Custom cuts, Borders & Designs
Several methods are used to cut raw wood logs into boards for flooring. Plain Sawing is the most common method. Because it makes the best use of the raw wood, plain sawing is the most cost-efficient method. However, variations and growth ring patterns are more noticeable.Quarter Sawing and Rift Sawing cut the boards from the log in a different manner than plain sawing. These methods are more expensive because they waste more of the raw log. However, boards produced by these methods can be more dimensionally stable and can wear more evenly.The Rotary Cut method is used to shear thin layers from the perimeter of raw logs. Most engineered wood floors are cut in this manner.
Finishes
Lasting beauty requires minimal care with today’s wood floor finishes. The right finish protects wood flooring from wear, dirt and moisture while giving the wood an attractive color and sheen. Today most wood floors are finished with a stain and a top coat. Technology has provided a wide selection of wood flooring finishes, each with its own distinct benefits and appearances.
Surface Finishes
Surface finishes are very popular today because they are durable, water-resistant and require minimal maintenance. Urethanes or ployurethanes remain on the surface of the wood and form a protective coating. They are generally available in high-gloss, semi-gloss, satin and matte.There are basically three types of surface finishes:
- Oil-modified urethane is generally the most common surface finish and is easy to apply. It is a solvent-base polyurethane that dries in about 48 hours per coat. This type of finish ambers with age.
- Moisture-cure urethane is a solvent-base polyurethane that is more durable and more moisture resistant than other surface finishes. Moisture-cure urethane comes in non-yellowing and in ambering types and is generally available in satin or gloss. These finishes are extremely difficult to apply, have a strong odor and are best left to the professional. Drying time is about 20 hours per coat.
- Water-based urethane is a waterborne urethane that dries by water evaporation. These finishes are clear and non-yellowing. They have a milder odor than oil-modified finishes have and they dry in about two to three hours. Foot traffic should be held off for 48 hours. Water based urethanes are generally more expensive.
Penetrating Wax & Stains
Penetrating stains are used to alter the natural color of wood materials to suit the home owner’s taste. Colors can range from dark brown to off white, with the wood being stained and the finish used contributing to the final color. It is always wise to request a sample of what you select before the work is even started.Paste wax finishes are not as common as they once were, but in certain instances the “patina” appearance will best suit the decor. They require more maintenance than urethane finishes; and new wax needs to be applied to the floors periodically as determined by use.
Borders & Inserts
Adding a wood border as part of your floor design can make a simple statement or create a sophisticated look. Borders can be selected from a single contrasting wood feature strip to a geometric border with multiple wood species in their natural colors.
Borders can be designed to be either subtle or bold to suit your taste.
Also available are medallions and other inserts which could enhance a foyer, formal dining room or even an office reception. These medallions are either pre-manufactured for cost effectiveness or custom made to your specifications.
