Month: April 2025

Whether you’re laying down some sleek new vinyl planks or giving your home a fresh look with cosy real wood flooring, getting your room measurements right is crucial. Nobody wants to be halfway through a job and realise they’re short on materials—or worse, stuck with heaps of expensive leftovers. So let’s break it down into… Read More

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Tina inherited a beautiful Edwardian home in 2017 and has since begun a major renovation alongside her husband, Jamie. The pair wanted to restore the period property’s original features and create a luxurious, cosy space for hosting their loved ones. After comparing a range of our samples, Tina and Jamie chose the Painswick Rabbit Engineered Oak to bring their parquet flooring dream to life!

Why did you choose Luxury Flooring?

I saw a few posts on Instagram, and I was impressed by the quality, price and the range of products. I ordered some samples to show Jamie and we decided to go for the Painswick Rabbit Engineered Oak. I loved the look of the lighter wood and the dark paint. It brightens the space so well!

What was most important to you when designing your room?

We wanted to create a space that was perfect for cosy evenings in, but equally we wanted to make the space feel luxurious. We love hosting dinner parties for friends and family, so it was really important that it could accommodate that. I am a massive plant lover, and as the room is south facing, it gets lots of light, which my cacti love! I wanted to showcase all of our nice trinkets and plants in here too, and I love the fact the floor gives it that “old but new” kind of vibe. 

What does your home situation look like?

Jamie and I have been married for 10 years this year and have been together 16 years. We met working together at Curry’s in 2008, in our early 20’s and haven’t spent a lot of time apart since! We love cooking, watching films and having friends over, so this space is super important to us. During the renovation, we unfortunately lost our beloved dog, Rolo, to cancer. He loved to lie on the sofa for a snooze in the sun, and so we have put his ashes and a few of his things alongside a picture of him and his paw print on our shelves on the side he would sleep.

What were you trying to achieve?

We love the fact this house was built in 1905, and wanted to reinstate the original Edwardian features that had been lost, and make the most of the gorgeous original coving. We replaced the fire with a reclaimed fireplace and original tiles that we found from a reclamation yard. While we were putting it into the car to take home we realised it said 1905 on the back! We had the surround painted the same colour as the walls to really make it look modern but still enhance its beauty. We made the room even more luxurious looking by adding full height paneling to the walls and bespoke alcove cabinets. I really wanted a parquet floor for years and we finally achieved that here! I wanted the room to look like the features were original, and the floor makes the room, we think! 

What qualities were you looking for in your new flooring? 

I wanted it to have a real wood look and feel, a parquet pattern and lighter in shade to complement the wall colour, but I loved the fact that not all of the planks are uniform in colour! I wanted it to feel warm and inviting.

 Have you ever had a ‘panic moment’ with your floor? If so, how did you handle it? 

We previously dropped curry on our carpet and never got rid of the stain! We also had our boy Rolo, so there were always muddy paw prints to clean up. We decided on wood flooring in the end to make cleaning up easier and it definitely helps!

What advice would you give to someone looking to transform their floor?

Definitely get some samples and lay them next to samples of your wall colour, this will help you to visualise them in the room together in different lighting. Also, make sure you research the material you will be having laid as you don’t want to clean your floor and make a big mistake by using the wrong things!

How has your new floor improved your home?

It has definitely improved the feel of the room and given it a more clean and luxurious look. I’ve had so many compliments on Instagram I can’t keep up!

  

The post Customer Homes – @tinaathome appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring.

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Parquet flooring has an amazing talent for staying relevant and popular. Its elegance, timelessness and eye-catching patterns make it a versatile option for homes. Whether your home is modern, traditional or even coastal, you’ll find a parquet floor that suits your style. 

You might be sitting there, thinking: is parquet flooring a good idea? Especially after weighing up other flooring options like laminate, LVT or wood.

In this blog post, we explain everything you need to know about parquet flooring to help you decide if it’s worth it. Let’s jump in!

Jump To:

• Pros and Cons of Parquet Flooring
• Parquet Flooring vs. Alternatives – Which is Right for You?
• Is Parquet Flooring Worth It?

Pros and Cons of Parquet Flooring

Stylish, charming and full of character, it’s safe to say that parquet flooring has a lot going for it. But that doesn’t mean it’s perfect for everyone. Before you make a decision, it’s important to understand each advantage and potential disadvantage of parquet flooring.

