Installing Luxury Vinyl Flooring: A Short and Useful Guide

Luxury vinyl flooring is the perfect option for practical homeowners. It is amazingly easy to install, and has high water resistance. Additionally, this new material is ideal for those who want wooden flooring on a budget since it can be made to look like wood!

The various benefits it brings to a regular household make this flooring one of the most popular options amongst buyers. But, what truly excites modern buyers is the way that luxury vinyl planks are installed. For those who are interested about the process, read this short and useful guide on DIY vinyl plank installation:

MUST-KNOW BASICS

When installing natural wooden floors, you need to spread a large paper (underlayment) and figure out how to tape it to the floor, but with luxury plank installation this won’t be a concern! Being engineered, these planks have the underlayment paper incorporated within them.

Because luxury vinyl planks are completely man-made they come in a variety of styles and colors. This means that you might spend a bit more time in choosing your ideal design since there are tons of options out there.

The most important thing you should know about luxury vinyl planks is that their installation doesn’t involve any intensive work nor any expensive materials and tools. Luxury planks are installed with a click mechanism, resembling a jigsaw puzzle.

Luxury Vinyl Flooring Installation Guide

THE IMPORTANCE OF SUBFLOORS

In every flooring installation, it is crucial that you clean and prepare the subfloor before the actual installation starts. So step over the subfloor to check for squeaks and other abnormalities. To remove a squeak, you just need to nail the affected joints.

Additionally, you should fix cracks, remove carpet staples with a plier, and clean the entire area from dirt and debris. Luxury vinyl can be installed over many types of subfloor, including wood, concrete, tile, and even vinyl. But if your subfloor is moisty and damp, you might be facing water issues. In these cases, call plumbing experts before you start with your DIY project.

CHOOSING THE DIRECTION

As with every flooring installation, before you start, you must take proper measurements. Also, you should determine which direction will your planks run. If they are directed from front to back, they will make the room seem deeper whereas if they are directed from left to right, they will make the space seem broader.

To ensure that everything is straight, you can use a chalk and draw a line on the subfloor. Sometimes, rooms aren’t completely square and this will give you a better understanding of the situations. You can use a spirit level to determine evenness. Here are some other tools that you might need for your luxury vinyl floor installation:

  • Utility knife

  • Table saw (if needed)

  • Knee pads

  • Pliers

  • Rubber mallet

Have in mind that you must leave a space between the wall and the first plank. This is called an extension gap and it enables the material to expand and contract during different weather conditions. You can achieve this gap by taping spacers along your walls.

CLICK THE PLANKS INSTEAD OF NAILING THEM

We mentioned how installing luxury planks is similar to solving a jigsaw puzzle. So when you determine the direction of your planks, it’s time to start with the first row. Simply take some planks, put them next to the wall and see whether they need to be cut and adjusted.

If they do, use an utility knife to remove the extra part of the plank. After everything fits nicely, click the planks together, tight them with the rubber mallet and move on to the next row. Remember to use the cut-off pieces wherever you can. You don’t want to end up with hundreds of small leftover pieces when you finish the entire square footage.

Installing luxury vinyl flooring involves more logic and reason rather than physical labor. That’s why it is perfect for DIY-ers who want to challenge their puzzle-solving skills.

CORNERS AND DOORJAMBS

As we said, not all rooms are square. Cutting the planks to fit a corner is a normal process. Just take measurements with a measure tape and pencil to cut the plank the right way. Don’t follow instincts in such cases, but rely on precise measurements.

Also, sometimes you might find a doorjamb getting in your way. You can cut the doorjamb according to the height of the plank, or you can cut the plank for it to fit around the doorjamb. Both jobs can be finished by using a saw or a utility knife.

TRIMS & BASEBOARDS

The last thing you should do, right after you click your last planks together is to add trims and baseboards. A white baseboard is the perfect solution for bridging the extension gap. Trims can be screwed into the spots where the luxury vinyl meets another material. For instance, if you have tile in the kitchen, carpet in the living room, but luxury vinyl in the hallway, you must add trims in the spots where these floors connect.

Luxury vinyl flooring installation is as easy as it gets! We can conclude that is much less labor intensive than other types of installations. Furthermore, this material offers many benefits including waterproofing, durability, and affordability. Having all of these perks in mind, one cannot but consider luxury vinyl for their new remodel.

