become discoloured or hazy. Cleaning products with a low pH level, on the other hand, can strip the finish and leave the flooring looking dull and lifeless. In conclusion, using the correct cleaning products is essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of engineered hardwood flooring. By choosing the right cleaning products and following the manufacturer's instructions, homeowners can keep their flooring looking its best for years to come. By using the correct products, homeowners can also maintain the slip resistance of the flooring, which is important for safety, and maintain the warranty, which is important for peace of mind.

Engineered hardwood flooring is a type of flooring that combines the natural beauty of hardwood with the durability and stability of engineered materials. This type of flooring is created through a multi-step process that involves several stages of manufacturing, including slicing, layering, and pressing. The end result is a beautiful and long-lasting flooring option that provides a unique look and feel to any space. The first stage of the manufacturing process involves harvesting the hardwood logs that will be used to make the flooring. This typically involves felling trees in a sustainably managed forest and transporting the logs to a sawmill, where they are cut into rough planks. The quality of the logs will determine the quality of the final flooring product, so care is taken to choose logs that are free of knots, cracks, and other imperfections. Once the rough planks have been cut, they are then processed into thin sheets of hardwood veneer. This is done through a process called slicing, where a rotating blade is used to cut the logs into thin sheets, one layer at a time. The veneers are then sorted and stacked, with the best quality veneers being reserved for the top layer of the flooring. The next stage of the manufacturing process involves layering the hardwood veneers. This involves arranging the veneers on top of each other and gluing them together to form a solid panel. The top layer of the panel is typically made from the best quality hardwood veneers, while the bottom layers are made from less expensive veneers or from engineered materials such as MDF or HDF. This combination of natural hardwood and engineered materials provides the stability and durability that is necessary for a long-lasting flooring product. Once the panel has been assembled, it is then placed in a press, where it is subjected to high pressure and heat. This process is called pressing and it helps to bond the veneers together and to create a solid and stable panel. The panel is then cut into individual planks, which are then sanded and finished to remove any rough spots or imperfections. The final stage of the manufacturing process involves the application of a finish to the planks. This may involve the use of a stain, a sealant, or a combination of both. The finish is applied to protect the wood from moisture and to enhance its natural beauty. It is important to choose a finish that is appropriate for the environment where the flooring will be installed, as well as the desired look and feel of the space. Once the flooring has been finished, it is then packaged and shipped to retailers and distributors. The flooring can be installed either by a professional contractor or by a do-it-yourself homeowner. The installation process typically involves laying the planks down over a subfloor, attaching them to the subfloor, and then applying a final finish. In conclusion, engineered hardwood flooring is a beautiful and durable flooring option that provides a unique look and feel to any space. The manufacturing process involves several stages, including harvesting the hardwood logs, slicing the logs into veneers, layering the veneers, pressing the veneers into a solid panel, and finishing the panel with a protective coating. With proper care and maintenance, engineered hardwood flooring can last for many years, providing a beautiful and long-lasting addition to any home or business.

There's no question that to refinish hardwood floors in your home is a huge facelift to your room; it's rejuvenating, making things look brand new. And in most cases, the cost of refinishing compared to replacing is cheaper. Also, as wood is a natural product, natural variations are a big part of its appeal, and these can be highlighted when refinishing hardwood floors. It's all part of the character of the wood and home. No amount of modern manufacturing can replicate original hardwood floors. Whether you have some well-loved wood floors to revitalize or carpeting has been hiding your hardwood and you want to consider hardwood floor refinishing, there are five main things you need to know about. 1. Hardwood Floor Cleaning Restoring dirty hardwood floors that have no sheen left can seem straightforward; a good deep cleaning can restore their former glory. It will require sweeping and vacuuming, mopping with concentrated cleaners; and then ongoing work to keep the floor in tip-top shape. If that wasn't successful, your wood floor can be refinished even without sanding, using certain products. Some hardwood floors are beyond a quick fix because getting the job done is lengthy and labor-intensive. 2. Prepping the Floor and Room for Wood Floor Maintenance Everything needs removal; remember, anything that is left inside will be exposed to plenty of dust and debris. Check that the room will be sealed off as much as possible so no dust spreads through the house. Check that all vents, doorways, and electrical outlets that will need to be covered. If necessary, thoroughly sweep and mop the floor to clean it before refinishing. 3. Sanding and Refinishing Doesn't Fix Gaps For your information - quality hardwood floors can be sanded down and refinished up to about five times before needing to be replaced. People ask if it's possible to refinish a floor without sanding it. But frankly, if floors are not sanded, the staining doesn't penetrate the hardwood correctly. If the floors are damaged, for example, a more aggressive sanding tool might be required to smooth out the floors. If you notice gaps between the boards before the job will be started, those gaps will still be there afterward - some minor gaps might improve with refinishing. It is also good to remember that there are likely to be color variations in the boards and some knots. Sometimes it's not possible to see these until after finishing coats have been applied, but the wood floor color trends will truly bring out the floor's uniqueness and beauty. After sanding the floors, the powdery dust will be allowed to settle on the floor from the air, then be vacuumed out, and finally dry-tacking the floor with soft microfiber cloths. 4. Updating Your Hardwood Floor with a New Color When a hardwood floor starts showing wear and tear, you need to refinish it. With all that time and effort, you want to make sure that your floor looks amazing. It's best to let the work be carried out by professionals. After sanding down the floor to its natural state, you have the opportunity to change the appearance of the floor radically with a new color. Some people like the hardwood floor color stains as they believe it enhances the natural color of the wood. Here too, you might not find the exact color for your needs; hardwood darkens over time; nevertheless, hardwood floors can be made darker or lighter. Give us a call today for an advice needed. Cleaning products also can make a difference in the color. If the same color was used in another section and then compared it to flooring that was refinished 5-10 years ago, it's not going to be exact, but fairly close. 5. Expect to Repaint the Skirting after Hardwood Refinishing Sanding and refinishing is going to scuff up the skirting boards and you will get some stain and colour on them - they will need painting afterwards. The same applies to the steps, stair risers, stringers, and spindles. If the carpeting was removed off the floor, there might be gaps where the paint on the skirtings is missing. The walls, too, might get scuffed because the edgers will need to get to the floor edges but this is a rare occurrence. Plan on painting, but only after the floors have been refinished. If you plan on skirtings to be replaced, please note they need to be removed before refinishing the floors and installing them after refinishing. To have your floors sanded correctly, its best to leave it to the professional as its a labour intensive process with a lot of skill required.