Top 6 Hardwood Flooring Trends To Consider For Your Next Renovation 

When it comes to interior design, hardwood flooring will always be a timeless classic. Since this option never goes out of style and is highly versatile, hardwood floors are a great way to add value to your home and completely transform the feeling of any room, while also supporting an environmentally friendly resource.

 So, to help you create the perfect look during your next home makeover, we have compiled a list of 6 of the hottest hardwood flooring trends right now.

 

1)     Simplicity is Key

In terms of design, there is no doubting that less is more. This sentiment is especially true in the case of hardwood floors. At the moment, many designers are going back to basics, focusing on laying same-size planks in a unified direction, as opposed to multi-sized cuts or patterned lays. While this traditional placement offers a simple aesthetic, it also creates a sleek and clean appearance that will tie any room together. 

Furthermore, simplicity in your flooring allows for versatility when it comes to styling. The cleaner or simpler appearance of the floors, the more creative you can become with your décor. A simple floor pattern also enables you to easily switch up your furniture or other furnishings.

Although fun or unique patterns are intriguing they can also be quite distracting. Intricate floor designs can overwhelm a space and even make a room feel cluttered. Therefore, opting for a simple flooring pattern will actually expand the possibilities of your design.

 

2)     Darker Toned Woods

Over the past few years, color trends have moved towards darker tones. It’s easy to see why this trend has emerged; darker colors look elegant and luxurious, creating an expensive feel. But that’s not all, dark woods provide a modern feel and are often easier to style than lighter tones, since darker tones will suit anything from dark furnishings to lighter kitchen cabinets. 

3)     Whitewashed Floors

The whitewashed look is reminiscent of a Californian vibe and is now trending throughout the country. Creating a relaxed beachy look, this kind of flooring undergoes a bleaching or blanching process to strip-back the natural tone of the wood. But before you worry that you’ll end up ruining your boards, this process only places stain over the wood’s surface. The wood grain is still visible underneath the whitewash, so this color will not lose the charm of the natural material.

Whitewashed wood works to add brightness and create a feeling of openness, which means this type of wood is perfect for areas in which you want to create a more homely feel such as the kitchen or the living area.  As a more contemporary option, whitewash can help add some interest and personality to your home.

 

4)     Distressed or Aged Look

The aged flooring style has been around for a while but has recently experienced a surge in popularity. To create the ‘slightly worn’ look this finish undergoes an artificial aging process. This style is perfect if you are wanting to create a rustic aesthetic as this finish accentuates a feeling of homeliness and warmth. 

 

5)     Greige Wood Floors

A mix between gray and beige, it appears ‘greige’ is a popular flooring trend. This blended color captures the best of both worlds as it combines the minimalist feel of grey with the warmth of beige. It is fairly adaptable, pairing well with different décor styles and easily blending from indoor to outdoor kitchen and entertaining designs. Whether you’re after a more modern look or a rustic country style, greige is a highly complementary choice.

With its unique color, greige flooring can completely change the dynamic of a room. The light neutral tone of this wood can brighten an area and provide a comforting relaxing feeling.

6)     High Variation Hardwood

If you’re looking for something a bit different, then check out high variation floors. With the range of flooring technology available, it’s now easier than ever to make your floor look truest to its original state. Essentially, high variation floors echo the sentiment that in nature, no two pieces of wood are the same. As such, manufacturers are now able to replicate this natural effect in their flooring.  Within your home, this varied look can work to combine aspects of modern and rustic designs.  

Whatever trend you decide to select, remember that hardwood floors are a lifetime investment. As they are highly versatile and adaptable, hardwood floors not only suit any lifestyle but also enhance the appearance of your home.  

 

I’ve read a lot of woodworking tips and tricks online, so much so, that it seems like I’m not seeing any new ones.

So I set out to make a useful collection of woodwork tricks that aren’t the typical ones you see online.

I hope you enjoy these and pick up at least one tip you haven’t seen before.

1. Measure Your Circular Saw

This first trick is ideal if you’re framing, or doing woodworking where a tolerance of ± 3mm (or 1/8 inch) is acceptable.

Measure the distance between your blade and both edges of the saw base plate. Then commit these measurements to memory. In my case it’s 4 inches on one side and an inch and an eighth on the other. This allows me to rip sheet goods (particularly plywood) to these measurements quickly and accurately without measuring or marking. I just set the saw up with the base plate parallel to the edge of the sheet and away I go!