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Kitchen Floors and How To Choose Your Next One

From planning your budget to picking the right materials, when renovating a house, a homeowner is faced with the most difficult decisions. This especially applies to larger renovations like those in bathrooms or kitchens So if you are wondering how to choose the ideal product for your kitchen floors there are tons of materials available on the market, feel free to read this short guide:

SOME IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

When upgrading areas that are linked to piping systems and have high foot traffic, one should definitely consider a few things before buying materials. In such rooms, functionality is key and it shouldn’t be compromised for the sake of aesthetics. Here are some questions you should ask yourself before buying your new kitchen floors:

  • How much foot traffic do I expect in my kitchen?
  • Do I frequently cook and experiment with ingredients?
  • How should I keep my kids and pets safe?
  • Do I have an efficient heating/cooling system?

FACTORS THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED

The questions mentioned above should help you understand how your kitchen must have a stain-resistant, non-slippery, and waterproof flooring. Since there is tons of activity in our kitchens, spills and burns can easily occur on the floor. That’s why you need a durable material that can withstand any type of situation.

Additionally, faulty piping and dishwashing machines can increase humidity levels, leading to water damage. And non-slippery floors are the safest options for a kitchen, especially if you constantly have kids running around the house.

Kitchen Floors Guide Image

RECOMMENDED MATERIALS

One can easily start to wonder where to find stain and scratch-resistant, non-slippery, and waterproof flooring since imagining a material that has all three characteristics might seem impossible to some. However, currently there are not 1, but 3 such options. Vinyl, laminate, and tile can satisfy all of the criteria mentioned above for your kitchen floors. Here is some more information about these wonderful materials:

  • Vinyl – The most popular option on the market, vinyl is durable, waterproof, and can easily adapt to any kind of environment. It is also easier and cheaper to install compared to other materials. When it comes to style, vinyl can also be made to imitate wood which will significantly improve your interior aesthetic.
  • Laminate – Slightly less efficient than vinyl, laminate offers all of the qualities mentioned above. It can also be made to look like wood, highlighting its flexibility when it comes to design. Laminate is also water, burn, and stain-resistant which makes it a perfect match for an unpredictable environment like the kitchen.
  • Tile – This material is definitely the most water-resistant one, therefore, it is also commonly found in bathrooms. Even though tile is known for its durability, it isn’t adored by buyers who have problems with temperature imbalance in the house. This is because tile is pretty cold to walk on. So if you don’t plan to put rugs or an underfloor heating system, definitely between the other 2 options.

 

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Pet-Safe Flooring: Carpet

Home owners in the market for flooring think that carpet is not an option for their homes and four-legged friends, but with advancements in technology, pet-safe flooring has came a long ways. We show you how to choose pet-safe carpet.

When choosing the best flooring for your home, you don’t have to skip carpet. Both you and your pet can enjoy curling up on the softest flooring. There are several factors you must consider from construction to design. Here is what you’ll want to know when choosing pet-friendly carpeting.

pet-friendly carpet

Stain Resistance and Durability:

When shopping for pet-safe carpeting, stain resistance and durability are the most important features. With new advancements in manufacturing technology, carpet is tougher than ever. Two features you must consider when thinking of stain resistance and durability are carpet fiber and pile type.

Fiber:

As a pet owner, you have two primary choices of carpet fiber: nylon and polyester (PET). While polyester is typically more stain resistant, nylon is a good option thanks to manufacturers that treat fibers with safe chemical finishes that repel stains and liquids so they do not settle into the carpet fibers. Some brands worth looking at are Mohawk’s SmartStrand carpets, Shaw’s R2X-stain treated carpets and LifeGuard backing carpets, and PerPETual carpeting from Michael’s.

Pile Type:

Your second consideration as a pet-owner is pile type. Carpet is made with one of two main pile types: cut and looped. Stay away from looped piles as they get stuck on your pet’s nails and can cause pain for your pet or fraying and tearing of your carpet. Looped piles even prove an irresistible chew toy for some of our beloved pets! Sticking to cut pile carpets doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style. You can still choose from trendy frieze, comfy plush types, or even beautiful cut-pile patterns.

Choosing the correct fibers and pile types along with regular cleaning and maintenance will ensure beautiful long-lasting carpet.

