what Archives - FLOORecki Floors & Stairs | Hardwood Floors & Stairs Chicago https://floorecki.com/tag/what/ Hardwood Floors & Stair Specialists Serving Chicago and suburbs Fri, 08 Dec 2023 01:16:45 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://floorecki.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cropped-icon-32x32.png what Archives - FLOORecki Floors & Stairs | Hardwood Floors & Stairs Chicago https://floorecki.com/tag/what/ 32 32 Unveiling the Pinnacle: The Hardest and Most Durable Hardwood Floors https://floorecki.com/unveiling-the-pinnacle-the-hardest-and-most-durable-hardwood-floors/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=unveiling-the-pinnacle-the-hardest-and-most-durable-hardwood-floors https://floorecki.com/unveiling-the-pinnacle-the-hardest-and-most-durable-hardwood-floors/#respond Fri, 08 Dec 2023 01:16:45 +0000 https://floorecki.com/?p=3344 Unveiling the Pinnacle: The Hardest and Most Durable Hardwood Floors Hardwood floors are not just about elegance; they’re ... Read More

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Hardwood floors are not just about elegance; they’re also an investment in durability and longevity. When it comes to choosing the toughest hardwood floors on the market, understanding the various species and their unique characteristics is key. In this guide, we’ll explore the top contenders renowned for their resilience, making them the go-to choice for those seeking floors that can withstand the test of time.

1. Brazilian Walnut (Ipe):

Known for its exceptional hardness, Brazilian Walnut, also known as Ipe, tops the charts as one of the hardest hardwoods available. Originating from South America, Ipe boasts a Janka hardness rating that surpasses many other wood species. Its rich, dark hues add a touch of sophistication to any space, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications.

2. Tigerwood:

Native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, Tigerwood is admired not only for its striking appearance but also for its robust nature. With a Janka hardness rating comparable to that of red oak, Tigerwood showcases beautiful reddish-brown tones with distinctive dark stripes. Its exotic aesthetics combined with durability make it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.

3. Hickory:

Indigenous to North America, Hickory is celebrated for its strength and durability. With a Janka hardness rating that rivals that of some exotic hardwoods, Hickory is a popular choice for those seeking a blend of toughness and natural beauty. Its varied grain patterns and warm tones contribute to its appeal in a variety of design settings.

4. Maple:

While not as hard as some tropical hardwoods, Hard Maple offers a winning combination of durability and light, versatile aesthetics. With a Janka hardness rating higher than that of many domestic hardwoods, it is often chosen for its ability to resist wear and denting. Maple’s pale, consistent color makes it an excellent canvas for various interior design styles.

5. Australian Buloke:

Lesser-known but equally impressive, Australian Buloke is an extremely hard and durable hardwood. Its high Janka hardness rating, coupled with unique grain patterns and a natural golden hue, makes it a distinctive choice for those seeking something beyond the conventional hardwood options.

Choosing the Right Hardwood for You:

When selecting the hardest and most durable hardwood floor for your space, it’s essential to consider factors such as your lifestyle, design preferences, and budget. While exotic hardwoods like Brazilian Walnut and Tigerwood offer unparalleled hardness, domestic options like Hickory and Maple provide a winning combination of strength and aesthetics.

Before making a decision, consult with flooring professionals to determine the best fit for your specific needs. Additionally, proper installation and maintenance play vital roles in maximizing the longevity of your hardwood floors, regardless of the species you choose.

Investing in the hardest and most durable hardwood floors ensures that your home or commercial space not only exudes timeless beauty but also withstands the rigors of daily life with grace and resilience. Choose wisely, and let your hardwood floors become a testament to enduring quality and sophistication.

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]]> https://floorecki.com/unveiling-the-pinnacle-the-hardest-and-most-durable-hardwood-floors/feed/ 0 Oil Based vs. Water Based Floor Finish https://floorecki.com/oil-based-vs-water-based-surface-finish-polyurethane/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=oil-based-vs-water-based-surface-finish-polyurethane https://floorecki.com/oil-based-vs-water-based-surface-finish-polyurethane/#respond Tue, 23 Apr 2019 22:25:09 +0000 https://floorecki.com/?p=1791 The post Oil Based vs. Water Based Floor Finish appeared first on FLOORecki Floors & Stairs | Hardwood Floors & Stairs Chicago.

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When it comes to finishing products for hardwood floors we recommend either 2 coats of oil based polyurethane or 3 coats of water based floor finish.  The question then arises: “Which one is better?”. Oil Based vs. Water Based Floor Finish? Both oil based and water based polyurethanes are equally durable when it comes to protecting hardwood floors from everyday wear and tear.  The finish gives the floor its color and luster so this becomes a personal preference.

COLOR:

The appearance is the biggest difference between oil and water based polyurethane. Oil based polyurethane has an amber appearance, a medium to dark brownish-yellow color which will darken over time.  The water based polyurethane has a lighter appearance and remains clear.

SMELL:

Another major factor to consider when choosing the surface finish is the smell. Oil based polyurethane gives off powerful fumes that should not be inhaled. For this reason we recommend that the costumer along with pets stay out of the house while refinishing the floors. Water based polyurethane has less of an offensive odor by comparison and it’s safer for customers and pets when applying the finishing coats indoors.

DRYING TIME:

The curing time for oil based polyurethane takes 24-48 hours before it would be safe to walk on with socks on.  Whereas the water based polyurethane is safe to walk on with socks on after 4 hours.  However, we recommend waiting 3-4 days before moving furniture back on to the floor to avoid any scratches.  The same time frame applies when it comes to allowing pets to walk on the surface

THICKNESS AND HARDNESS:

Another quite important factor is the thickness and hardness of each surface finish. The oil based polyurethane is thicker and softer, whereas the water based product is thinner but harder.  We suggest applying 2 coats of oil based polyurethane because it’s more vulnerable to incur dents, and 3 coats of water based because it’s more likely to scratch.

COST:

Our company uses top grade products for commercial water based polyurethane BONA Traffic HD which can be twice as expensive as the oil. Therefore, it’s usually a $1 more per square foot and is mostly used when a natural look is required or for grey or white washed floors.  The oil base polyurethane our company uses is Masterline and Bona Woodline.

SUMMARY:

As stated before, choosing the floor finish is a personal preference and the finished look can be a deal breaker. The other factors are just as important when deciding on the finish. Our company always achieves excellent results whether coating with oil based or water based polyurethane.

 

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