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NEVER, The heat will break down the finishes over time. The same is true with vinyl flooring, hardwood, laminate, LVT and grouting. Steam is meant for carpet only!
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Can you use a steam cleaner on engineered hardwood floors?
The short answer is no. Often steam cleaners say they can be used on "sealed" hardwood. Wood floors are put down in planks. Every board has a small space between them. Especially in winter when the humidity is lower, these spaces shrink. A steamer is forcing water vapor into these spaces. The surface may have polyurethane, but the sides do not. If this isn't enough to stop you, then remember wood flooring manufactures void warranties on product where water has damaged them!
Is Mop and Glo a good product to use on engineered wood flooring?
Mop and Glo is not a good product to use on engineered wood flooring. This because Mop and Glo contains a wax, which can ruin the finish that is already on the floors.
How do you decide between engineered hardwood floors and natural hardwood floors?
If we can nail it down we use (prefinished) hardwood. If we have to glue it down (on slab) we use engineered. You can certainly use engineered in any application whether nail down, glue down, or even floating. There really aren't many compelling reasons to use solid anymore beyond prestige and the fact that is has zero chemical emissions. Engineered can be refinished just like solid, as long as the top veneer is think enough. If you plan to be in your house long enough to refinish the floor, use an engineered with a 3mm+ top veneer.
How do you clean engineered hardwood floors?
Use broom to weep all durty then after mopping never walk on the floor during this time
Can hardwood floor installation be done by a non-professional?
Hardwood floor installation can be done by a non-professional, but it requires careful planning, the right tools, and a good understanding of the installation process. Here are some considerations and steps to help you determine if you can tackle the project on your own: Skill Level: Do you have experience with DIY projects and basic carpentry skills? Installing hardwood floors can be challenging, so having some prior experience with home improvement projects is beneficial. Research: Start by researching the specific type of hardwood flooring you plan to install. Different types of hardwood (e.g., solid, engineered) may have different installation methods. Gather Materials and Tools: Make a list of all the materials and tools you'll need for the installation, including hardwood flooring, underlayment, adhesive, nails or staples (depending on the installation method), saws, a moisture meter, and safety gear. Subfloor Inspection: Inspect the condition of your subfloor. It should be clean, dry, level, and structurally sound. Any issues with the subfloor may need to be addressed before installation. Acclimation: Allow the hardwood flooring to acclimate to the humidity and temperature of the room where it will be installed. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for acclimation time. Layout Planning: Plan the layout of the flooring to ensure a balanced and aesthetically pleasing installation. Start your installation from a straight wall or reference line. Installation Method: Determine the installation method based on the type of hardwood and subfloor. There are several methods, including nail-down, staple-down, glue-down, and floating. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your chosen method. Cutting and Fitting: Measure and cut the flooring to fit around obstacles and along walls. Use a saw appropriate for cutting hardwood. Installation: Begin installing the hardwood according to your chosen method. Pay attention to spacing, staggering the boards, and maintaining a straight row. Use the appropriate fasteners and follow spacing guidelines. Finishing Touches: Install baseboards or quarter-round molding to cover expansion gaps around the perimeter. Fill nail or staple holes with wood filler, and sand the floor to create a smooth, even surface. Finishing: Finish the hardwood with the desired stain and finish (e.g., polyurethane). Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application and drying times. Maintenance: Understand how to properly care for and maintain your hardwood floors to keep them looking their best. Safety: Always follow safety precautions, such as wearing safety goggles and hearing protection when using power tools. If you're uncertain about any step in the process, it may be wise to consult with a professional or take a DIY flooring installation class to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. While DIY hardwood floor installation is possible, it's essential to ensure the job is done correctly to avoid costly mistakes and potential damage to your flooring.
What types of hardwood flooring are the best to use in a kitchen?
The best type of hardwood flooring to use in your kitchen are ones with a good sealent, or advertised as engineered. Also since the kitchen has high traffic, hard woods like ask, maple, cherry, mahagony or oak would be best.
Engineering Decorating Success on a Budget?
Flooring is an essential piece to any room, from an office space to a kitchen to a bedroom. Picking the right flooring can make all the difference, affecting the overall atmosphere of the room as well as the total decorating budget. In recent years, hardwood floor has been increasingly popular. Hardwood floors are sanitary and versatile, creating a warm and inviting setting for almost any room. However, hardwood is also more expensive than most other options, making it difficult for individuals on a budget. Engineered flooring is a great alternative to pure hardwood floor. Engineered flooring is made from real wood, but is processed and reassembled to include a finished wood layer on top of a hidden plywood layer. This allows for engineered flooring to be significantly cheaper than pure hardwood, but to the untrained eye, the difference in appearance is virtually nonexistent. In addition to the more affordable price associated with engineered flooring, this type of flooring is also easier to maintain and more durable than most hardwood. The layer of plywood underneath provides an increased strength to the floor, making it less prone to splintering or breaking with use. It is also easier and faster to install engineered flooring, since this type of flooring is made pre-finished. This means that there is little prep work needed to install the floor, thereby expediting the process and requiring no sealing after the fact. It is possible to find engineered flooring in any wood or finish. From maple to oak, the options are limitless with engineered flooring, making it easy to pick the right wood for any space. Because of the increased affordability of engineered flooring, it is even possible to obtain more exotic and upscale looks without the high price tag carried by such woods. It is also possible to perform moderate sanding to engineered flooring to correct any dings or marks, though such measures should be taken carefully and in moderation. Ultimately, choosing the right flooring is an important decision when finishing any room. For individuals who want to create an warm and inviting space without the expense of pure hardwood flooring, engineered flooring can be a smart alternative.
