Does the thickness of the floor matter?
Engineered floors are usually between ⅜” - ⅝” overall thick. The floor’s performance or appearance will not have any effect with a thicker profile. However, a thicker profile will add some weight and stability to the flooring assembly.
Can engineered hardwood floors be refinished?
It depends on the thickness of the veneer. Because we can have a custom Engineered hardwood made with the equal thickness of a solid hardwood's top wear layer, in this case, it can be sanded 2 - 3 times. In our experience, because the finishes are better than ever, a prefinished engineered floor is, most likely, to get a damaged board(s) replaced before it is refinished. But we are here to discuss the specifics on this topic.
How important is the finish?
Most floors have to endure a lot of foot traffic, and the finish takes all that wear and protects the hardwood below. We have relationships with several vendors that finish their floors with polyurethane and ingredients like aluminum oxide added to improve durability for upto 35 years. When it comes to finishes and the latest technology, the number of coats of finish is not a reliable indicator of the quality or durability of the finish. Rather, factory - finishing methods, including an ultraviolet drying stage, represent proven techniques that result in remarkable resistant products. Guess what, we just described one type of finish but it is the proven go-to finish that is easy to maintain. However, we can explain the benefits of other methods too.
Is engineered hardwood waterproof?
No engineered wood and water have never gotten along but in a very minor way are water-resistant (top surface). However, the hybrid thin engineered hardwood planks with the stone-plastic composite (SPC) core are waterproof. Regardless, one must absolutely avoid washing the hardwood with excessively wet mops, and commercial soaps. But not to worry, we educate you on the proper way to maintain your investment.
Will engineered hardwood scratch?
Depending on the type of wear layer, engineered hardwood can be scratch-resistant but there are many things to consider. Like, the use of a thinner wear layer and an active household, it’s more vulnerable to scratches. The short answer, even the very best hardwood, will scratch at some point. In any case, even with a great warranty, it does not cover normal wear and tear of the surface, including gauges.
Where can engineered hardwood be used?
Thanks to its durability and moisture-resistance (top surface), engineered hardwood can be used in almost every room and grade level in the house. Living spaces, kitchens, powder rooms, basements, mudrooms, and of course bedrooms, are ideal areas for engineered wood. However, because wood does react to its environment, especially humidity. It is recommended one keeps the home’s relative humidity level between 45% - 50% to prevent unfavorable conditions for the floor. Typically, climate control settings between 70 - 78 degrees will maintain a favorable humidity level in the home. In some cases, during the winter - dry weather, it may mean a humidifier needs to be introduced.
Which species makes the best flooring?
All hardwood species offered by Castle Flooring are suitable for the purpose, so it’s better to choose a species and color that suits your individual lifestyle and tastes. The good news, we are here to help with selection and design. But for example, generally speaking lighter colored floors and heavier grained woods like oak will be more forgiving of daily wear (dust, footprints, etc) and will require less maintenance than darker floors and clear grained woods like the maple species. Exotic woods tend to be less tolerant of changes in climate than domestic woods. Also, they are very photosensitive (change color after they are installed).
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