Wood floor supply companies provide new and recycled wood flooring for residential and commercial properties. While wood flooring has the reputation of being expensive, this type of flooring is one of the most cost-effective solutions available. While installing new or recycled wood flooring may initially cost more, it can last for hundreds of years when properly maintained. In addition, wood floors are easy to maintain, requiring regular sweeping or dusting to stay clean and free of dust or allergens. Cleaners that are specially made for wood floors can help renew the look of the new or recycled materials used. There are many advantages to purchasing and installing wood flooring, including increased property values, providing warmth and beauty to any room, and encouraging sustainable forest management through purchasing this environmentally-friendly flooring option. Wood flooring is a great long-term investment. The top three wood floor supply companies include Lumber Liquidators, tools4flooring.com, and Green Building Supply. Here are helpful questions to ask when consulting wood floor supply companies who provide new and recycled wood flooring.
Solid wood flooring is exactly as named: solid from top to bottom, with a thickness ranging from 3/4” to 5/16”. It can be sanded and finished many times. Engineered wood flooring use multiple layers of wood veneers, using different species of wood in slabs that are ideal for basement installations.
Choosing the type of wood flooring you want is a matter of personal preference, style, and budget. There are more than 50 domestic and imported species of wood from which to choose, including wood, ash, hickory, oak, walnut, and mahogany.
Customers can choose from different finishes, including gloss, semi-gloss, satin or matte finishes. Gloss provides the shiniest finish. Semi-gloss reflects some light, while satin or matte are the least shiny. Keep in mind that the more shiny the floor, the more you will notice wear, such as small scratches.
Scratches on wood flooring most often is caused by pets. Scratches can be most easily prevented by trimming pet’s nails regularly. Placing rugs on the wood floors, especially in the highest trafficked areas, can help reduce scratches.
Scratches and wear on wood flooring fortunately only goes as deep as the finish. Keeping the floor cleaned regularly can help reduce the chances of wear, scratches, and damage. Any spills need to be cleaned up immediately. Special cleaning products made for wood flooring are ideal for keeping the floor looking new.
One of the advantages of wood flooring is that recycling the materials is an option. Most wood floor supply companies have added extensive recycled wood flooring options. While installation may not cost less, the flooring itself is cheaper and reuses valuable resources.
Fortunately, new and recycled wood flooring gets more beautiful with age. The natural aging process results in subtle color changes over the years. Prolonged sun exposure can cause wood floors to change color, as well as the finish that is used on the wood.
Installing wood flooring is complex, requiring specialized skills and tools. Hiring professionals to install the wood flooring will end up saving time and money.