What products are provided by Lumber Liquidators?
Lumber Liquidators provides hardwood, laminate, bamboo, vinyl, and engineered flooring products for residential and commercial use. They also offer underlayment, molding, and accessories for installation and maintenance of their flooring products.
How to Select Wood Flooring Supplies?
Today, no other flooring material is as popular as hardwood floors. The natural warmth and beauty of hardwood is hard to resist and will create an elegant look in any home that will last for years. Anyone who has shopped for hardwood flooring supplies knows how many choices are out there and may feel overwhelmed by the number of choices. Luckily, the only real choice that a person shopping for wood flooring supplies needs to make is the decision among choosing solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, or laminate floors.Solid hardwood planks are the most traditional types of hardwood flooring and are constructed out of solid pieces of lumber. They are either glued or nailed into place, depending on the structure of the subsurface. Engineered hardwood floors are slightly different than solid hardwood floors. This type of flooring is created from chips and strips of wood that have been compressed and held together with some sort of binding agent. The top layer is a thin slice of wood, which gives the finished plank the look and feel of solid hardwood. Finally, homeowners can buy laminate flooring, which is made out of resin that has been treated to look like real wood.As far as price goes, solid and engineered hardwood floors are much more expensive than laminate flooring. Although one might expect solid hardwood flooring supplies to cost more than engineered floors, this is not the case. In fact, they are almost equal in price.Many people are also concerned about the durability of their hardwood floors. The one negative aspect about having solid or engineered hardwood floors is that they can be damaged after prolonged use. They can scratch and discolor over time. Solid hardwood floors can be sanded and restained many times. On the other hand, engineered hardwood floors can only be sanded and restained a couple of times due to the way that they are constructed. At the opposite end of the spectrum, laminate flooring supplies never need restaining or sanding. They are highly resistant to impacts, scratching, and discoloring, making them ideal choices for high-traffic areas like kitchens and entry halls.Finally, the choice on flooring supplies may also depend on the underlying substructure upon which the floor will sit. Solid hardwood floors can be difficult to install over concrete slabs since they need to be nailed into place. In order to install a solid hardwood floor over a slab, contractors will have to glue down plywood and possibly sand the slab down to the correct height. Engineered floors can be glued directly to concrete, though. As for laminate flooring, it can be installed above any type of substructure without any problem.
What are the pros and cons of engineered flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is a popular flooring choice that offers the look of hardwood with added stability and versatility. Here are the pros and cons of engineered wood flooring: Pros: Aesthetic Appeal: Engineered wood flooring provides the warmth and beauty of real wood, with a variety of species and finishes to choose from. It can add a touch of elegance to any room. Stability: Engineered wood is constructed with multiple layers of wood, which makes it more stable and less prone to expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature and humidity compared to solid hardwood. Easy Installation: Many engineered wood floors come with click-and-lock systems that make them suitable for DIY installation, saving on installation costs. Versatility: Engineered wood can be installed in a variety of settings, including basements and over concrete subfloors, thanks to its resistance to moisture and stability. Durability: The top layer of engineered wood is typically a hardwood veneer that is quite durable and can be sanded and refinished a few times, extending the floor's lifespan. Environmental Considerations: Engineered wood uses less hardwood compared to solid hardwood floors, making it a more sustainable option. Additionally, some engineered wood products use reclaimed or recycled wood in their construction. Cost-Effective: It is often more affordable than solid hardwood, making it an attractive option for those who want the look of hardwood without the high cost. Cons: Limited Refinishing: While engineered wood can be sanded and refinished, it has a limited number of times this can be done due to the thinner hardwood veneer. Solid hardwood can typically be refinished more times. Susceptible to Scratches: Like solid hardwood, engineered wood can still be susceptible to scratches and dents, though the durability varies depending on the thickness of the veneer. Price Variability: High-quality engineered wood flooring can be more expensive than low-quality solid hardwood, so it's important to carefully consider the cost and quality. Environmental Impact: While it's more sustainable than solid hardwood, engineered wood still involves the use of adhesives and can contain some level of formaldehyde, which may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Moisture Damage: Although engineered wood is more moisture-resistant than solid hardwood, it is not waterproof. Prolonged exposure to moisture can still lead to damage. Lack of Authenticity: Some purists may prefer the authenticity and feel of solid hardwood and may consider engineered wood to be an imitation. Sound Transmission: Engineered wood can transmit sound, so it may be noisy to walk on, especially if not adequately insulated. Less Resale Value: In some cases, engineered wood may have a lower resale value compared to solid hardwood. However, this can vary depending on the market and location. In summary, engineered wood flooring offers the beauty of real wood with added stability and versatility. However, it has limitations when it comes to refinishing and may not be as durable as solid hardwood in the long run. Your choice between engineered and solid hardwood should depend on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Is this conversation helpful so far?
