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How to Keep Winter Weather From Destroying Your Hardwood Floors

 

 

 

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Hardwood floors add warmth and beauty to your home. In order to maintain their beauty, they need to be cared for properly. This is especially true during the winter months when the air is dry, and snow and ice begin to make their way inside.  Here are a few winter tips for keeping your hardwood floors fresh and beautiful from the experts at Tom & Peter Flooring !

Gapping Between Boards

You might notice some gaps appearing between your hardwood floor boards, and that they tend to get wider as the weather gets colder. The reason for this is that the humidity in the air is lower, and the moisture within the boards decreases causing the boards to shrink. A great way to keep this from happening is by running a humidifier in your home. You may need anywhere from 3 to 5 pints of water per hour to make up for lost moisture depending on the level of ventilation in your home.

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Ice Melt and Salt on Your Wood Floors

Rock salt, or sodium chloride can be extremely abrasive if tracked inside from the outdoors, causing scratches and damage to your wood floor’s finish. Calcium chloride, on the other hand, leaves a slick film that dulls and damages the surface. Nip the problem in the bud and provide mats at every door for guests to wipe their feet on to avoid this Winter worry from harming your hardwoods.There is no doubt that salt on hardwood floors is going to be a problem no matter how it is handled, as salts (sodium chloride salt combinations) are going to leave a nasty, oily film on wood floors as well as a chalky white residue that can cause slips and falls as well as damage to wooden floors, which means that floors need to be maintained in order to prevent both.Removal of salt residue and chemical combinations that have accumulated on wood floors over time can be accomplished by utilizing the right kinds of cleaning solutions that are geared towards neutralizing the salt. You want to save money and spare yourself the expense of hiring a professional, so give the natural cleaning solutions here a try, before going the professional route.

Prevention

If you are asking yourself the question, does salt ruin hardwood floors, the answer is yes, but there are ways to prevent it, which include some suggestions as to how to prevent floor disasters before they start , and how damage control can be managed with hardwood floors. With a few simple steps, preventative measures can save you time, expense and the life of your floor.
  1. Don’t allow moisture and salt-containing chemicals to remain on floors for any length of time.
  2. Immediately remove any moisture and salt from floors.
  3. Keep water absorbent cloths, rags, or towels handy at entryways/ exits of a home.
  4. Remove any dried salt granules or other remaining residues with sweepers, mops, or vacuums for fast extraction.
  5. If at all possible, don’t use ice melting products at entryways. Instead, use kitty litter. Though it won’t melt ice, it does allow for a safe surface for entry and will hinder floor scratches.
  6. Utilize indoor and outdoor mats and scatter rugs to keep from tracking in salt residue from shoes and clothing.

Water and Debris

Your floors are a magnet for dirt and other debris all year long. In the winter, you also have to worry about water from melting snow and ice. Water can make its way into your wood flooring causing warping and other damage to the boards. Additionally, dirt and other debris can cause scratches in the surface, allowing more moisture to enter. Sweep and mop often to eliminate these issues.

Inexpensive Cleaning Solutions

Cleaning solutions need to address canceling out the properties of the salt or neutralizing it, and most regular cleaning products will not do that. An acidic type of cleaner is the answer. Here are a few natural and inexpensive cleaning solutions that will help to remove salt.

  • Use 1 cup of white vinegar to approximately 3 gallons of warm water. Take a slightly damp cloth and rub the floor area in a circling manner and quickly buff it dry. It is best to try this process in a small area first before proceeding to larger spaces.
  • To make a more powerful cleaner for heavy residue accumulation, add 2 Tablespoons of De-greasing type dish soap to 1 cup vinegar to approximately 3 gallons of warm water.
  • Before cleaning, particularly if doing it by hand, gather the necessary tools like rubber gloves, floor brushes, scrubbers and soft-headed mops (microfiber) and clothes to help you complete the job.
  • When applying either one of the vinegar solutions to wood floors, allow the solution to remain for about 10-15 minutes. Depending on the depth of the residue, use the mop for lighter cleaning and the brushes and scrubbers for deeper cleansing. Once clean, remove any excess moisture from the floor with a clean towel or cloth.

Pets and Children

Your kids and pets love to play outside in the snow, but, all that snow may end up melting on your lovely wood floors when they come in. If possible, allow your dog back inside through either the garage or the laundry room, and if you don’t have that option, have towels ready to wipe off their paws when they return. As for the children, remind them to shake off any excess snow and remove their coats, snow pants, scarves, mittens and boots outside, or in a designated area with protection for the floor, and remember to quickly wipe up any puddles they do create to avoid damage.

Related imageHoliday Decorating

Many people love the look, feel and smell of a live Christmas tree during the holiday season. However, be very careful when adding water, and make sure to clean up any spills to avoid staining and other damage.