You’ll be amazed how often you’ll use it. Taking an inch off a sheet of plywood when you’re framing a house is a very handy thing to be able to do quickly. Similarly, being able to rip plywood to the same thickness as a 2 x 4 without measuring or marking saves me a load of time.

2. Playing Cards as Spacers

This is a great way to evenly and accurately line up doors and drawer fronts. It’s so simple.

For example, if I’m fitting drawer fronts in a face frame cabinet: I offer up the drawer front and push it tight to one side of the opening. Then I jam as many cards as will fit into the other side of the opening. Let’s say I manage to get 10 cards in. Then I take the cards out and put 5 on the left and 5 on the right. (I follow the same process to space it top and bottom also.) Then I push the drawer front in and get it temporarily fixed with with double sided foam tape. Then I screw through the back of the drawer box into the drawer front.

It gives me perfect results every time!

3. Don’t Use Clamps– Use Masking Tape!

This trick works brilliantly for making mitred boxes. It’s pretty difficult to clamp a mitred box anyway! Lay your four pieces out flat with the outside faces of the box facing up. Line them up correctly and tape them together as per pics above.

Then flip the pieces over and glue inside your mitres. Fold them together and tape up the last remaining joint. This gives me perfectly aligned mitres every time!

4. Measure Internal Mitres Using Your Mitre Saw

Measuring and marking the internal edge of mitres is tricky . I tend to cut the first mitre, then lay the piece on my saw. I hook my tape onto the end of the saw and line up the internal edge with my tape. I can then easily pull the tape to where I need it and mark the inside of the other mitre.

5. Sand Your Hands

If you’re using wood filler and your hands get caked in the stuff, I take some medium grit sand paper and rub it off. It works brilliantly.

6. Drill Holes in Your Square

This is one of my favourite tricks. I use it for measurements I use every day. In my case, as you’ll see from my square above, I constantly have to mark pieces at two specific points every day. (The measurements are 40 mm & 110 mm if you can’t make them out!). This saves me having to adjust a combination square, or having to keep two combination squares. I also have an amazing square from Wolfcraft that does the same thing on a more professional level. But it’s a bit big for my liking. So, my battered old square with two strategically placed holes in it does the job perfectly.

7. L-Shaped Block for Marking Skirting Board

When you need to accurately mark skirting board, a small L-shaped block works a treat! It’s especially useful if the floor is running off a little. Get your piece of skirting board/base board lined up and in position. Hold the L-shaped block along the edge of your architrave and mark. This will give you the perfect mark, allowing you to make the perfect cut.

It’s a bit of a risk if you just mark it and cut it square. You may be a fraction out at the top or the bottom of your joint. This way your cut line is perfectly in line with your architrave.

8. Clothes Peg to Hold Panel Pins

I’ve got big, awkward fingers that really struggle with small pins when nailing by hand. I’ve been known to give my poor fingers a few blows of the hammer at times! A clothes peg kept in your tool bag solves this problem nicely.

9. Use Story Sticks Instead of a Tape Measure

If I need to make a lot of repeat marks, and they need to be all exactly the same– a story stick is a great way to achieve this accuracy. I get some old bits of hardboard or 1/8” plywood and cut them to the size I need on my mitre saw. Using these to mark is far more accurate than trying to use a tape for every cut. I use these when spacing shelves in a cabinet where there is no line bore. Saves a ton of time marking, and is way more accurate.

P.S. If you liked this article, you may also like to get free and practical tips on woodworking techniques, business growth, productivity, and more in your inbox each week (you’ll also get the “How to Make a Living From Woodworking” PDF guide). Simply SIGN UP HERE to get exclusive access to a wealth of knowledge.

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Have you got some leftover wood pallets? Don’t throw them out! There are so many creative things you can do with just some simple pallets, in this blog we will give you a few ideas for wood pallets that might motivate you to try it for yourself!

 

When ordering wood flooring, many people keep their leftover planks for spares in the future. They sometimes even find creative uses for them. But what do you do with the pallets your flooring is delivered on? Although they may be conceived as scrap, wooden pallets have the potential to be pretty much anything you want (within reason of course), such as wood pallet furniture-think nightstands, bed frames or benches.

