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The Jacksons have been renovating their 1930s home, aiming to create a bright, sophisticated, and inviting space. After searching for their dream floor, they fell in love with Thorpe Spring Oak – a timeless and classy solid wood.  

Why did you choose Luxury Flooring?

We had an idea of what we were looking for and began researching and ordering an excessive amount of flooring samples. We were instantly drawn to the samples we received from Luxury Flooring, the quality seemed superior yet the price was really reasonable. We also loved the online Room Visualiser that allows you to see the flooring in your home, it massively helped us make the right choice. In the end we decided on Thorpe Spring Oak, it brings warmth without being too orange, we’re so happy with our choice! 

What was most important to you when designing your room?

Before we even bought the house, we both knew we wanted to have a timeless parquet floor in the living room. We really aimed to create a bright, warm and cosy atmosphere – the perfect place to relax and wind down.  

As for me, I’m in charge of the creative jobs: the research, planning and mock ups – although I don’t shy away from getting stuck in with the messy jobs! The house is very much still a work in progress, with many rooms left to tackle and an extension on the cards. It’s a long way off being finished, but it’s so rewarding seeing it all come together. 

What does your home situation look like?

Currently it’s just the two of us in our home, but we’d love to expand our family by introducing a furry friend. I’ve always wanted a cat but Michael’s allergic (it was almost a deal breaker!), luckily he loves cats so we’re going to see how we get on with a hypoallergenic one.  

How do you prepare your home before hosting?

At the moment, we don’t host very often as the rest of our house is still in the middle of being renovated. When we do have visitors, I tend to close off the rooms yet to be renovated and make the rooms that have been decorated look their best with a quick declutter and clean. 

Which rooms do you use for hosting?  

The living room is the place where we all congregate, we can shut the door on the rest of the house and enjoy one of our most finished rooms, as long as everyone has taken their shoes off!  

What qualities were you looking for in your new flooring?  

We wanted something high quality that had longevity. As well as durability, we also wanted a timeless colour and classic herringbone pattern with double border to bring a sense of sophistication to the room.  

  

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

The one that springs to mind is when we had a little one over who found some car keys and started shaking them, I had visions of them flying out of her hands and onto our new flooring. The keys were quickly confiscated and replaced with a soft toy to avoid any trouble.  

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

I’d say do plenty of research and order lots of samples, I even ordered multiple samples of the same flooring to see the variations across multiple planks.  

How has your floor improved your home?  

The transformation from bare untreated floorboards to gorgeous solid wood parquet flooring was amazing, it really finished off the room and made it feel like a home.  

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The subfloor is the layer of flooring that you’ll lay your new floor on top of—typically made from plywood, concrete or the house’s original floorboards. When you’re laying flooring, the type of subfloor you have can dictate what kind of installation method you use.  

Since we’re often asked questions about subfloors, we’ve created a guide with the ones we hear most  frequently so you can install your new floor confidently.   

Can I fit my floor over two different types of subfloor, i.e. floorboards and concrete? 

Yes, it is possible to fit flooring over two different subfloor types. When working with two different surfaces, however, you must ensure that the subfloors are properly prepared and levelled to ensure a smooth and even installation.  

Can I fit my floor over existing flooring?  

Carpet, Vinyl, Lino, Tiles and other flooring are not acceptable as subfloors, particularly if you’re looking to install solid wood flooring.  

As these flooring types are all designed to be a finished surface, they don’t provide the necessary support and stability for flooring and shouldn’t be used as a structural component.    

How to remove tile from wood subfloor?  

If you already have tiles over your existing subfloor, these will need to be removed before you lay your new floor. You can remove the tile by starting with the trim or baseboards around the edges of the tile.  

Using a hammer and chisel, break the tiles near the edges – taking care not to damage the subfloor. When you’ve found a starting point, lift and remove the remaining tiles with a pry bar or floor scraper. Take your time working in small sections, breaking and removing the tiles until the area is clear.  