Use a tree skirt made of a soft fabric, such as cotton or velvet and avoid those with a rubber backing as these have chemicals, which if left on your wood floors for an extended time, can alter the appearance of your wood floors. Finally, clean up fallen pine needles so they don’t get tracked around the house under guests shoes, which may cause scratches. They may be small scratches, but overall they have the ability to dull the appearance of your wood floors.

Is the finish on your hardwood floor fading?

Tom & Peter Flooring can give your wood floors a facelift in just two days! Just in time for the holidays!

Contact us and we’ll be happy to provide you with a free, no obligation consultation.

 

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Top 10 Tips for Moving Heavy Objects without Scratching your Hardwood Floors

 

Top 10 Tips for Moving Heavy Objects Without Scratching Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors add warmth, beauty, and value to your home, but moving heavy furniture and appliances can quickly leave scratches, dents, and other damage behind. Whether you’re rearranging your living room, moving into a new house, or replacing a refrigerator, protecting your hardwood floors should be a priority.

Even a small piece of dirt trapped beneath a furniture leg can scratch the finish. Heavy appliances and furniture can also leave permanent dents if their weight isn’t properly supported.

At Tom & Peter Flooring, we’ve seen how easily hardwood floors can be damaged during moving and remodeling projects. Fortunately, with the right tools and a little preparation, most of this damage can be prevented.

Here are our 10 best tips for moving heavy furniture and appliances without scratching hardwood floors.

1. Clean Your Hardwood Floors Before Moving Furniture

Before moving anything heavy, thoroughly clean the area where the furniture will travel.

Small particles of sand, dirt, and debris can become trapped beneath furniture legs, sliders, or moving equipment. As the furniture moves, these particles can act like sandpaper and leave scratches in the floor’s protective finish.

To prevent damage:

  • Vacuum using a hardwood-safe floor attachment.
  • Remove dirt and debris from the entire moving path.
  • Check underneath furniture legs for trapped particles.
  • Make sure furniture sliders and moving equipment are clean.
  • Allow the floor to dry completely before moving anything.

Pro tip: Never slide furniture across a dirty hardwood floor, even when using protective pads.

2. Never Drag Heavy Furniture Directly Across Hardwood Floors

One of the most common causes of scratched hardwood floors is dragging furniture without proper protection.

Heavy tables, dressers, couches, and cabinets can damage the finish or create deep gouges when pulled across the wood.

Whenever possible, lift furniture completely off the floor rather than pushing or dragging it.

For particularly heavy items, ask another person for assistance or use appropriate moving equipment.

Remember that hardwood floors can be damaged by both friction and concentrated weight. Even furniture with smooth legs can cause scratches or dents.

3. Use Furniture Sliders Designed for Hardwood Floors

Furniture sliders can make moving heavy objects much easier, but choosing the correct type is essential.

Sliders designed for carpet are different from those intended for hardwood and other hard surfaces.

For hardwood floors, look for sliders with soft, nonabrasive contact surfaces specifically approved for finished wood flooring.

To use furniture sliders safely:

  • Select sliders appropriate for the furniture’s weight.
  • Make sure the bottom of each slider is clean.
  • Lift each furniture leg carefully and position the slider underneath.
  • Move the furniture slowly and evenly.
  • Avoid sudden turns or excessive pressure on one corner.

Never assume that every plastic furniture slider is safe for hardwood floors. Hard or damaged surfaces can scratch the finish.

4. Protect Your Hardwood Floors With Moving Blankets and Floor Protection

Moving blankets can help protect furniture and prevent accidental contact with walls, doorframes, and surrounding surfaces.

However, when moving very heavy furniture or appliances, blankets alone may not provide enough protection against dents.

For heavy loads, use rigid, load-rated floor protection suitable for finished hardwood flooring.

Depending on the project, protective materials may include specialized floor protection panels or boards designed to distribute weight.

Make sure protective materials are clean, stable, and won’t slip while furniture is being moved.

Important: Avoid applying ordinary adhesive tape directly to finished hardwood floors. Some adhesives can damage the finish or leave residue.

5. Use a Furniture Dolly With Non-Marking Wheels

A furniture dolly can help move large, heavy objects while reducing the need to drag them across the floor.

However, not every dolly is suitable for hardwood flooring.

Hard wheels, trapped debris, and concentrated pressure can leave marks or dents.

When using a dolly:

  • Choose equipment appropriate for the object’s weight.
  • Inspect wheels for dirt, stones, or damage.
  • Use non-marking wheels when appropriate.
  • Protect the moving path with suitable load-rated floor protection.
  • Move slowly and avoid sharp turns.
  • Keep the load stable and properly secured.

For extremely heavy furniture or appliances, consider hiring professional movers with equipment designed for the task.

6. How to Move a Refrigerator Without Scratching Hardwood Floors

Refrigerators are among the most challenging appliances to move across hardwood flooring.

