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The Floor Facts: Expert Tips for Hardwood Flooring Maintenance in Chicago Homes for 2025

Hardwood flooring is a timeless investment that adds warmth, elegance, and value to your home. However, maintaining hardwood floors in Chicago’s unique climate requires thoughtful care to ensure they remain beautiful and durable for years to come. As we enter 2025, advanced techniques and smart technologies are making hardwood floor maintenance more effective and convenient than ever. Here’s a guide to help Chicago homeowners keep their hardwood floors in pristine condition.

Protect Against Seasonal Changes
Chicago’s weather can be tough on hardwood floors, with freezing winters and humid summers causing wood to expand and contract. Here’s how to protect your floors year-round:

Maintain Indoor Humidity: Use a humidifier in winter to prevent floors from drying out and shrinking. In summer, a dehumidifier can reduce excess moisture and prevent warping. Aim for a consistent humidity level between 30-50%.
Use Door Mats: Place mats at all entry points to trap moisture, dirt, and salt during snowy winters, preventing scratches and water damage.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep your home at a consistent temperature to reduce stress on your flooring.

Daily and Weekly Cleaning Practices
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the natural beauty of hardwood floors. Follow these simple steps:

Sweep or Vacuum Daily: Remove dirt, dust, and debris with a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment. Abrasive particles can scratch the surface if left unattended.
Use a Microfiber Mop: A microfiber mop with a hardwood-safe cleaner is perfect for weekly cleaning. Avoid excess water, as it can seep into the wood and cause swelling or warping.
Spot Clean Spills Immediately: Use a soft cloth to clean up spills promptly to prevent stains or moisture damage.

Prevent Scratches and Dents
Scratches and dents are common concerns for hardwood flooring, especially in high-traffic areas. Here’s how to minimize them:

Use Felt Pads: Attach felt pads to the bottom of furniture legs to prevent scratches when moving chairs or tables.
Place Rugs in High-Traffic Areas: Add rugs or runners in hallways, under dining tables, and in entryways to protect floors from wear and tear.
Trim Pet Nails: If you have pets, keep their nails trimmed to reduce the risk of scratching the wood.

Seasonal Deep Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular deep cleaning and periodic maintenance keep hardwood floors looking like new. Here’s what to do:

Deep Clean Twice a Year: Use a professional-grade wood floor cleaner and a microfiber mop to remove stubborn dirt and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools.
Polish Floors: Use a water-based polish to restore shine and protect the finish. This should be done every 2-3 months, depending on the traffic in your home.
Refinish as Needed: Refinish your floors every 7-10 years to restore their original luster and remove surface scratches. For heavily worn areas, consider a partial refinish.

Advanced Maintenance Solutions for 2025
New technologies in 2025 make maintaining hardwood floors easier and more effective. Consider these innovations:

Scratch-Resistant Coatings: Modern hardwood finishes now offer superior scratch resistance, perfect for homes with kids or pets.
Smart Moisture Sensors: These devices can be installed under your floors to monitor humidity levels and detect leaks or moisture issues before they cause damage.
Self-Cleaning Floor Systems: Some smart mops and robotic cleaners are specifically designed for hardwood floors, offering automated, gentle cleaning.

Protecting Hardwood Floors from Chicago Winters
Winters in Chicago pose specific challenges to hardwood flooring. Follow these winter-specific tips:

Limit Water Exposure: Snow and salt tracked indoors can cause significant damage. Encourage family and guests to remove shoes and use waterproof mats by doors.
Clean Salt Residue: If salt does get on your floors, wipe it away with a damp cloth followed by a dry towel to prevent staining or scratches.
Seal Gaps: If you notice gaps forming in the wood during winter, consider using wood filler to address them before refinishing.

Avoid Common Mistakes
Protect your hardwood investment by steering clear of these common maintenance errors:

Skipping Regular Cleaning: Allowing dust and dirt to accumulate can lead to scratches and dullness.
Using Excess Water: Wet mops and standing water can damage the wood and finish. Stick to damp, hardwood-friendly cleaning tools.
Ignoring Damage: Small scratches, dents, or gaps can worsen over time. Address these issues promptly to prevent costly repairs.

