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Frequently Asked Questions

Q:    Does wood flooring contribute to deforestation?

A:    Unlike most floor coverings, wooden floors come from a natural resource that is sustainable, renewable and recyclable. Today most timber is cut from forests that are carefully managed to ensure continued resources in the future.  Additionally, engineered flooring, which uses only 20-30% as much fine grade wood as a solid floor, now has about 40% of the market. Engineered flooring implies a more ecologically smart use of raw material. By using more than one type of wood, a lesser burden is placed on hardwood trees like oak and maple. A new wood floor should outlast carpeting by a factor of 3-6 times, i.e. the wood flooring costs less than the cumulative cost of all the carpeting one would have installed, not to mention the pollution from manufacturing carpet.

Q: Are there any health concerns related to wood flooring?

A: Leading allergists will agree that wood floors are an ideal choice for a healthy home. Wooden floors are easy to clean and will not harbour dust mites or mould. As we spend 90% of our time indoors with our floors clean floors are a must because researchers believe a microscopic insect "the dust mite" could be responsible for the increasing rise in asthma. 

Q: How do I clean my wood floor?

A: Keep grit off the floor, dust, mop or vacuum regularly and keep doormats clean. Wipe up spills promptly with a dry cloth. Use a slightly dampened cloth for sticky spills. For general cleaning, there are good generic wood floor cleaners. Alternatively, use a mild solution of white vinegar and warm water (1/4 cup of vinegar to 1 quart of warm water), and with a spray bottle, spray a small amount on a mop or cloth and go over a small area with the mop or cloth. Buff dry. Continue until the entire floor has been cleaned. 

Do not wax a surface finish. Wax will, in most cases, be slippery. If you wax a surface finish, the floor cannot merely be re-coated to rejuvenate it, it will have to continue to be waxed as a maintenance procedure.

Q: What can damage a wood floor?

A:     1. Grit and dirt - Grit and dirt will eventually cause scratches and dents, which shortens the lifetime of the floor. Always use door mats and vacuum or sweep         regularly.
        2. Spills - In general all spills must be wiped up immediately to prevent stains. Most new finishes, however, prevent spills from affecting the wood if they are wiped properly.
        3. Furniture - Any furniture that rests directly on top of a wood floor should have felt protectors, or furniture coasters, under all its feet.

If you have any other questions please call our office or use the feedback form.