Their weight, wheels, and metal components can cause scratches, dents, or damage to the floor’s protective finish.

Before moving a refrigerator, follow these precautions:

Empty and prepare the refrigerator.

Remove food and loose items to reduce weight. Secure shelves, drawers, and doors according to the manufacturer’s moving instructions.

Protect the entire moving path.

Use rigid, load-rated floor protection designed for finished hardwood. Make sure the protective surface remains stable as the appliance moves.

Use appropriate moving equipment.

An appliance dolly or other equipment rated for the refrigerator’s weight can help move it safely. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding tilting and transportation.

Avoid rolling directly on exposed hardwood.

Refrigerator wheels can concentrate significant weight onto small areas, potentially causing dents even if they don’t visibly scratch the finish.

Move slowly and carefully.

Have another person assist when needed, and avoid sudden movements or changes in direction.

Taking a few extra minutes to protect your flooring can help prevent expensive damage during appliance replacement or kitchen remodeling.

7. Remove Drawers and Other Items Before Moving Heavy Furniture

Reducing the weight of furniture makes it easier to move and helps lower the risk of accidents.

Before moving a dresser, cabinet, desk, or entertainment center, remove loose and removable contents.

This may include:

  • Drawers
  • Books and decorative items
  • Electronic equipment
  • Removable shelves
  • Loose accessories

Make sure doors and other moving parts are secured.

Lighter furniture is generally easier to lift and control, reducing the temptation to drag it across your hardwood floors.

8. Install Felt Pads Under Furniture Legs

Felt furniture pads are a simple and inexpensive way to protect hardwood floors from everyday scratches.

They are especially useful for chairs, tables, stools, and other furniture that moves frequently.

Choose high-quality felt pads designed for hardwood flooring and appropriate for the furniture’s weight.

Before installation, clean the furniture legs and ensure the pads are securely attached.

Inspect them regularly because worn pads can expose hard furniture legs or collect abrasive dirt.

Keep in mind that felt pads are primarily intended for everyday furniture movement. They may not provide sufficient protection when moving extremely heavy objects.

9. Ask for Help When Moving Large or Heavy Objects

Trying to move heavy furniture alone can damage your floors and increase the risk of injury.

Large couches, solid wood tables, dressers, and appliances can be difficult to control, especially when navigating narrow hallways, doorways, or stairs.

Before moving:

  • Plan the route and clear obstacles.
  • Measure doorways and furniture dimensions.
  • Identify safe lifting points.
  • Use proper lifting techniques.
  • Ask for assistance when necessary.
  • Use professional movers for objects that are too heavy or awkward to handle safely.

Avoid twisting your body while carrying heavy items, and never attempt to catch a falling appliance or large piece of furniture.

Protecting your floors is important, but personal safety always comes first.

10. Inspect Your Hardwood Floors After Moving Furniture

Once the furniture is in its new location, take a few minutes to inspect your hardwood floors.

Look for scratches, dents, scuff marks, or damage caused by moving equipment.

Remove any dirt or debris and clean the area using products recommended for your floor’s finish.

If you notice a scratch, avoid immediately applying household oils, waxes, or abrasive cleaners. Some products can make the damage more noticeable or interfere with future professional repairs.

For minor surface marks, an appropriate hardwood floor maintenance product may help. Deeper damage may require professional attention.

What to Put Under Heavy Furniture to Protect Hardwood Floors

Different furniture and appliances require different types of floor protection.

Item Recommended protection
Dining chairs High-quality felt pads
Sofas and tables Felt pads for stationary use; hardwood-safe sliders when moving
Heavy dressers Appropriate furniture sliders or lifting equipment
Refrigerators Rigid, load-rated floor protection and suitable appliance-moving equipment
Washing machines Suitable moving equipment and rigid floor protection
Office chairs Hardwood-compatible casters or an appropriate floor mat

Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and weight limits before using any moving product.

Already Scratched Your Hardwood Floors? Here’s What to Do

Even with careful preparation, accidents can happen.

Heavy furniture, refrigerator wheels, and moving equipment can leave scratches or dents in hardwood flooring.

The best repair method depends on the type and depth of the damage.

Light Surface Scratches

Minor scratches affecting only the protective finish may sometimes be improved with appropriate maintenance or professional touch-up methods.

Deep Scratches and Gouges

Scratches that penetrate the protective finish and expose bare wood may require additional repairs, color matching, or sanding.

Dents and Damaged Floorboards

Heavy objects can leave dents or permanently damage individual boards. Depending on the extent of the damage, professional board repair, replacement, or refinishing may be necessary.

When to Consider Professional Hardwood Floor Refinishing

If your floors have extensive scratches, worn finishes, or damage across multiple areas, refinishing may be more practical than attempting numerous individual repairs.

