Designing With Reclaimed
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Keeping Your Toes Warm During the Winter Months
November 14, 2018
With the weather getting colder and the snow beginning to fall, more homeowners begin to ask about how they can help keep their floors nice and warm while still maintaining the natural beauty of real hardwood floors throughout their home. Radiant heating is the perfect option to keep your home nice and cozy. Radiant, or underfloor, heat is a system that is placed underneath the floor and emits heat through either hydronic or electric methods. However, it is not recommended for use with hardwood flooring products, as they naturally are sensitive to drastic changes in temperature and humidity levels.
Installing wood flooring over a radiant heating system is difficult, and the flooring product must be carefully chosen to ensure that the seasonal changes are minimized. It is also important to have a supplemental humidity control system to help keep the humidity levels constant as the heating system begins to reduce moisture content.
Picking the right species of hardwood is important when installing a radiant heating system, and the dimensional stability of the wood must be taken into consideration. Species such as Oak, Maple, and Hickory are much better choices, whereas Pine, Cypress and Mahogany would not hold up as well. It is also important to consider using an Engineered product, as these are generally more stable than solid products. When looking at Engineered flooring products be sure to ask about the manufacturer's recommendations with regards to radiant heat, as there are many different methods for producing the flooring that will impact its stability. Be sure to speak with a hardwood flooring specialist about all the different products available, as they will be able to make the best recommendation for the product type.
Not only is the species of wood important when determining flooring type best to install over radiant heat, but the type of cut and the widths of the boards should be taken into consideration as well. Quartersawn and riftsawn wood flooring are the best options, as they are cut from the source logs in a way to be the most stable, whereas plainsawn may be more cost-effective, but overall less stable. Also, narrower boards will naturally expand and contract less than wider boards, so choosing a product in the proper widths is beneficial.
Finally, when looking at any hardwood flooring, especially in arid climates, consider the possibility of a humidifier to help maintain the moisture content of the wood. With hardwoods, the more stable the temperature and humidity levels, the less change will occur naturally over time. This process is sped up with the addition of radiant heat, and the first time that it is turned on in the winter months can start changing the appearance of the flooring. Working with your hardwood flooring specialist, you can install a humidifier that will minimize the impact to the moisture content of the wood, and keep your floors looking beautiful for years to come.Â
Almost any wood flooring can be installed over radiant heat, provided the proper environmental conditions for the flooring are created and the proper installation methods are used, as well as daily care and maintenance. If you are considering installing a radiant heat system, Ward Hardwood Flooring can help you with the process. With professional and experienced installers, we are able to help create beautiful and practical floors for the chilly winter months. Give us a call at 303-674-6966 or email info@wardhardwoodflooring.com today to get started!
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Installing wood flooring over a radiant heating system is difficult, and the flooring product must be carefully chosen to ensure that the seasonal changes are minimized. It is also important to have a supplemental humidity control system to help keep the humidity levels constant as the heating system begins to reduce moisture content.
Picking the right species of hardwood is important when installing a radiant heating system, and the dimensional stability of the wood must be taken into consideration. Species such as Oak, Maple, and Hickory are much better choices, whereas Pine, Cypress and Mahogany would not hold up as well. It is also important to consider using an Engineered product, as these are generally more stable than solid products. When looking at Engineered flooring products be sure to ask about the manufacturer's recommendations with regards to radiant heat, as there are many different methods for producing the flooring that will impact its stability. Be sure to speak with a hardwood flooring specialist about all the different products available, as they will be able to make the best recommendation for the product type.
Not only is the species of wood important when determining flooring type best to install over radiant heat, but the type of cut and the widths of the boards should be taken into consideration as well. Quartersawn and riftsawn wood flooring are the best options, as they are cut from the source logs in a way to be the most stable, whereas plainsawn may be more cost-effective, but overall less stable. Also, narrower boards will naturally expand and contract less than wider boards, so choosing a product in the proper widths is beneficial.
