n this section we will discuss some misconceptions
that may apply to wood floor shoppers. We do not want you to expect something that may not
results from your choice to buy hardwood flooring. Here are several things that you should be aware of
and why you should not expect them when choosing hardwood for your flooring project.
1. A table top finish.
Each piece of oak flooring sands differently depending on its grain type
(plain or quartered) making it virtually impossible for a completely flat surface.
2. Dust-free finish.
Since your floor is being finished in your home it is not possible to achieve a "clean room"
environment. Some dust will fall onto the freshly applied top finish.
3. A monochromatic floor.
Wood, as a natural product, varies from piece to piece. Remember it is not fabricated --
it is milled from a tree and will have grain and color variations consistent with the grade
and species of flooring selected.
4. A floor that will not indent.
In spite of the term "hardwood", Oak flooring will indent under high heel
traffic (especially heels in disrepair). The finish that is applied will not prevent the dents.
5. A floor without cracks
between the boards, or within the parquet pieces. Although your new floor may
start tight together, as a natural product it will continue to absorb and release moisture.
This natural process will cause the flooring to expand and contract from season to season --
resulting in cracks between some of the pieces in your floor. Some stain colors, such as white,
will show this process more than others.
Consumers must understand that furniture, cabinetry, doors, etc., are fabricated in a
factory under ideal conditions and that they contain 1-10 different pieces of wood. Their
hardwood floor is fabricated in their own home and is made up of 300 to a thousand individually
different pieces. Your floor is never to be duplicated --
a truly custom floor of their own!
