Solid hardwood

Unfinished solid hardwood is sold in non-varnished, rough strips with a wide variety of species, grades, and widths available. The cost of the strips is generally lower, but then you have to pay the cost of getting the wood finished (sanding, staining, etc.) This is a time-consuming process and we suggest that residents may wish to stay somewhere else while this is done due to the curing process. There is a full array of wood species in a range of grades and sizes combined with stain colors and finishes to blend with any decor.

Prefinished, solid hardwood is quick and easy to install and residents can utilize the floor immediately. There is also a wide variety of species, sizes, stains, and finishes to choose from.

Engineered hardwood

Prefinished, engineered hardwood consists of a hardwood top surface, called the wear layer, glued onto a plywood base. This is not to be confused with laminate flooring, which is made of laminated planks that only LOOK like wood and finished with a polymer coating. Developed for installation in areas with variable humidity levels, engineered flooring is MORE STABLE THAN SOLID WOOD. This type of flooring can be glued directly onto concrete, an acoustic underlay, or even a subfloor with radiant heating.

Bamboo flooring

Bamboo is grown in many regions of the world, especially in warm climates where the earth is kept moist with frequent monsoons. Twenty percent of the world's bamboo grows in China and much of that is in the wild.

Due to today's increasing demand, it is being cultivated more and more in managed forests. It is a member of the grass family and, like grass, when it is cut, the root system survives and regenerates quickly. The versatility and fast regeneration make it an excellent choice for customers who desire a natural look while remaining environmentally conscientious. Sweeping and cleaning using a hardwood floor cleaner is all that is necessary for regular maintenance. Come to our showroom to see our display of beautiful bamboo flooring options.

Caring for your new hardwood floor

Although your prefinished hardwood floor has several coats of factory applied polyurethane that offer higher durability and easier maintenance, it is not indestructible. Here are some important tips to help keep your hardwood floor looking great:

Sweep or vacuum (being sure to use the hard surface attachment of your vacuum) regularly to prevent dirt and abrasive dust from accumulating and scratching the finish.
Place doormats outside and rugs inside every entrance to catch and hold debris and prevent scratching.
Place a rug in front of the kitchen sink and dishwasher to protect against dropped utensils and water or detergent spills.
Use felt floor protector pads under all furniture to ease their movement and prevent scratching.
If you have furniture with plastic or narrowcasters use felt protectors or replace them with rubber casters.
When moving heavy furniture pick it up or place a rug wrong side up and slide the rug.
Keep high-heeled shoes in good condition and pets' nails trimmed.
Quickly wipe up all spills as the water will be absorbed quickly and can do damage to the finish and/or the wood.
Protect your floors against direct sunlight or intense artificial light. Over time exposed surfaces will become discolored. The lighter the color of wood, the more apparent this will be.
The relative humidity level in your home must be maintained between 40% and 50% year round.

Gorgeous hardwood flooring in Warrenton, VA from Early's Flooring Specialists & More

Hardwood in different seasons

In the summer when humidity as its highest the wood absorbs the moisture and expands. This
makes the wood strips push against one another causing "cupping". Using a dehumidifier will help
prevent this condition.

In the winter when the heat is on the humidity level in the house will drop, causing the wood to
contract or shrink. Small gaps will appear between the wood strips. Using a humidifier will put
moisture back into the air and help prevent any shrinkage.

Just remember, your new hardwood floor's worst enemies are water, soap, and sand. Vacuum (using your vacuum's hard surface attachment) or sweep regularly and don't use a wet mop, commercial soaps, or floor steamers, as these products can cause you to lose your warranty.

All you need is a damp cloth and the care products recommended by the manufacturer.