Finally, when looking at any hardwood flooring, especially in arid climates, consider the possibility of a humidifier to help maintain the moisture content of the wood. With hardwoods, the more stable the temperature and humidity levels, the less change will occur naturally over time. This process is sped up with the addition of radiant heat, and the first time that it is turned on in the winter months can start changing the appearance of the flooring. Working with your hardwood flooring specialist, you can install a humidifier that will minimize the impact to the moisture content of the wood, and keep your floors looking beautiful for years to come.Â
Almost any wood flooring can be installed over radiant heat, provided the proper environmental conditions for the flooring are created and the proper installation methods are used, as well as daily care and maintenance. If you are considering installing a radiant heat system, Ward Hardwood Flooring can help you with the process. With professional and experienced installers, we are able to help create beautiful and practical floors for the chilly winter months. Give us a call at 303-674-6966 or email info@wardhardwoodflooring.com today to get started!
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How to Choose the Right Stain for Your Flooring
November 7, 2018
Whether you are looking to install brand new hardwood flooring or refinish your existing floors, picking out the perfect stain color may be a daunting task. The time and expense of undertaking a flooring project can make it difficult to settle on the perfect stain that will last for years to come, but if you take your time and answer a couple of different questions, you can be sure you get what you want out of your flooring.
The most important step is determining the species of wood that you already have or would like to have. Knowing the type of species will determine how they will take to the different stains and knowing the natural color and hardness of the wood will help determine the final color. If you have a darker species of wood such as a Brazilian Cherry, Walnut, or Reclaimed product, you might not necessarily want to apply a stain as it would darken the material or take away from the natural patina. A lighter colored material, such as Ash, Oak or Hickory, are better candidates for staining as it is easier to achieve different colors.
After determining the species type, next you will want to plan the overall space to ensure that there is added contrast between the floors and walls. If you are doing lighter colored walls, adding a dark stain to the flooring can help create a more modern space, and lighter floors can look beautiful next to a dark accent or feature wall. If you are planning on incorporating other wood elements into the space, consider what color might best complement them.
Picking out colors can be especially challenging because of the difference in the types of light in a space or the amount of natural light that is present throughout the day. When comparing color samples of stain or paint in your home, be sure to have the lighting already installed, and look at them at different times to get a better understanding of what they would look like in the space. The best way to gauge how a stain will look in the space is to either test them directly on the raw wood floor, or to create sample boards by purchasing extra material. Creating sample boards can be helpful for repairs in the future, helping match the stain and finish perfectly if a few areas need attention.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help in choosing the perfect color for your floors. A hardwood flooring professional will know how to achieve the perfect color to complement your design and can help with providing material samples to make the decision-making process a bit easier. Here at Ward Hardwood Flooring, we offer new flooring installation as well as hardwood floor refinishing, and have applied many different stains to many different material types, so you can count on us to deliver the perfect finished product every time. Call us today for a free estimate to see how we can help you!
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The most important step is determining the species of wood that you already have or would like to have. Knowing the type of species will determine how they will take to the different stains and knowing the natural color and hardness of the wood will help determine the final color. If you have a darker species of wood such as a Brazilian Cherry, Walnut, or Reclaimed product, you might not necessarily want to apply a stain as it would darken the material or take away from the natural patina. A lighter colored material, such as Ash, Oak or Hickory, are better candidates for staining as it is easier to achieve different colors.
After determining the species type, next you will want to plan the overall space to ensure that there is added contrast between the floors and walls. If you are doing lighter colored walls, adding a dark stain to the flooring can help create a more modern space, and lighter floors can look beautiful next to a dark accent or feature wall. If you are planning on incorporating other wood elements into the space, consider what color might best complement them.
Picking out colors can be especially challenging because of the difference in the types of light in a space or the amount of natural light that is present throughout the day. When comparing color samples of stain or paint in your home, be sure to have the lighting already installed, and look at them at different times to get a better understanding of what they would look like in the space. The best way to gauge how a stain will look in the space is to either test them directly on the raw wood floor, or to create sample boards by purchasing extra material. Creating sample boards can be helpful for repairs in the future, helping match the stain and finish perfectly if a few areas need attention.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help in choosing the perfect color for your floors. A hardwood flooring professional will know how to achieve the perfect color to complement your design and can help with providing material samples to make the decision-making process a bit easier. Here at Ward Hardwood Flooring, we offer new flooring installation as well as hardwood floor refinishing, and have applied many different stains to many different material types, so you can count on us to deliver the perfect finished product every time. Call us today for a free estimate to see how we can help you!
How to Choose the Right Stain for Your Flooring
November 7, 2018
Whether you are looking to install brand new hardwood flooring or refinish your existing floors, picking out the perfect stain color may be a daunting task. The time and expense of undertaking a flooring project can make it difficult to settle on the perfect stain that will last for years to come, but if you take your time and answer a couple of different questions, you can be sure you get what you want out of your flooring.