Backing:

Choosing the best carpet for your pet and yourself means selecting the best backing as well as the fibers and pile. It is imperative that you select a waterproof or gel backing for the best defense against any liquid messes. These types of backings hold up to hard scrubbing when those soils do occur. Waterproof and gel backings make carpet-life easier with pets.

Design:

Design may seem like a trivial consideration when choosing pet-safe carpet. However, savvy design can help keep your carpet looking newer for longer. Use colors and patterns strategically. Matching your carpet color to your pet’s coat can help hide fur between weekly vacuuming. Choosing a flecked frieze will help hide any mud your pet-pal may track in. Smart design will help obscure the small messes that accumulate between cleanings.

All in All:

There is no way around it, our beloved pets can be hard on flooring and having a pet means more cleaning. But loving a pet doesn’t mean you can’t have carpeting. Choose polyester or stain-treated nylon fibers combined with waterproof backings. Always stay away from looped pile carpets. And be smart with design! Factor these three things in with regular cleaning, and you can cuddle up on a soft floor with your pet for a lifetime. Now you know how to choose pet-friendly carpet flooring and can shop with confidence for your family and your four-legged friends.

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How to Clean and Maintain Carpet

You have decided carpet is right for you. In order to keep your carpet fresh and in like-new condition, one must practice proper carpet care. Below, we cover four basic steps on how to clean and maintain your carpet.

PREVENTION:

Stop dirt at the door by using mats outside and small area rugs inside, taking your shoes off when you enter the home, and changing your air filters to reduce airborne dust particles.

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE:

Vacuum weekly and for high-traffic areas, vacuum daily. Dust, dirt, and other debris find their way onto your carpet and can become embedded in the pile of the carpet. Over time this can affect the color and may also cause the carpet fibers to mat. Regular vacuuming will prevent an accumulation that could affect the long-term appearance of your carpet. Use a vacuum with beater bars and strong suction to help loosen dirt and other particles from the carpet so they may be more easily removed.

SPOT CLEANING:

When spills happen, it is important to remove the substance as quickly as possible. Fast action can prevent a stain. Keep a stain removal guide and stain removal kit handy for emergencies. When a spill occurs, first, scrape the spill using the edge of a spoon or similar utensil. Begin at the outer edge of the spot and move towards the center. Next, blot any excess liquid by applying pressure on the area with a clean, dry white cloth or paper towel. Do not attempt to rub the spot. Finally, wet a clean white cloth or paper towel with the cleaning solution you will be using. Use it to dampen the carpet but do not wet the carpet all the way through. If a cleaning solution is necessary, test it in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it is compatible with your carpet.

clean carpet

Stain Removal Kits:

You may purchase a carpet cleaning kit with specific cleaning solvents or you can use one of the homemade methods below:

  • Detergent solution: one teaspoon non-bleach powder mixed with one cup water
  • Ammonia solution: one tablespoon ammonia mixed with one cup water
  • Vinegar solution: 1/3 cup vinegar mixed with 2/3 cup water
  • Keep on hand absorbent white cloths or white paper towels!

Stain Removal Guide:

  • Blood – water, blot, detergent, blot, ammonia, blot, detergent, blot, water, blot *use only cold ingredients
  • Chocolate – detergent, blot, vinegar, blot, detergent, blot, water, blot
  • Coffee – solvent, blot, detergent, blot, water, blot
  • Excrement – detergent, blot, ammonia, blot, detergent, blot, water, blot
  • Grease – solvent, blot, detergent, blot, water, blot
  • Ink, permanent – detergent, blot, ammonia, blot, vinegar, blot, water, blot
  • Soft Drinks – detergent, blot, vinegar, blot, detergent, blot, water, blot
  • Urine, fresh – blot, water, blot, ammonia, blot, detergent, blot, water, blot
  • Vomit – detergent, blot, ammonia, blot, vinegar, blot, water, blot
  • Wine – detergent, blot, vinegar, blot, detergent, blot, water, blot

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING:

Professionally deep clean your carpets every 12 to 18 months to remove embedded dirt and grime. A professional cleaning service may use a number of methods including steam cleaning, bonnet cleaning, rotary shampoo, and dry foam.

how to maintain carpet, clean carpet

TIPS:

After learning how to clean and maintain your carpet, there are still a couple tips that will increase the longevity of your product. Close blinds or curtains to limit direct sunlight on the carpet that can cause surfaces to fade. Move furniture in the room occasionally to give the carpet fibers a chance to recover. This may increase the life of the pile. Additionally, you can use floor protectors under the furniture to diminish the load on any one spot. For additional carpet and stain removal information, visit the Carpet and Rug Institute.

