Frequently Asked Wood Flooring Questions

Information may not be reliable

From the Basics, to Installation and Maintenance 

Homeowners are turning back to wood flooring due to its aesthetic appeal, durability, and affordability.

Basics

What is wood flooring?

Wood flooring is a floor covering made from the manufactured product of timber, either aesthetic or structural. Wood flooring comes in different variants of styles, cuts, and colors. 

Why is it important to know about wood flooring?

When it comes to flooring, wood flooring is the most popular, durable, and affordable choice. The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) reports, "In a national survey of real estate agents, 90% said that houses with wood flooring sell faster and for higher prices than houses without wood floors." That being said, real wood flooring is the premier choice. That being said, it is important to note that not all wood floors are the same.

What are the most common wood flooring categories?

• Solid Wood Flooring
• Engineered Wood Flooring
• Composite Engineered Wood Flooring

What’s the difference between the three categories?

Solid Wood Flooring: A single, solid piece of timber from top to bottom. Composed of three types:

• Plank Wood Flooring
• Strip Wood Flooring
• Tiles

Engineered Wood Flooring: Manufactured wood flooring from top to bottom. Typically made from slats of wood or several wood veneers stacked up in opposing directions. Composed of three types:

• Fiberboard  
• Fingered  
• Wood Ply

Composite Engineered Wood Flooring: Made with real wood on the wearable surface, while the backing and core material is made from any type of composite material.  

What are the benefits of real wood flooring?

• Timeless Style: Provides classic and ageless elegance 
• Spaciousness: Gives the room more space and lends a warm and authentic feel 
• Variety of Appearance: Offers possibilities for several creative designs 
• Easy to Clean: Can be easily cleaned without accumulating dirt, dust, and debris
• Durable: Made from strong materials to last for generations 
• Increases Home Value: Adds to home value for future property sale 
• Great Acoustics: Increases and improves acoustics in the room - an audio-friendly material
• Anti-allergy Material: A healthy floor choice that can avoid allergic reactions       

Can wooden floors increase the warmth of a room? 

Wood is a better insulator than metals, glass, marble, and concrete. Real natural wood, when used as a flooring material, can retain warmth from HVAC systems and radiant heat systems.

The insulating capacity of wood:  

• Ten times that of aluminum and steel
• Five times that of concrete or cinder blocks  

Are wooden floors good for indoor pets like dogs and cats?

Wooden floors are easy to clean and maintain, including with pets. However, wood flooring is susceptible to scratches.

Are engineered wood floors made from real wooden floors?

Yes, engineered wood floors are made from multiple layers of natural wood or wood composite veneers. The only non-wood parts are the adhesives and the finishing layers of the top veneer.

Installation

Can I install wooden flooring by myself?

Installing wooden flooring is difficult and complicated, requiring special tools and fundamental construction skills such as material quality handling, measurements, and working around obstruction techniques. It is recommended to let the professionals handle the installation.

Can I install wooden flooring in any room?

Yes, wood flooring comes in a variety of installation options and can be installed in any room.

Is it safe to install wood flooring in the kitchen? 

Kitchens are susceptible to high-temperatures and moisture levels. If wooden floors are exposed to such, they will contract and expand. To prevent cupping and gapping, using engineered wood is recommended.

Maintenance

How do I maintain my wooden floors?

Regular wood floor maintenance is simple and easy. Sweep, dust mop or vacuum to remove dust, debris, or grit from in between floorboards. Avoid using:

• Steam Mops or Wet Mops: Too much steam and water can damage wood overtime
• Polishers, Mass-market Rejuvenators or Restorers 

What should I do if the floor gets scratched?

Wood is repairable and can appear new again. If wood floors are scratched,  they are most likely simple surface scratches that can be easily repaired with maintenance coating.   

If the scratches are deep, the wood can be sanded and refinished. Once the scratches are removed, professionals will apply a new coating to restore its original luster. 

Prevent Scratches by:   

• Avoiding wood floors while wearing athletic cleats or high heels

• Clipping pet nails  

• Placing throw rugs at entryways and exits

• Putting felt pads on furniture legs            

Are wooden floors strong against the wear and tear of pets or children?

Yes, real wood floors are durable and can stand up to impacts, bumps, scratches or spills that happen at home. However, different woods have different durability and vulnerability. Real wood flooring has a durable finish that helps minimize the wear and tear.  

Can wood flooring prevent harboring of dust or dirt?

Wood flooring can deter the noticeability of dust and dirt. Real wood flooring does not harbor dirt, dust, mold, or animal dander. It is easy to spot and to remove.

Can I change the look of my wooden floors? 

Real wood flooring can be refinished. If you plan to change the color or redesign a room, a wood floor professional can simply apply a new coating of finish as desired. Take note, refinishing depends on:

• The floor itself

• Degree of repair needed 

• The skill of the finisher

The Ultimate Confidence Guarantee

For the leading wood flooring options in Southwest Florida, call ProFloors and Cabinets at (239) 310-2711 or visit us in-store today!