Keep Your Floors Looking Like New
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your hardwood floors stand the test of time, especially in a climate as challenging as Chicago’s. With regular cleaning, smart tools, and proactive care, you can preserve their beauty and functionality for decades to come. Hardwood floors are a significant investment, and with these tips, they’ll remain a stunning centerpiece in your home well beyond 2025.

Understanding the Installation Process for Commercial Hardwood Flooring in Chicago

Hardwood flooring brings a classic, sophisticated look to commercial spaces throughout Chicago. From upscale offices in the Loop to boutique shops in Lincoln Park, hardwood flooring is a top choice for durability, beauty, and lasting appeal. However, the installation process for commercial hardwood flooring involves careful planning, preparation, and attention to detail. Here, we’ll outline the essential steps, challenges, and best practices for installing hardwood floors in commercial spaces.

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment
The first step is to assess the specific needs of the commercial space. In Chicago, businesses have diverse requirements based on factors like foot traffic, desired aesthetic, and maintenance capacity. A professional consultation includes accurately measuring the area to ensure precise material requirements, checking the existing subfloor for any issues such as uneven surfaces, moisture, or cracks, which are common challenges in Chicago’s older commercial buildings, and determining the right wood type. For high-traffic areas, harder wood species (e.g., oak or hickory) may be more suitable, while dark stains may appeal to upscale environments, and lighter stains might suit contemporary, open spaces.

2. Material Selection and Planning
Choosing the appropriate materials is crucial, not only for appearance but also for functionality. In commercial spaces, durability is key, so the selection process should focus on wood types and finishes designed to withstand heavy use. Chicago’s climate, with its humid summers and cold winters, can affect flooring, so selecting materials that handle temperature changes is essential. For instance, engineered hardwood is more stable than solid wood in variable climates, making it a popular choice in the Midwest.

3. Preparation of the Subfloor
The preparation stage is critical for a smooth and durable installation. Proper subfloor preparation reduces the risk of future issues, such as warping or buckling, that can arise due to Chicago’s seasonal humidity and temperature changes. Preparation steps include cleaning and leveling the subfloor to prevent uneven surfaces, checking moisture levels in the subfloor to avoid problems with expansion or contraction, and allowing hardwood planks to acclimate to the indoor environment, which helps prevent future expansion or contraction. For Chicago’s fluctuating climate, acclimation for several days is often recommended.

4. Installation Process
There are multiple methods for hardwood installation, each with its own advantages depending on the specific commercial needs and the chosen wood type. Three primary installation methods are glue-down, which is often used for engineered wood on concrete subfloors and provides stability ideal for high-traffic commercial spaces; nail-down, common for solid hardwood over wooden subfloors, offering strong support but requiring precise nail placement to avoid warping; and floating floor, where engineered wood often uses this technique to interlock planks without adhesives, making it a good option for spaces needing a quick turnaround since it’s faster to install and can handle minor subfloor imperfections. A professional installation team will work efficiently, taking into account business hours and minimizing disruption in active commercial spaces.

5. Finishing Touches
Once the installation is complete, applying a protective finish is essential for high-traffic commercial settings in Chicago. The finish adds a layer of protection against wear and tear while enhancing the wood’s natural beauty. Options include polyurethane finish, ideal for heavy foot traffic as it provides excellent durability; oil-based finish, which offers a natural look and is easy to maintain, although it may require reapplication over time; and water-based finish, which is fast-drying and environmentally friendly, perfect for businesses focused on sustainability. Some finishes offer UV protection, which is beneficial in spaces with significant natural light exposure, such as storefronts and offices with large windows.

6. Post-Installation Inspection and Maintenance Plan
After installation, a professional inspection ensures that the floor is properly installed and meets quality standards. Creating a maintenance plan is also vital for long-term durability, especially in busy Chicago businesses. A maintenance plan may include regular cleaning, sweeping and mopping with hardwood-safe products to maintain the floor’s appearance; scheduled polishing or re-coating, which can help maintain the floor’s finish and extend its lifespan; and controlling temperature and humidity to prevent warping, which is especially crucial during Chicago’s winter and summer months.

Challenges in Commercial Hardwood Flooring Installation in Chicago
Commercial hardwood flooring installation in Chicago comes with unique challenges, including weather-related humidity variations, as the city experiences extreme seasonal changes, making moisture control during installation essential; older buildings with uneven subfloors, requiring leveling and sometimes additional support layers; and the need for high-foot traffic solutions in busy businesses like retail shops and restaurants, which require careful material and finish selection.

