Natural Wood

Wood provides natural character and adds long-lasting value to a home. It comes in many species, finishes and colors and is a comfortable, natural insulator. We offer it in strips, planks, and parquet, pre-finished and un-finished versions which can be refinished several times.

Wood should be sealed or finished in moist areas and is not suitable for installation below ground level. Solid wood strip or plank is nailed down only and requires a wood sub floor, but solid wood parquet can be glued to a variety of sub floor materials.

Engineered Wood

Engineered wood is a veneer layer of wood with a multi-layered backing criss-crossed beneath. It looks and feels like solid wood but is easier and less expensive to install. It is a good choice for below-grade installations as its laminated construction adds stability. Offered in prefinished strips and planks, it can usually be refinished at least once, if done by a professional.

Engineered strip, plank and parquet can be glued down over various types of sub-flooring, but if nailed, it must be over a wood sub-floor.

Laminates

Laminates are synthetic look-alikes for wood and stone. They are durable and stain-resistant, and easy to install, even below grade. Their hollow sound may be considered to be a disadvantage and their surface cannot be refinished. Makers of some brands discourage installation in damp places such as bathrooms.

Ceramic Tiles

It is important to choose the appropriate tile for your use. Some tiles can be installed indoors or out, while many cannot. Some tiles will withstand high traffic and heavy wear, while some are durable enough only for use on counters and walls. Ask about slip-resistance is this is important in your application.

Ceramic tiles come in many colors, styles, patterns and degrees of sheen. Light colors and larger-sized tiles will make your room appear larger, while darker, smaller tiles can make a room seem smaller and cozier. As with any flooring, bring samples home and see how they look in both daytime and night.

Glazed tiles are easy to clean and stain-resistant, but unglazed tiles are not. Grout color is also very important; white or very light grouts are hard to keep clean. Selecting a darker grout will save you considerable time on maintenance, but all grout will need periodic sealing.

Tiles must be installed on a very stable subfloor since any movement can result in cracking.

Stone

Natural stone comes in a wide variety of types and colors. It adds texture and character as well as value to your home. Stone floors can last a lifetime but the more porous types require care, including periodic sealing against stains.

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