Discover the Timeless Elegance of Hardwood Flooring. In Lewes, DE and Surrounding Areas

When it comes to flooring, the classic appeal of hardwood is undeniable. At Flooring Fashions Mobile Showroom, we proudly serve the vibrant communities of Lewes, Milton, and Rehoboth DE, offering a wide range of hardwood flooring options that combine natural beauty and durability.

The Beauty and Advantages of Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring has stood the test of time for a reason. Its benefits include:

• Easy Maintenance: Hardwood's smooth surface is a breeze to clean, making it an ideal choice for busy households. Small debris and spills are easily wiped away.

• Allergy-Friendly: If you or your family members suffer from allergies, hardwood is a low-allergy option. Its surface doesn't harbor dust and pollen, and regular cleaning keeps allergens in check.

• Repairability: Even if your hardwood floor suffers a dent, scratch, or stain, it's not the end. Repairs are possible, whether it's replacing a plank or refinishing the affected area.

• Elegant Choice: Hardwood's natural appeal and somewhat higher cost compared to carpets make it a luxurious choice for homeowners who value style and quality.

• Timeless Appeal: Hardwood flooring has been a favorite for generations, adapting to different design trends while maintaining its timeless charm.

• Low Maintenance: When compared to carpets, hardwood requires less maintenance, both in terms of effort and equipment. A simple Swiffer-type mop for hardwood is usually sufficient.

• Eco-Friendly: As a natural resource, hardwood is an environmentally friendly choice. Its production requires fewer raw materials and less energy.

Types of Hardwood Flooring

We offer three main types of hardwood flooring:

• Sand and Finish In Place: This method involves installing unfinished hardwood and then sanding and finishing it on-site, resulting in a smooth and flat look.

• Prefinished Solid Hardwood: Manufacturers mill and prefinish the material before installation, allowing for various finishes like bevels and rustic looks. Prefinished solid hardwood often provides a superior finish, backed by the manufacturer.

• Engineered Hardwood: Engineered hardwood is designed to resist movement due to environmental changes. It offers durability through methods like plywood construction and Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF).

Installing Hardwood Flooring

When it comes to installing hardwood flooring, there are various methods depending on the type of hardwood you choose. At Flooring Fashions Mobile Showroom, we're here to guide you through the installation process and ensure your new hardwood floor looks flawless in your home.

Acclimation: Before installation, the hardwood planks need to acclimate to your home's environment for about 72 hours. This step helps prevent any sudden changes that could lead to problems like cupping, gaps, or buckling.

Maintaining Expansion Gaps: Small gaps (expansion gaps) are left along the walls to accommodate wood's natural expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature and humidity. These gaps are later covered with baseboards or trim.

Solid Hardwood Installation:

Solid hardwood is renowned for its timeless beauty and durability. Here's how it's typically installed:

1. Nailing or Stapling: Solid wood flooring is usually installed using the "nail-down" method. This involves driving nails (cleats or staples) through the tongue of each plank at an angle into the subfloor. The nails should be spaced according to manufacturer recommendations. The installer works row by row, fitting each plank's groove onto the tongue of the previously installed row. Special flooring nailers or nail guns designed for hardwood flooring are commonly used to drive the nails at the correct angle and depth. the nailer is struck with a rubber mallet, this motion not only drives the fastener but also closes gaps and holds the plank tightly in place.

2. Top nail (Older Technique):The hardwood installation method that involves top nailing thin strips of hardwood onto the subfloor is known as "Face Nailing" or "Top Nailing." In this installation technique, narrow strips of hardwood, typically less than 2 inches in width, are nailed down onto the subfloor using nails or fasteners that are driven through the top surface of the wood, hence the term "face nailing."

   This method was more common in older hardwood flooring installations and is less frequently used today, especially for wider hardwood planks. Face nailing allows for individual strips or boards to be secured to the subfloor independently, and it was often used in the past to create intricate patterns and designs in hardwood floors.

   However, modern hardwood flooring installation methods typically involve using tongue-and-groove systems, where the planks interlock with one another and are secured to the subfloor by fastening them through the tongue or by using other methods like stapling or nailing through the sides of the boards at an angle. These methods provide a more secure and stable installation and are less visible since the fasteners are not visible on the surface of the hardwood.