Understanding the commercial hardwood flooring installation process is essential for Chicago businesses seeking both durability and aesthetic appeal. Each step, from consultation to post-installation maintenance, requires professional expertise to address the unique needs of Chicago’s diverse commercial spaces. With proper planning and execution, hardwood flooring can be a transformative addition, enhancing the overall ambiance and professionalism of any business setting in Chicago. This detailed look at the process will help businesses make informed decisions and achieve a high-quality, lasting floor that meets both functional and design expectations.

Repurpose with Style: Wine Cork Furniture Pads



Repurposing old wine corks into furniture pads is a simple and stylish way to protect your hardwood floors while adding a personal touch to your home. Instead of throwing away those leftover corks, you can easily transform them into durable, cushioned pads that prevent your furniture from scratching or denting the floor. To start, gather enough corks to cover the legs of your furniture, then carefully slice each cork into thin, even discs using a sharp knife or box cutter. Sand the edges of the discs to ensure a smooth, polished look. Apply a small amount of strong adhesive to one side of each disc and press the discs firmly onto the bottom of your furniture legs, holding them in place for a few seconds to ensure they stick well. Allow the adhesive to dry completely before moving the furniture.

This DIY project not only reduces waste but also gives your furniture a unique, custom look. You can even get creative by painting the corks, using patterned cork sheets, or adding a layer of felt between the cork and the furniture leg for extra cushioning. Repurposing wine corks into furniture pads is a quick and easy way to protect your floors and infuse your home with a bit of personal flair. Plus, each time you glance at those corks, you’ll be reminded of the enjoyable moments spent with each bottle of wine, making this a functional and sentimental addition to your decor. It’s a fun, eco-friendly project that combines functionality with style, showcasing your creativity and commitment to sustainability.

Allergy-Friendly Hardwood Flooring: The Perfect Choice for Allergy Sufferers

For individuals or families dealing with allergies, selecting the right flooring is crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Hardwood flooring emerges as an ideal solution due to several key advantages that directly benefit allergy sufferers.

Non-Allergenic Surface: One of the primary advantages of hardwood floors is their non-allergenic nature. Unlike carpets that can trap dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold, hardwood surfaces remain smooth and do not harbor these allergens. This makes it easier to clean and prevents the accumulation of particles that can trigger allergic reactions.

Easy Maintenance: Keeping hardwood floors clean is straightforward and effective in managing allergens. Regular sweeping to remove dust and debris, along with occasional damp mopping, is usually sufficient. This minimal maintenance routine significantly reduces the presence of allergens compared to carpets, which require more intensive cleaning to maintain indoor air quality.

Improved Air Quality: Hardwood floors contribute positively to indoor air quality by minimizing the presence of airborne allergens. Unlike carpets that release particles into the air when disturbed, hardwood floors retain cleanliness and reduce the overall allergen load in the home environment. This characteristic is especially beneficial for allergy sufferers who are sensitive to airborne particles.

Durability: Another notable advantage of hardwood flooring is its durability. Once installed, hardwood floors can last for decades with proper care. This longevity not only provides a stable and allergen-free surface but also reduces the need for frequent floor replacements that may introduce new allergens into the home.

Comparison with Other Flooring Options

Carpet: Carpets have a high potential for harboring allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen within their fibers. Despite regular cleaning efforts, carpets can retain allergens, impacting indoor air quality and exacerbating allergy symptoms.

Laminate: Laminate flooring offers a hard surface that does not trap allergens, similar to hardwood. It requires simple maintenance and is a viable alternative for allergy sufferers looking for easy-to-clean flooring options.

Tile: Ceramic and porcelain tiles have non-porous surfaces that do not trap allergens, making them another excellent choice for allergy-friendly flooring. However, attention to grout lines is necessary as they can accumulate dust and require periodic cleaning.

Vinyl: Vinyl flooring is non-porous and easy to clean, making it a low-allergen option suitable for allergy sufferers. Choosing low-VOC products further enhances indoor air quality.

Cork: Naturally hypoallergenic, cork flooring resists mold and mildew, contributing to better indoor air quality. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain its allergy-friendly properties.