 

Idea 1: Plant holder

A plant holder is a more common option when thinking of wood pallet ideas. A wooden plant holder makes for a very natural and attractive piece in anyone’s back garden. Additionally, you can personalise your creation with any range of our osmo oils!

This will definitely get your neighbours jealous, and you can have the pride of knowing you made it all yourself.

 

Idea 2: Shelving

Pallet shelves provide a rustic look while keeping costs to a bare minimum. If a minimalist aesthetic is what you’re going for, look no further.

If a homemade shelving unit doesn’t quite fit in with your interior, you can always make it shorter and make a coffee table.

 

Idea 3: Table

Using some wooden pallets and a little ingenuity, you can make a beautiful table. Whether it’s being used for decorative purposes, or being used as a dinner table, it will look right at home with the rest of your interior. If you add the correct varnish, you can even make it waterproof and have an outdoor table; perfect for use in the summertime!

 

Idea 4: Outdoor Shelving

Outdoor shelving is one of the more popular choices for most people when thinking of ideas for wood pallets. 

It doesn’t require much work to make, and it results in a very attractive looking piece of shelving for your garden. This is a perfect example of how to make an outdoor storage area for plants.

 

Idea 5: Outdoor Bench 

You may not realise just how much money can be spent on outdoor furniture and other garden features. Wood pallet furniture, more specifically outdoor benches, will look perfect in your garden and could save you money compared to buying outdoor furniture from a store. What’s more, it can add a rustic theme to your garden. 

For an extra bit of comfort, you can always add cushions in nice weather, just remember to take them in if it rains!

 

Idea 6: Outdoor Dining Seats and Tables

If you’re longing for a relaxing place to eat outside on a hot evening, then this is a great option to consider, especially with the price of the assembly being so low. 

To add a little more colour to your wood pallet furniture, there is always the option to paint the pallets to whatever colour you want. a thin coat of paint will give it that worn and rustic look.

 

Idea 7: Headboard 

A simple yet effective way to give your bedroom a natural and farmhouse-style design. We love how this wooden pallet has been re-purposed to create this stylish headboard. You could also separate and stain the separate planks from your wooden pallet, giving the headboard a multi-tone finish.

 

Idea 8: containers

A simple pallet container can save you a lot of room in your house, and puts your pallets to a more practical use. In addition, this adds a natural and raw aesthetic to your home.

Containers like these can be found for upwards of £20 in furniture shops, while you can have yours for nothing!

 

Idea 9: Hand Painted Sign

You can never go wrong with a personalised ornament to hang on your wall, and what better one to have than a handmade one.

This is a great idea if you can’t find the sign you want. The rough look of the wood planks can also add a little character to your home.

This example is one of an endless amount of ideas, you can use to truly make your interior your own.

 

Idea 10: Levitating Bookshelf

Your wooden pallets are more than capable of holding up your books. Using wood stain would be a great idea here, as it can tone the wood to exactly how you like it.

A bookshelf like this would look fantastic in a bedroom or living room; you’ll be sure to get endless compliments!

 

 

Conclusion

With all of these ideas for wood pallets, it may not be as useless as you once thought. You can truly personalise your home or garden to look exactly how you want, and you can do it all using leftover wood! From creative storage solutions to personalised messages, the possibilities are limited only by your imagination. If you have any leftover wood flooring, check out these creative uses for herringbone flooring.

 

The post 10 creative Ideas for Wood Pallets appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

Luxury Flooring and Furnishings are delighted to announce that they have been shortlisted in four categories at the 2019 Northern eCommerce Awards.

 

The categories in which we have been shortlisted are:

 

Best eCommerce Search/Marketing Campaign

DIY, Home, Furniture & Interior Design eCommerce Website of the Year.

B2C eCommerce Website of the Year

eCommerce Company of the Year – Small

 

On the shortlisting, Luxury Flooring’s Head of Digital, Alex Humphries, commented:

“I’m thrilled to learn that we have been nominated in four categories at this year’s Northern eCommerce Awards.  We have seen a significant increase in the number of customers ordering from us when compared to the same time last year, and we are growing at a considerable rate as a business.

“Obviously, we don’t know whether we’ve won yet, and we’re up against some stiff competition in all of the categories we’re in, but I’m hopeful that we can come away with something at the ceremony!”

The ceremony for the Awards is being held on the 23rd October at the Hilton Deansgate, Manchester, at which Luxury Flooring and Furnishings will discover whether they have been successful or not.