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Pros and Cons: Carpet Flooring

The number one flooring choice in the United States is carpet. Carpet is one of the most affordable options on the market and is also the easiest to install and remove. With an endless array of colors, styles and textures, it is a great choice for any home or business. When choosing carpet, it is important to consider design, price, comfort, sustainability, and whether or not it is ideal for the location of installation. Taking a look at the pros and cons of carpet will help you decide if carpet flooring is right for you.

THE PROS OF CARPET:

carpet, flooring

Affordability

Carpet is the least expensive flooring option. While all products have a range of quality and price points, in general, carpet costs much less than hard surfaces. 

Decor

An endless variety of colors, styles, textures, and patterns mean you can easily integrate carpet into any decor.

Comfort

Softer and cozier than other types of flooring, carpet feels good against your skin and is more comfortable to walk and stand on. A soft surface underfoot reduces fatigue. Carpet softens falls, making it a good choice for homes with young children.

Warmth

An excellent insulator, carpet reduces heat loss creating a warmer environment and helping you to reduce your electric or gas bill. The thermal resistance of carpet means it will retain warmth during cold winters.

Noise Reduction

TVs, home surround sound systems, computers, and speaker phones have made our homes noisier than ever. Many people live in apartments or in neighborhoods with neighbors a few feet away. Carpet works as an effective sound barrier, creating a more relaxing environment.

Air Quality

Carpet acts as a passive air filter, trapping dust, and allergens, removing them from the air you breathe. New carpet is the lowest emitter of volatile organic compounds among available flooring choices. Properly cleaned and maintained carpet helps to reduce symptoms of allergies and asthma. Daily vacuuming and yearly carpet shampooing effectively remove dust and allergens from the carpet.

THE CONS OF CARPET:

Maintenance

The biggest con of carpet is that it requires more intensive cleaning than other types of flooring. Carpeting attracts dirt and traps stains. However, weekly cleaning with a CRI-approved vacuum effectively removes dust and allergens. Depending on the level of traffic your carpet experiences, annual or semi-annual carpet shampooing is required. Failure to properly clean the carpet will greatly reduce the durability and longevity of the product.

Lifespan

The lifespan of carpet hinges on a number of variables. Is the carpet being properly maintained? How much traffic does the carpet see? Do you have children or pets? The range of quality in carpet also makes a difference. No matter what, you can expect to replace carpet before you would need to replace a hard surface flooring in your home, rental, or business.

Installation Location

Whereas vinyl flooring can be installed nearly anywhere, installation location must be considered when installing carpet. Areas with high moisture or areas that could be exposed to water are not suitable for carpeting.

Value

New carpeting will not add much to home value, though it will absolutely make the home show better. If you are looking to increase property value, consider hardwood.

CONCLUSION:

Is carpet flooring right for you? Considering the pros and cons of carpet before making a purchase can eliminate potential future headaches. While hard surface flooring is rising in popularity, carpet is still a mainstay as the pros continue to outweigh the cons.

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LVP vs LVT: What is the difference?

Remodeling your home using luxury vinyl plank flooring but don’t know the difference between luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT)? You’ve seen the titles while planning and need more information to understand. Both are great options for your new floor. Read below for a comparison of LVP vs LVT!

Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring (LVP)

luxury vinyl plank, lvp, vinyl flooring

Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring, or LVP, imitates real hardwood flooring species, colors, and textures at a fraction of the cost. Besides affordability, this flooring brings several additional benefits to your home. LVP is waterproof and scratch resistant, so it is a great option for homes with fur family. Furthermore, the added durability of this floor means it can handle a beating from active toddlers. Not only will it hold up, it will look great while doing it. Cleaning LVP is simple, sweep or vacuum daily and occasionally use a damp mop with warm water. The last great benefit of LVP is ease of installation. These are floors that you can install yourself, further saving on cost.