Professional sanding and refinishing can restore the appearance of many hardwood floors without requiring complete replacement.

At Tom & Peter Flooring, we provide professional hardwood floor repair services in Chicago and hardwood floor refinishing throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.

Our experienced craftsmen can evaluate the damage and recommend an appropriate solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Heavy Furniture on Hardwood Floors

What is the safest way to move heavy furniture on hardwood floors?

Lifting furniture is generally the safest approach when it can be done without injury. For items that cannot be carried, use furniture sliders designed for hardwood floors or appropriate moving equipment with suitable floor protection.

Can furniture sliders scratch hardwood floors?

Yes. Furniture sliders can cause scratches if they are dirty, damaged, or unsuitable for finished hardwood. Always choose sliders designed for hard flooring and keep the contact surfaces clean.

Can you move a refrigerator across hardwood floors?

Yes, but refrigerators require special care because of their weight. Protect the moving path with rigid, load-rated materials and use appropriate appliance-moving equipment. Avoid rolling heavy appliances directly over unprotected hardwood.

Do felt pads prevent scratches on hardwood floors?

Felt pads can help prevent everyday scratches caused by chairs, tables, and other furniture. However, they should be inspected and replaced regularly, and they may not be sufficient for moving extremely heavy items.

How do you move a heavy couch without scratching hardwood floors?

Remove loose cushions and other removable items, then lift the couch with assistance whenever possible. If it must be moved across the floor, use suitable hardwood-safe furniture sliders and make sure the moving path is clean.

Can scratches from moving furniture be repaired?

Many scratches can be repaired or reduced, depending on their depth and the condition of the hardwood. Surface scratches may need minor treatment, while deep scratches or widespread damage may require professional hardwood floor refinishing.

Protect Your Hardwood Floors With Professional Care

Moving heavy furniture doesn’t have to result in scratched or damaged hardwood floors.

With proper preparation, clean surfaces, suitable moving equipment, and protective materials, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage.

If your hardwood floors already have scratches, dents, or worn finishes, professional restoration may help bring back their original beauty.

Tom & Peter Flooring specializes in hardwood floor repairs, sanding, refinishing, custom staining, and installation throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.

Whether you need to repair damage caused by moving furniture or restore the appearance of your entire floor, our team is ready to help.

Contact Tom & Peter Flooring today to request a free estimate.

Office: 847-956-2244

Tom: 773-805-2288

Tom & Peter Flooring Inc. – Professional Hardwood Floor Repair, Installation & Refinishing in Chicago and the Surrounding Suburbs.

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Create A Striking Finish with Herringbone Wood Flooring

You only have to view our gallery to see what a transformation herringbone flooring can make. This statement style lends itself perfectly to contemporary and traditional spaces, and becomes so much more than a floor surface – it becomes a striking feature that adds class, elegance and warmth to any room. The result is a unique and versatile look that will stay looking beautiful for many years to come. If you are looking for something that is dramatically different from standard wood flooring styles, take a look at our herringbone options.

The Timeless Beauty Of Herringbone Wood Flooring

From hallways in the home to school halls, and hotel receptions to French renaissance palaces, wooden herringbone enjoys a long and varied history. We offer a wide range of different options when choosing your herringbone floor and chevron flooring, so whether you are looking for white wash oak or American black walnut, we have something to suit all tastes and all spaces.

Fumed Oak Brushed & Oiled Parquet Flooring

In the home, herringbone wood flooring lends itself perfectly and traditionally to the hallway where it creates a great first impression for your guests, and a great solution for high traffic areas where quality and longevity are essential. This style of flooring is also great for living rooms and dining rooms, and adds interest and style whilst also making the room appear larger. Fitted by our experts, you can be sure of a floor that will stand the test of time, and add a beautiful feature to your space.

Create Your Perfect Elegant Space

Don’t settle for less when choosing your wooden floor. This is a floor that will look stunning for years to come, and which will be a worthy investment well into the future. Whether you are looking to create the wow factor in your hotel reception, or your home, herringbone flooring from our collection is a sensible choice, and one that will go on giving for decades.

Choosing herringbone flooring for your home or business premises need not be a chore, and our team is always on hand to offer you personalised advice. Our years of experience, dedication to our customers and our passion for the highest quality products has helped us to stand out in our marketplace. We’d be delighted to show you a free sample, or more photographs from our past projects, and we are confident that you will be delighted with the results, and our competitive prices.

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Dustless Wood Floor Refinishing – No Other Way To Go!

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Anybody who has ever had hardwood floors installed or refinished knows what a hassle it can be. Sealing rooms off from the rest of the house, having to put Fido or Fluffy in the kennel until the job is done, and even having to take a day off work in some cases.

Thanks to our Atomic Dust Containment System by Bona, we are happy to say those days are long gone.