Cameron Christie, Managing Director of Luxury Flooring, said:

“The fact that we’ve been shortlisted in four categories is a testament to the work of the whole team, who have so far made this year so successful.  We’ve made some considerable improvements to the business across a number of areas, including operationally and in terms of our marketing activity, and being shortlisted in four categories is a result of that.

“We were shortlisted for a Northern eCommerce Award in the eCommerce Company of the Year category last year, and unfortunately we didn’t come away with the award. This year, we’re in four categories, so I’d like to think that we have a better chance!”

The full shortlist for the 2019 Northern eCommerce Awards can be found here.

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

Luxury Flooring and Furnishings are delighted to announce that they have been shortlisted in four categories at the 2019 Northern eCommerce Awards.

 

The categories in which we have been shortlisted are:

 

Best eCommerce Search/Marketing Campaign

DIY, Home, Furniture & Interior Design eCommerce Website of the Year.

B2C eCommerce Website of the Year

eCommerce Company of the Year – Small

 

On the shortlisting, Luxury Flooring’s Head of Digital, Alex Humphries, commented:

“I’m thrilled to learn that we have been nominated in four categories at this year’s Northern eCommerce Awards.  We have seen a significant increase in the number of customers ordering from us when compared to the same time last year, and we are growing at a considerable rate as a business.

“Obviously, we don’t know whether we’ve won yet, and we’re up against some stiff competition in all of the categories we’re in, but I’m hopeful that we can come away with something at the ceremony!”

The ceremony for the Awards is being held on the 23rd October at the Hilton Deansgate, Manchester, at which Luxury Flooring and Furnishings will discover whether they have been successful or not.

Cameron Christie, Managing Director of Luxury Flooring, said:

“The fact that we’ve been shortlisted in four categories is a testament to the work of the whole team, who have so far made this year so successful.  We’ve made some considerable improvements to the business across a number of areas, including operationally and in terms of our marketing activity, and being shortlisted in four categories is a result of that.

“We were shortlisted for a Northern eCommerce Award in the eCommerce Company of the Year category last year, and unfortunately we didn’t come away with the award. This year, we’re in four categories, so I’d like to think that we have a better chance!”

The full shortlist for the 2019 Northern eCommerce Awards can be found here.

The post Luxury Flooring shortlisted in FOUR categories at the Northern eCommerce Awards. appeared first on Blog & Advice Centre – Luxury Flooring & Furnishings.

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

When thinking about interior design, there are so many decisions to make. From deciding which kitchen cabinets you’d like to choosing windows, balancing style and practicality is a difficult feat.

That said, there’s no more difficult a decision than selecting the right flooring for your home. Unfortunately, there’s no one size fits all solution. That said if you’re looking for longevity, durability and style, you can’t often beat hardwood flooring. Whatever your style or individual requirements, the wide options of hardwood floors available mean you’re sure to find something to suit your space.

That said, while hardwood floors are elegant and timeless, they’re not all created equally. When it comes to hardwood floors there are two main types: solid and engineered. Solid hardwood planks are created from a single thick piece of wood. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, has a core of plywood with a layer of hardwood veneer applied to the surface.  

Traditional solid hardwood floors have been in demand for many years but recently, engineered wooden floors have received a surge in popularity. As both options provide a beautiful finish, it can be hard to compare the two. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of 5 key differences between solid and engineered hardwood.

1.     Cost

In most scenarios, your budget will help determine which option is best for you. Generally, engineered hardwood is less expensive than solid hardwood, but at the end of the day, the quality and species of the wood will be the largest price determinant. Ultimately, exotic varieties of solid wood are more expensive than engineered hardwood.

There is no definitive cost for either type, the price range varies greatly. The cost of engineered hardwood is generally $3 to $14 per square foot, but this price will depend on plank thickness and wood species. Depending on the hardness and durability of the wood, most solid hardwood floors cost between $8 and $15 per square foot.

2.     Installation

As engineered hardwood is less likely to buckle or react to heat, there are a variety of installation options available. The fact that engineered wood does not react to changing temperatures, means that this alternative can be installed above or below ground level. Since solid hardwood will expand and contract over time, this wood can only be installed on or above ground level.

