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Hardwood floor installation is an exciting process. New floors completely change the look and feel of your home and they increase its overall value. As with any investment, it is important to follow proper steps and guidelines to achieve the desired result. This includes the very important step of hardwood flooring material acclimation.

What is hardwood acclimation?

 Wood acclimation is the time period for the wood being installed in your home to “acclimate” to your home’s temperature and humidity levels.  Wood is a dynamic material, so naturally there will be expansion and contraction. With our dry, arid Colorado climate; the different levels of humidity (or lack of) can cause seasonal gapping and shrinkage. With proper acclimation to optimum temperature and humidity levels in your home prior to installation, this seasonal shrinkage and gapping is kept to a minimum.
   

What should I know to achieve proper acclimation?

Acclimation is very important for avoiding shrinkage and cracking in your new hardwood floor. We recommend delivering the flooring to your home at least 7 to 14 days prior to installation; longer if we are in a very wet season or your material is a very dense wood. The flooring should be stocked in or near the areas for installation, in a “log cabin” fashion; not in the garage or damp basement floor.
 
During this time, the house should be completely closed and heated/cooled properly. All “wet work” such as painting or drywall needs to be completed prior to delivering your material for acclimation.

Several factors will affect the time needed for acclimation; see how long it takes to acclimate wood floor.
 
Remember that it is very important to take the time to properly acclimate your hardwood material prior to installation to minimize seasonal gapping and shrinkage of your new hardwood flooring.
   
By allowing the experienced staff at Ward Hardwood Flooring handle your hardwood floor installation, you can rest assured we will properly install your new hardwood flooring with climate in mind. We can also review your home’s conditions with you and help you keep conditions optimal. Learn more about the acclimation of wood flooring and contact us at 303-674-6966 to get started with your new hardwood floor project.

Hardwood floor installation is a smart addition for a home. This low maintenance flooring option is aesthetically pleasing, does not go out of style, helps with allergies and so much more. There are many advantages and options you have when choosing to add hardwood flooring in your home. One often overlooked option that is recently more popular with homeowners is open vents - making it appear seamless as they transition into floors or accent walls.  Learn how this option may be great for your remodel!

Aesthetics

While your local hardwood provider is installing your hardwood flooring, they can easily work in the spaces for your vents. In doing so, the vents will be flush with your floor and won't create any distractions to the eye. Work with the experts to find new Wooden Flush Mount and Rim Mount Vents that match the color and décor of your home. Hardwood flooring experts will be able to make vents of the same or similar material as your hardwood flooring to create a truly seamless look that will last as long as your beautiful new floors.
 

Benefits

By having a seamless floor vent, you avoid raised vents that can catch on toes, clothing, etc. Plus, if you are installing hardwood flooring, you can work with the company on being able to match or use the same wood that is being used in the installation for that perfect seamless look. They can be made in a variety of sizes to accommodate your existing home arrangement. Your installation company will be able to be completely precise and get just the perfect size to fit each vent in your home.

Cleaning

It is important to keep your hardwood floor vents clean. Not only will this help your allergies but will also help with your heating and cooling system’s efficiency. When cleaning, turn off your air system, remove the vents and use your vacuum attachment to removal all dust. Also, be sure to get all around the creases within the vent too. Clean vents at least every six months. Learn more tips about cleaning vents and other hard to reach areas. Cleaning your vents is a good time also to change the air filter in your home, so it is a smart habit to synchronize those tasks together. Avoid using anything abrasive or harsh cleaners, just as you know to do for your hardwood floors to keep your vents looking as pristine as the day they were first installed.
  For all of your hardwood floor installation needs, Ward Hardwood Flooring has you covered! For over 30 years we have proudly provided high quality finished floors and specialize in rustic, reclaimed and wide plank flooring. One other flooring accessory we specialize in are wooden Flush Mount and Rim Mount vents. By letting us seamlessly match wooden vents to your new installation or refinish, you can trust in having a product made with the highest quality craftsmanship. We use the finest materials available in most species and styles to help match existing floors or install new. Learn about the different types of wood vents available and give us a call at 303-674-6966 to get started on your next project!

When trying to achieve the perfect mixture of rustic accents in your home décor, you have a plethora of options. Reclaimed materials are an especially great home addition that can add character and warmth to any room. By incorporating in various vintage pieces here and there, you can create a warm, inviting look and feel for you, your family, and guests. 
 

Dining Room Tips:

The perfect dining room will have hints of wood to accent or highlight certain areas. Achieve this look with a table made of high quality reclaimed wood. Choose a style that allows you to see the grain in the wood that can really add character. Pair it with wooden chairs that have quaint cushions attached to them, or choose a table with bench seating. Refinished chairs are a great way to keep with a rustic theme, and bench seating on one or both sides of a table will help save space and create an open feeling. Have a window seat? Save even more space in your kitchen by incorporating your table or dining nook there. Dress it up with vintage vases and other unique pieces. Polish the room off with a gorgeous hanging chandelier or other lighting ideas  and tie the whole room together.
 

Décor

The structure of the house generally will set the tone for a rustic feel. To complete it, incorporate special items that match the same style in décor. Reclaimed wood can be used for shelving throughout your home, in the kitchen - use it for open shelving for dishes and glassware and stay on trend with the current styles while still incorporating the rustic feel. Or consider reclaimed material for a wall accent. 
 