   While face nailing is still occasionally used, it's less common in contemporary hardwood flooring installations, especially for wide plank hardwood, where other methods offer better structural integrity and a cleaner, more seamless appearance.

Engineered Hardwood Installation:

Engineered hardwood is known for its stability and resistance to environmental changes. There are several ways to install it:

1. Stapling: Installers use staples, often known as crown staples, to secure engineered hardwood. These staples are inserted using a trigger rather than being struck with a mallet. Engineered hardwood planks typically come out of the box straighter, and any minimal warping can usually be pushed back into place.

2. Floating Floor: Engineered hardwood can be assembled using glue or a locking system, creating a floating floor. In this method, the planks are not fastened to the subfloor but rather to themselves. It's a cost-saving option and is suitable for concrete subfloors or installations over existing floor coverings.

3. Direct Gluing: For a more permanent installation, especially on concrete or below grade, a urethane glue is troweled onto the subfloor, and hardwood planks are laid into it. This method is recommended for high-end engineered hardwood flooring.

Each installation method has its advantages and suitability depending on your specific circumstances and preferences. Our experts at Flooring Fashions Mobile Showroom will help you choose the right method and ensure a flawless installation that brings out the best in your hardwood flooring.

Cleaning and Maintaining Hardwood Flooring:

Hardwood flooring is not only elegant but also relatively easy to maintain. Proper care will ensure its longevity and preserve its natural beauty.

1. Regular Cleaning Routine:

   • Dust Mopping or Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner with a hard surface attachment or a soft-bristle broom to remove loose dirt, sand, and dust. These particles can act like sandpaper and wear down the finish over time.

   • Prompt Spill Cleanup: Accidents happen, but it's essential to clean up spills immediately with a clean cloth to prevent any potential damage to the wood or finish.

2. Damp Mopping:

   • Use a Hardwood Floor Cleaner: When it's time for a deeper clean, damp mop your hardwood floor. Microfiber mops are excellent because you can wring out excess water in the sink. However, always use a cleaner specifically designed for hardwood floors. Follow the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations for the specific product you choose.

   • Proper Technique: When damp mopping, use a damp (not wet) mop to prevent excessive moisture from penetrating the wood. Excess moisture can cause the wood grain to raise and lead to checking (tiny cracks in the finish). It's often recommended to spray the cleaner onto the mop rather than directly onto the floor to prevent puddles or liquid from seeping between planks.

   • Ceiling Fans and Ventilation: Turn on ceiling fans or open windows when damp mopping to facilitate drying. Good airflow helps prevent excess moisture from lingering on the surface.

3. Maintenance Coat:

   • Professional Screen Coat: Every 7-10 years, consider having a professional apply a screen coat to your hardwood floor. This maintenance coat helps rejuvenate the finish and can make your floor look like new. It's an excellent way to address superficial scratches and signs of wear and tear.

4. Sanding and Refinishing:

   • Decades of Abuse: Over the years, your hardwood floor may accumulate deep scratches, dents, or signs of heavy wear. In such cases, sanding and refinishing can breathe new life into your flooring. Professional sanding and refinishing can restore your floor's original beauty.

5. Specific Finish Types:

   • Polyurethane Finish: If your hardwood floor has a polyurethane finish, it's essential to avoid excessive moisture when cleaning. Too much water can lead to grain raising and checking. Follow the above cleaning recommendations for this type of finish.

   • Wax or Penetrating-Stain Finishes: For floors with wax or penetrating-stain finishes, follow these cleaning steps:

     • Dustmop or vacuum regularly.
     • Clean up spills immediately with a clean cloth.
     • Use a hardwood floor cleaner and a damp mop as you would with a polyurethane finish.
     • Use a buffer to maintain shine. If buffing no longer restores shine, you may need to rewax.

6. Avoid Over-Waxing: Be cautious not to over-wax your hardwood floor. If the floor begins to dull, try buffing it first. Over-waxing can lead to a sticky residue.

7. Under Furniture and Low-Traffic Areas: Wax half as often in areas under furniture and low-traffic zones to prevent wax buildup.

8. Avoid Inappropriate Cleaners: Never use cleaners intended for other types of flooring, as they can damage or strip the finish or make the floor slippery, creating a potential safety hazard.

By following these detailed cleaning and maintenance tips, you can enjoy the enduring beauty of your hardwood flooring for years to come.