Hardwood flooring stands out as an excellent choice for allergy sufferers due to its non-allergenic surface, easy maintenance, and positive impact on indoor air quality. While other flooring options such as laminate, tile, vinyl, and cork also offer allergy-friendly benefits, hardwood’s durability and timeless appeal make it a top contender for creating a healthier home environment. When considering flooring options, prioritize those that minimize allergen accumulation and contribute to better indoor air quality, ultimately supporting a more comfortable living space for allergy-sensitive individuals.

Hardwood Floors in Outdoor Spaces

Using hardwood for outdoor spaces such as decks, patios, and other outdoor living areas can create a warm, inviting atmosphere while blending seamlessly with natural surroundings. Here are some key points to consider when choosing hardwood for outdoor use, types of suitable wood, and maintenance tips.

Types of Hardwood and Treatments for Outdoor Use

1. Ipe (Brazilian Walnut):
Ipe is an extremely hard, dense wood that is resistant to rot, insects, and weather. It has a rich, dark brown color. The natural oils within the wood offer protection, allowing it to be left untreated for a silver-grey patina or treated with UV protectant oils to maintain its original color.

2. Teak:
Teak is naturally resistant to water, insects, and decay, with a golden-brown color. It is often used untreated, developing a silver patina over time, but can also be treated with teak oil to maintain its color.

3. Cumaru (Brazilian Teak):
Cumaru is a very dense, durable wood that is resistant to rot and insects. It has a reddish-brown color and can be left to weather naturally or treated with UV protectant oils, similar to Ipe.

4. Garapa (Brazilian Ash):
Garapa is a light-colored wood that is durable and resistant to decay and insects. It can be treated with sealers and UV protectants to maintain its color or left to weather to a silver-grey.

5. Mahogany:
Mahogany is stable, durable, and resistant to decay and insects, with a reddish-brown hue. It requires regular maintenance with sealers or oils to maintain its color and protect it from weathering.

Treatments for Hardwood

1. Oil-Based Sealers:
Oil-based sealers penetrate the wood and protect from within. They typically require reapplication every 1-2 years and enhance the natural wood grain and color.

2. Water-Based Sealers:
Water-based sealers form a protective layer on the wood’s surface and usually need reapplication more frequently than oil-based sealers. They offer UV protection to prevent fading.

3. Stains with Sealers:
These products provide color and protection in one application. They are available in a variety of colors to match aesthetic preferences.

4. UV Protectant Oils:
Designed specifically to prevent fading from sun exposure, UV protectant oils typically need to be reapplied annually.

Maintenance Tips for Outdoor Hardwood Floors

1. Regular Cleaning:
Regularly sweep to remove dirt and debris. Wash the wood with a mild soap solution and a soft brush or mop. Avoid using harsh chemicals or pressure washers, as they can damage the wood.

2. Reapplication of Treatments:
Depending on the treatment used, reapply oils, sealers, or stains as recommended, usually annually or biannually. Always clean the surface thoroughly before reapplying treatments.

3. Inspect and Repair:
Regularly inspect the wood for signs of wear, damage, or rot. Replace or repair damaged boards promptly to prevent further deterioration.

4. Furniture and Foot Traffic:
Use pads or protective covers on furniture legs to prevent scratches. Consider using rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to reduce wear.

5. Protection from Elements:
Use canopies, pergolas, or umbrellas to protect the wood from direct sunlight and rain. During extreme weather, cover the deck with protective tarps.

By selecting the right type of hardwood and maintaining it properly, you can enjoy the beauty and durability of hardwood floors in your outdoor spaces for many years.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Laying Hardwood Floors

Installing hardwood floors can transform your home, adding warmth and elegance. However, like any home improvement project, it can come with its challenges. Understanding common issues and knowing how to troubleshoot them can save you time, money, and frustration. Here’s a guide to help you navigate some of the most frequent problems you might encounter when laying hardwood floors.

Dealing with Gaps
Gaps between floorboards are a common issue, often caused by seasonal changes, improper installation, or moisture fluctuations. During dry winter months, the wood can shrink, leading to visible gaps.
Solutions:

  • Seasonal Changes: Accept that minor gaps might be temporary and will likely close up during more humid months.
  • Humidity Control: Use a humidifier in dry seasons to maintain consistent humidity levels in your home, which helps keep the wood stable.
  • Proper Installation: Ensure that boards are properly acclimated to the room’s environment before installation and that correct spacing is maintained during the process.