Reclaimed Mantels

A great use for reusing wood is by adding a custom mantel. It will become the focal point of your living room and add a level of comfort. You can use aged wood to really give the space a sense of history. You can add a piece of artwork above your mantel to incorporate some color and vibrancy to the space and tie together some of your other staples in the room like couches or rugs. Incorporating stone into your fireplace design can also create an old-world feeling that encompasses that rustic design aesthetic.
 
To help create the home of your dreams call Ward Hardwood Flooring. Our selection of beams, timbers and mantels from 19^th and 20^th century structures are aged and reliable. You can trust these home additions will last for many years to come and add character to your home. Learn more about our beams, timbers and mantels to see how we can help bring your vision to life! From flooring to accents, we can help with it all. We have provided homeowners great solutions for over 30 years and can help accomplish any look! Give us a call at 303-674-6966 or contact us now to get started.

After hardwood floor installation in your home, you can keep your floors flawless in appearance by maintaining your investment. Make this happen by routinely keeping up with the following tasks:

Sweeping and Vacuuming:

Dust and dirt can quickly pile up on your hardwood floors. Not only does this create an unsanitary environment, but can also create allergen risk. All of the pollen and dust can go through the air causing itchy eyes and runny noses. That being said, it is crucial to sweep or vacuum your floors on a weekly basis, at minimum. Many vacuums today have a function specifically for non-carpet floors, which can do a better job at removing dust and other particles from the floor. If your vacuum doesn’t have this option (a floor-brush attachment), do not use the vacuum on your hardwood floor as it can create scratches. If you can use your vacuum, use the tools to get in the crevices. If you do not have this option, just use your handy broom and dustpan or cleaning pads to get the job done. 

Mopping:  

When it comes to mopping your floors, an ideal amount for upkeep is about twice per month, or weekly if possible. In the process of mopping, be very cautious to use the smallest amount of water that you can so you do not have any standing water that the wood can soak up. We also highly recommend to get a dedicated bucket and mop to be used just for your wood floors. Be cautious, and only use light cleaners that are specifically for hardwood floors or simply use a small amount of white vinegar added to your water. It is also advised not to use steam mops as they can break down protective coating on your flooring. When you are using cleaners on your floor, keep them in your pail and not applied directly to the floor for the same reason - and never use any cleaner that is not designed specifically for hardwood floors. Also, if you spill a beverage or food on your hardwood floors, clean it up immediately! The longer it is able to sit and soak into your floors, the higher chance it could cause major damage. 

Protecting your Floors:

Scratches and scuffs happen, but there are a few things you can do to reduce this from happening and ruining your gorgeous floors. First, use protector pads on all of your furniture (i.e. the bottom of your table, chairs, couches, television stands, etc.) to maintain as little damage as possible. Next, when moving furniture on hardwood floors, use protector pads or spacers underneath the furniture to ensure it does not scratch. You can pick them up at your local home goods store, or as a last resort in time of need, use a blanket! Next, keep your shoes off in the home. Shoes with heels especially can easily dent or scratch your floors. The similar thing goes for pets with long nails—so try to keep them trimmed at all times. Learn more helpful tips and cleaning information in our FAQs. 

Are you ready for hardwood flooring installation in your home? We at Ward Hardwood Flooring can create the atmosphere you are looking for your home. From unfinished strip flooring to prefinished floors, we can handle it all. Get your free estimate to get your renovation started! 

Even though a home remodeling project makes your space seem “new,” there are plenty of ways to recycle resources. One of those ways is to use barn doors in your design.  Many homeowners are enjoying this trend and using it in many different ways in their homes. Not only does it have a unique, classic look, they can also create a safe space. Learn how you can revamp your doors with this latest trend. 

First Impressions:
If the goal of your home renovation project  is to create a country, classic feel, this door style will definitely complement that theme well. You can find reclaimed doors that bring an old piece of wood back to life and provide that welcoming feel. You can also paint the door to match the exterior of your home if so desired, along with integrating pieces of hardware that add character. From knobs to rods, there are a variety of options to provide that great first impression to guests.
 
Space Savers:
Not only is this type of door gorgeous, it is a great space saver! Barn doors are great because they eliminate the need for a door to swing or protrude out. You can install barn doors on a runner, so they slide open rather than swing.  Because of this ability, you can use them in more ways than just entry/exit ways from rooms. They are a great addition for storage areas. For instance, simplify space in your kitchen with a sliding pantry door. It will also serve a dual purpose and add personality to the space. Next, consider a sliding door for a room separator. If you have a home with closed off rooms, consider replacing a wall with sliding doors. This will allow you the option to open up the space but close it off if needed.

Around the Home: 
The great things about barn doors are their diverse uses. In addition to the space saving ideas, you can truly use this door style in all rooms. In living rooms that exit onto a back patio, having barn doors with large windows will bring in more natural light. This will make your space look even bigger—especially if the room is painted a light color. For bedrooms, this door style is the perfect add for a cozy feel. Have a bathroom inside your bedroom? A sliding door is the perfect addition! With some easy hardware, you can add flair to your bedroom that saves space. See examples of how homeowners have used this door style in This Old House’s article “11 Inspirational Barn Door Ideas.”  
  Are you ready to incorporate barn doors into your home remodel project? Ward Hardwood Flooring can help! With over 30 years in business, we can find the perfect materials to match your personality and style. View our selection of doors and hardware to browse through potential options for your home. When you are ready to get started, let us help! Visit our showroom at 29390 Industrial Way (#100) in Evergreen, Colorado. We are open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and by appointment on Saturday. You can also call us at 303-674-6966.