Attractive oak hardwood flooring is going to increase your market value of your home if you are interested to market it else it will continue on providing a relaxing appeal to your house. Question for flyers or brochures from the local hardwood dealers of yours and evaluate the types of hardwood that they sell. Often small dogs and cats can hurt hardwood floors.
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Is Maple Hardwood Flooring Durable
The longer this surface contamination is actually remaining on the floor, the more deeply embedded the trash gets and this leads to more damage to the finish. You want the flooring to be at an effective moisture level for your home/interior climate which is usually between 6 9 % moisture content. Other junk and dust on the surface area of hardwood flooring gets soil into the finish, and this causes floors to dull over time.
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Many folks imported prefinished floors have very little durability and the finish may be taken off with a few swipes of 150 grit sandpaper. With thicknesses varying from ¼" to 9/16", with the most prevalent thickness of 3/8" to ½" selected, engineered wood floor surfaces average $3. However, a number of kinds of engineered hardwood could in addition be floated over existing floors like tile or vinyl flooring.
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Is Maple Hardwood Flooring Durable: A Comprehensive Guide
Maple hardwood flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners due to its timeless beauty and versatility. However, before investing in this type of flooring, it is important to consider its durability. In this article, we will delve into the topic of whether maple hardwood flooring is durable and explore its various aspects in detail.
I. Understanding Maple Hardwood Flooring
Maple hardwood is derived from the wood of the maple tree, known for its strength and durability. It is classified as a hardwood due to its density and resistance to wear and tear. Maple hardwood flooring is available in different varieties, including hard maple (Acer saccharum) and soft maple (Acer rubrum). Both types offer unique characteristics and varying levels of durability.
1. Hard Maple:
Hard maple, also known as sugar maple, is renowned for its exceptional hardness and durability. It ranks high on the Janka hardness scale, which measures a wood’s resistance to indentation. With a Janka rating of 1450 pounds-force (lbf), hard maple surpasses many other popular hardwoods such as oak (1290 lbf) and hickory (1820 lbf). This robustness makes hard maple an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and kitchens.
FAQs:
Q: Is hard maple resistant to scratches?
A: Yes, hard maple is highly resistant to scratches due to its density. However, it is still recommended to use protective pads on furniture legs to prevent any potential damage.
Q: Can hard maple withstand heavy furniture?
A: Yes, hard maple can withstand the weight of heavy furniture without denting or warping. It is advisable to distribute the weight evenly by using furniture coasters or glides.
2. Soft Maple:
Soft maple, as the name suggests, is comparatively less dense than hard maple but still possesses notable durability. It has a Janka rating ranging from 700 to 950 lbf, depending on the specific species and growth conditions. While soft maple may not be as resistant to wear as hard maple, it is still a reliable choice for residential flooring applications.
FAQs:
Q: Does soft maple dent easily?
A: Soft maple is more prone to dents than hard maple due to its lower density. However, it can still withstand regular foot traffic and minor impacts without significant damage.
Q: Can soft maple be used in high-traffic areas?
A: Soft maple is suitable for moderate to low-traffic areas such as bedrooms and offices. In high-traffic areas, it is recommended to use rugs or mats to protect the flooring from excessive wear.
II. Factors Influencing Durability
Apart from the inherent characteristics of maple hardwood flooring, several external factors can impact its overall durability. Let’s explore these factors in detail:
1. Finish:
The finish applied to maple hardwood flooring plays a crucial role in enhancing its durability. A high-quality finish not only protects the wood from stains and moisture but also adds an additional layer of resilience against scratches and abrasions. The most common types of finishes used for maple hardwood flooring include oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, and aluminum oxide.
FAQs:
Q: Which type of finish is the most durable for maple hardwood flooring?
A: Aluminum oxide finishes are known for their exceptional durability and resistance to scratches. They provide long-lasting protection for maple hardwood flooring.
Q: How often should I ref Inish my maple hardwood flooring?
A: The frequency of refinishing depends on the amount of wear and tear your maple hardwood flooring receives. On average, it is recommended to refinish every 5-10 years, or when signs of wear, scratches, or dullness become noticeable.
2. Moisture and Humidity:
Maple hardwood flooring is sensitive to changes in moisture and humidity levels. Excessive moisture can cause the wood to expand and warp, while low humidity can lead to shrinkage and cracks. Maintaining a balanced indoor environment with proper ventilation and humidity control is essential for preserving the durability of maple hardwood flooring.
FAQs:
Q: How do I prevent moisture damage to my maple hardwood flooring?
A: To prevent moisture damage, avoid excessive water spills and clean up any spills immediately. Use mats or rugs in areas prone to moisture, such as entryways or kitchens. Additionally, maintain a stable indoor humidity level between 35% and 55% to minimize the risk of warping or shrinking.
Q: Can I use a steam mop on my maple hardwood flooring?
A: It is not recommended to use a steam mop on maple hardwood flooring as the excess moisture can penetrate the wood and cause damage. Instead, use a damp mop or a specialized hardwood floor cleaner.
3. Maintenance:
Regular maintenance practices can significantly extend the durability of maple hardwood flooring. This includes sweeping or vacuuming regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can strip away the finish and damage the wood.
FAQs:
Q: How should I clean my maple hardwood flooring?
A: To clean maple hardwood flooring, use a soft broom or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dirt and dust. For deeper cleaning, dampen a microfiber mop with a mixture of water and a mild hardwood floor cleaner. Avoid excess water and ensure the floor dries quickly after cleaning.
Q: Can I use vinegar to clean my maple hardwood flooring?
A: While vinegar is often recommended as a natural cleaner, it is not suitable for use on maple hardwood flooring. The acidity of vinegar can damage the finish and potentially harm the wood surface. Stick to mild hardwood floor cleaners specifically designed for use on hardwood floors.
What are the factors that contribute to the durability of maple hardwood flooring?
There are several factors that contribute to the durability of maple hardwood flooring:1. Hardness: Maple is considered a hard species of wood, with a Janka hardness rating of around 1450. This means it is more resistant to dents and scratches compared to softer woods like pine or birch.
2. Density: Maple has a high density, which makes it less prone to warping, twisting, or cupping. It also helps in reducing moisture absorption and makes the flooring more stable.
3. Finish: A high-quality finish applied to the maple hardwood flooring enhances its durability. A protective layer such as polyurethane or aluminum oxide helps to resist stains, scratches, and wear over time.
4. Maintenance: Regular maintenance practices like sweeping, vacuuming, and using non-abrasive cleaning products can help preserve the durability of maple hardwood floors. Avoiding excessive moisture exposure or direct sunlight can also prevent damage.
5. Installation: Proper installation techniques play a crucial role in the longevity of maple hardwood flooring. Ensuring the planks are properly acclimated to the environment and using appropriate underlayment or subflooring can prevent issues like buckling or gaps.
6. Quality of the wood: Choosing high-quality maple hardwood from reputable sources ensures that the wood is properly dried and milled, reducing the risk of structural defects or problems down the line.
7. Environmental conditions: Maintaining consistent humidity levels within the recommended range (usually between 35-55%) helps prevent excessive expansion or shrinking of the wood, which can lead to cracks or warping.
8. Foot traffic: Limiting heavy foot traffic and taking precautions like using mats or area rugs in high-traffic areas can help protect maple hardwood floors from premature wear and tear.
By considering these factors, homeowners can ensure that their maple hardwood flooring remains durable and beautiful for many years.