You can use a scraper or putty knife to remove any remaining adhesive or mortar from the subfloor. Finally, prepare the subfloor to ensure it is free from dirt or debris before installing new flooring.  

Does the subfloor have to be completely flat? 

Your subfloor should be completely flat to ensure a smooth finish on the installation and prevent squeaky floorboards. You can find further guidance on this in your manufacturer’s guidelines.  

If you’re installing over two different types of subfloors that have a height difference, you may need to use transition strips or a levelling compound to create a seamless transition.  

Do I need a DPM if the subfloor is screeded? 

If you have a screeded floor, it’s recommended to use a Damp Proof Membrane (DPM). The role of the DMP is to provide an additional layer of moisture protection. The DMP will ensure your floor doesn’t become damaged by moisture, particularly if you live in areas that are typically affected by dampness.  

Our 7mm Professional Laminate & Wood Flooring Underlay comes with a DPM attached, however, if you choose a different type of underlay you’ll need to buy a DPM separately.

What moisture level does the subfloor need to be before I can lay the flooring? 

The specific moisture requirements of the subfloor can vary depending on the type of flooring you’re laying. You’ll need to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines to find the optimum moisture levels before installation.  

It’s important to ensure your subfloor is the correct moisture level. This can be measured using a moisture meter to get an accurate reading.  

What thickness plywood do I need to use for the subfloor? 

It’s typically recommended that a plywood subfloor has a thickness of at least ¾ inch. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all. Factors such as the spacing of floor joists and the type of flooring can dictate how thick the subfloor needs to be.  

You should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines as to the optimum thickness of your plywood subfloor. If you’re still in doubt, consult a flooring professional for a recommendation.  

What’s the difference between a floor and a subfloor?  

When referring to the floor, we typically mean the final surface that you walk on, such as hardwood or laminate. The subfloor, on the other hand, is the structural layer beneath the floor that provides support and stability.  

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So, there you have it. Hopefully this blog has helped answer your subfloor questions, but if you need any further help, just get in touch with our friendly flooring experts.  

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and tag us in your flooring transformation posts #MyLuxuryFloor. We can’t wait to see your new floor in action! 

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With more businesses offering hybrid roles and remote work than ever, having a home office is quickly becoming an essential in every modern home. 

If you’re setting up your own work-from-home space, you’ve probably got the basics covered. Desk? Check. Laptop? Check. Assortment of knick-knacks taking up half your desktop? Check. But what about the flooring you’ll need?

The right flooring option for your home office will depend on the nature of your work, whether you have clients visiting you at home and, of course, your personal style. Read on to find out which are the best floors for a home office.

Solid Wood Flooring 

Pros 

• Luxurious, high-quality appearance
• Natural aesthetic
• Long lifespan

Cons

• More expensive 
• Higher risk of stains 
• Can’t be used with underfloor heating

Solid wood flooring is arguably one of the most beautiful types of flooring on the market. Featuring swirls, knots and grains found in real oak, acacia and walnut, a solid wood floor will give your home office an air of classic luxury.  

However, it also requires regular cleaning and needs to be refinished and sanded every now and then too, so it’s worth noting it isn’t a low-maintenance option. 

Another point to consider is that installing solid wood can be a lengthy process, so your workspace might be out of action for longer, compared to other types of home office flooring. 

Engineered Wood Flooring 

Pros 

• Has the appearance of solid wood 
• Resistant to fluctuating temperatures 
• Safe to use with underfloor heating 

Cons

• Shorter lifespan than solid wood 
• Only allows sanding and refinishing a limited number of times
• Being a natural product, it’s more likely to stain

Engineered wood flooring is the perfect choice if you want the beauty of solid wood without the price tag. 

This flooring surface is made by sticking layers of plywood together to create a ‘plank’. This block of wood is then topped with a real wood veneer, to imitate the finish of real wood.  

