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How to Maintain and Protect Your Engineered Hardwood Floors
Engineered hardwood floors are a timeless, elegant choice for any space, but to keep them looking their best, they require a bit of TLC. With the right care, hardwood can last for generations, adding warmth and value to your home. But without regular maintenance, engineered hardwood can easily lose its luster, develop scratches, or warp from moisture damage. The good news? Protecting your hardwood floors doesn’t have to be complicated. Just a few smart habits can go a long way in keeping your floors looking beautiful for years to come. Engineered Hardwood’s Daily and Weekly Cleaning Routine Oak Hardwood Flooring in a Bright Living Room A consistent cleaning routine is one of the easiest ways to preserve the beauty of your hardwood floors. Dirt and grit may seem harmless, but over time, they can act like sandpaper and wear down your floor’s finish. Sweep or Dust Hardwood Daily: Use a soft-bristle broom or microfiber dust mop to capture dust and debris before it gets ground into the surface. Focus on entryways and high-traffic areas. Vacuum Weekly: Use a vacuum designed for hardwood floors (without a beater bar) to pick up dirt and pet hair more effectively. Avoid Wet Mopping: Excess moisture is hardwood’s worst enemy. Instead of a wet mop, opt for a damp microfiber mop with a cleaner specifically formulated for hardwood. Keeping floors clean isn’t just about looks—it’s about protecting the finish and wood from long-term damage. Protecting Your Engineered Hardwood Floors from Scratches and Wear Natural Finish Hardwood in a Cozy Bedroom Hardwood is durable, but it’s not invincible. Everyday activities like moving furniture or walking in heels can take a toll. With a few preventative measures, you can avoid unnecessary wear and keep your engineered hardwood floors looking flawless. Use Felt Pads: Place them under furniture legs to avoid scratches when items are moved. Lay Down Rugs and Runners: In high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens, rugs can help reduce wear. Just make sure they’re non-slip and don’t trap moisture underneath. Trim Pet Nails: Long claws can scratch wood—keeping them trimmed helps protect the surface. Take Off Shoes Indoors: This simple habit reduces the dirt, grit, and impact that shoes bring inside. Dealing with Spills and Stains Wide Plank Hardwood in a Modern Kitchen Accidents happen. The key is responding quickly to prevent long-term damage. Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Even water can cause warping or staining if left too long. Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to clean up right away. Treat Stains Gently: Use a hardwood floor cleaner and a soft cloth—never abrasive tools or harsh chemicals. For stubborn spots, consult your floor manufacturer’s care guide. Avoid DIY Remedies for Stains: Ingredients like vinegar or baking soda, while popular for other surfaces, can damage your hardwood’s finish. Engineered Hardwood Long-Term Maintenance: What You Should Know Rich Brown Hardwood in an Open-Concept Living Room Even the best-maintained engineered hardwood floors need occasional deeper care. Regular maintenance keeps hardwood looking its best and helps you avoid costly refinishing down the line. Maintain Humidity Levels: Wood expands and contracts with humidity. Use a humidifier in dry seasons and a dehumidifier when it’s humid to keep boards from gapping or cupping. The Bottom Line: A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way Hardwood floors are an investment worth protecting. With just a bit of regular care—sweeping, cleaning, and protecting against wear—you’ll enjoy floors that not only look incredible but also stand the test of time. Looking to upgrade your floors or start fresh with hardwood? Visit Home Carpet One's showroom to explore a wide range of hardwood options that are as durable as they are beautiful. Our experts can help you find the perfect fit for your home and lifestyle.
