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Engineered:
Construct consisting of layers of wood pressed together and
glued. The grains run in different directions for added stability
(unlike solids). This product is available several ply thickness
with 3 and 5 ply being the norm. Engineered hardwood flooring can
be used in those areas of the house where solid wood flooring
installation is not suitable. The most common areas are basements,
and areas with moisture concerns like kitchens, powder rooms, and
utility rooms.
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Solid:
All hardwood flooring that is one piece of wood from top to bottom
regardless of width or length, is considered to be solid hardwood
flooring. Normal sizes range 3/8" up to 3/4", with thicker
products for custom orders. The 3/8" solid in certain species is
ideal for installation over
radiant heat. Solid hardwood flooring gives you ability
to have a custom, one-of-kind hardwood floor in any room of our
home or office. You many choose from many species, whether
domestic or imported exotics, colors of stains and finish types.
Adding accents, borders, medallions or even a painted hardwood
floor can make your floor truly a work of art. The product is a
good choice for any room in your home from the ground level and
up. Solid hardwood floor products normally can be professionally
refinished 4-5 times.
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Floating:
A floating floor is either an engineered or laminate floor
that is not affixed to the
subfloor. A thin soft pad which protects against moisture,
reduces noise, and adds a cushion under foot is first laid over
the subfloor. Then the floor is installed over it. The tongue and
groove boards are held together either by glue or by a click and
lock system.
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Acrylic Impregnated:
A process where acrylics is injected into the wood
itself, creating a super-hard, extremely durable floor. Often used
in commercial installations, like common public areas, shopping
malls, and restaurants. They also work well in high traffic areas
of the household, such as kitchens and adjoining family rooms.
(see maintaining an acrylic impregnated floor)
Styles of Wood Floors
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Plank:
Plank hardwood flooring is
linear, and is wider in width. Common widths of plank
flooring are 3", 4", 5", and 6", and wider products are not
uncommon although the wider the more concerns for effects by
moisture.
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Strip: Strip flooring is also linear flooring
that is usually 1 1/2", 2 1/4", or 3 1/4" wide. Creating a
linear effect, strip hardwood floor in a room often gives the
illusion of a larger and more open space.
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