Tom & Peter Flooring Brings You the Latest Technology in Hardwood Floor Refinishing & Installation Chicago

Today, there’s a brand new way to get the job done without the mess and without all the hassle! It’s Tom & Peter Flooring dustless sanding & refinishing process. No more will you need to worry about having to leave your home when getting your hardwood floor refinished. We will leave your home as clean as when we started because our machine sucks up all of the dust, even before it enters the air.

How a Dust Extraction System Works

When Tom & Peter Flooring refinishes a floor, we use a system to sand that actually removes the dust from your home immediately.Where other sanders kick dust into the air that must be later cleaned up and removed, our dust containment system pulls all the dust out of your home and straight into the containment unit in our truck outside, keeping the inside of your home clean and 99.8% dust-free.Homeowners don’t have to worry about closing off the rooms to be worked on, covering other rooms and furniture, or staying out of the home. The dust is never loose in your home, which makes the process much cleaner, faster, and safer for everyone involved.It also ensures a nicer end-result, free of any microscopic dust particles that might get trapped in the finishing process. It’s state-of-the-art floor finishing.

https://www.lookfloors.co.nz/cdn/images/products/xlarge/84842-1-Bona-DCS70-Flooring-Products_636270653993727265.jpg  Benefits of the Atomic DCS System:

  • No airborne dust particles
  • No allergy or asthma issues
  • No need to vacate your home
  • No need to kennel your pets
  • Dust does not enter the duct-work where it can stay for months and get re-circulated
  • No need to seal rooms with plastic sheeting
  • Dust free environment ensures a perfect finish coat. No Dangerous Respiratory Effects

No Dangerous Respiratory Effects

Traditionally, when a home’s floors are refinished, a technician begins by sanding the floors. As the top layer is sanded away, it becomes dust that fills the air of the home. Everything in the house must either be covered or removed to escape the dust.All vents and ducts must be carefully sealed to prevent dust from collecting, and then spreading through the house again when the air is turned on. Sanding and cleaning may take anywhere between a day to a week, depending on the square footage. Even after the project is finished, it is common for homeowners to be cleaning up lingering dust for months afterward.

Dustless Sanding Means a Flawless Finish

With our dustless sanding system we can provide better service to you during the refinishing process and also ensure that you end up with a better final product afterwards.If you’ve been putting off having your wood floors refinished, or having wood floors installed because of the hassle, give us a call. With our dustless refinishing, you’ll have beautiful, new hardwood floors in no time with no hassle.

Other Great Reasons for Using Our Dustless Floor Refinishing

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  • You won’t need to remove sensitive electronic equipment.
  • No need to use a harsh chemical to strip the finish from your floor.
  • No wondering about how secure your home is at night.
  • No need to seal off the room from the rest of the house.
  • Your pets will be less anxious because they can stay with you.

 

We would love to talk with you more about our environmentally friendly, dustless floor sanding process. Our consultation is free of charge and will cover everything you need to know about making your floor look its best.

Give Tom & Peter Flooring  a call today at (847) 956-2244.

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Water Damage to Your Wood Floors: Repair or Replace?

 

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Water is the natural enemy of every wood floor. You do everything you can to stay on top of spills, but you can’t control everything, and now the worst has happened! Your once gleaming hardwood floor has been damaged by water!

What Does Water Do to a Wooden Floor?

Wood is an organic material that can only resist the effects of water for a short time. That’s why expediency is key to preventing damage from occurring. But sometimes, things happen that you can’t plan for. For example, you’re away on vacation and while you’re lying on a beach soaking up the sun, a pipe breaks and floods your kitchen which then remains that way for several days. Now what?

Signs of Water Damage on Wood Floors

Depending on how long the floor was wet, damage can vary. Here are some signs of damage to look for:

1. Staining and/or discoloration

2. Cupping and buckling from absorbed moisture

3. Popping nails

4. Lifting of floorboards (especially at the ends)

5. Mold growth (can occur within 48 hours of flooding)

Considering that the normal moisture content in a typical hardwood floor is somewhere between 6 and 12 percent and a flooded hardwood floor can have a moisture content of up to 40 percent, damage can be severe. Much of it has to do with the amount of time that the floor is exposed to the water. More moisture will be retained if the floor is left to dry on its own.

Deciding Factors for Replacement or Repair

Determining whether a water-damaged wood floor can be repaired or must be torn up and replaced will depend on a number of factors such as:

1. the length of time the floor has been exposed to water

2. whether your floor is solid hardwood or engineered hardwood

3. the severity of the damage (Has the water penetrated into to the subfloor?)

4. the floor’s finish (It can be difficult to match certain stain colors when replacing isolated floorboards, especially if the stain has “mellowed” with time.)

