TYPES OF FLOORING

SOLID WOOD: The most distinctive type of hardwood flooring various styles of wood, colors, and grades are available. Solid wood flooring is available either prefinished or unfinished.Solid hardwood is made from a single, solid piece of wood. The planks are milled directly from trees like oak, maple, or walnut, cherry, with each plank being the full thickness of the wood. Pre-finished hardwood comes with a factory-applied finish that is ready to install.

ENGINEERED WOOD: Engineered wood flooring is a durable choice due to its flexibility, having the ability to function in areas with increased levels of moisture.Engineered hardwood consists of multiple layers. The top layer is a thin veneer of real hardwood, while the underlying layers (called ply) are made from different types of wood, often plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). These layers are cross-laid to provide stability.

LAMINATE FLOORING: Laminate is made from composite wood materials, topped with a photographic layer and a protective wear layer. It's quite durable but can be prone to chipping and scratching. It's also sensitive to moisture, so it's not ideal for areas like bathrooms or basements that are prone to water exposure.

LUXURY VINYL PLANK OR FLOORING LVP or LVF: LVP is made from PVC (plastic) and is water resistant, making it a great option for high moisture areas. It’s less likely to dent or scratch than laminate and can withstand heavy foot traffic better, making it a great choice for bathrooms, and even basements.

WHAT AREAS DO YOU SERVICE?

We service Chicagoland and Milwaukee Wi area.

What is the typical lifespan of hardwood floors?

Renowned for their longevity and durability, they are a popular choice for many homeowners. The lifespan can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of wood, the install quality, the level of foot traffic, and the care and maintenance they receive. Here’s a general overview:

Average Lifespan: Generally, they can last anywhere from 25 to 100 years. Some well maintained examples have even surpassed the century mark, showcasing exceptional durability.
Type of Wood: The type plays a crucial role in its lifespan. Harder woods like oak, maple, and hickory tend to last longer compared to softer woods like pine.
Quality of Installation: This is key to ensuring the longevity. When poorly installed, issues may develop sooner, such as gaps, squeaks, or uneven wear.
Maintenance and Care: Regular cleaning, timely refinishing, and avoiding excessive moisture and scratches can significantly extend the life. A well-maintained floor can go decades before needing to be refinished.
Refinishing Potential: One of the unique advantages of is their ability to be sanded and refinished multiple times, which can dramatically extend their life. Solid examples, for instance, can typically be refinished 6 to 10 times over their lifespan.
Foot Traffic and Usage: High-traffic areas tend to wear down quicker. However, using rugs and mats, regular cleaning, and avoiding high heels or heavy furniture can mitigate this wear.
Environmental Factors: Factors like humidity levels and temperature fluctuations can also impact the lifespan. Consistent indoor environments help in maintaining the wood’s condition.

With the right type of wood, and proper care, it will be an enduring investment for your home. At Andrew Flooring , we understand the importance of all these factors and can guide you in selecting and maintaining hardwood floors that will last for generations.

What’s the difference between refinishing and resurfacing wood floors?

Refinishing involves sanding down the top layer of your wood floors to fully remove the old finish and repair damages before reapplying a new finish. Resurfacing, on the other hand, sometimes called “recoating” is a more superficial process. It involves lightly buffing the surface of your floor and then applying a new finish topcoat.

During refinishing, scratches, dents, and chips can be repaired, but during resurfacing, deeper scratches and other types of damage will remain. Both, however, refresh the look of your hardwood floors, whether they’re made of oak, hickory, maple, or cherry.

Are hardwood floors worth the investment?

Absolutely! It’s not only about enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home, but also about making a wise long-term investment. Here’s why they are worth every penny:

Durability and Longevity: Renowned for their durability, with proper care and maintenance, they can last for decades, outliving many other flooring options.
Timeless Appeal: They offer a classic and elegant look that never goes out of style. This timeless appeal can significantly increase the aesthetic value of your home.
Increases Property Value: Higher home market value. It’s a sought after feature for many homebuyers, potentially making your property more attractive if you decide to sell.
Variety and Versatility: There’s a vast range of types, stains, and finishes available, allowing you customizable options to suit your personal style and home decor.
Healthier Indoor Air Quality: Unlike carpets, they don’t harbor allergens, dust, or pet dander. This makes them an excellent choice for a healthier living environment, especially for those with allergies.
Ease of Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping are typically enough to keep them looking their best.
Eco Friendly Option: A natural, renewable resource. Many options come from sustainably managed forests, making them an environmentally friendly choice.
Aesthetic Improvement: Transform the look and feel of any room, adding warmth and elegance. Their natural beauty often becomes a focal point in home design.

While the initial cost might be higher compared to some other options, the long-term benefits from their durability, style, and contribution to your home’s overall value make them a worthwhile investment. We can help you choose the perfect options that aligns with your preferences and budget, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.

How often should you redo hardwood floors?

The frequency of redoing hardwood floors depends on several factors, including the level of foot traffic, the quality of the initial installation and finish, the type of wood, and how well the floors are maintained. Here’s a general guideline to help you determine when it might be time to redo your floors:

Regular Refinishing:
Residential Spaces: Typically, hardwood floors in a home may need refinishing every 7 to 10 years. However, this can vary based on wear and tear.
Commercial or High traffic Areas: In commercial spaces or areas with high foot traffic, floors might need refinishing more frequently, perhaps every 3 to 5 years.
Signs to Watch For:
Visual Wear and Tear: Look for areas where the finish is worn away, especially in high traffic zones like hallways and entryways.
Deep Scratches and Dents: If your floor has deep scratches, gouges, or dents, it might be time for a refinish.
Fading or Discoloration: Sun exposure and age can lead to fading or color changes in the wood, indicating a need for refinishing.
Water Damage: Stains or warping from water damage are clear signs that refinishing is necessary.
Maintaining Your Floors:
Proper Care: Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the life of your floors and the time between refinishing.
Preventive Measures: Using rugs, felt protectors under furniture, and maintaining a stable humidity level in your home can help preserve the finish.
Professional Assessment:
Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about the state of your floors, it’s wise to consult a professional. At Andrew Flooring, we can assess your floors and provide recommendations based on their current condition.
Full Replacement vs. Refinishing:
Assessing the Need: Sometimes, floors may be beyond refinishing and require a full replacement. This is usually the case if there are structural issues or if the wood is severely damaged.

While the 7 to 10-year rule is a good general guideline, the actual frequency of redoing your hardwood floors can vary. Regular inspections and maintenance can help extend their lifespan, and a professional evaluation from Andrew Flooring can provide you with a more personalized recommendation based on your specific floors and usage.