The most important step is determining the species of wood that you already have or would like to have. Knowing the type of species will determine how they will take to the different stains and knowing the natural color and hardness of the wood will help determine the final color. If you have a darker species of wood such as a Brazilian Cherry, Walnut, or Reclaimed product, you might not necessarily want to apply a stain as it would darken the material or take away from the natural patina. A lighter colored material, such as Ash, Oak or Hickory, are better candidates for staining as it is easier to achieve different colors.
After determining the species type, next you will want to plan the overall space to ensure that there is added contrast between the floors and walls. If you are doing lighter colored walls, adding a dark stain to the flooring can help create a more modern space, and lighter floors can look beautiful next to a dark accent or feature wall. If you are planning on incorporating other wood elements into the space, consider what color might best complement them.
Picking out colors can be especially challenging because of the difference in the types of light in a space or the amount of natural light that is present throughout the day. When comparing color samples of stain or paint in your home, be sure to have the lighting already installed, and look at them at different times to get a better understanding of what they would look like in the space. The best way to gauge how a stain will look in the space is to either test them directly on the raw wood floor, or to create sample boards by purchasing extra material. Creating sample boards can be helpful for repairs in the future, helping match the stain and finish perfectly if a few areas need attention.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help in choosing the perfect color for your floors. A hardwood flooring professional will know how to achieve the perfect color to complement your design and can help with providing material samples to make the decision-making process a bit easier. Here at Ward Hardwood Flooring, we offer new flooring installation as well as hardwood floor refinishing, and have applied many different stains to many different material types, so you can count on us to deliver the perfect finished product every time. Call us today for a free estimate to see how we can help you!
Whether you are looking to install brand new hardwood flooring or refinish your existing floors, picking out the perfect stain color may be a daunting task. The time and expense of undertaking a flooring project can make it difficult to settle on the perfect stain that will last for years to come, but if you take your time and answer a couple of different questions, you can be sure you get what you want out of your flooring.
The most important step is determining the species of wood that you already have or would like to have. Knowing the type of species will determine how they will take to the different stains and knowing the natural color and hardness of the wood will help determine the final color. If you have a darker species of wood such as a Brazilian Cherry, Walnut, or Reclaimed product, you might not necessarily want to apply a stain as it would darken the material or take away from the natural patina. A lighter colored material, such as Ash, Oak or Hickory, are better candidates for staining as it is easier to achieve different colors.
After determining the species type, next you will want to plan the overall space to ensure that there is added contrast between the floors and walls. If you are doing lighter colored walls, adding a dark stain to the flooring can help create a more modern space, and lighter floors can look beautiful next to a dark accent or feature wall. If you are planning on incorporating other wood elements into the space, consider what color might best complement them.
Picking out colors can be especially challenging because of the difference in the types of light in a space or the amount of natural light that is present throughout the day. When comparing color samples of stain or paint in your home, be sure to have the lighting already installed, and look at them at different times to get a better understanding of what they would look like in the space. The best way to gauge how a stain will look in the space is to either test them directly on the raw wood floor, or to create sample boards by purchasing extra material. Creating sample boards can be helpful for repairs in the future, helping match the stain and finish perfectly if a few areas need attention.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help in choosing the perfect color for your floors. A hardwood flooring professional will know how to achieve the perfect color to complement your design and can help with providing material samples to make the decision-making process a bit easier. Here at Ward Hardwood Flooring, we offer new flooring installation as well as hardwood floor refinishing, and have applied many different stains to many different material types, so you can count on us to deliver the perfect finished product every time. Call us today for a free estimate to see how we can help you!
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The most important step is determining the species of wood that you already have or would like to have. Knowing the type of species will determine how they will take to the different stains and knowing the natural color and hardness of the wood will help determine the final color. If you have a darker species of wood such as a Brazilian Cherry, Walnut, or Reclaimed product, you might not necessarily want to apply a stain as it would darken the material or take away from the natural patina. A lighter colored material, such as Ash, Oak or Hickory, are better candidates for staining as it is easier to achieve different colors.
After determining the species type, next you will want to plan the overall space to ensure that there is added contrast between the floors and walls. If you are doing lighter colored walls, adding a dark stain to the flooring can help create a more modern space, and lighter floors can look beautiful next to a dark accent or feature wall. If you are planning on incorporating other wood elements into the space, consider what color might best complement them.