How to Install Engineered Flooring?
Engineered flooring is a layered composition flooring, meaning that the top, decorative layer is real hardwood and the subsequent layers are made of plywood or particle board. In short, engineered flooring provides the same look as real hardwood flooring without the associated cost and upkeep.To install engineered flooring, you will need a chop saw, table saw, a small hardwood flooring nailer and floor adhesive if installing the flooring over a concrete sub floor.1.) Measure the room you will be installing the engineered flooring in to calculate how much engineered flooring you will need. As a rule of thumb, purchase 10% more product than you originally anticipate to allow room for error.2.) If you are not working in a square room, you will want to install the flooring planks parallel to the longest wall.3.) Lay your first row of planks with the tongue side, or the side with the lip, facing toward you and away from the wall. The last piece of engineered flooring probably will not fit perfectly. Use your chop saw to cut it to size.4.) Lay your second row of planks with the groove side facing the tongue side of the previous row, interlocking the planks as you go. The last piece of engineered flooring probably will not fit perfectly. Use your chop saw to cut it to size.5.) Using your nailer, nail the tongue of each piece of flooring to your sub floor.**Note: if you are installing the engineered flooring over a concrete sub floor, you will want to glue the flooring to the floor rather than nail it.6.) Repeat steps 3, 4 and 5 until all planks have been laid, staggering the pieces as you go for a more aesthetically pleasing look (i.e., you don’t want all of your seams to line up).7.) After all the flooring has been laid, you may find that you need to cut some pieces of engineered flooring in half long ways to fit against the baseboard. Use your table saw to cut these pieces to size.As a rule of thumb, a good installation will have a quarter inch or less gap around the perimeter of the room for quarter round to be installed.
What is the safest way to clean hardwood floors?
DO NOT USE anything with Water, Water damages wood flooring. DO NOT use steamers, they use HOT water and that damages wood flooring. you need an oil or wax based cleaner. Go to Lowes or Home Depot & get a hardwood flooring cleaner made by one of the HARDWOOD flooring manufacturers like Bruce or Armstong, that will be OK to use. Bona also makes a great line of flooring products.
Can you use a steam cleaner on engineered hardwood floors?
The short answer is no. Often steam cleaners say they can be used on "sealed" hardwood. Wood floors are put down in planks. Every board has a small space between them. Especially in winter when the humidity is lower, these spaces shrink. A steamer is forcing water vapor into these spaces. The surface may have polyurethane, but the sides do not. If this isn't enough to stop you, then remember wood flooring manufactures void warranties on product where water has damaged them!
Is Mop and Glo a good product to use on engineered wood flooring?
Mop and Glo is not a good product to use on engineered wood flooring. This because Mop and Glo contains a wax, which can ruin the finish that is already on the floors.
How do you decide between engineered hardwood floors and natural hardwood floors?
If we can nail it down we use (prefinished) hardwood. If we have to glue it down (on slab) we use engineered. You can certainly use engineered in any application whether nail down, glue down, or even floating. There really aren't many compelling reasons to use solid anymore beyond prestige and the fact that is has zero chemical emissions. Engineered can be refinished just like solid, as long as the top veneer is think enough. If you plan to be in your house long enough to refinish the floor, use an engineered with a 3mm+ top veneer.
Installing Your Own Engineered Hardwood Flooring?
If you're not a DIY or home improvement enthusiast, the idea of installing your own flooring may sound intimidating. However, engineered hardwood flooring makes the entire process easy even if you have no experience. Most brands of engineered wood floors use a floating system that allows you to install over any flat, level surface without adhesives or nails. This makes the removal of the flooring or the replacement of a single damaged plank much easier. The pieces of an engineered wood floor system either snap together with special grooves cut into the sides of each piece, or they use attached adhesive strips. Each board anchors to the ones around it, creating a floor that won't shift or move when you walk on it. The hardest part of installing this type of floor is cutting pieces to fit around doorways and the edge of the room. This can be done with a simple hacksaw.
How can I do some hardwood floors?
Home Depot carries many types of hardwood flooring. You can have them install it or attend a do-it-yourself workshop. Their website even has a tool you can use to determine which flooring will best suit your needs: http://www.homedepot.com/Flooring-Hardwood-Flooring/h_d1/N-aq8xZ5yc1v/h_d2/Navigation?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053&searchNav=true