Advantages of Parquet Flooring

• Aesthetic – The geometric patterns add a unique look to any space and remain a timeless choice that suits a variety of home interiors. 
• Durability – When made from wood, parquet can last for decades with the proper care.
• Investment – Despite its initial costs, parquet not only adds property value, but it’s also more cost-effective in the long run, as it lasts for years.
• Refinishable – Solid or engineered wood parquet can be sanded and refinished several times to refresh your floor and make it look new again!
• Maintenance – Easy to clean with regular sweeping, vacuuming and damp mopping.
• Variety of Designs – There are plenty of patterns, colours and finishes to choose from.

Disadvantages of Parquet Flooring

• Cost – Parquet wood flooring is more expensive, especially with labour costs as well.
• Installation – Fitting parquet requires skill and precision, so your How To Lay Parquet Flooring guide might be best left to the professionals.
• Maintenance – It may need more care, such as refinishing, and cleaning with a mop needs to be done with minimal water.
• Not Water-Resistant – Like most real wood floors, parquet isn’t waterproof and doesn’t handle moisture well.
• Suitability – Parquet wood flooring isn’t suitable for bathrooms, kitchens and moisture-prone spaces.
• Scratches & Dents – Despite its durability, parquet wood is prone to surface damage.

Parquet Flooring vs. Alternatives – Which is Right for You?

Parquet vs Laminate Flooring

Feature	Parquet Flooring	Laminate Flooring
Durability	It’s able to withstand the hustle and bustle of everyday life.	Made to withstand general wear and tear, laminate has a water-resistant surface.
Cost	Our prices can range from £32.99m² to £108.99m². But you might catch them on sale!	Our prices typically range from £12.99m² to £24.99m².
Aesthetic Appeal	Features a variety of patterns such as herringbone and chevron along with different colours and finishes.	Features a wide range of colours, styles and finishes. Plus, it’s able to mimic natural materials like wood.
Maintenance Needs	Easy to clean but requires refinishing and sanding.	Easy to clean, low-maintenance and more moisture-resistant.

Parquet vs Vinyl Flooring

Feature	Parquet Flooring	Vinyl Flooring
Moisture Resistance	Wood parquet is prone to swelling and warping if exposed to moisture.	LVT offers excellent resistance to water and moisture.
Installation Difficulty	A disadvantage to parquet flooring is that it often requires professional installation. This is due to its precise patterns and the skill needed to install parquet flooring.	Often regarded as a DIY-friendly floor, LVT is easy to install with its click system.
Style Variety	There are plenty of patterns, colours and finishes to choose from so you can find the perfect floor for your home.	Not only does LVT have a wide range of styles, patterns and finishes, but it’s also able to realistically replicate the appearance of natural materials.

Parquet vs Solid Wood Flooring

Feature	Parquet Flooring	Solid Wood Flooring
Authenticity & Longevity	Parquet is made from smaller wood pieces and arranged into patterns. With the proper care, it can last a lifetime.	Crafted from a single piece of real wood, solid wood flooring will stand the test of time. Similarly, if it’s cared for properly, solid wood can last decades.
Cost	Our prices can range from £32.99m² to £108.99m². But keep an eye out for our sales to land yourself a bargain!	Our prices can range from £62.99m² to £70.99m². But our sale prices can start at £49.70m²!
Refinishing Options	Parquet flooring can be refinished. But it requires a lot of patience and attention to detail due to the intricacy of its patterns, like Versailles parquet, for example.	Solid wood can be sanded and refinished many times over its lifespan. The maximum number of times will depend on its thickness!

Is Parquet Flooring Worth It?

Parquet flooring can be worth the investment, but it might be best to ask yourself whether parquet will work in your home. 

Thanks to its versatility, parquet works beautifully in almost any room. Parquet flooring in a bedroom adds warmth and texture, while in a living room, it creates a sense of sophistication. Even modern kitchens are embracing parquet flooring for a stylish twist!

So, if you’re after a timeless aesthetic that offers a range of options in patterns, colours, materials and finishes, then parquet flooring is worth it. While it might be a pricey choice initially, the longevity and durability make it a cost-effective floor in the long run.

Get Social

Still wondering: Is parquet flooring a good idea? Get in touch with our friendly flooring experts, they’re always happy to help. You can also take advantage of our unlimited free samples. Order as many as you like until you find your perfect match!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and TikTok, where you can keep up to date with all the latest news, blog posts and helpful tips. We’d love to see your floor! Tag us on Instagram at #MyLuxuryFloor and mention us on TikTok @luxuryflooringfurnishing.

