Installing a hardwood floor represents a major investment of time and money. Whether you do the work yourself or hire a contractor, preserving the shine and veneer of the most-punished surface in the home is a top priority.

Wood treatments often contain toxic ingredients, such as toluene, which is hardly the sort of stuff you want toddlers or pets crawling over, so consider this factor when selecting a top coat for wooden flooring.

In general, the darker the stain; the more natural the formula will be, as the most toxic substances in wood sealers and protectors are employed to preserve a transparent finish. Natural oils and pigments, especially those approved for use in the food industry, are to be preferred over synthetic blends which are not appropriate for human consumption. After all, even if you don’t plan to dine on the floor, shouldn’t it be fit to eat off of anyhow?

(more…)

Sometimes, a perfectly good floor needs a facelift. Maybe the rains came before you could protect your porch or you had a big moving in party before you properly sealed your living room floor. Perhaps you inherited your flooring from someone who failed to take proper care of the hardwood floor and it is looking dull and scratched.

Frequently all you need is a good polishing and the wood will look good as new. A simple test with a few drops water will let you know whether advanced measures are warranted. If a drop of water beads and rolls, your surface is still in good condition. If it beads before soaking in slowly, you can get away with a good cleaning and polishing.

On the other hand, if the floor absorbs the water immediately, the wood fibers are exposed to the elements, putting your floor at risk for warping and further damage. In this case you are in need of a refinishing or replacement.

(more…)