If the damage is minor, the floor can sometimes be saved by replacing affected boards and then sanding and refinishing the whole floor. If the damage is severe or extensive causing significant expansion, the entire floor may need replacing — and sometimes even the subfloor will have to be replaced.

https://www.impressionshardwoodcollection.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Ask-the-Experts-Logo3.pngIf you suspect water damage, the first step is to have the floor’s condition assessed by a hardwood flooring professional. Call Tom & Peter Flooring at (847) 956-2244 and one of our hardwood water damage repair experts can help assess the situation and give you an estimate on repairing or replacing your wood floors.

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Best Hardwood Floors for Dogs

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You should never have to choose between your family “fur baby” and beautiful hardwood floors. We offer a variety of hardwood flooring that complement the hectic lifestyle of having a dog.When looking for hardwood flooring that is a fit for an increased amount of wear and tear, it is important to factor in the following characteristics: hardness, glossiness, and color.

Why Hickory Is Great for Homes with Dogs

Hickory, which has a Janka score of 1,820, is an ideal choice because of its strong graining and distinct variants in hues. This flooring option is great for pet owners because the floor boards already vary from one another, therefore any imperfections as a result of your dog’s nails won’t take away from its beautiful appearance.

Not a Fan of Hickory? Try Hard Maple Flooring

If you are looking for something that is more consistent in appearance than Hickory, we recommend maple wood flooring. Maple has a Janka rating of 1,450 or higher and provides beautiful and stable flooring for your home, giving you the perfect combination of envy-worthy floors and dependable strength.

Consider White Oak for Your Next Flooring Project

White Oak has a Janka Hardness Score of 1,360, meaning that the floor is in the middle — not too soft, but also not the hardest wood available on the market. White Oak is one of our top choices for homeowners with dogs because of its strong grain, or texture, which is ideal for pet owners.

Rustic-Inspired Wired Brush Distressed Floors

Wired brush distressed hardwood flooring looks similar to wood floors that have been reclaimed and updated, while still keeping its original appearance. This type of wood is an excellent option, because the inevitable scratches from your dog will not take away from the beauty of the wood. To maintain this look, we brush away the soft portion of the wood to expose the grain, enhancing the definition and character of each plank. By doing this, the wood is more durable since the harder portion of the planks become exposed.

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The Best Hardwoods for Chicago Floors

Hardwood comes from a huge variety of species.  Some are not appropriate for flooring because of their density, susceptibility to moisture, or other factors.  Even among the hardwoods that are used for flooring, some are better for certain climates than others.  Here in Chicago , where the climate is typically continental with cold winters, warm summers, and frequent short fluctuations in temperature, humidity . Many consider the more moderate temperatures of spring and fall to be the most pleasant , domestic hardwoods tend to be especially popular, though there are a few exotic species that do well, too.

Best Hardwoods for Flooring in Chicago and area

Red Oak

Red Oak is by far the species used most often for flooring in the United States.  It is abundant and inexpensive and can be finished to suit practically any decor, making it one of the most versatile hardwoods available.

White Oak

White Oak shares many features with its cousin, the Red Oak, but, as its name would suggest, is a bit paler and more brown than red.  White Oak is an especially popular choice for those looking for pre-finished hardwood, as the variety of choices available is quite impressive.

Hickory/ Pecan

Though technically different species, Hickory and Pecan are part of the same genus (also referred to as Hickory) and are so similar they are often sold together or interchangeably.  The grain of Hickory is its most outstanding feature, as boards often display sharp color variations that create a striking and unique look.  Hickory is also uncommonly hard for a domestic wood and makes  great choice for cabins and homes high traffic where a natural, somewhat rustic look is desired.

American Walnut

Walnut often features a variety of figured grain patterns, which lend it a special beauty.  This, combined with its natural luster, which increases over time, make it an especially recommended for natural oil finishes.

Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba)

Among the most popular of the exotic species sold in the United States, Brazilian Cherry offers a rich tone that only grows richer over time.  Significantly harder than most domestic species, it is a great choice for homes with families or pets who are looking for something a little special in their flooring choice.

Brazilian Tigerwood

Like Hickory, Tigerwood offers a unique grain pattern, with streaks of dark brown and black running throughout its reddish-brown, wavy grain.  Tigerwood is a great choice for those looking for something striking, but warm and inviting.

Brazilian Walnut (Ipe)

One of the darker hardwoods popular in Colorado, Brazilian Walnut is another dense, hard wood good for high traffic areas.  Its darker hue creates a warm but sophisticated look that contrasts beautifully with lighter furniture and fixtures.

Maple

Much like Oak, Maple is a very versatile wood that be stained to match most any decor.  It tends to offer a very consistent, understated grain and can withstand a good deal of wear and tear.

Ash

Ash is one of the palest woods used for flooring and creates a beautiful, open look that is clean and inviting.  Ash also displays an unusual shock resistance.