Engineered hardwood can be installed fast and in a variety of different spaces. This option is your best choice if you’re looking for a do-it-yourself project. Most styles of engineered wood can be glued or nailed down. In fact, in some cases, similar to laminate flooring, you can opt for a type that locks the planks together without fasteners.

Solid hardwoods generally have a longer installation process; the flooring is attached with a specific flooring nailer then sanded and finished. This sanding process can be difficult to navigate if you don’t have experience, and although you can do it yourself, hiring a professional will get the job done much quicker and neater!

3.     Stability & Durability

The good news is that both forms of hardwood offer durability and toughness. That said, solid woods still come out on top and are inherently sturdier as they must be permanently nailed or glued to your subfloor.

That said, in extreme temperatures, engineered woods have greater structural stability, which offers better resistance against buckling. While this is definitely a benefit, the durability of engineered wood is not comparable to solid forms, mainly because the surfaces on these engineered types are quite thin and therefore prone to chips over time.

4.     Moisture Resistance

When it comes to moisture, engineered wooden floors are probably the better choice. Engineered wood is constructed with a plywood base, which means that moisture is less likely to flex or warp the boards. The fibers in the plywood run in cross-wise layers, helping to resist moisture build-up.

Solid hardwood floors are not recommendable in any areas where moisture is prevalent. This means it’s probably best to avoid solid woods for your bathroom or any areas which require regular mopping. Even still, solid hardwood can still resist moisture to some extent, but this will depend on whether the wood is pre-finished or site-finished. Site-finished wood has a sealed top layer which helps to absorb some moisture.

5.     Environmental Considerations

Most people want to support products that sustain a positive environmental approach. In most cases, engineered hardwood floors are more eco-friendly than solid wood. The manufacturing process for engineered wood is less wasteful and requires less energy than most other flooring types. However, this isn’t to say that selecting solid hardwood isn’t a sustainable option. You can still buy environmentally friendly solid wood, provided it is purchased from a responsible supplier and is certified by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).

So, there you have it! Hopefully, these differences will help take the hassle out of your hardwood flooring selection.

For most households, the kitchen is a high foot-traffic zone. From mom’s movements during meal-making to the continual pitter-patter of hungry children searching through kitchen cabinets, your kitchen floors rarely get a break. And with having to endure the spills, stains and scraps that accompany the breakfast, lunch and dinnertime rush, your kitchen floor will likely be the dirtiest in the house too!

 As such, when it comes to this area, selecting the right kitchen flooring takes thoughtful consideration. Think durability, sustainably and easiness to clean and you’ll find yourself a floor that suits your kitchen’s unique needs. It’s perhaps the reason that so many people turn to hardwood flooring as the perfect long-term solution.

 So, what makes hardwood flooring so desirable in your home’s food hub? Here are 7 benefits of installing hardwood floors in your kitchen.

1.     Elegant Look

The overall look of your kitchen can influence the vibe of the rest of your home. When you’re thinking about interior design, it’s often difficult to balance style with functionality; sometimes the most practical solutions aren’t the prettiest! But that’s where hardwood flooring really shines. 

Hardwood floors have the ability to completely refine and transform a space, making sure this general meeting place feels both warm and inviting. No other material can quite emulate the homely feel that the natural tones of hardwood flooring exude. With tones ranging from dark to light, each style of hardwood has its own unique character and can fit with your own personal aesthetic. 

2.     Durability

 As the kitchen is considered a major hub in any household, scuffs and marks are to be expected. That said, it is vital that you consider a flooring product that can stand the test of time while taking a daily beating! With hardwood’s strength and durability, you can be assured that your kitchen floors will keep their beautiful appearance for years to come.

When it comes to durability, it’s best to research wood species that have a high ranking on the Janka hardness chart. This rating provides an estimate of both the hardness and durability of your chosen wood style and will help you make an informed decision unique to your personal circumstances. To help you determine which style is best for your home you can use this guide. 

3.     Easy To Clean

Undeniably, kitchens are prone to mess. Not to worry, though. Hardwood floors take the chore out of cleaning as stains and dirt won’t stick to this material’s surface the same way as it does with other flooring options.

When it comes to day to day maintenance, hardwood floors are mostly hassle-free. To maintain the fresh appearance of your hardwood floors, you may want to have them refinished periodically, but when it comes to regular care, your weekly clean routine is quite simple. All that’s needed is a quick vacuum and sweep with a mop and your floors will be back in tip-top shape. 

