What do I look for when selecting a type of wood?

Selecting the type of wood is usually a matter of personal preference. The inherent color and grain of the tree is going to show through any finish that is applied. However some woods are harder than others. For instance, oak, maple, Brazilian cherry, Brazilian walnut and wedge are extremely hard while walnut is a softer wood. The harder types of wood usually work better in heavy traffic areas.

Which urethane is right for me?

The primary surface finishes are water-borne polyurethane, oil modified polyurethane, moisture-cured urethane and acid-curing finish, each with its own distinct differences and advantages. All urethane finishes are durable, water-resistant and require minimal maintenance. A wood flooring professional should be consulted in deciding which one should be used

When is it best to use a satin finish or a gloss finish?

High gloss finishes tend to show scuff marks, scratches, traffic areas and dirt more readily than satin finishes. In a heavy traffic area, a satin finish will require less maintenance. In addition, a softer finish will reveals the natural character, color and grain of the wood more readily than a gloss finish.

Would a light finish or a dark finish be more suitable?

A floor with a lighter finish makes a room appear larger. Be careful when using a white or bleached floor, however, as it tends to show dirt, scratches and scuffs more easily. Also, traditional urethane finishes or bleached floors may amber unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer.

Would a linear floor or a patterned floor be more appropriate?

While a linear floor opens an area and makes a room seem larger, a patterned or parquet floor enhances the design element of an interior. Be careful when using large patterns or parquets in small area, as a pattern should repeat about 10 to 15 times across the floor. A parquet pattern can be turned on a 45-degree angle and made to look like a series of diamonds instead of squares.

Is wood practical flooring material in the kitchen?

Wood floors work beautifully in any kitchen, especially to accentuate wood cabinets.

Should I use a urethane finish or a wax finish in the kitchen?

Although water and wood do not mix, they can coexist. Urethane floors are recommended because they are water-resistant, durable and easy to maintain. Spills can be wiped up immediately. However, when it comes down to it, choosing the finish is left to personal preference .

Can wood flooring be used in the bathroom?

Wood flooring works well in powder rooms and half baths. Urethane finishes resist water stains.

What kind of floor is best for heavily used or commercial areas?

A wax surface may be too slippery for a high traffic or commercial area. Acrylic impregnated floors are best to withstand moisture and the abrasion of grit, sand and high heels. Placing a buffer such as terrazzo between the door and the wood floor is suggested.

How do I clean my floors?

Always use your manufacturer's recomended cleaning products. If the manufacturer is not known, use a generic hardwood floor cleaner, available at your local retail flooring store. never wax a surface finish!

Sticky spills: wipe up spills immediately with a lightly dampened cloth. Follow with manufacturers or generic hardwood floor cleaner.

Stubborn stains: lightly dampen a soft cloth with manufacturers recomended cleaner, or a generic hardwood floor cleaner. Apply directly to stain. Repeat procedure as necessary. Do not use petroleum based cleaners on water base finishes.

Dull finish: when floor loses its luster, it's time to recoat. Call Walk-On-Wood flooring inc. at (773)777-2170

How do I clean wax finishes?

General cleaning: dry mop with untreated dust mop. Vacuum, sweep or dust mop as needed to remove grit from floor.

Sticky spills: wipe up spills immediately with dry or slightly damp cloth. Then clean area with manufacturers recommended cleaner or odorless mineral spirits. This may dull the area, so buffing may be required.

White spots: to remove white spots caused by water spills, use a fine steel wool (#000) and a small amount of mineral. Rub gently in a circular motion until spot is gone. Then rewax area and buff.

Dull finish: floors should be cleaned, stripped and rewaxed once or twice each year depending on traffic.

What do I do to protect my floors?

Floor protector pads on the bottoms of furniture will help preserve the life of your finish.

Scatter rugs at all entrances will help trap grit from shoes before it scratches your floor.

Sweep, vacuum or dust mop your floor and scatter rugs often to remove dirt and grit.