Bamboo

While Bamboo is actually a grass and not a wood, modern strand-weaving methods produce Bamboo flooring that is, in some cases, harder than hardwood.  Bamboo flooring is a popular choice among those concerned with environmental sustainability because it grow quite quickly and is generally not harvested from natural-growing forests.

 

To help you figure out which of these species might best suit your needs, check out our www.tompeterflooring.com

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How Long Should You Acclimate Wood Floor Before Installation?

http://www.calibrationservices.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/icon-humidity-body-effects.pngProper wood floor acclimation has been a question in many home owners and contractors’ mind prior to installation. Since wood flooring projects are major investment, it is wise to understand the true meaning of acclimation. Under certain circumstances, to wrongly acclimate your wood floor can lead to installation issues. Such as to potentially cause buckling or gapping which the manufacturers’ warranty will not cover.

Even though most manufacturers give a guideline to acclimate their solid or engineered wood floor, proper acclimation should be about more than just the amount of time that you let flooring sit on the job-site. In fact, there are two important conditions that decide whether it is enough to simply follow the manufacture recommended time in order to have a successful installation. Wood floor moisture content (MC) and relative humidity (RH) in the surrounding environment are very important in this process. In this article we will cover the proper moisture content and relative humidity for wood flooring to acclimate.

In a perfect world, the hardwood flooring should be dried specifically for the climate it will be installed in. Since this task is unfeasible for most mills because of logistics and efficiency limitations, industry standards suggest 6 to 9% as a desirable MC range for wood floors newly out of the mill. In other words, it is a fairly safe MC range for hardwood flooring to perform in both drier and more humid regions.

“Wood flooring is a hygroscopic material subject to dimensional change as a result of variations in moisture, temperature and humidity within the surrounding environment. Wood flooring simply needs to reach moisture content level in equilibrium with the surrounding environment (EMC) in which it will be installed. Warranty coverage generally requires that jobsite conditions be maintained between 30% to 50% relative humidity and that those conditions must be maintained before, during and after installation for the life of the floor.”

–National Wood Flooring Association

So now we know what good range of MC and RH are. Next, lets examine some specific real world situations. Things are not always as perfect as we hope on many job sites, especially for new constructions. Certain conditions should be met before wood flooring is delivered to the job site.

Scenario 1

Builder wants to meet deadline for an open house at the end of the month. A batch of wood floor is delivered to the home with proper 6 to 9 % MC inside a house with taping, mudding and painting on site. The manufacture recommends a minimum 1 week acclimation period prior to installation. 1 week later, the installer shows up to install the hardwood. 24 hours before the open house for potential home buyers, the builder notices large gaps in his hardwood floors.

The Reason

You are acclimating your floor in the environment in which the RH is quite much higher than normal living condition. Therefore, instead of conditioning the moisture of the wood floor to the right environment, you are adding moisture to the wood flooring. This is a potential problem because the wood will slowly take on more moisture, and when the flooring eventually adjusts to normal living conditions it will shrink resulting in gaping or surface cracks.

Scenario 2

Dry FloorsNext, let us examine if we put in a high moisture wood floor into a house with ideal relative humidity of 40%. This time you receive a batch of hardwood floor with 11-13% MC for your house remodeling in Minnesota. You were told to acclimate the wood for a week before installation by the sales person at the retail store. The floor contractor installs your floor according to manufacturer’s guideline. Several months later, right in the middle of the winter, you start to notice gaps which can fit a half dollar coin between several planks within your hardwood.

The Reason

Your one week was not enough to acclimate the hardwood floor from 11-13% MC to 6-9% MC you need in your Midwest home because your floor continues giving out moisture after the installation in those winter heating months. The floor shrinks and gaps show. If the same floor is delivered into a house in Florida, the outcome might be quite differently because the equilibrium moisture content will be between 11-13% MC.

Contrary to popular belief, wood floor acclimation has less to do with the amount of time but more to do with its MC being in equilibrium with the environment in which the floor is installed. Knowing the common pitfalls and how to avoid them is what separates the pros from the rest.

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Cleaning Oil Finished Hardwood Floors with WOCA

An oil finish adds an unmatched beauty to hardwood. Allowing the user to feel the natural wood grains with each step. Oil finished flooring is designed to enhance the wood and allow the wood become better looking with age. Using the right floor care product is the most important concept for maintaining its beauty. Although more regular maintenance is required for oiled hardwoods, the simplicity is the main benefit.

Floors with white-wash or grey-wash should use the Woca Premiere Kit White; all other colors should use the Woca Premiere Kit Natural. This kit includes all the necessities to get cleaning:

  • Blue Swep Mop
  • Soap Spray (Natural or White)
  • Natural Soap (Natural or White)
  • Oil Refresher (Natural or White)
  • Buff Cloth
  • Measuring Cup
  • Complementary Bamboo Knife

 

Spot Cleaning

Spot cleaning is for the little mishaps such as spilled wine or puppy accidents. Also used for a quick tidy up in high traffic entry way. Soap Spray is a pre-diluted solution to quick and easy cleaning and not intended for use over a large area.