The post Parquet Flooring: Pros, Cons and Is It Worth It? appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring.

This post appeared first on https://www.luxuryflooringandfurnishings.co.uk

It’s no wonder that Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) and vinyl flooring have become a go-to for homeowners. They’re stylish, durable and affordable! But there’s one question that often trips people up: Does LVT need underlay?

In this blog post, we explain whether LVT needs underlay and what the best underlay for vinyl flooring is. Let’s dive in!

Jump To:

• Does LVT or Vinyl Flooring Need Underlay?
• Why Don’t You Need Underlay?
• What Underlay Should I Consider?

Does LVT or Vinyl Flooring Need Underlay?

Does LVT need underlay? The short answer is yes. But, our vinyl and LVT flooring comes with a built-in 1mm underlay, which means buying a separate underlay isn’t necessary. This ensures your flooring remains comfortable and durable without extra expenses and layers. 

While our LVT and vinyl flooring with underlay are designed with cushioning, soundproofing and insulation in mind, there’s always room for improvement. Our collection of Hydro Oak Flooring is a big step up from our regular vinyl. With all the benefits of LVT, this collection is extra comfy underfoot while featuring a beautiful real wood veneer. If you’ve got your heart set on wood flooring but need something more durable, this is perfect.

Why Don’t You Need Underlay?

Thanks to advanced technology, modern LVT is designed with a built-in underlay. It provides the same benefits as a separate underlay and more. 

Its enhanced comfort and improved stability mean you’ll have a cushioned feel underfoot and won’t have to worry about your floor shifting. Its superior soundproofing also means your home won’t be overwhelmed by noisy footsteps and stomps. Not only that, but built-in underlays cut your installation time in half and help you save money.

Older, more traditional vinyl flooring, like sheet vinyl, required a separate underlay for cushioning, moisture resistance, and soundproofing. This is because it was thinner and more prone to dents, wear, and subfloor imperfections showing through. And this is likely where the question of “what underlay for vinyl flooring?” comes from!

What Underlay Should I Consider?

You might be sitting there still wondering what the best underlay for vinyl flooring and LVT is and what you need for your home.

In most cases, underlay isn’t needed for vinyl or LVT flooring because it’s built into the floor’s design. However, there are some cases where an additional underlay might be a good idea to correct minor imperfections in the subfloor or to add extra insulation. 

So when should underlay be used?

• It might be useful to have an additional underlay if you choose Dryback LVT, also known as Glue-Down LVT, if there are any minor imperfections in your subfloor or if you want to improve the insulation.
• If your subfloor has any dips or imperfections, an underlay might be needed to create a level surface before installing LVT.

Understanding vinyl vs. LVT underlay needs:

Sheet Vinyl, also known as vinyl flooring, typically has a dense backing layer, meaning you won’t need an underlay. But if your floor’s a bit uneven or you want some extra comfort, there’s no harm in having a separate underlay.

Sheet Vinyl, also known as vinyl flooring, doesn’t come with underlay attached. Instead, it’s usually 2.5mm thick and is glued directly to your subfloor. 

Our LVT SPC flooring is super simple as it’s designed with a built-in underlay. You get comfort, stability and soundproofing all in one, which means there’s less hassle for you and a faster installation. Just click it into place and you’re good to go! 

Dryback LVT, also known as Glue-Down LVT, doesn’t need an underlay either. But, it does need a super smooth surface to stick to properly. In this case, you might need a prep layer, like a smoothing compound, but you shouldn’t need a full underlay.

Get Social

Still curious about the built-in underlays on our Luxury Vinyl Tiles? Get in touch with our friendly flooring experts, they’re always happy to help. You can also take advantage of our unlimited free samples. Order as many as you like and take a look at their built-in underlays!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and TikTok, where you can keep up to date with all the latest news, blog posts and helpful tips. We’d love to see your floor! Tag us on Instagram at #MyLuxuryFloor and mention us on TikTok @luxuryflooringfurnishing.

The post What’s the Best Underlay for LVT and Vinyl Flooring? appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring.

This post appeared first on https://www.luxuryflooringandfurnishings.co.uk

Choosing the right floor for your home isn’t easy. Not only do you need to decide on the right material, but you also need to choose between styles, patterns and colours. If you’re here, it’s likely because you’re after a wooden appearance. But you need to think beyond the aesthetics, taking the time to consider factors such as longevity, functionality and your budget.