Luxury Vinyl Tile Flooring (LVT)

luxury vinyl tile, lvt, vinyl flooring

Luxury Vinyl Tile flooring, or LVT, is similar to LVP in that it imitates stone and ceramic tile at much lower cost. It is available in the same colors, patterns, and textures that you will find in stone and tile flooring. Some styles are even made to be installed with grout. LVT retains all the same benefits of LVP in that it is easy to clean and maintain. It is durable and easy to install. LVT is also softer and quieter than actual stone or tile, which is an added benefit for a home with children.

Conclusion: LVP vs LVT

LVP and LVT are luxury vinyl floors that are constructed the same way. The choice between LVP and LVT comes down to style only. Luxury Vinyl Planks look like wood planks in everything from color to species. Surface textures often include the look of scraping or embossing, which dramatically heighten the realism. Luxury Vinyl Tiles look like stone or ceramic tile, complete with gorgeous natural colors and surface texture that feels like the real thing.

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How To: Clean and Maintain Luxury Vinyl

You have installed luxury vinyl flooring in your home because it is durable, easy to clean and to maintain. It is important to know how to properly clean your new flooring to keep it looking fresh and to preserve durability. We will walk you through regular cleaning and what to do if minor scratches occur.

How to Maintain Luxury Vinyl

Keep abrasive materials such as dirt and small stones out of the house by using doormats. It also helps to have a shoe rack by the door and a place for guests to sit and remove their shoes. Sweep or vacuum daily or whenever you notice dirt and dust on the floor. Always vacuum or dry mop to remove dirt before moving on to wet cleaning.

how to clean and maintain luxury vinyl planks

How To Clean Luxury Vinyl

Cleaning vinyl flooring requires no more than plain water and a mop! While most people use the one-bucket system, with that method you are washing your floor with dirty water. We recommend a two-bucket method that ensures you’re not spreading around dirt. Always wipe up spills as soon as possible, and mop frequently with plain water. When mopping, don’t drench your floor in water. A sponge mop may be better to use than a string mop as it holds less water. For more intensive cleaning, use apple cider vinegar and water. Due to its acidity, vinegar helps remove dirt without leaving behind a buildup, and it disinfects at the same time. Mix one cup of cider vinegar with a gallon of hot water and use a damp mop to clean, rinsing the mop frequently with hot water.

What Products are Safe?

Some commercial cleaners are safe for luxury vinyl floors. However, what is safe for one product may not be safe for another. Try to avoid using heavy chemical cleaners as they have the ability to deteriorate the top layer of your floor. Many products contain waxes as well which will dull your floors shine. Mild products like apple cider vinegar work wonders to remove buildup. Apple cider vinegar also disinfects the floor. If you feel a heavy commercial cleanser must be used, check to make sure it is safe for your floor. Using the wrong product can ruin the durability and stability of your floor. 

Repairing Scratches and Scuffs

Take every precaution to prevent abrasions from occurring. Use door mats in your entryway, encourage guests to take their shoes off in the home, and use felt pads or vinyl coasters on the bottom of furniture. If you do not have felt pads or vinyl coasters, make sure to place place something like plywood or paneling underneath furniture before moving it across the floor. Furniture with wheels can cause scratches as well, so it is best to avoid. When scratches and scuffs do occur, you can use jojoba oil or WD-40 to repair. Rub the scuffs with jojoba oil on a soft cloth to remove them. If this does not work, spray WD-40 and leave it for a few minutes before wiping it down with a rag. If this does not work, remember one of the benefits of luxury vinyl planks and tiles is that you can replace the individual piece.

What Not To Do

  • Do not use the beater bar on the bottom of the vacuum as this can damage the surface of your floors. If you cannot turn the attachment off or remove it, make sure to set it on the highest setting for height and lowest power.
  • Avoid abrasive scrubbers or steel wool. You will want your scrub brush to be about the same quality as a tooth brush, and in fact, a tooth brush is highly recommended when cleaning small stains.
  • When deep cleaning, do not use detergents, heavy cleaners, or “mop and shine” products as the leave a dull film on the floor surface.’
  • Do not use wax or solvent-based polishes.
  • Ammonia or ammonia-based products used on vinyl will break down the material and cause cracks in your flooring.

Knowing how to clean and maintain your luxury vinyl floors will help to preserve their beautiful look and increase the longevity of your product. Follow these tips to keep your floor and home in tip-top shape.

