7 Astonishing Hardwood Floor Refinishing, Installation and Maintenance Facts

There are more hardwood flooring and wood floor substitute products available today than ever before. From the more traditional real hardwood flooring options like unfinished and pre-finished, to the man-made substitutes like engineered and laminate wood floors, there is a lot of information out there on wood floors!

Here are 7 facts about hardwood floors that you may never have thought of, some that might even surprise you!

#1: Wood floors improve quality of air indoors

If you’re frequently bothered with allergies, even indoors, replacing carpet with wood may help. Wood floors can’t harbor allergens and microorganisms, such as pollen, mold and pet dander the way that carpet does, so the air in your home is cleaner. Simply vacuuming or sweeping a wood floor will remove any dust particles sitting on the surface. (Source: University of Wisconsin Wood Products Program Solid Wood Flooring Life Cycle Analysis)

#2: Real wood floors are very sustainable

As a natural renewable resource, wood flooring sources can be replaced time and time again. Also, less water and energy is used in the production of real wood flooring than in other flooring options. Wood floors can last upwards of 100 years, meaning less material is used for replacements over the years too. (Source: University of Wisconsin Wood Products Program Solid Wood Flooring Life Cycle Analysis)

#3: Wood floors add to the resale value of new and existing homes

Hardwood floors are what the people want: they are easier to clean, last longer, and are warm and inviting. Often times, but depending on the market, sellers get a higher return on their investment when they install new hardwood floors in an existing home, or have the existing hardwood floors refinished. (Source: cjonline.com)

#4: Chemical cleaning products can cause damage

Even if the bottle says it's safe to use on wood, it may not be. Instead of using harsh chemical cleaners that can leave your floor dull and build up over time, use a ph-balanced manufacturer recommended cleaner. Regular sweeping and/or vacuuming with soft bristled brushes will keep the majority of dust and dirt off the floor. A dust mop with a large cotton head is a great alternative too. Keeping the floor clear of abrasive debris such as dirt and sand will lessen the amount of wear and scratches too.

#5: In the 1700s-1800s, wood planks were large!

Fun Fact: The wood planks used in the 1700s and 1800s were 7-8 inches thick, and up to 16 feet long! The beams were so big because there was no use of sub-floors and the beams had to be nailed to the joists. (Source: hometalk.com)

#6: Wide planks give the illusion of a large space

If your space is small, create the illusion of a larger space by choosing planks that are 3” or larger in width. The fewer seams there are, the less crowded a room will appear. Also, to make the room appear elongated, run the planks parallel to the longest wall in the room. (Source: flooringblog.com)

#7: There are thousands of design outcomes!

With 33 popular species of hardwood, 15 popular stain colors, and design options like parquet, chevron, herringbone and more, there are thousands of ways to make your new hardwood floor unique. If you’re interested in more exciting information about hardwood floors, see which 5 wood floor myths we debunked!

Is it time for your hardwood floor to be refinished? Not sure? Please download our free refinishing hardwood floors guide to find out.