Another benefit of engineered wood is that, unlike solid wood, it doesn’t warp when the room temperature changes. This makes it perfect if you want to treat yourself to underfloor heating to keep your office cosy. 

Engineered wood can be sanded and refinished, just like real wood. However, you may only be able to do this five or six times, depending on the thickness of the flooring you choose for your home office. 

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)

Pros:

• Costs less than wood flooring
• Spill-proof and stain-resistant
• Extremely durable

Cons:

• Doesn’t have the same longevity as real wood 
• Can’t be refinished when it shows signs of wear

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVTs) are a great option if you want the appearance of a wood or stone floor, but your budget won’t stretch to cover the real thing. 

Vinyl tiles are made from a rigid core that ensures they’re strong and sturdy. The top layer is finished with a textured surface that mimics the effect of real wood or slate. 

Another benefit to choosing a vinyl floor for your home office is that it’s completely spill-proof and easy to clean – perfect if you’re worried about spilt drinks, or mucky shoes traipsing over your floor! 

LVTs are one of the most durable floors on the market, however, you can’t sand and refinish them as you can with real wood. This means your flooring will have a shorter lifespan if you choose vinyl over wood. 

Laminate Flooring

Pros:

• More cost-effective than wood
• Extremely water-resistant
• Quick and easy to fit and maintain

Cons:

• Not as long-lasting
• Can’t be refinished like real wood

Laminate flooring is another great alternative to wood and is available in a range of oak effect designs. It’s extremely budget-friendly so you can get the look of real wood for a fraction of the price. 

Laminate is made from HDF (high density fibreboard) and is topped with a photographic layer depicting a natural element such as wood or stone. This top layer is coated with a transparent finish that protects the floor from scratches, spills and stains. 

Laminates are extremely hard-wearing and much more cost-effective to buy than wood. However, like LVTs, they can’t be sanded and refinished when they start looking a little worse for wear. This means your floor is likely to need replacing sooner if you choose laminate flooring over wood. 

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Get Social 

Need a little help choosing flooring for your home office? Get in touch today, our friendly flooring experts are always on hand to assist. 

Follow us on Instagram for all the latest news, blog posts and handy tips and tricks. And don’t forget to share your home office flooring and tag #MyLuxuryFloor. We can’t wait to see your gorgeous new floor in action!

The post Home Office Flooring: What’s the Best Choice? appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring & Furnishings.

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In the world of interior design, certain elements transcend fleeting trends and emerge as enduring symbols of elegance and sophistication. Among these elements, oak hardwood floors stand as a testament to timeless beauty and lasting quality. The rich tones, distinct grains, and inherent durability of oak have made it a staple in homes for centuries. From classic to contemporary settings, oak hardwood floors have an unmatched ability to elevate the ambiance of any space they grace. In this blog post, we explore the enduring allure of oak hardwood floors, celebrating their history, benefits, and the magic they bring to homes across the generations.

A Journey Through History: The Resilience of Oak

Oak, a hardwood species known for its dense and robust structure, has been a beloved choice for flooring for centuries. Its usage dates back to ancient civilizations, where oak was revered for its strength and versatility. This tradition continues today, with oak hardwood floors adorning homes around the world. The character-rich grain patterns and warm, inviting hues of oak have a timeless appeal that seamlessly blends with various design aesthetics. This versatility makes oak an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a flooring option that will remain relevant and captivating through changing interior trends.

Enduring Durability: Oak’s Strength in Modern Living

In the bustling world of modern living, durability is paramount. Oak hardwood floors are a testament to nature’s resilience, making them an ideal choice for spaces that see daily foot traffic and activity. The density of oak wood ensures that it can withstand the demands of busy households, making it particularly well-suited for high-traffic areas such as living rooms, kitchens, and hallways. Its resistance to dents and scratches means that your oak hardwood floors will maintain their beauty even in the face of wear and tear. Choosing oak is an investment in the long-lasting elegance and practicality that are essential in today’s homes.