Buckling
Buckling occurs when hardwood floors lift or warp, usually due to excessive moisture or improper installation techniques.

Solutions:

  • Moisture Prevention: Make sure a proper vapor barrier is installed and check for moisture issues in the subfloor before installation.
  • Proper Acclimation: Allow the hardwood to acclimate to the room’s humidity and temperature for at least 48-72 hours before installation.
  • Secure Fastening: Use the correct amount of adhesive and nails/staples to secure the boards firmly to the subfloor.

Cupping
Cupping happens when the edges of a board are higher than the center, often due to moisture imbalance, with the underside of the board being more moist than the top.
Solutions:

  • Moisture Testing: Test both the subfloor and hardwood for moisture levels before installation to ensure compatibility.
  • Vapor Barrier: Install a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from seeping into the hardwood.
  • Humidity Control: Use dehumidifiers to maintain consistent indoor humidity levels.

Crowning
Crowning is the opposite of cupping, where the center of the board is higher than its edges. This can occur if a cupped floor is sanded before it has dried out.
Solutions:

  • Proper Drying: Ensure the floor is fully dry and acclimated before sanding and finishing.
  • Moisture Control: Maintain consistent humidity levels to avoid moisture imbalances that can lead to crowning.

Squeaking Floors
Squeaky floors can result from movement between the subfloor and hardwood or between the floorboards themselves.
Solutions:

  • Secure Installation: Make sure the hardwood is securely fastened to the subfloor with nails or glue.
  • Lubrication: Apply a powdered lubricant, like talcum powder, between the boards to reduce friction.
  • Additional Fasteners: Drive additional nails or screws into the subfloor to secure any loose boards.

Scratches and Dents
Hardwood floors can get scratched or dented due to heavy furniture, pet claws, or high foot traffic.
Solutions:

  • Protective Pads: Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
  • Rugs and Runners: Place area rugs and runners in high-traffic areas to protect the floor.
  • Regular Maintenance: Regularly refinish the floors to maintain their appearance and protect against wear and tear.

Staining and Discoloration
Spills and pet accidents can cause stains and discoloration if not cleaned promptly.
Solutions:

  • Immediate Cleanup: Clean spills and accidents immediately to prevent stains.
  • Protective Finish: Apply a protective finish to the hardwood to guard against stains and spills.
  • Professional Cleaning: Use professional hardwood floor cleaners for deep cleaning and stain removal.

Popping Nails
Nails can occasionally pop out of the hardwood, causing uneven flooring and potential hazards.
Solutions:

  • Resecure Nails: Hammer down or replace any popped nails with new ones.
  • Use Screws: Replace problematic nails with screws to ensure they stay in place more securely.

Moisture Control
Controlling moisture is critical to prevent many issues such as cupping, crowning, and buckling.
Solutions:

  • Moisture Barriers: Use moisture barriers and proper underlayment during installation to prevent moisture issues.
  • Humidity Levels: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% using humidifiers or dehumidifiers as needed.
  • Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in rooms with hardwood flooring to avoid moisture buildup.

By understanding these common issues and how to address them, you can ensure that your hardwood floors remain beautiful and functional for years to come. Proper installation techniques, regular maintenance, and effective moisture control are essential for avoiding these problems and enjoying the timeless elegance of hardwood flooring.

Guide to Hardwood Flooring Maintenance

Hardwood floors are a prized addition to any home, providing warmth, beauty, and value. Yet, to maintain their elegance over time, proper care is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore effective maintenance strategies to ensure your hardwood flooring remains pristine for years to come.

Regular maintenance is key to preserving hardwood floors. Sweep and dust regularly with a soft-bristled broom or microfiber mop to remove surface dust and debris, preventing scratches and preserving the smooth finish. Vacuum weekly using a hardwood-specific attachment to lift fine particles from crevices and between floorboards, maintaining cleanliness and preventing long-term damage.

Using appropriate cleaners is crucial to avoid damaging the finish. Choose products specifically formulated for hardwood, avoiding vinegar, ammonia, or excessive water. Promptly address spills and stains with manufacturer-recommended stain removers, maintaining the aesthetic appeal and durability of your hardwood flooring.