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Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring: The Basics

With a vast array of options, shopping for new flooring can get a little confusing. Today we will focus on one of the most popular options: luxury vinyl plank flooring. It dominates the market, and for good reason.

Luxury vinyl plank flooring, or LVP, is waterproof flooring that is easy to install and maintain, and affordable. Designed to mimic popular hardwood species, finding a product that matches your home’s decor is easy. Since this flooring is durable and affordable, it is the perfect option for your budget renovation.

The Basics:

Because LVP is waterproof, it is suitable for all areas and levels of the home. You can have peace of mind when installing this flooring in bathrooms, entry ways, kitchens, and basements. The durability of the product makes vinyl plank suitable flooring for homes with active pets, children, and heavy traffic. Ease of installation is another attribute that makes this an ideal product for DIYers. The most common installation methods are click-lock or glue down. LVP can be installed on top of your existing subfloor.

How is Vinyl Plank Flooring Made?

Vinyl Plank Flooring is a vinyl product. While there are several different types of LVP, the main difference is always the core layer. Every vinyl plank floor is constructed with the same four layers in this order:

luxury vinyl plank flooring

      • Wear Layer – this is the most important layer!
      • Print Layer
      • Core Layer
      • Underlayment/Backing

The top layer, or the wear layer, is the most important part of the floor. This layer is waterproof and scratch-resistant. After the wear layer is the print or decorative layer that gives the flooring its design and color. Next is the core. Lastly is the backing or underlayment and although you never see it, the underlayment is a very important part of the flooring as well because it increases the flooring’s resistance to moisture and mildew.

You will find that manufacturers often times add an additional protective UV-coating to strengthen the wear layer.

With advancements in printing technology, you will find that manufacturers are able to identically replicate the most popular hardwood species on the market. Many planks are textured to increase the hardwood look and feel of the flooring.

With amazing looks and unparalleled durability at affordable prices, waterproof flooring is ideal for all homes.

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Underlayments for Hardwood Flooring

Although not visible, underlayments for hardwood flooring are essential to beautiful flooring. This material offers many benefits. Along with added support and sound protection, underlayment also improves the durability and longevity of your hardwood floors. To get the most out of the underlayment, however, you’ll need to select the right material. Find out how to choose the best underlayment for your new hardwood floors.

flooring underlayment, hardwood

Purpose of Flooring Underlayments

Flooring underlayment is a thin material that rests between the floor covering and the subfloor. Since underlayment is a catch-all term, it takes different forms depending on the flooring material it supports. There are two types of underlayments: rigid and soft. While the subfloor is part of a home’s framework and structure, the main purpose of the underlayment serves to provide a smooth, flat surface to allow for an easy installation of the surface flooring. Additionally, underlayment functions to deaden sound, to soften the feeling of the flooring underfoot, and to act as a moisture barrier. The primary purposes of underlayment are:

  • Smooths Surface – Covers imperfections in the underlying subfloor
  • Improves Structural Stability – A hard underlayment gives the entire floor better stability.

Material Options for Rigid Underlayments

Most floor coverings are best installed over a rigid underlayment applied over the subfloor:

  • Plywood: A/C grade plywood is an excellent underlayment. A/C refers to plywood that has one relatively smooth face and one relatively rough side (for the bottom).
  • OSB: Orient-strand board may be used as an underlayment for some floor coverings, but plywood is generally preferred for any flooring where a hard underlayment is recommended.

Material Options for Soft Underlayments

More installers are using soft flooring underlayments for hardwood but it should be noted that these are best used over an existing floor or in combination with a thin, rigid underlayment.

  • Felt: Offers basic sound absorption and moisture barrier capabilities.
  • Foam: Affordable and easy to install. Provides a high level of sound insulation.
  • Rubber: Easily absorbs noises and disturbances. Easy to install due to its pliability and flexibility.
  • Cork: Eco-friendly. Offers both temperature insulation and sound absorption.

Hardwood Species Considerations

Flooring underlayments depend on the species as each has different qualities that pair better with different underlayment materials. To find the ideal match, consider the type of hardwood flooring you’re planning to install.

