Category Archives: Hardwood

While hardwood flooring is durable it can scratch. Pets, animals and other factors can cause scratches. There are some options that can help treat scratches and repair small imperfections without a drastic measures like refinishing the floor. *Please note: some “scratches” are not scratches and are depressions in the wood and can only be fixed with a refinish of the floor.

Surface scratches-

Very light scratches can be repaired with a good cleaningproduct. If you have a prefinished floor you will need to ensure that the products are compatible with your floor. Next you will thoroughly clean the area  with a micro-fiber towel. This will get any dirt out of the scratch and possibly make it not visible from a standing position.

Deep Narrow Scratches-

If the scratch has penetrated the stain and finish layer and is exposing bare wood you can likely make the scratch look better. A stain pen or stain product can help conceal the different color of the natural wood. This technique wont conceal the dip or imperfection from the scratch but will make it less noticeable.

Wider scratches or gouges can be difficult to cover without professional help. A patch can help make the gouge less noticeable. This process will require more products like wood filler, sandpaper, and finish product. This process will not be flawless but can help to make a wide gouge from a distance.

If a scratch cant be fixed with these options a professional can help. A buff and coat is an option for a surface scratches and doesn’t take much time. A refinish will remove deeper scratches, dents and other imperfections.

If you are considering and new flooring and looking to weigh the odds between carpet and hardwood we are here to help you figure out the best option.

Carpet is a classic flooring option that is soft under foot and great for families with small children. One area that concerns a lot of homeowners is the allergens, mold and mildew that can be concerning. A carpeting system includes backing, padding an glues. These products can emit VOCs which can be detrimental to your health. Consistent, deep cleaning of the carpet will not solve the problem. Also dust mites, mold, dirt and other contaminants can infiltrate the floor and cause additional issues. Lingering odors and must smells are a sign of concern.

Carpets also need to be replaced every 10 years. Even with proper care carpet needs to be replaced regularly. Over time signs of wear in high traffic areas will begin to show and the padding will lose its support. Signs of wear include matting, color fading and wrinkling.

Hardwood floors can last a lifetime. Hardwood floors when properly maintained can last 100 years or more. Maintenance starts with cleaning floors properly. Sweeping the floors regularly helps to keep dirt and dust off the floor. A professional deep cleaning every once in a while is also a great way to keep your floors extra clean.

Hardwood flooring also yields higher sale prices. The National Association of Realtors’ 2015 Remodeling Impact Report stated that hardwood is one of the top features homeowners are looking for. Additionally, 54% of buyers surveyed said that are willing to spend thousands more if a home has hardwood flooring. The NWFA also did a study saying the 82% of Realtors have seen hardwood flooring help a home sell faster and for more money.

If a homeowner is considering hardwood for their home it can have health benefits and financial benefits.