Protect your hardwood floors by attaching felt pads to furniture legs to prevent scratches and marks. Place rugs or mats in high-traffic areas and entrances to reduce dirt and debris contact with the floors. Encourage household members and guests to remove high heels and sports cleats before walking on the floors to prevent dents and damage.

Control sunlight exposure with curtains or blinds to prevent fading and discoloration of hardwood floors. Periodically rearrange furniture and rugs to distribute wear and light exposure evenly, preventing discolored patches and maintaining the floor’s appearance.

Maintain humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent warping or splitting of the wood. Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers as needed to stabilize humidity levels and protect your floors. Consider professional refinishing every 3-5 years to address deeper scratches and wear, revitalizing the floor’s original beauty and durability.

For minor scratches, use matching wood markers or wax pencils to fill in imperfections seamlessly. For deeper scratches and gouges, use wood putty or professional touch-up kits to fill damaged areas, maintaining the floor’s structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. With these simple tips, you can ensure your hardwood floors remain stunning and durable for years to come, enhancing your home’s aesthetic and value.

Tips and tricks on how to refinish hardwood floors Chicago.

It takes some hard work to refinish hardwood floors Chicago, but it is all worth it in the end. Whether you are looking to renovate your old home or update the current one, refinishing hardwood floors are a great way to make any space feel brand new. Are you ready to do this on your own? Follow these steps to refinish hardwood floors with professional results.

  1. Prepare the room

Remove all furniture, curtains, and rugs. Make sure to cover all vents and electrical boxes are taped to prevent dust from getting into it. If you are refinishing one room, you should use plastic sheeting to seal doors. Then use a pry bar to gently remove base molding. You can then remove the small piece of quarter-round and leave the rest of the baseboards in place.

  1. Patch and repair

For this step always check the floor for larger holes or cracks. And to repair this use wood filler and a spackle knife. If the rooms are heavily damaged, it is advised to use a trowel filler and a thinner wood filler, which can easily spread and cover large areas. However, if your floor is less damaged, it is best to use a wood patch filler on specific spots. After doing so let it dry completely before removing any debris with sand paper and buffing it.

  1. Applying sealer or stain

In order to carry out this step, make sure your room and floor is completely clean because debris can affect the end result. If you want the stain to penetrate the wood evenly, use a method called ‘water popping’. Mix a solution of alcohol and water and spray the floor completely with a pump sprayer. Then use a mop to distribute the solution evenly. This causes the wood grains to rise and stain well. Lastly, let it dry for 30 minutes.

  1. Seal the floor

After the stain is dry, we can finish by sealing the floor. This helps to prevent the floor from getting damaged by water and scratches, while also adding shine and luster to the floor. Polyurethane sealer is the most popular hardwood sealer on the Chicago market and is available in water-based or oil-based products.

Maintaining the Squeaks and Creaks of Your Hardwood Floors

Part of your house maintenance should include a yearly spring/summer inspection of your home’s structural quality. Think about everything that has happened this past year. How many pitter-patters of big feet, little feet and four-footed creatures have crossed your floors this past year? How many times has something spilled on your floor? Has your house had any temperature changes?

Daily living creates wear and tear on hardwood floors, whether we notice it or not. Sure, some nicks and scratches produce “character” in the wood, but over time structural damage can occur as well. You might imagine that those squeaks and creaks are only visits from the local friendly ghost, but there is a chance that your floor is telling you it’s time for some structural repairs. (If it is a ghost, at least it won’t do much damage to the floor.)

Squeaking, creaking floors indicate that there is likely a loose floorboard or two. To make sure everything is in place, look around the floor for any surface nails that aren’t flush to the floor. If nailing them to the surface doesn’t stop the squeaking, drive the nail slightly below the floor using a “nail set” to drive the nail in so you don’t add hammer marks to your floor’s character. (A nail set is simply a small nail shaped object that you place on top of the nail head to drive it in. The hammer bangs the nail set rather than the nail in the floor.) Alternatively, or if your hardwood floor doesn’t have surface nails, you can tighten the floorboard by driving in two nails, opposite each other, each at an angle that drives the nail towards the other and into the floor joist. If you can get under your floor, you can take the easy way out and simply put a wedge in between the loose board and the floor joist.