Picking out colors can be especially challenging because of the difference in the types of light in a space or the amount of natural light that is present throughout the day. When comparing color samples of stain or paint in your home, be sure to have the lighting already installed, and look at them at different times to get a better understanding of what they would look like in the space. The best way to gauge how a stain will look in the space is to either test them directly on the raw wood floor, or to create sample boards by purchasing extra material. Creating sample boards can be helpful for repairs in the future, helping match the stain and finish perfectly if a few areas need attention.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help in choosing the perfect color for your floors. A hardwood flooring professional will know how to achieve the perfect color to complement your design and can help with providing material samples to make the decision-making process a bit easier. Here at Ward Hardwood Flooring, we offer new flooring installation as well as hardwood floor refinishing, and have applied many different stains to many different material types, so you can count on us to deliver the perfect finished product every time. Call us today for a free estimate to see how we can help you!
Whether you are looking to install brand new hardwood flooring or refinish your existing floors, picking out the perfect stain color may be a daunting task. The time and expense of undertaking a flooring project can make it difficult to settle on the perfect stain that will last for years to come, but if you take your time and answer a couple of different questions, you can be sure you get what you want out of your flooring.
The most important step is determining the species of wood that you already have or would like to have. Knowing the type of species will determine how they will take to the different stains and knowing the natural color and hardness of the wood will help determine the final color. If you have a darker species of wood such as a Brazilian Cherry, Walnut, or Reclaimed product, you might not necessarily want to apply a stain as it would darken the material or take away from the natural patina. A lighter colored material, such as Ash, Oak or Hickory, are better candidates for staining as it is easier to achieve different colors.
After determining the species type, next you will want to plan the overall space to ensure that there is added contrast between the floors and walls. If you are doing lighter colored walls, adding a dark stain to the flooring can help create a more modern space, and lighter floors can look beautiful next to a dark accent or feature wall. If you are planning on incorporating other wood elements into the space, consider what color might best complement them.
Picking out colors can be especially challenging because of the difference in the types of light in a space or the amount of natural light that is present throughout the day. When comparing color samples of stain or paint in your home, be sure to have the lighting already installed, and look at them at different times to get a better understanding of what they would look like in the space. The best way to gauge how a stain will look in the space is to either test them directly on the raw wood floor, or to create sample boards by purchasing extra material. Creating sample boards can be helpful for repairs in the future, helping match the stain and finish perfectly if a few areas need attention.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help in choosing the perfect color for your floors. A hardwood flooring professional will know how to achieve the perfect color to complement your design and can help with providing material samples to make the decision-making process a bit easier. Here at Ward Hardwood Flooring, we offer new flooring installation as well as hardwood floor refinishing, and have applied many different stains to many different material types, so you can count on us to deliver the perfect finished product every time. Call us today for a free estimate to see how we can help you!
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How Calico Hardwood Mix Transformed this Home in Parker, Colorado
By Jessica Manzer - October 31st, 2018
Many homeowners cherish the value that hardwood floors bring to their home but are skeptical about what type of flooring will both transform the space and be a practical choice for their families. Reclaimed hardwood materials are a great choice for any space or design, and perfect for anyone who has kids, pets or areas of high traffic. As the focus in the flooring industry shifts towards being more environmentally focused, people are choosing reclaimed products to help salvage materials from existing structures and reduce their impact on the environment.
One of these reclaimed products is the Calico Reclaimed Hardwood Mix that helped to transform the living spaces in this home, tying in perfectly with the décor and the flow of each room.
In the entry, the Calico Hardwood Mix flows beautifully with the existing artwork and wrought iron candle holders, and in through the separate dining room. At the end of the hallway, the flooring stretches through the family room, and into the kitchen.
One of the benefits of this flooring is that it has plenty of color variation, perfectly complementing any existing trim, railing, or cabinetry and ensuring that the home flows beautifully from one room to the next. Â Updating the entire look of a room can be as easy as choosing the right floor, and a Hardwood Mix is the perfect floor for almost any design.
If you are looking for a unique, one-of-a kind floor like this beautiful installation in Parker, Colorado, call Ward Hardwood today! This floor is currently in-stock in our climate-controlled warehouse, ready for installation in your home, and Ward Hardwood is proud to have over 30 years of experience in the Rustic and Reclaimed Flooring Industry. We are also able to re-finish your existing floors, and frequently install traditional strip flooring, so whatever your taste in flooring may be, we can help you walk on the floor of your dreams. Call us today at 303-674-6966 or email info@wardhardwoodflooring.com, and don’t forget to check out our current specials on our website!