A Canvas of Versatility: Design Possibilities with Oak Hardwood

The design possibilities offered by oak hardwood floors are as varied as the homes they grace. Oak’s neutral tones provide an ideal backdrop for a wide range of interior styles, from rustic farmhouse to sleek modern minimalism. Whether you’re drawn to the cozy ambiance of a rustic cabin or the refined aesthetic of a contemporary urban dwelling, oak hardwood floors can seamlessly integrate into your vision. Additionally, oak’s ability to take stains and finishes allows for customization, enabling you to achieve the exact shade that best compliments your design scheme. With oak as your canvas, your design aspirations have the opportunity to flourish.

Timeless Charm: Elegance That Withstands Trends

In an era marked by rapidly changing design trends, the appeal of oak hardwood floors lies in their ability to transcend passing fads. Oak’s classic beauty and enduring charm mean that it remains a relevant and sought-after choice regardless of shifting design preferences. Unlike some flooring options that may lose their charm as trends come and go, oak hardwood floors continue to captivate homeowners with their authenticity and timelessness. Choosing oak is not just a nod to the past but also an investment in the future aesthetic value of your home.

The appeal of oak hardwood floors is undeniable, making them an ideal choice for homeowners who seek enduring beauty and functional elegance. As you embark on the journey of selecting the perfect hardwood floors for your home, remember that MacDonald Hardwood, a trusted name in the industry, can assist you in making the right choice. From oak’s durability and adaptability to its aesthetic charm and customization options, these floors embody a classic charm while staying modern. Investing in oak hardwood floors not only enhances the value of your home but also provides a foundation that will stand the test of time. With a commitment to quality and expertise, MacDonald Hardwood offers a range of oak hardwood options and valuable insights to guide you through the selection process. To start on the path toward elevating your home with the timeless allure of oak hardwood floors, reach out to our team today.

Amid the breathtaking landscapes and dynamic urban culture of Denver, homeowners seek to create spaces that reflect both the natural beauty of the city and the modern comforts of living. In this pursuit, the choice of hardwood floors plays a pivotal role, serving as the foundation that ties together aesthetics, functionality, and warmth. If you’re a homeowner in the Mile-High City, you understand the importance of making informed decisions that withstand Denver’s unique climate and enhance the ambiance of your living spaces. This homeowner’s handbook is designed to guide you through the journey of choosing the perfect hardwood floors for your Denver home. From understanding the nuances of Denver hardwood floors to delving into the hardwood floor installation process, we’re here to provide a comprehensive resource that empowers you to make the best choices for your living environment.

Hardwood Floors: Unveiling the Options

The world of hardwood floors is rich and varied, offering an array of options that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless charm of oak, the elegant appeal of maple, or the unique character of hickory, each hardwood species has its own distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall aesthetic of your home. Beyond the choice of wood species, you can also explore various finishes, colors, and patterns to customize your floors according to your interior design vision. The key is to align your choices with the architectural style of your home and your personal taste, creating a seamless integration of beauty and functionality.

Elevating Your Home’s Ambiance and Value

Beyond their visual appeal, hardwood floors contribute significantly to the ambiance and value of your home. The warmth and character they infuse into a space create an inviting atmosphere that welcomes residents and guests alike. Their longevity ensures that your investment stands the test of time, potentially increasing the value of your property. Whether you’re seeking to transform your living room, bedroom, or entire home, hardwood floors serve as a foundation upon which to build a space that resonates with your lifestyle and aspirations.

The Art of Hardwood Floor Installation

Choosing the perfect hardwood floors for your home is just the beginning of the journey. The installation process is a crucial step that requires attention to detail, precision, and expertise. Denver’s climate, characterized by dry air and fluctuating temperatures, presents unique challenges that can impact the longevity and stability of your hardwood floors. Proper installation techniques that account for acclimatization, subfloor preparation, and moisture control are essential to ensure that your hardwood floors remain stunning for years to come. Partnering with a reputable hardwood flooring company, such as MacDonald Hardwoods, ensures that your installation is carried out by skilled professionals who understand the nuances of the local climate and the intricacies of the installation process.