4.     Softer & Warmer Than Tile

Inevitably, natural wood exudes a feeling of warmth, both in an aesthetic sense and also in a physical sense. In fact, hardwood floors actually feel warmer underfoot. Often, tiles retain coolness which can be refreshing in the summertime but can feel unbearable when the winter rolls around. Hardwood floors, on the other hand, sustain their comforting feel throughout all times and seasons.

5.     Adds Greater Value To Your Home

It’s true, wooden floors add value to your home. If there comes a time where you’re looking to sell your home, potential buyers often prefer a timeless wood over chipped tiles. Investing in decent hardwood floors now will pay off in the long run so if cost is your deciding factor, maybe you should reconsider.

6.     Better Air Quality

Hardwood floors do not trap dust, pollen or other common allergens. This means that installing wooden floors in your kitchen will promote significantly better airflow. Often, people who suffer from allergies choose hardwood flooring as it allows them to breathe comfortably. So, ultimately with wooden floors, you won’t need to opt for an outdoor kitchen to get a breath of fresh air!

While you might think the same can be said for tiles and laminate, this is not completely true. Even though these alternative options do not have fibers like carpet, dust can still collect inside their grout lines and embossing. 

7.     Hardwood Floors Can Make Your Home Seem Larger

 No one likes feeling cramped, especially not in the kitchen. Most of the time, your kitchen is your general meeting place so you not only want it to feel inviting but also accommodating too. Given that hardwood floors are laid vertically they help create the illusion of length in even the smallest of kitchens.

 Images: Unsplash

 

Being able to care for wood flooring is an essential part of your cleaning routine. By taking proper care of your flooring, you ensure it lasts as long as possible. One of the key benefits of hard flooring is how simple wood floor cleaning really is. Our handy guide walks you through the steps on how to properly maintain wood flooring. 

 

There are a few small steps involved, in this blog, we’ll highlight the do’s and don’ts of wood floor cleaning as well as advice that you should take on board when caring for and maintaining your wooden flooring.

 

Included in this blog will be cleaning and maintenance products to use, as well as the proper method of cleaning. We’ll also cover the definite things that you should avoid, and preventative measures to look out for when you plan to maintain wood flooring.

 

Quick Top Tips

• Mop up wet spills as soon as possible to prevent colour changes or warping of the floor
• Sweep away any dirt or dust regularly
• For the best cleaning results, we recommend a flat-headed spray mop for ease, as well as minimising the chance of damage
• Do not use abrasive cleaning equipment to clean your floor
• Do not use polish or cleaning products designed for other furniture, such as furniture polish
• Take off dirty footwear before walking on your floor
• Use protector pads on the bottom of your furniture to prevent them from scuffing and scratching your floor
• Maintain the look by sanding and refinishing your wood flooring

 

Cleaning your wooden floor

When caring for your wooden floor, the best solution comes from using a spray mop with a specially formulated cleaner. Our Complete Clean, Care & Revive Kit comes from the Impero Elite range of wood floor care products.

The Complete clean, care and revive kit comes with:

•         1 x Spray Mop
•         4 x Microfibre Cloths
•         1 x Universal Floor Cleaner: 1L
•         1 x Reviving Wax for Wood Flooring: 1L
•         1 x Graduated Measuring Cap
•         1 x Detachable Cleansing Brush
•         1 x Instructions & Assembly Guide
•         1 x Wood Flooring Care & Maintenance Guide

The complete cleaning kit contains an easy glide Spray Mop featuring an advanced spray handle and additional grip design, allowing you to get a firm hold on stubborn marks. The refillable liquid compartment takes the effort out of cleaning; eliminating the need to carry additional equipment.

For your quick clean, simply fill the liquid compartment with your Universal Floor Cleaner and squeeze the trigger to release. The integrated spray system evenly distributes the cleaner for the perfect coverage, whilst the machine-washable microfibre cloth makes easy work of capturing any surface dirt.

This all in one package will help you save a lot of time and money, with everything you need included in one easy-to-use product.

 

Removing Dust

The first step to wood floor cleaning is to remove any dust, crumbs or litter.

 

This is something that should be done every week as it keeps the quality of your home and the floor to a higher standard. By removing debris from your floor’s surface you minimise the chances of it causing scratches to the surface.

