Hardwood terms you should know

 
We want you to familiarize yourself with hardwood flooring terms so when you go into a store, you'll be armed with the knowledge that helps you make the best choice. There are so many colors, species, stains, and finishes it can be both exciting and overwhelming. In Colorado, the family-owned Schmidt Custom Floors has been in business since 1998, but that’s only part of the story. The entire company is now in its third generation, and the first Schmidt Custom Floors began, and is still in operation, in 1968 in Wisconsin. We are grounded in high ethics, standards, and craftsmanship; in fact, we were the first in Colorado to become certified by the National Wood Flooring Association. We carry a well-stocked inventory of flooring and provide services such as installation and dust-free sanding. Visit our showroom in Loveland, CO and ask about our estimates. We also service Fort Collins, Windsor, Boulder, Estes Park.
 

The importance of moisture reading

 
This is one of our services and we highlighted it because it’s so critical.

You'll often be given a step-by-step "how-to" on what to do if your wood floors get wet. What is often not included is that it can be impossible to see all of the water because it can hide around corners and under the boards, eventually harming your investment.

A moisture reading will give exact numbers, so you’ll know if the floor is dry or not.
 
 
 
 

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Solid versus engineered hardwood

 
This is a slab of wood going all the way through the plank. Excess water can make it a cup, crown, and warp. Therefore, it's not recommended for installation in high-moisture rooms like the bathroom or basement.

Engineered hardwood is taking over a large share of the wood flooring industry because it appeals to those who want the beauty of wood floors, together with a little practicality. The only thing different is the construction which makes it stable and a little better able to handle water. You still shouldn't install it in a full bath, but half baths and powder rooms are fine. It can also be installed in below-grade areas like basements.
 

What is acclimation?

 
Solid hardwood shrinks and expands to adjust to the weather. It's recommended to leave the opened boxes in the room in which it's to be installed for several days. Your flooring retailer will advise you further.