|
Solid Wood Floors in the Home
By Rami Nseir
A solid wood floor can add warm tones and a stunning finish to any room. Constructed
with pieces of solid wood they have tongue and groove sides
so they can be easily connected together. Each piece has a
different grain which combines to form a unique look whenever
it is used. There is a huge variety of solid wood floors available
with many types of wood species, colours and widths available
at hardwood flooring suppliers.
The most popular option is oak wood flooring. Europe and
America are both the main consumer and producer of this type
of hardwood flooring. Oak is available in various types including
red, white and European oak, each with their own hardness,
grain and colour characteristics.
A cherry wood floor is another popular choice due to its
striking grain markings and solid composition. Like other
wood floors it is highly resistant to damage. Over time cherry
wood flooring darkens from a pale pink colour to warm dark
red tone
Exotic hardwoods can give a room a unique look are now readily
available at major hardwood flooring suppliers. They can be
found for sale alongside other classic real wood flooring
such as maple, oak and ash. Real wood flooring can be purchased
in pre-finished or unfinished styles. When laying unfinished
wood flooring the product can be recoated many times to increase
its life and make it last considerably longer than other flooring
options.
When laying solid wood floors, begin with a flat, dry and
solid sub floor such as concrete, wood or cork. Carpet is
not suitable as a sub base and must be removed. Any deviations
in level should be rectified with suitable floor filler. A
plastic barrier to stop moisture is recommended for floors
that are being installed on concrete or in damp areas. Harwood
flooring should also be allowed time to acclimatise before
it is set down by leaving it the room for several days.
If you are using a wood floor sub base the solid wood floor
should be installed at right angles to the original floorboards
to aid strength and stability. An expansion area around the
perimeter of the room is also recommended to allow for contractions
and expansions throughout the winter and summer months. This
expansion gap can be covered with skirting boards or a cover
strip.
Solid wood floors are tough and hard wearing and by taking
care of them their life can be prolonged. Keep gravel, dirt
and grit at bay by using a doormat outside and inside the
front door. Regular sweeping and vacuuming will take care
of any dirt that does settle on the floor and will reduce
scratches and everyday wear and tear. Avoid wearing stiletto
heels on solid wood floors and if possible only wear indoor
shoes or slippers on its surface.
Nothing comes close to the finish that can be achieved with
a solid wood floor. By installing solid wood flooring the
value of a home often increases and it can give a home the
edge over similar property on the market. Solid wood floors
are stain resistant and do not trap dust so are especially
good for allergy sufferers. There is a wide range of tones,
styles and prices on the market so whether you are looking
for a cheap wood floor or the ultimate in hardwood flooring,
you are sure to find the right match for your room.
About the author
Rami Nseir is a consultant for UK Carpets Direct http://www.ukcarpetsdirect.com/
who are specialist UK suppliers of solid wood flooring &
laminate floors.
| 