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How Humidity and Temperature Affect Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are one of the most beautiful and long-lasting flooring options you can install in your home—but they also happen to be one of the most sensitive. Unlike tile or vinyl, wood is a natural, living material that responds to its environment. Changes in humidity and temperature can lead to warping, cupping, gapping, and other issues that affect both the look and performance of your floors. Whether you're dealing with dry winter air or sticky summer humidity, understanding how climate impacts hardwood can help you take preventative steps and avoid costly repairs. Here’s what you need to know to keep your hardwood floors looking flawless all year long. Why Humidity Matters So Much Wood is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs and releases moisture depending on the environment. When humidity levels rise, your hardwood flooring will expand. When the air is too dry, it will contract. These natural movements can cause visible changes in your floor if not properly managed. What Happens with Too Much Humidity: Boards may expand and press against each other, causing cupping or lifting at the edges. In extreme cases, moisture can cause warping or buckling. Mold or mildew may develop beneath the floorboards if excess moisture is sustained over time. What Happens with Too Little Humidity: Boards contract, leading to gaps between planks. Cracks may appear, especially during winter months when heating systems dry out indoor air. Over time, repeated drying can weaken wood and lead to permanent damage. The ideal indoor humidity level for hardwood floors is between 35% and 55%. Staying within this range minimizes the risk of expansion or shrinkage. Temperature Swings: What You Should Know Just like humidity, fluctuating temperatures can cause wood to shift. Sudden or extreme changes can stress the material and lead to issues like: Creaking floors as the wood expands and contracts. Cracking or splitting, especially if the home goes from cold to hot quickly. Compromised finish, particularly with radiant heat or direct sunlight exposure. Keep in mind: temperature affects humidity, so the two often go hand-in-hand. That’s why managing both is essential. How to Prevent Climate-Related Damage Thankfully, hardwood floors can stay in top shape for decades with the right care. Here are a few key steps to help regulate your indoor climate and prevent damage. 1. Use a Humidifier in WinterCold air holds less moisture, and your heating system makes things even drier. A whole-home humidifier or room unit helps balance moisture and prevent floorboards from drying out and shrinking. 2. Run a Dehumidifier in SummerWhen the air gets heavy with humidity, use a dehumidifier—especially in basements or lower levels. This helps prevent your floors from absorbing too much moisture and expanding. 3. Invest in a Smart ThermostatProgrammable or smart thermostats help maintain a stable temperature throughout the day and night, reducing fluctuations that can impact your floors. 4. Don’t Skip the Acclimation ProcessBefore installing hardwood flooring, it’s crucial to let the planks adjust to the indoor climate for several days. This helps minimize expansion and contraction after installation. 5. Use Window TreatmentsDirect sunlight can heat up floors and lead to uneven fading or drying. Curtains, blinds, or UV-blocking window films help protect your flooring from the sun’s harsh effects. What to Do If You Notice Changes If you start seeing gaps, cupping, or warping in your hardwood floors, don’t panic—minor changes are normal with seasonal shifts. But if the damage seems severe or continues to worsen, here are a few steps to take: Check indoor humidity and temperature using a hygrometer and an indoor thermometer. Adjust accordingly using a humidifier or dehumidifier to bring levels back into balance. Consult a flooring professional if issues persist. The Bottom Line: Climate Control Is Key Hardwood floors are a major investment—and one worth protecting. With a little knowledge and a few proactive habits, you can prevent most climate-related issues and keep your floors looking beautiful year after year. Whether you're dealing with dry winters, humid summers, or wild temperature swings, taking the time to maintain a stable indoor environment pays off. Your floors will thank you. Looking to upgrade your floors or get expert advice on caring for your current hardwood? Visit Home Carpet One for premium hardwood selections and professional guidance from our flooring experts. We’re here to help you make the most of your space—season after season.
Luxury Vinyl Plank vs. Hardwood: Which is the Best Choice for Your Home?
If you're investing in new flooring for your home, you've probably found yourself stuck between two options: hardwood flooring and luxury vinyl (LVP). Both are great options, but which is right for your home? That depends on your lifestyle, design vision, and long-term goals. Let’s break it down. Hardwood vs Luxury Vinyl Aesthetic & Style Hardwood flooring has been the standard for elegance for hundreds of years. It offers natural variations, rich tones, and a warmth that’s hard to replicate. Over time, hardwood develops a patina that enhances its character, making each floor unique. LVP, on the other hand, has come a long way. High-end versions convincingly mimic hardwood textures and colors, sometimes fooling even the trained eye. Unlike hardwood, luxury vinyl offers a wider variety of styles, including distressed, reclaimed, and exotic wood looks. Both options have their appeal, hardwood for its authenticity and luxury vinyl for its versatility. Durability & Maintenance If you have kids, pets, or a household with constant activity, luxury vinyl may be the more practical choice. It resists scratches, water damage, and daily wear better than hardwood. Hardwood, while durable, requires a bit more TLC. Spilled water needs to be wiped up quickly to prevent warping. Scratches from pets or furniture are inevitable but can be repaired through refinishing. The best choice here depends on how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to and how much wear and tear your floors will experience. Comfort & Feel Hardwood has a solid, warm feel underfoot, which many homeowners love. It provides a sense of stability and can even help insulate a room. LVP, while often softer and more cushioned, can sometimes feel cooler depending on the subfloor and construction. Personal preference plays a big role here. Some homeowners prefer the warmth and solidity of hardwood, while others appreciate the slight give of luxury vinyl. Cost & Long-Term Investment Hardwood has a higher upfront cost, but it’s an investment. It adds lasting value and can be refinished multiple times. Luxury vinyl is more budget-friendly but has a shorter lifespan. If you plan to sell your home in the next 10 years, hardwood may offer a better return. If you need something stylish yet cost-effective, LVP is a great alternative. Ultimately, this decision comes down to budget and the long-term vision for your home