 

Use a soft sweeping brush to get rid of most of the dirt, while making sure that you do not damage the wood in the process. With our Elite Wood Flooring Care Kit, You can use the white microfibre dust cloth and attach it to your mop. Simply run this over your floor to pick up and loose dust and prepare your floor for cleaning. 

 

A rough or brittle sweeping brush could potentially scuff and scratch the wood permanently. The same outcome is possible with a vacuum, remember to care for wood flooring effectively and patiently.

 

Cleaning

Every week or so, clean the wood with a  very slightly damp mop. Too much water is bad for the wood and can cause permanent damage. Even better, you should use a flat-headed spray mop. This means the cleaning liquid is instantly soaked up, preventing any moisture from soaking into the floor.

 

 

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Wood flooring needs a little moisture from time to time, so cleaning the floor weekly is a great way to keep it in good shape. If a section of flooring is walked on or used less often, then this may require less regular cleaning.

 

What to avoid

Leaving spills on the wood will give the wood time to absorb whatever liquid was on the floor, such as grease, alcohol, or sauce.

 

Any kind of liquids have a chance of permanently staining or damaging your flooring if left long enough. We suggest you clean the floor immediately after.

 

Cleaning the floor rarely or without proper care greatly reduces the quality of the wood. Stains and other spillages have the chance to absorb through the wood and leave marks or tone difference, as well as long-term structural damage such as curling or buckling.

 

Moisture from wet mops or steam mops absorb into the wood and cause permanent damage. Remember that the mop can only be very slightly damp in order to use it to clean and care for wooden floors, with flat-headed spray mops being the preferred option. To maintain wood flooring long-term, ensure all moisture is dealt with immediately. 

Vacuuming can turn out to be very bad for your wood floor, especially if you are using a beater bar and bristle bar setting. This scratches the surface to leave unsightly marks across the flooring. 

 

Many people who use home remedies or harsh detergent to care for wooden flooring end up with marks and stains dotted around their wood. Only ever use a certified wood floor cleaner.

 

Abrasive cleaning equipment has a massive potential to cause long-term damage to your flooring. Forget scouring pads or rough sponges, as these will cause more harm than good.

 

Did you know? Preventable damage accounts for 20% of wood flooring repairs.

Preventing Floor Damage

A key aspect if you want to maintain wood flooring is prevention. Preventing your floor from getting damaged can be something as simple as taking your shoes off before you walk on the floor. If you feel awkward asking people, a small sign at the entrance to your home is a great way to give a gentle reminder that your home is a shoe-free zone. 

 

Mud stains and wet shoes can easily stain your wood and produce permanent marks, Of course, they will happen from time to time – just be sure to clean them up immediately.

 

Protecting your floor from heavy objects such as furniture is vitally important. Self-adhesive floor protectors prevent scratches and scuffs by household items such as chairs, couches and tables.

 

Your pet’s claws can often be a hidden culprit. If you don’t know where those odd scratch marks are coming from, trim your pet’s claws on a regular basis.

 

Moving doormats can also scuff your floor; be sure to keep them in place using grip tape or other similar products.

 

 

Maintaining Wood Flooring

To maintain the look of your wooden flooring, our Impero Elite Reviving Wax protects it against everyday wear and tear, while reducing the appearance of scratches.

 

Reviving Wax is a water-based, natural solution which will not leave smear marks. Available on its own or as part of our Complete Clean, Care & Revive Kit, easily apply the wax with your Spray Mop by adding 20 ml of the solution, then fill the tank with water. The advanced drying process means in just 1 hour your flooring will be ready to polish off and admire.

 

The wax rejuvenates the look of your wood flooring, restoring it back to its former beauty with a beautiful semi-gloss finish. It’s the perfect hassle-free way your maintain your wooden floor.

 

Wood repair kits can also come in handy if there is major damage to your flooring. These work by filling in deep scratches, with a wax that matches the colour of your flooring. 

 

Sanding and refinishing your wood can bring even the most tired-looking wooden floors back to life. By sanding down the top layer, you’re left with a new surface that can be re-finished to create a new-looking floor. If you have laminate flooring, you won’t be able to sand and re-finish, as the top layer is a printed image, and will therefore cause irreversible damage. 

 

Our Osmo oil range provides the necessary protection for wood flooring. With unfinished flooring, you can use the oil to give the flooring a new colour and extra protection.