Considering Durability in Denver’s Climate

Once you’ve invested in the perfect hardwood floors for your Denver home, proper maintenance is essential to preserve their beauty and longevity. Denver’s climate can lead to fluctuations in humidity levels that affect your hardwood floors. To mitigate potential issues like warping and cracking, it’s recommended to maintain a consistent indoor humidity level and avoid excessive moisture. Regular cleaning using manufacturer-recommended products and techniques will keep your hardwood floors looking their best. For deeper maintenance and refinishing needs, MacDonald Hardwoods has professionals on staff that can evaluate and treat floors for longevity and any potential issues that may arise.

In the quest for the perfect hardwood floors for your Denver home, you’re embarking on a journey to elevate your living space’s charm and functionality. By considering the unique climate demands of Denver, exploring the array of hardwood species available, and aligning your flooring choice with your home’s design, you’re well on your way to transforming your space. MacDonald Hardwoods in Denver is here to guide you through this journey, offering expert advice and top-quality products to ensure your hardwood flooring decision is one you’ll cherish for years to come. To learn more about the best hardwood floors for your Denver home, connect with our team today. By partnering with experts and making an informed decision, your Denver hardwood floors will not only add beauty but also value to your home, becoming a timeless investment.

Lucy and Matt are first time buyers and have started their renovation journey to create their modern dream home. After browsing our website and ordering samples, they chose Painswick Ghoul Oak to complement their classy and modern style.  

Floor used in this project: Painswick Ghoul Oak

Why did you choose Luxury Flooring?

We liked the design on the flooring we chose, and it was at an affordable price for our budget. Also, the website was easy to navigate and there were deals on!

What was most important to you when designing your room?

Having a light open space to cook, relax and entertain. We wanted a modern and classy, yet homely feel to the space!

What does your home situation look like?

We are first time buyers of our first house together as a couple.

How do you prepare your home before hosting?

Cleaning! Hoovering and cleaning the floors and everywhere else. Making sure we’ve some fresh flowers out too.

Which rooms do you use for hosting?  

The kitchen / dining room which opens out into the garden.   

What qualities were you looking for in your new flooring?  

Good quality, affordable, easy to self-install (DIY), colour / design.

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

Go with the design you like best as it’s not something you tend to change often! 

How has your floor improved your home?  

Our space feels so much brighter and put together. It feels very luxury for our first home!

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Laminate flooring is a widely popular choice for many homeowners. If you’re thinking of updating your flooring, it may be one of the first you consider. At first glance, laminate offers a diversity of styles and comes in an affordable package.

If you’re thinking about installing laminate flooring, take a look through our pros and cons of laminate flooring before finalising your choice.

What are the Advantages of Laminate Flooring?

Durability

One of the most attractive qualities of laminate is its durability. Unlike solid wood flooring,  laminate flooring consists of a wear layer that helps protect it from scratches or stains.

Cleaning Laminate Flooring

Laminate is extremely easy to clean. You can maintain your floors with regular vacuuming and mopping, and lift stains with laminate floor cleaner.

Moisture Safe

You can get laminate that has been produced specifically to be laid in high-moisture areas. So if you’re looking for a new floor in your kitchen or bathroom and want it to emulate the look of wood, then opt for specific bathroom laminate.

Easy Installation

Laminate is straightforward to install using a simple click system, allowing planks to fit together quickly.

Comfort

Flooring can feel warm and springy underfoot when installed with underlay making it easy to walk or stand on for long periods of time. It can also be paired with underfloor heating for additional comfort.

Budget-Friendly

Laminate mimics the appearance of wood, stone or tile but at a remarkably lower price.

What are the Disadvantages of Laminate Flooring?

