Hardwood Flooring 101

You will find an overwhelming number of websites with information and how-to’s. Using our experience as professional hardwood flooring installers, and as homeowners, we’ve answered some of the general questions you have about hardwood flooring and where to start. To get you started, here is an introduction to some great basic information and how-to-choose guides:

Species:
Let’s start with Hardwood Species. What’s popular? Which one should I use? The answers to these questions lies strictly within you. Your taste, your style, your color preference, your purpose, the look you want – you, you, you!

Which species is harder? For the answers to questions like these, check out the Hardwood Species Guide at GateWoodFloors.com!

Types & Grades:
On the list of things to consider when purchasing hardwood flooring is “What type of flooring do you need or prefer?” Solid 3/4” thick hardwood flooring is what most people think of when someone says “hardwood floors.” But there are more options today than ever before. The area in which you are installing the new hardwood flooring will dictate what type of flooring you will be able to use. “On” or “Above Grade” is any room at ground level and up. “Below Grade” is any room below ground level. Your choices are Solid, Engineered, or Laminate. Solid hardwood flooring is available in both Unfinished and Prefinished and can only be installed “On” or “Above Grade.” Engineered wood flooring also comes in Unfinished or Prefinished but can be used at any level - “On,” “Above” or “Below Grade.” Laminate flooring is only available in Prefinished, and can also be used at any level. Moisture varies at each level, and should be taken into consideration when deciding what type of flooring to install. For more detailed information, check out the Products Guide at GateWoodFloors.com!

Time to Calculate:
You’ll need to calculate how much flooring is required before you make your purchase. We can show you how in 4 easy steps!

Doing It Yourself?
You will first need to determine your method for installation. Depending on the type of flooring you’re installing can choose “Nail Down,” “Glue Down,” or “Floating” installation. Read our Do-It-Yourself Guide for much much more!

Care & Maintenance:
After your flooring is installed, you probably have questions about how to care for it, especially in different seasons. What about pets? We’ve answered some of your most frequently asked questions right here!

Upon first glance, it seems as if installing a new hardwood floor is a monumental task. At GateWood Floors, we keep it simple. Visit our extensive Buyer’s Guide. In just a few minutes you will get all the info you need to get a hardwood floor that gives you a lifetime of pleasure.