Hardwood replacement clues range from all-too obvious to very slight and subtle. However, most of the time, it’s not too difficult to tell when a floor is coming to the usable end of its life. In most instances, hardwood is salvageable and refinishing is a viable option. However, just because hardwood is able to be refinished, doesn’t mean it’s the right choice. So, read on to learn more about the most common hardwood replacement clues.
Replacement Options
If it is time to replace hardwood, then you might well change things up a bit. After all, you don’t have to install new hardwood flooring to replace the old one. Perhaps the most viable alternative is engineered flooring. It comes in a wide variety of colors, textures, and styles. (It’s even possible to find tile that looks like hardwood.) Or, go with tile. Here again, tile comes in a huge variety.
Old-growth wood–typically, Douglas fir, oak and maple–has higher density and fewer defects than new wood, and often comes in lengths of 12 ft. or more, which you won’t find at a big-box store. Salvaging it from an old home takes time but saves money; boards wider than the standard 2 1/4-in. strips are particularly valuable. --Popular Mechanics
Of course, you can also go with an alternative like pergo or another product. Obviously, there are instances when replacement is the only real solution. Therefore, you should be in-the-know about what constitutes a necessity. In other words, it’s best to do small repairs or just refinish hardwood instead of outright replacement.
Hardwood Replacement Clues to Heed in North Port
But, there are instances when replacement is the only real solution. Therefore, you should be in-the-know about what constitutes a necessity. In other words, it’s best to do small repairs or just refinish hardwood instead of outright replacement. The good news is, there are some fairly obvious wood floor replacement clues you can look for:
- Cupping. This happens when the edges begin to curl up but the middle stays flat and in-place. Over time, the edges will curl up more and more, eventually becoming all too obvious.
- Buckling. If you feel like the floor underneath your feet is loose or shifts, then this might well be due to what's known as buckling. This is when the hardwood separates from the subfloor underneath it.
- Crowning. Boards which rise in the center but have flat, in-place edges are crowning. Crowning generally occurs from moisture imbalances and does not naturally correct itself. Crowning also worsens and isn’t an easy fix.
- Board separation. Temperature and moisture fluctuations are two big factors which can easily cause the planks to separate from one another. Noticeable gaps will appear and widen over time. Now, some separation is normal during the winter. But, if the gaps don't disappear in the summer, that's a bad sign.
When you need remodeling debris removal of hardwood floor material in North Port, phone 800-433-1094 or visit AAA Rousse Services.