Hard to Repair

Laminate is more difficult to repair than other floor surfaces. Unlike solid or engineered wood, you cannot sand or refinish laminate. If laminate flooring becomes damaged, the planks will need replacing, as repairing is not an option.

Water Damage

Although there are options to get water-resistant laminate flooring, it can still become damaged from standing water left on the floor. There’s a chance that water will bleed into the seams of the boards, which can eventually cause swelling.

Aesthetic

Although laminate is designed to look as close to real, solid wood as possible, it doesn’t completely match the aesthetic of solid wood. Additionally, a common mistake when laying laminate flooring is placing identical planks together, which can cause pattern repetition.   

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Get in Touch

Have any questions or need a little help floating your floor? Contact us today, our friendly flooring experts are always happy to share their wisdom!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and tag us in your posts #MyLuxuryFloor. We’d love to see how your beautiful new floor has transformed your home!

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Ash hardwood is a popular choice among homeowners and interior designers for its exceptional beauty, versatility, and durability. This attractive wood species has been used in various applications for centuries, and its unique characteristics make it stand out among other hardwood options. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at Ash hardwood, exploring its color variations, grading options, durability, staining potential, stability, and why it remains a top choice for flooring and furniture.

Color

Ash hardwood is known for its light to medium hues, ranging from creamy white to pale yellow-brown. The heartwood typically has a light to medium brown color, while the sapwood is nearly white, creating a beautiful contrast that adds dimension to the wood’s appearance. The grain pattern of Ash is generally straight, but it can also exhibit a subtle swirling effect, contributing to its visual appeal.

Grade

Ash hardwood comes in various grades, each offering a distinct visual appeal and character to suit different design preferences.

Rustic Grade: Also known as character grade, rustic Ash showcases the wood’s natural charm with prominent knots, mineral streaks, and other unique features. The rustic grade adds a touch of history and nostalgia to any space, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more vintage or farmhouse-inspired look.

Natural Grade: The natural grade strikes a balance between the pristine appearance of clear grade and the character of rustic grade. It may feature some minor knots and color variations, providing a charming and relaxed ambiance that works well with both modern and traditional interior styles.

Select Grade: Select grade Ash features minimal knots and imperfections, offering a clean and elegant look. It exudes a refined and sophisticated aesthetic, making it a popular choice for contemporary and minimalist design themes.

Premier Grade: Also referred to as clear grade, premier Ash showcases the purest form of the wood with hardly any knots or imperfections. This grade emphasizes the wood’s clean lines and smooth texture, perfect for creating a sleek and luxurious atmosphere in any space.

Each grade of Ash hardwood brings its own unique personality, allowing homeowners and designers to choose the perfect match for their vision and style preferences. Whether it’s the rustic warmth of character grade or the modern allure of clear grade, Ash hardwood is sure to make a lasting impression in any interior setting.

Durability

Ash is renowned for its exceptional strength and hardness. Its Janka hardness rating, which measures its resistance to wear and denting, ranges from 1320 to 1320 pounds-force (lbf). This places Ash hardwood above some other popular choices like White Oak and Maple. Its durability makes it an excellent option for high-traffic areas such as hallways, living rooms, and kitchens, as it can withstand the rigors of daily use and still maintain its beauty over time.

Stain & Stability

Ash hardwood is known for its excellent staining properties. It readily absorbs stains and finishes, allowing for a wide range of color possibilities. Whether you prefer a rich, dark stain to highlight its grain pattern or a light, natural finish to maintain its light appearance, Ash can adapt to various design preferences.

In terms of stability, Ash performs admirably, showing minimal shrinkage and warping. This stability makes it a reliable choice for flooring, where exposure to temperature and humidity fluctuations is common. Proper acclimatization and installation will further enhance its dimensional stability and longevity.

Conclusion

Ash hardwood stands as a true testament to the timeless appeal and practicality of natural wood flooring and furniture. Its attractive color variations, sturdy characteristics, and excellent staining potential make it a versatile choice that complements a wide range of interior design styles.