If you have gaps between your hardwood floor that are no larger than ½ inch, you can buy a wedge-shaped “fillet” of wood to insert in the gap, pound in and sand down. Unfortunately, if your floor is sagging, you’ll need to raise the floor with a metal column – or put in new floor joists. If your floors aren’t sagging – keep tabs on the moisture levels in your home and protect your wood with sealer.

There’s hardly any harm in a visit from a friendly ghost; but loose floorboards, gaps and sagging floors might not be so friendly to your feet. (Especially if you fall through to the basement floor.) A once a year maintenance check can keep your floors in shape and your family’s pitter-patters running safe without a squeaking, creaking sound.

The Layers and Pressures of Laminate Flooring

Solid hardwood has been around since the first broad-leafed tree sprouted from the earth – but laminate flooring has only been sold in the consumer flooring market since the 1980s. Laminate countertops and cabinets entered the market well before laminate flooring. However, it took engineers some time to figure out how to make laminate strong enough for floors. Eventually, an increase in heat and pressure during production, and the addition of reinforced layers did the trick. Easy click-and-lock tongue-and-groove floor laminates were born.

Laminate flooring is made up of layers. Most flooring choices labeled laminate flooring come finished with a protective seal and are ready for the weight of walking soon after installation. Marketers and manufacturers like to divide laminate flooring into two categories: wood laminates and plastic laminates. However, flooring industry associations prefer to categorize a wood-on-wood layered floor as an engineered floor, and the melamine on fiberboard product as laminate. If you are considering installing a laminate floor, make sure you research the product’s layers and warranties before you make any purchasing decision.

Products classified as “wood laminates” could be wood veneer (a thin sheet of wood about .06 millimeters thick) on top of plywood, or wood veneer on fiberboard. They’re usually sold in 3-ply or 5-ply strips or planks. Flooring sold as wood laminate flooring almost always comes with a tough polyurethane or acrylic finish and in easy-to-install tongue and groove pieces that can be glued or nailed down.

“Plastic laminates” differ because they come with a printed layer that mimics solid hardwood, rather than a layer of wood veneer. They are called plastic laminates because the top layer is infused with amminoplastic thermosetting resins – usually melamine. Plastic laminates have a top protective coating sealed over the décor paper. This can give you the look of exotic wood without the price. Those two layers are placed over a supportive baseboard, (typically fiberboard, but can be engineered hardwood), that has the edging for the “click and lock.” Under the supporting board is a stabilizing layer. This stabilizes the wood so it doesn’t slip and slide, and it protects your laminated floor from subfloor moisture.

Fiberboard, (technically, cellulosic fiber), can be made with natural wood chips blended with other man-made materials, or it can be a complete blend of synthetic materials. Fiberboard is sometimes made from cane. Engineered hardwood floors don’t have the fiber structure that fiberboard does. Fiberboard’s identifying feature is that it uses a “felting” process to bond the fibers. Engineered wood floors go through a layering process. But fiberboard, engineered hardwood, and laminate flooring all use heat and pressure during the fabrication process. Heat and pressure treatments have a direct influence on the quality of the flooring product. Therefore, it’s beneficial to take notice of a floor’s pressure treatment before making your final flooring choice.

High density fiberboard (HDF) and medium density fiberboard (MDF) are used in laminate flooring. Medium density fiberboard goes through a less extreme heating and pressure treatment than high density fiberboard, but the manufacturing process is the same. Because high density fiberboard goes through a more extreme heating and pressure treatment, it is a higher quality fiberboard and recommended for laminate flooring.

Pressure treatment is also given to the surface layer and stabilizing layer of laminate flooring. The surface and stabilizing layers can be HPL (High Pressure Laminate), CPL (Continuous Pressure Laminate), or DPL (Direct Pressed Laminate). High pressure and continuous pressure bonds the surface layer and/or the stabilizing layer on to its surface, but a direct pressed surface layer and/or stabilizing layer is pressed on to its surface. Laminate flooring fabricated with the direct-pressed method on the surface layer and stabilizing layer of the laminate flooring will produce a more stable floor that isn’t prone to bowing under pressure.

If you don’t want to bow under the pressure of having to choose a new laminate floor, choose your laminate wood flooring armed with information, and your buying decision will be no pressure at all.