Supplies Needed: Woca Soap Spray, Woca Buff Cloth and Paper Towel.

Step 1: Wipe up excess liquids with a paper towel.

Step 2: Spray Woca Soap Spray onto the buff cloth and scrub with the direction of the wood grain.

Regular Cleaning

(Daily, Weekly, Bi-Monthly): The frequency of cleaning should depend on the amount of traffic. Weekly or bi-weekly cleaning is recomended for light commercial applications such as retail stores or offices. For residential use, bi-monthly cleaning is should be sufficient.

Supplies Needed: Woca Natural Soap, Swep Mop, (2) Buckets, a Measuring Cup and a Vacuum.

Step 1: Sweeping or vacuuming should be done prior to applying any soap to remove dirt and debris.

*When using a vacuum cleaner check to make sure it does not have a beater brush which may scratch your hardwood surface

Step 2: Mix Woca Natural Soap with lukewarm water 1:40 (3 oz per gallon of water) in a Bucket. Fill up 1 Water Bucket for rinsing the mop.

*Woca Soap leaves a protective film of soy & coconut fat over the floor after drying which will act as a deterrent to liquids and dirt

Step 3: Dip Swep Mop into a mixed bucket and wring out excess water. Next, mop with the direction of the grain in the wood. The dirty mop should be rinsed in the water bucket and wrung out properly before dipping into mixed bucket. Refill the water bucket with clean water as needed. Repeat until flooring is clean.

*Floors should be dry within 15 minutes and can be walked on after drying

Seasonal Maintenance

(Annually, Semi-Annually): The frequency of seasonal maintenance should be dependent on environmental conditions. Dryer climates or seasons will require more frequent application for moisturizing and conditioning. Oil refresher combines efficient cleaning with re-oiling to form a protective layer over the surface after drying.

*Woca Refresher contains traces of oil to replenish the oils in the floors but should not be used more than 4 times per year to prevent excessive oil buildup

Supplies Needed: Woca Oil Refresher, Swep Mop, (2) Buckets, Measuring Cup and a Vacuum.

Step 1: Sweeping or vacuuming should be done prior to applying any cleaner to remove dirt and debris. When vacuuming please check to make sure it is safe for use over hardwood floors.

Step 2: For UV cured oiled floors (Vintage Collection, Boardwalk Collection), mix Woca Oil Refresher with lukewarm water 1:40 (3 oz per gallon of water) in a Bucket. Then, if your flooring is onsite oiled or oxidative oiled (Boutique Collection), mix Woca Oil Refresher at 1:20 with lukewarm water (4/5th cup per gallon of water). Fill up 1 Water Bucket for rinsing the mop.

Step 3: Dip Mop into mixed bucket and wring out excess water. Next, mop with the direction of the grain in the wood. The dirty mop should then be rinsed in the water bucket and wrung out properly. Refill the water bucket with clean water as needed. Repeat until flooring is clean.

*Flooring should not be cleaned with Woca Soap for at least 36 hours after cleaning with Woca Oil Refresher

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Choosing White Oak Hardwood Flooring

Image result for bialy dab podlogiThere are so many options from which to choose when it comes to household flooring. There are different materials, different styles, and different patterns, so you should be able to find the perfect fit for your home. White oak is one of those options, and it is an excellent choice that will work in any home. Here are some reasons why White Oak flooring might be the right choice for you.

It is Durable

Whether you have got a busy house, with children and pets giving your floor a rough ride, or a quieter home, there is no doubt that you want your floor to last a long time. Domestic White Oak scored a 1360 rating for its durability on the Janka scale and some European White Oak scored even higher. However, hardness is not the only thing that matters when it comes to durability. Due to its raised grain pattern Oaks hide scratches better than some harder woods. When you install white oak, you can rest assured that your floor will last for years to come, no matter what you throw at it.

Flexibility

One of the great things about white oak is that its natural beauty is such that you do not need to stain it to appreciate the texture. Unstained flooring can give a natural and rustic feel to a space, so it might be a good option if it fits the theme of your home or that particular room. Of course, if you choose to stain your floor, you can customize the shade to make sure that it fits perfectly with the rest of the room. White Oak is an excellent floor for various treatments including stains, carbonizing, fuming, white wash, grey wash, etc. The options are limitless.

Environmentally Friendly

North American White Oak Timber upholds one of the highest standards of sustainability, education, and advocacy. What does that mean? It means the wood you use today will not diminish the resources for the future. The way they achieve this is though regulation, making American hardwood-producing region among the lowest risk for illegal deforestation while upholding the standards of the Forest Stewardship Council.

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