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One of these reclaimed products is the Calico Reclaimed Hardwood Mix that helped to transform the living spaces in this home, tying in perfectly with the décor and the flow of each room.
In the entry, the Calico Hardwood Mix flows beautifully with the existing artwork and wrought iron candle holders, and in through the separate dining room. At the end of the hallway, the flooring stretches through the family room, and into the kitchen.
One of the benefits of this flooring is that it has plenty of color variation, perfectly complementing any existing trim, railing, or cabinetry and ensuring that the home flows beautifully from one room to the next. Â Updating the entire look of a room can be as easy as choosing the right floor, and a Hardwood Mix is the perfect floor for almost any design.
If you are looking for a unique, one-of-a kind floor like this beautiful installation in Parker, Colorado, call Ward Hardwood today! This floor is currently in-stock in our climate-controlled warehouse, ready for installation in your home, and Ward Hardwood is proud to have over 30 years of experience in the Rustic and Reclaimed Flooring Industry. We are also able to re-finish your existing floors, and frequently install traditional strip flooring, so whatever your taste in flooring may be, we can help you walk on the floor of your dreams. Call us today at 303-674-6966 or email info@wardhardwoodflooring.com, and don’t forget to check out our current specials on our website!
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Hardwood Flooring Maintenance Tips in Colorado
October 24th, 2018
Having new hardwood flooring installed or existing hardwood refinished is an exciting way to refresh a living space, but proper care and maintenance is needed in order to maintain the floors. You can keep your floors looking flawless by keeping up with the following tasks:
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Sweeping and Vacuuming:
Dust and dirt can quickly pile up on your hardwood floors. Not only does this create an unsanitary environment, but also poses an allergen risk. All the pollen, dust and bacteria can dissipate through the air, causing itchy eyes and runny noses. It is crucial to vacuum your floors with a floor-brush attachment or sweep with a microfiber cloth to pick up dirt and debris. Avoid using a normal broom or running the vacuum across the floor as this can cause scratches, especially as the finish is curing. Be sure to place rugs by entryways or areas of high traffic that can easily be washed if necessary to prevent dirt from being tracked in on the flooring.
Mopping:
When it comes to mopping your floors, an ideal amount for upkeep is about twice per month, or weekly if possible, depending on the amount of traffic across the floor. In the process of mopping, be cautious and use the smallest amount of water possible to prevent any damage to the wood. It is highly recommended to get a dedicated bucket and mop to be used solely for the hardwood floors to prevent contamination, scratches and other damage to the finish. Use only light cleaners that are specifically designed for hardwood floors or simply use a small amount of white vinegar and water while mopping to ensure that the floors can be re-coated in the future. If a beverage or food is spilled on the hardwood floors, clean it up immediately! The longer it is able to sit and soak into the floors, the higher chance it could cause major damage.
Protecting Your Floors:
Scratches and scuffs do happen, but there are a few things you can do to reduce the amount of damage that normal traffic will cause on your flooring. First, use protector pads on all of your furniture, even if it doesn’t move that often. Refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, and other large furniture typically have smaller legs that can cause significant damage even if only moved slightly. When moving furniture onto hardwood floors, use protector pads or spacers underneath the furniture to be sure that the finish is not scratched. You can pick up floor protectors at your local home and garden store, or as a last resort in a time of need, a towel or blanket can be used as well.
Next, keep shoes off while in the home, especially shoes with narrow heels as they can easily dent or scratch your floors. Rocks, dirt and debris can become lodged in shoes and cause damage over time in high traffic areas, so place rugs at entryways and in areas of high traffic to minimize the damage caused by anything tracked in from outside the home. Also, always keep pet nails trimmed as they can cause damage over time.
Are you ready for a hardwood floor installation or refinishing in your home? At Ward Hardwood Flooring we can help you bring life to any space with a brand-new floor, or we can give your existing hardwoods a new face. From unfinished strip flooring to prefinished floors to wide plank and reclaimed products, we can handle it all! With over 30 years of industry experience, you can trust us to help with your project no matter if it’s big or small. Get your free estimate to get your renovation started!