LVT, also known as vinyl flooring, is a versatile synthetic option designed to mimic natural materials, offering exceptional durability. Engineered wood flooring combines a real wood veneer with a multi-layered core, designed to offer stability and the timeless appeal of natural wood.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know which flooring suits your needs best and you’ll be able to make your decision. So, let’s jump in!

Jump To:

• What’s the Difference Between LVT and Engineered Wood Flooring?
• Pros and Cons of LVT Flooring
• Pros and Cons of Engineered Wood Flooring
• Durability and Maintenance
• Cost Comparison
• Suitability for Different Rooms
• Which is the Most Realistic?
• Underfloor Heating Compatibility
• Which Flooring is Best for Pet Owners?
• Which is Better for You?

What’s the Difference Between LVT and Engineered Wood Flooring?

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) offers a highly realistic printed design. It closely mimics natural wood or stone but lacks the authenticity and texture of wood. LVT also features multiple layers:

• Protective Wear Layer: This is the top layer of LVT. It protects the floor from scratches and general wear and tear.
• Clear Layer: This is another protective layer, but this one protects LVT against more serious damage like tears.
• Design Layer: This is what gives vinyl its photo-realistic appearance of wood or stone. 
• Backing layer: This is the base of the flooring, creating the structure and solidity of LVT. It helps absorb sound while providing comfort and cushioning underfoot.

Engineered wood flooring delivers the authentic beauty, texture and warmth of real wood. With each plank offering unique grain patterns, knots and character. 

• Real Wood Veneer: This is a thin layer of genuine solid wood, which gives engineered wood its authenticity.
• Core Layer: This is constructed using either plywood, softwood or HDF (high-density fibreboard), creating a strong and sturdy base.
• Backing Layer: This provides balance to the engineered wood floor, along with moisture-resistance to reduce warping.

Pros and Cons of LVT Flooring

Known for its affordability and DIY-suitability, LVT flooring is a great choice for many homes. But, it comes with a healthy side of disadvantages that might not make it the best decision for some.

Benefits of LVT Flooring

• Affordable and Budget-Friendly
• Comfortable Underfoot
• Compatible with Underfloor Heating
• DIY-Friendly Installation
• Highly Durable
• Low-Maintenance
• Pet and Kid-Friendly
• Range of Design Options
• Realistic Appearance
• Scratch-Resistant
• Stain-Resistant
• Waterproof

Disadvantages of LVT Flooring

• Can Be Difficult to Repair
• Lacks Authenticity
• Lower Resale Value
• Prone to Fading
• Not 100% Natural
• Not Biodegradable
• Sensitive to Heavy Furniture

Pros and Cons of Engineered Wood Flooring

Many homeowners turn to engineered wood flooring for its durability and beauty. But there can be some instances where engineered wood just isn’t the right choice for a room.

Benefits of Engineered Wood Flooring

• Adds Value to a Home
• Authentic Appearance
• Can Be Refinished
• Cost-Effective
• Durability
• Enhanced Stability
• Less Prone to Gaps
• Long Lifespan
• Low-Maintenance
• Moisture-Resistance
• Natural Materials
• Scratch-Resistance
• Variety of Styles
• Underfloor Heating Compatibility

Disadvantages of Engineered Wood Flooring

• Can Be Pricey
• Colour Fading
• Difficult to Repair
• Installation Costs and Time
• Limited Refinishing
• Not Scratch-Resistant
• Not Waterproof

Durability and Maintenance

When comparing engineered wood vs LVT, durability is an important factor to consider. 

Luxury vinyl tiles are incredibly resilient. Thanks to its protective layers, vinyl is resistant to scratches, dents, tears and stains, along with general wear and tear. LVT is also 100% waterproof! Its durability makes it the perfect flooring for homes with pets, children and a lot of activity. 

LVT can last for up to 25 years, or maybe even longer with the right care:

• Regularly sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and grit
• Use a damp mop every once in a while
• Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers or steam cleaners

Engineered wood is also an extremely resilient floor. It’s constructed to be more resistant to moisture, unlike its solid wood counterpart, but that’s not to say it’s waterproof. It isn’t scratch-resistant either and removing stains from engineered wood flooring isn’t always easy. But engineered wood can be sanded and refinished a few times, to get rid of any stubborn scratches and stains while extending its life. 