 

Wrap-Up

Weekly

• Clean off any dust or dirt that accumulates on the wood. For best results, use a microfibre cloth.

Monthly

• Use a flat-headed spray mop to clean your flooring. Only ever use certified wood floor cleaners – never any home remedies

Every six months

• Use Impero Elite Reviving Wax to keep the wood as fresh as possible.

Every 5 years

• Apply a maintenance coat of oil to replenish the finish.
• You may also want to sand and refinish your flooring.

 

Being able to maintain wood flooring is simple. If you follow the advice in this guide, your floor has the potential to last decades. Remember that overuse of liquid is wood flooring’s worst enemy, and using it sparingly keeps your floor looking great without causing lasting damage.

 

If you have any questions or queries on this topic be sure to give us a call on 03308 088 777.  

The post Caring for wooden flooring: the do’s and don’ts appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

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

These days, hardwood flooring is a popular choice to create a timelessness elegance in any space. However, if you have children, there are an extra set of considerations you may need to think about before simply opting for a style you find aesthetically pleasing.

Hardwood flooring can sometimes be a little more temperamental than other floor surfaces such as tiles and carpet. While it’s an impossible task to keep any style of floor immaculate with children around – spills, muddy footprints and general play are all par for the course, right? –  certain hardwood flooring can be impacted by children much more than the other options.

That said, hardwood flooring can be the perfect addition to your family home (and can actually make it more child-friendly), especially if you make the right decision from the outset.

Here are the top 5 reasons you should consider hardwood flooring in your family home.

1. Some Hardwood Flooring Can Be More Durable Than Other Flooring Options

Durability is key when you have kids around, so choosing a wood that will stand the test your children put them through is essential.

Bamboo offers many benefits in this department; the perfect balance between stamina and style. While Bamboo has a similar appearance to timber, it is actually a harder substance, meaning that when the kids forget that the house isn’t their personal playground, there is less chance the floors will be scratched. Furthermore, bamboo is resistant to stains. Perfect for the inevitable spills that your little darlings will send its way!

But bamboo isn’t your only option. There are a number of durable hardwood flooring options which may be a good choice for you. Here’s a hot tip: before you set your sights on a wood you just love, check its Janka rating which will tell you just how durable it is. If it’s low, say no!

2. Lighter-Toned Woods can Disguise Dirt

You wouldn’t be alone if you thought that darker-colored woods would be perfect for hiding dirt, dust and debris. However, when it comes to hardwood flooring, the opposite applies. 

Light-colored hardwoods such as cherry or oak are a couple of options to consider for the family home because they minimize the appearance of dust and brighten up your living space. Certain light-colored options will help you maintain that effortless look without spending hours cleaning, which is a definite bonus when you’re too busy with the kids or you forgot it was your turn to host your family summer cookout!

3. Hardwood Floors Are Less Likely to Stain Than Carpets

With the kids running amok and that cup of juice sitting precariously close to the table’s edge, it won’t be long before it comes crashing down and spills all over your floor. This is where hardwood flooring really comes into its own, basking in its child-friendly glory! Unlike carpet, wooden floors are much less likely to stain. Simply wipe up the mess to remove any remnants of the accident!

4. Hardwood Floors Are a Healthier Alternative

Carpet and thick rugs collect dirt and food scraps like sponges. With hardwood floors, there are no worries that your little ones will be exposed to harmful substances trapped in the floor beneath them. After all, for most children, the floor is where they spend most of their playtime, so carpets provide the perfect breeding ground for them to get sick; hardwood flooring virtually eliminates that issue.

Not only this, hardwood floors are also a great alternative for children who suffer from allergies since they are less likely to collect pesky pollens or animal fur. If health and safety are a concern for you, hardwood floors are a great non-toxic choice for your family.

5. Hardwood Floors Are Easy To Clean

Let’s face it, life with kids means endlessly cleaning up after them. With that said, making decorating decisions to make clean up easier is definitely something that all parents should be thinking about. Enter, hardwood flooring.

Although hardwood flooring does come with a set of maintenance requirements, when it comes to cleaning up spills quickly, this versatile flooring option comes out on top. Unlike with carpet, you won’t be reaching for that hot bucket of water and a myriad of cleaning products when your little ones drop their cereal on the way to the table. You can simply wipe up the mess with a paper towel and run a slightly damp sponge over the area to remove any sticky residue. Easy!