or space. Installation Process: DIY or Professional? Hardwood installation requires professional expertise. It involves subfloor preparation, nailing, and sometimes glue-down methods. We also recommend professional expertise for luxury vinyl. But, LVP often features a click-lock system that makes it DIY-friendly. If you’re up for a weekend project, luxury vinyl is an easier option. If you want the job done perfectly, hardwood is best left to the pros. Sound & Acoustics Hardwood can amplify sound, making rooms feel more open but sometimes noisier. Rugs and soundproofing underlays help. LVP, especially with built-in padding, absorbs sound better, reducing echo and impact noise. Consider how important sound control is in your space. Some homeowners prefer the lively acoustics of hardwood, while others appreciate the absorption of luxury vinyl. Environmental Impact & Sustainability Many homeowners today care about eco-friendly choices. Hardwood is a natural material, and when sourced responsibly (look for FSC-certified wood), it’s a sustainable option. LVP, being synthetic, isn’t biodegradable, but some brands use recycled materials and low-VOC manufacturing to reduce environmental impact. Both materials can be eco-conscious, depending on sourcing and manufacturing practices. Room Suitability Hardwood works beautifully in living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms but isn’t ideal for moisture-prone areas like basements or bathrooms. Luxury vinyl, being waterproof, is great for kitchens, laundry rooms, and basements where moisture resistance is key. Your home’s layout and specific needs will help determine which material is best for different spaces. Customization & Refinishing Options Hardwood can be sanded and refinished multiple times, allowing for color changes and surface repairs. LVP, once installed, remains as is. If it gets damaged, it must be replaced rather than refinished. If flexibility and the ability to update your flooring over time matter to you, hardwood may be the better option. If you prefer something low-maintenance, luxury vinyl keeps things simple. The Verdict: Which Flooring Is Best for You? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you want timeless luxury and long-term value, go for hardwood. If you need a durable, low-maintenance solution, LVP is a smart pick. Either way, choosing high-quality flooring makes all the difference. The flooring experts at Home Carpet One are happy to talk through your specific needs and circumstances to help you find the best option for your home. Explore our collection online or visit our showroom to see the difference for yourself!
Why Hardwood Flooring Will Never Go Out of Style
Just like Taylor Swift, hardwood is never going out of style. Hardwood has been around for centuries, yet hardwood floors remain not only the most sought-after, but also the most valued luxury material in homes around the world. Now more than ever, there is an exceptional selection of hardwood flooring options, from contemporary choices like wide-plank, white oak to classic options like cherry wood. Although real hardwood is more expensive than other options like vinyl, it provides decades of quality, value and comfort that other surfaces simply can’t match. And because hardwood floors can be refinished down the line, they retain value and offer the chance to appear brand new over and over again. Whether you appreciate classic aesthetics or contemporary style, there is a hardwood flooring product perfect for your home’s unique look. From hand-scraped reclaimed oak to polished engineered wood, wood floors can be as rustic or as chic as your style demands. Either way, hardwood floors provide a timeless appeal that no other choice can match. Can you imagine purchasing carpet that will still be beautiful and stylish 30 years from now? As much as we love high quality carpet, everyone knows that carpet will eventually need to be replaced. With hardwood, you get lasting value and old-world quality that you can enjoy for as long as you stay in your home. And should you decide to sell down the road, hardwood floors provide an increase in your home’s value, so you get a return on your investment even years later. Unlike carpet, hardwood floors don’t trap allergens such as dust and pet dander. Hardwood floors don’t absorb odors, so your family enjoys high indoor air quality and a cleaner, more pleasant home. There is no better way to add elegance and value to your home. To learn more about how hardwood floors can transform your home, reach out to our team!
Floating vs. Glue-Down Hardwood Floor Installation
When selecting a new hardwood floor for your home, there can be some uncertainty and anxiety when confronted with installation choices. There are three different types of installations regarding engineered hardwood, each with its own pros and cons. Floating Hardwood Installation The first type of installation is called “floating”. This simply means the floor is interlocked with itself and at no point attached to a sub floor. Over the years, floating systems have been developed that are now widely used by developers in residential new-construction settings. Floating floors are great for folks who are concerned about raising the overall floor height, or simply want to avoid the necessity of plywood. These types of installations require a moisture barrier and at times, a form of sound abatement. They are usually the most economical choice as glue and the additional labor associated with nail/glue installations are not factors. One disadvantage of this type of installation is that the floor can move when walked on. This is not a defect and is inherent in these installations. Also when making a repair to these floors, it is not uncommon to remove a large selection of flooring to exchange a single board. Glue-Down Hardwood Flooring Installation The second type of installation is a glue down flooring system. Here, the hardwood is engineered to be glued to a substrate. These types of floors are great for customers who want the look and feel of a solid hardwood installation. Glue down installations can be slightly more expensive than floating systems. Again, one must purchase a moisture barrier and a potential form of sound abatement if required. Here, the under-layments must be glued and not simply rolled out as a floating system would require. The process for repairing these floors is easier as a single plank can usually be removed and exchanged without disturbing the surrounding planks. Nail Down Hardwood Flooring Installation The final type of installation is a nail-down floor. These floors tend to be the most costly due to the subfloor requirements and the nature of the product itself. Most nail down installations can be refinished multiple times. Typically, there needs to be 3 ⁄ 4 of an inch of solid plywood to nail into for these installations. Also, it is not uncommon to have nail-down installations be limited to on or above grade depending on product selection.No matter what installation type you go with, all hardwood installations require proper acclimation and strong adherence to manufacturer guidelines to maintain product warranties.