Hardwood floors have become the floor of choice for homeowners everywhere. They are preferred for their durability, ease of care, and versatility when decorating. It wasn’t long ago that having a hardwood floor meant having a traditional light oak floor. Today floors come in every color of the rainbow, custom hand scraping can create any ambiance you are seeking, and many different types of wood are being used with the focus on not only looks but sustainability. Ward Hardwood Flooring also has a large selection of the most sustainable and eco-friendly choice of all, reclaimed wood, not only for flooring, but beams and accents as well. For your particular home it is not only important to choose the correct type of wood but Wood Flooring Finishes Make a Difference as well.

Custom Hand Scraping is Different From Distressing
Our artisans can apply a variety of hand scraping techniques to your floors to add an element of country chic or urban edginess to your space. Distressed floors merely look like they have additional wear and tear, whereas truly hand crafted, scraped floors can have band saw, wire brush chatter, and sander markings, giving your loft an industrial vibe. Pillowing and edge scraping can add some texture and distinction giving our space the look of a 100 year old farmhouse. If you’re going for more of a unique, European Provincial look, we can apply custom stenciling as well. We can even add some wormholes if you’re so inclined!

Finishing Treatments
One of the reasons that hardwood floors have become so popular is that they are easy to take care of and don’t need harsh chemicals or special equipment to clean them. For longevity and to eliminate the need for re-coating, it is important that the correct type of finish is applied. There are basically three types of finishing coats: oil based, water based, and wax based.

• Wax was the most popular coating 50 or 60 years ago. It is used today but not as often. It gives the look of uncoated wood and is very quick to absorb. We don’t find this is the best option for most of our customers today. There are other choices that last longer and are easier to maintain.
• Water based coating is quick drying, allowing customers to walk on their floors in a short time. They are also low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) and are considered extremely environmentally safe. They are extremely durable but periodic recoating may be necessary, especially in high traffic areas.
• Our recommendation to most of our customers is the hardy oil based finishes. They give wood a hand rubbed look and really allow the depth of texture and color of the wood to show through. They are also more water tight for maximum durability and ease of care.

If you’re overwhelmed by the choices of hardwood finishes, wood types, and hand scraping options available, don’t be. Call us at 303-674-6966 today. We will come out and assess your space and make suggestions about how to create just the look you’re after whether it’s having new floors installed or refinishing your existing floors.