SOLID WOOD

Solid wood flooring offers an adaptable canvas which can be sanded and re-stained to suit changing tastes and styles. Although the vast majority of homes that have solid hardwood plank flooring utilize red or white oak, many new installations take advantage of other color options and performance capabilities offered by other hardwood sources such as domestic maple and walnut as well as more exotic Brazilian ebony, Brazilian cherry and wenge. Addressing concerns over the stripping of the earth's forests, new plank flooring products such as bamboo offer the depth, beauty and glow of solid plank wood flooring through taking advantage of renewable resources. As with the utilization of almost any natural material on the floor, upkeep and maintenance remains critical in preserving the product for the long term. Polyurethane finishes on top of the natural product provide a manner to prevent un-wanted staining and retard the visual effects of traffic patterns established through constant use. Although the finish, if applied correctly, will provide for durability over a period of time, the floor will eventually require sanding and re-finishing. When re-finishing, keep in mind that option range from matte and low sheen to high gloss and lacquer.