subject: A Seasonal Guide To Hardwood Flooring For 2010 [print this page] The nation is experiencing a strange weather phenomenon this winter, with some of the coldest temperatures recorded in years. Snowstorms have encompassed much of the northern United States, but soon, springtime will be here, and with it comes a slew of atmospheric temperature and humidity changes that homeowners considering Hardwood Floors should take note of.
When you think of spring time, whats the first thing that comes to mind? Rain, moisture, humidity changes elements that do not lend themselves favorably to solid hardwood floors. Even if rain doesnt hit your floor directly, your shoes and belongings will still bring moisture into your home something solid hardwood flooring does not favor.
The solution in this situation and this applies to anyone who lives in a high-moisture climate that is subject to atmospheric pressure changes, is to purchase an engineered hardwood floor. Engineered hardwood floors, unlike solid hardwoods feature multiple layers of wood in a system designed to keep the wood from expanding and contracting in the manner it would in its natural environment. The result floors that stay put, are even, and dont creak when you step on them.
Engineered floors arent entirely moisture-proof, but theyre still a far better solution than solid wood floors when it comes to places like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. But if moisture is a real concern, you can always opt for laminate flooring, which is a floor that looks like wood but isnt actual wood. Laminate floors are best for areas that receive high moisture. Tons of manufacturers offer laminates including Shaw Flooring, Bruce Hardwoods, and Armstrong Laminate Flooring.
Another hot trend for spring eco-friendly floors, which is all the more reason why both engineered hardwood floors and premium laminate wood floors are receiving so much attention. With engineered wood floors, even though they are constructed of real wood, the actual wood species youve chosen is only on the top layer of the floor, with more environmentally sustainable woods underneath. This is a great way for homeowners who prefer exotic hardwoods like Birch and Jatoba hardwood floors to still have the look and feel of exotics, without impacting the environment. Think of it as cabinet resurfacing, only for hardwood floors!
If youre interested in learning more about hardwood flooring trends for this season, contact a hardwood floors retail and installation specialist. Retailers typically offer more affordable prices than manufacturers, plus their experience with multiple brands means they can help you find the appropriate flooring option for your home.