From elegant and modern spaces that showcase the clear grade Ash’s refined beauty to rustic and cozy environments brought to life by the rustic grade Ash’s unique charm, this wood species has something to offer for everyone.

Whether you choose Ash hardwood flooring, cabinetry, or furniture, this remarkable wood species will undoubtedly add a touch of elegance and warmth to any space, creating an inviting ambiance that stands the test of time.

Investing in Ash hardwood is not just an aesthetic decision but also a practical one, as its durability ensures that your flooring or furniture will endure for generations, becoming a cherished part of your home’s history.

So, if you are looking for a hardwood species that boasts both beauty and strength, consider Ash hardwood for your next home improvement project. Its remarkable characteristics and adaptability make it a top contender for creating timeless and captivating spaces that you’ll love for years to come.

At MacDonald Hardwoods, we are deeply committed to environmental stewardship, and this commitment is reflected in our journey of sustainable hardwood sourcing. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the responsible forestry practices, certifications, and the process that transforms hardwood from sustainable forests into exquisite flooring products. We’ll also showcase why MacDonald Hardwoods partners with top-quality manufacturers like Lauzon and their Pure Genius® Smart Floor, as well as our dedication to eco-friendly finishes that prioritize the health of our customers and the planet.

Responsible Forestry Practices

For us at MacDonald Hardwoods, the journey of sustainable hardwood begins with a dedication to responsible forestry practices. We carefully select mature trees for harvesting, leaving younger ones to grow and regenerate. By preserving the natural balance in the forest ecosystem, we maintain biodiversity and ensure the long-term health of these vital resources.

Our commitment to responsible forestry extends to proper land management, erosion control, and water protection. These practices not only mitigate deforestation but also help combat climate change by supporting the forests’ role as essential carbon sinks.

Certifications for Sustainability

At MacDonald Hardwoods, we understand the importance of trust and transparency when it comes to sustainability. That’s why we embrace certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which sets the gold standard for responsible forest management. FSC-certified hardwood ensures that our products come from sustainably managed forests that meet stringent environmental, social, and economic criteria.

The FSC chain of custody certification traces the entire journey of our hardwood from the forest to the final product. This ensures that every step of the process, from harvesting to manufacturing, adheres to the highest sustainability standards, providing our customers with the assurance that their choice aligns with their environmental values.

The Journey from Forest to Flooring

After responsibly harvesting the logs, we transport them to our state-of-the-art mills where skilled craftsmen work their magic. With a focus on maximizing efficiency and minimizing waste, we transform raw logs into exquisite hardwood flooring products, including engineered and solid hardwood planks.

Our commitment to environmental health and indoor air quality is exemplified by our partnerships with manufacturers like Lauzon. Through cutting-edge technology, Lauzon’s Pure Genius® Smart Floor improves indoor air quality by reducing airborne allergens and pollutants. By incorporating this innovative finish, we enhance the living spaces of our customers while preserving the natural beauty of the wood.

Ultra Low VOC Finishes

At MacDonald Hardwoods, we take great pride in offering not only durable and scratch-resistant hardwood floors but also eco-friendly finishes. We understand the potential harm of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and their impact on indoor air quality. That’s why we prioritize ultra low VOC finishes in our hardwood collections.

Our dedication to eco-friendly finishes ensures that our products not only meet the highest standards of quality and durability but also promote a healthier living environment for our customers. With each purchase, our customers can enjoy the beauty of their hardwood floors while being confident in their contribution to a sustainable and eco-conscious lifestyle.

Conclusion

The journey of sustainable hardwood at MacDonald Hardwoods is grounded in a deep sense of responsibility towards our planet. From the forests to the final flooring products, we strive to make environmentally conscious choices at every step. Our partnerships with top-quality manufacturers like Lauzon and their Pure Genius® Smart Floor reflect our shared commitment to sustainability and innovation.