Engineered wood has a lifespan of 25 years, but it can easily last 30+ years with the proper maintenance, such as:

• Sweeping or vacuuming frequently to remove debris 
• Using a slightly damp soft mop and an engineered wood-friendly cleaner 
• Wiping up spills immediately to prevent moisture damage
• Refinishing the top layer when necessary (this depends on the thickness of the veneer and how active the space is).

Cost Comparison

Another deciding factor for LVT vs engineered wood flooring can be the cost.

LVT flooring is considered a more affordable, budget-friendly choice when compared to engineered and solid wood. Not only do our prices start at £21.99m², but LVT is also a DIY-friendly floor to install. This means you won’t need to hire someone to install it. Ultimately saving you even more money!

Engineered wood flooring is a bit more expensive because of production costs. Our prices start at £26.99m², but if you’re lucky, you might be able to grab one for less in our sales. Despite being a time-consuming job, our engineered wood floors are DIY-friendly, allowing you to save on labour costs as well. In the long run, it’s a cost-effective choice.

Suitability for Different Rooms

You need to consider where you plan to place your flooring as that can be a big part of deciding between engineered wood vs LVT flooring.

Being a hard-wearing material, engineered wood flooring is great for the hustle and bustle of a busy home. It’s suitable for living rooms and hallways. It’s also a beautiful addition to bedrooms! For the dining room and kitchen, we recommend choosing a lacquered finish to protect your floor from splashes and spills, while also cleaning any up immediately.

Despite being built to withstand some moisture, engineered wood flooring isn’t suitable for damp and humid rooms like the bathroom.

LVT flooring, on the other hand, is suitable for all sorts of rooms. Its waterproof and moisture-resistant qualities make it an excellent choice for bathrooms and kitchens. Being scratch-resistant and durable against wear and tear, LVT is great for hallways and living rooms. Plus, it’s warm underfoot, making it a good choice for bedrooms too.

Room	Engineered Wood	Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)
Living Room
Kitchen
Bedroom
Bathroom
Dining Room
Office
Hallway

Which is the Most Realistic?

When it comes to realism, there isn’t much of a fight over LVT vs engineered wood. 

Engineered wood flooring is one of the closest alternatives to real wood that you can get. This is thanks to its real oak veneer, which provides natural grain patterns, knots and imperfections. This is then enhanced by oiled, lacquered or brushed finishes that give your engineered wood floor the realistic look and feel of solid wood.

That isn’t to say that LVT flooring isn’t at all realistic. The difference is that LVT features a high-quality image that replicates the appearance of wood, which it does quite well. Wood-effect LVT is great at mimicking the colours and patterns of wood, but it often comes down to a lack of texture and feeling that throws the realism off. 

Underfloor Heating Compatibility

The good news? Both LVT and engineered wood are compatible with underfloor heating. The bad news? They’re both compatible, so this won’t be your deciding factor! 

Knowing how damaging temperature changes can be to wood, it might come as a shock that you can use engineered wood flooring with underfloor heating. But these pair together perfectly! The added durability of engineered wood’s multi-layer construction means it’ll handle the temperature becoming hotter (and colder). You can also use either an electric underfloor heating system or a hydronic (water-fed) system, as both are compatible with engineered wood.

Luxury vinyl tiles are a great choice for underfloor heating. The material has low thermal- resistance, which means your floor heats up and cools down quickly. This also makes it an energy-efficient option. However, most LVTs have a temperature limit of 27°C, which is why it’s important to check the manufacturer’s guide before installing underfloor heating. A hydronic system is best for LVT.

Which Flooring is Best for Pet Owners?

When it comes to your furry friends, both engineered wood and LVT have their pros and cons. 

Engineered wood has a softer, more natural feel underfoot, which makes it a cosy choice for pets and owners. While it does offer some stability and resistance, engineered wood flooring isn’t waterproof. Any accidents or spills need to be cleaned up immediately, as they can damage your floor. 

Engineered wood is also prone to scratches. However, a brushed finish will help hide any scratches. Plus, you can sand engineered wood a few times to get rid of any scratches.

But when you compare engineered wood to LVT, one stands out as the best flooring for pet owners. And that’s LVT flooring. With its scratch and stain resistance, LVT is designed with durability in mind. Its waterproof surface also ensures that any spills or accidents won’t leave permanent marks. Plus, it’s easy to clean and maintain!

