Should I repair or replace my flooring?
Perhaps your renovation does not call for replacing your hardwood. But, you want your existing floors to shine again. Hardwood floors with a dull appearance or minor surface scratches can simply be re-coated with polyurethane to restore their sheen. Floors with deep scratches or areas where the finish is completely worn require re‐sanding.
Nothing adds value to your home like a well maintained hardwood floor. All said and done, repairing and maintaining hardwood floors is relatively easy and affordable!
Nothing adds value to your home like a well maintained hardwood floor. All said and done, repairing and maintaining hardwood floors is relatively easy and affordable!
Can I match my existing narrow plank floor?
Many homes have 1 1/2 inch wide red oak hardwood floors, some hidden under carpet and some left exposed, damaged and dull. New 1 1/2 inch red oak is readily available at reasonable prices, making repairs easy and cost effective.
Why do my floors have gaps and squeak?
The most common cause – lack of humidity! Our dry climate means a properly functioning humidifier is essential to a silent hardwood floor. Lack of humidity causes floorboards to shrink and crack. Unsightly gaps may appear between loosening boards. Slight movement between loose boards causes squeaking. Regularly service your existing humidifier or consider installing a new one if recommended.
How often will I have to re-sand my floor / what is the best finish?
Most flooring finishes last 7-10 years. I've seen floors 30 years old that are still in pretty good shape. Flooring finishes have come a long way. Wax floors are virtually a thing of the past, but there are a few still out there! Due to Volatile Organic Compound (“VOC”) regulations introduced in Alberta in 2011, the application of oil base finishes is also virtually a thing of the past.
There are still some low VOC oil based stains available, but most oil based finishes have been replaced with water‐based polyurethane floor finishes. This is a good thing. As well as more environmentally conscious, water-based finishes are stronger, dry faster and won't discolor as fast. They also last longer and are maintenance free!
I use water based finishes almost exclusively in my professional practice, and specialized floor sanders to minimize dust. Homeowners love that minimal odor and dust occur while their floors are restored.
There are still some low VOC oil based stains available, but most oil based finishes have been replaced with water‐based polyurethane floor finishes. This is a good thing. As well as more environmentally conscious, water-based finishes are stronger, dry faster and won't discolor as fast. They also last longer and are maintenance free!
I use water based finishes almost exclusively in my professional practice, and specialized floor sanders to minimize dust. Homeowners love that minimal odor and dust occur while their floors are restored.