  • Hickory: One of the hardest and most durable hardwood species, hickory flooring doesn’t need much help to withstand traffic and wear. Hickory flooring typically pairs well with flexible foam underlayment.
  • Maple: Along with hickory, maple is one of the hardest types of wood flooring. It generally works best with foam or rubber underlayment, as both offer a moderate amount of support and insulation.
  • Oak: Whether you choose white or red, oak flooring is on the softer side. Both types of oak pair well with rubber underlayment, which provides the insulation and absorption capabilities white and red oak need.

Evaluate the Subfloor Condition

While the hardwood species impacts the type of underlayment you’ll choose, so does the subfloor. Think about both the material and the condition of the subfloor as you make your decision. Subfloors that are damaged or uneven tend to work best with the flexible underlayments, as these materials can make up for imperfections in the subfloor.

If the subfloor is plywood, use an underlayment that’s semi-permeable. A semi-permeable underlayment allows both the hardwood floor and the wood subfloor to breathe without trapping mold and mildew or causing the material to rot. If the subfloor is concrete, opt for an impermeable underlayment instead. This type of material is moisture barrier, preventing water from seeping through the concrete and into the hardwood floor.

Consider the Purpose of the Room

In many situations, the room determines the ideal underlayment. Take into account that an apartment a higher level of a building may need a rubber underlayment, providing additional sound insulation and vibration absorption to prevent sound from traveling to the unit below. Similarly, a family room or entryway that experiences a high level of traffic may need a cork underlayment, as it is more supportive and can boost durability.

Confirm the Manufacturer’s Approval

Lastly, confirm the flooring manufacturer’s approval. Many manufacturers recommend certain types of underlayment for use with their products. Manufacturers may require you to install over their own underlayment in order to keep your warranty. Make sure that the underlayment’s material, thickness, and installation requirements are compatible with the flooring. After all, selecting the best underlayment for the hardwood flooring ensures that your floors will look fantastic, feel comfortable, and last for years to come.

Remember the tips above as you select flooring underlayments for hardwood. Once you’ve chosen the right underlayment, you’ll be one step closer to installing new hardwood floors and creating your dream home.

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Surface Finishes For Hardwood Flooring

There are a number of surface finishes for hardwood flooring  to choose from. Certain finishes are better for certain types of hardwood. The finish you choose should compliment both your lifestyle and your home style.

Aluminum Oxide

Aluminum oxide is the most durable finish, lasting up to 25 years. This is especially beneficial for engineered hardwood floors because they often have a thinner veneer that doesn’t lend itself to sanding and refinishing. Prefinished planks are your only option for an aluminum oxide finish due to the application and drying equipment used in the finishing process. Aluminum oxide flooring is prefinished, making installation easier and faster.

Water-Based Polyurethane

Water-based polyurethane is a clear finish that has a traditional look and feel. This smooth, glossy finish gives solid and engineered hardwood floors the signature wet look. Water-based polyurethane finishes also come in satin and semigloss. High-gloss polyurethane hardwood flooring is typically prefinished by the manufacturer, which makes installation faster. Cleaning high-sheen hardwood finish is easy, although scratches, pet hair, and other imperfections stand out.

surface finish, flooring, hardwood

Oil-Based Polyurethane

Oil-based polyurethane is another urethane option, although it can yellow over time, it does tend to last a couple years longer. This finish is also less expensive and requires less coats. However, it requires a longer drying and curing period than water-based polyurethane. 

Oil Sealer

Oil sealer or penetrating oil sealer is a wise choice if you’re planning on finishing your hardwood floors yourself as it’s pretty easy to apply. This hardwood finish isn’t as hard as the polyurethane mentioned above. It brings out the natural grain patterns and enhances the color of the wood. Oil sealer allows for touch ups later on. The main benefit of oil sealer is the natural look it brings to flooring. It compliments antique and traditional style homes. Tung oil is the main ingredient in most oil sealers. Since tung oil is naturally derived and not permanent, oil sealers are commonly reapplied every three to five years. This finish also has a longer drying time and requires several coats.

Acid Cured

Acid-cured finishes, also called a Swedish finish, are extremely durable — even more so than polyurethane. This type of finish is best for smooth-textured flooring and exotic woods that need extra protection. However, acid-cured finishes have high toxicity levels during curing. The curing process can last anywhere from three days to a month depending on the relative humidity.

Summary

Consider the hardwood flooring surface finishes described above carefully. Ultimately, the hardwood flooring surface finish you choose should complement your home style and your lifestyle.

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