Regardless of the flooring you choose, here are some tips to help you protect your floor:

• Use rugs and runners to help minimise wear and tear.
• Place mats under food and water bowls to prevent stains as well as spills.
• Regularly trim your pet’s nails to prevent scratches.
• Whether it’s mud, water or an accident, clean spills up quickly to prevent long-term damage.

Which is Better for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer as choosing between LVT and engineered wood depends on your budget, lifestyle and where you plan to install the flooring.

While LVT is a more budget-friendly and cost-effective choice, engineered wood flooring is a long-term investment. Despite its higher price tag, it’s designed to last for decades.

If you love the beauty and authenticity of real wood and are willing to give it the TLC it deserves, then engineered wood is your perfect match. But if you need something to survive pets, kids and the occasional spilled cuppa, then LVT is your best bet.

Think about where you’re installing the floor. If you’re placing it in moisture-prone areas like the bathroom or kitchen, then LVT is the safest option, thanks to its waterproof qualities. If you’re looking to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere in your living room or bedroom, then the authenticity and warmth of engineered wood make it a beautiful choice.

Ask yourself:

• Do you need a low-maintenance, budget-friendly and pet-proof floor? LVT is the way to go.
• Do you love the natural beauty of real wood and don’t mind putting in a little more work? Then engineered wood is the one for you!

Get Social

Still debating engineered wood vs LVT? Get in touch with our friendly flooring experts, they’re always happy to help. You can also take advantage of our unlimited free samples. Order as many as you like and compare them until you find your perfect match.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and TikTok, where you can keep up to date with all the latest news, blog posts and helpful tips. We’d love to see your finished space – tag us on Instagram at #MyLuxuryFloor and mention us on TikTok @luxuryflooringfurnishing.

The post LVT vs Engineered Wood Flooring: Comparison appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring.

This post appeared first on https://www.luxuryflooringandfurnishings.co.uk

American elm (Ulmus americana) and slippery elm (U. rubra), two of six species of elms found in North America, are known together as soft elms. Rock, winged, cedar and September elm are known as hard elms. Hard elms are 25 percent heavier, and correspondingly stronger and stiffer. 

American elm is known for the wonderful shade trees of years past. It would not be unusual to have these trees rapidly grow to 100 feet tall and spread out to shade a 60-foot radius in the cities. I can remember elm streets that appeared like dark tunnels when the elms on both sides of the street touched. Then came the Dutch elm disease, actually a fungus, that essentially destroyed all these beautiful city elms, as well as the forested American elms. Some fungal resistant trees were located and could be used for breeding. Time will tell.

Most hockey sticks are made of elm as the wood is very tough and has extensive interlocked grain. Interlocked grain means that the lengthwise grain from year to year goes different directions, basically intertwining. That makes the wood difficult to split, and it has high shock resistance. 

When used above ground, the wood is resistant to decay even when permanently wet. In fact, hollowed trunks were widely used as water pipes during the medieval period in Europe.

The heavy ring pattern combined with interlocked grain results in a very bold appearance, which is why it finds widespread use in paneling. Elm is also excellent for bending without breaking or cracking. However, its interlocked grain also means that warp is likely when drying if drying isn’t perfect and that machining requires special care. 

Processing suggestions and characteristics
Density: Soft elms weigh about 34 pounds per cubic foot, which is roughly 3 pounds per board foot, 1 inch thick.

Drying: Soft elms are moderately hard to dry; harder than hard maple, but slightly easier than oak. The mild drying schedules result in slightly more warp, so stacking must be perfect. Weights on the tops of piles are strongly encouraged, if flat lumber is desired or essential.

Gluing and machining: Elm wood glues without much difficulty, but not as easily as the softer species such as soft maple. The interlocked grain results in machining defects if the feed is too rapid, knives are dull, or knife angles are poor (that is, knife is too slender).

Stability: Soft elms change size by 1 percent if the moisture changes approximately 3 percent MC.

Strength: American elm has a strength (MOR) of 11,800 psi, while rock elm has a strength of 14,800. The bendability (MOE) is 1.4 million psi for American and 1.54 million psi for rock. Hardness is 830 pounds and 1,320 pounds for American and rock respectively. As mentioned, the toughness and shock resistance is very high for elms, with hard elms being better than the soft elms.

Color and grain: Sapwood is white, but may become darker due to fungal blue stain. The heartwood is light brown with tinges of red at times. The grain is quite heavy in appearance due to the obvious growth ring pattern and the interlocked grain.

This post appeared first on http://www.woodworkingnetwork.com