When you choose MacDonald Hardwoods, you choose more than just beautiful and durable hardwood flooring. You choose a company that values ethical and sustainable practices, that takes pride in preserving our natural resources, and that prioritizes the well-being of our customers and the planet. By selecting our hardwood products, you are making an eco-friendly choice that contributes to a greener world and a brighter future for generations to come. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards sustainable living, one floor at a time. Contact us for any of your hardwood flooring needs!

There are plenty of reasons why laminate flooring is so popular amongst modern homeowners.

Since its creation in the late 1970s, laminate has gone from strength to strength, promising attractive designs, high tolerance to footfall, and minimal costs.

Additionally, laminate flooring is renowned for being low maintenance. No matter how many accidents you have around the house, there will be a quick and easy cleaning solution. But if you want to retain the gorgeous appearance of your boards, there are a few things worth bearing in mind. Here’s our ultimate guide to maintaining your laminate flooring.

Equipment List

Before you get started, ensure you have the right tools and equipment.

Most of these are everyday items you’ll already have around the house, but just in case you don’t, here’s our quick list

• Sweeping Brush
• Dust Pan and Brush
• Vacuum Cleaner
• Microfiber Mop
• Dedicated Laminate Floor Cleaner
• Bucket
• Floor Cloth
• Acetone

Alternatively, you can pick up one of our purpose-built cleaning kits. These are guaranteed to provide the best results, no matter where your laminate is. Now you’re all ready to get cleaning!

Sweeping and Vacuuming

Homes are for living in, so it’s inevitable that your laminate flooring will get dirty at times. While laminate doesn’t harbour excessive dust and debris, a daily sweep or vacuum will help keep floors in optimum condition.

Be sure to use a soft brush or vacuum attachment as hard bristles may scratch the laminate finish, causing it to lose its shine. Additionally, large debris, such as stones and grit, should be removed by hand, as using a brush will cause further abrasion.

Mopping

Laminate flooring is naturally water-resistant. However, excessive moisture may damage even your waterproof laminate, causing movement or delamination. Therefore, you should use a dry cloth or microfiber mop.

When removing large-scale grime, use as little moisture as possible. Do not use a standard mop or steam cleaner on your laminate boards, as this will cause swelling.

Add the dedicated cleaner to your laminate floor mop, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not use soap detergent, ammonia, or chlorinated cleaning products. 

After applying the cleaning solution, mop along the grain to reduce the appearance of streaks. Remember to dry your laminate quickly after cleaning, this will not only protect against warping and shrinkage but also ensure that your boards look great!

Heavy-Duty Cleaning

Sometimes, more drastic action is required to clean your laminate flooring. If you accidentally scuff your boards, don’t panic! Marks from scuffs, slips and spills can be quickly and easily sorted.

Apply your cleaning solution to a dry cloth and rub the scuff marks firmly and thoroughly to safely restore your boards to their pristine condition.

For hard-set grime, such as chewing gum or candle wax, you may need a little extra help. Try using ice to harden the spot, and simply scrape off using a soft plastic scraper or credit card to prevent further scratches. Finish by wiping clean with your microfiber mop or cloth. All fixed!

Removing Stains

Stains are a homeowner’s worst nightmare! However, don’t stress too much about spilling on your laminate, not only are these floors naturally stain resistant, but they are also easy to lift marks from.

If you manage to stain your boards, you can rest assured that it’s an easy fix. If the stain was caused by food or beverages, you can start by removing any surrounding debris. Do this as soon as the accident happens to minimise any damages. 

As with scuff marks, thoroughly wipe the stain with a dry cloth, before cleaning with your microfiber mop and cleaning solution. For more tough stains like lipstick, paint or ink – we have a handy guide to help.

Get in Touch

Have any questions or need a little help floating your floor? Contact us today, our friendly flooring experts are always happy to share their wisdom!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and tag us in your posts #MyLuxuryFloor. We’d love to see how your beautiful new floor has transformed your home!

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