Category Archives: Hardwood

When designing their dream home, nearly two-thirds of Americans say they would choose wood floors for their timeless appeal and durability. Here at Peak Floors, Pittsburgh’s leading wood flooring experts, we know that choosing the right hardwood floor finish is key to achieving the perfect look and lasting quality.

With so many hardwood floor finish options available, it’s important to understand how each one can impact your floor’s appearance, durability, and maintenance.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the best hardwood finishes to help you make an informed decision for your Pittsburgh home. Let’s get started with this guide to choosing a floor finish for your home.

Oil-Based Polyurethane

Oil-based polyurethane is one of the most popular hardwood floor finish options in Pittsburgh. This finish provides a warm, amber glow that enhances the natural beauty of wood.

It’s durable and stands up well to heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for busy areas like living rooms or hallways. Some of its key benefits include:

• Rich, amber color
• High durability
• Excellent protection against wear and tear

While it takes longer to dry and has a strong odor during application, the result is a long-lasting, beautiful finish that many homeowners love.

Water-Based Polyurethane

Water-based polyurethane is a great option if you’re looking for a clear finish that won’t alter the natural color of your wood floors. It dries quickly and has a lower odor, making it a more convenient choice, especially if you have a busy household.

It’s also environmentally friendly, emitting fewer volatile organic compounds than oil-based finishes. The result is a sleek, modern look with minimal maintenance, making it a popular choice for contemporary homes.

Wax Finish

Wax finishes offer a classic, timeless look that has been favored for centuries. It penetrates the wood, providing a low-sheen, matte appearance that’s easy to touch up if needed. Some advantages of wax finishes include:

• Easy spot repairs
• Soft, matte look
• Suitable for older homes

However, they require more frequent maintenance, such as regular re-waxing and buffing, to keep the floors in top condition. If you appreciate a traditional, hand-crafted look and don’t mind a bit of upkeep, a wax finish could be the perfect option for you.

Penetrating Oil Sealer

Penetrating oil sealers are another excellent option for those who want a natural, matte finish. This type of finish soaks deep into the wood, enhancing its grain and texture without creating a thick layer on top.

It’s easy to maintain, and minor scratches or stains can often be repaired with a simple reapplication. The result is a soft, natural look that highlights the beauty of the wood, making it ideal for homeowners who prefer a more organic aesthetic.

Hardwood Floor Finish Options in Pittsburgh

To sum up, choosing the right hardwood floor finish is essential for achieving the look and longevity you want for your floors. As we have highlighted above, there’s a perfect option for every home in Pittsburgh.

At Peak Floors, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you find the finish that best suits your style and lifestyle. Contact us today to explore the best hardwood floor finish options for your home.

Maintaining the beauty of your hardwood floors is essential, especially in Pittsburgh, where climate and urban conditions can quickly take a toll. But how to deep clean hardwood floors effectively without causing damage? That’s the question we’ll answer in this article.

While regular cleaning is manageable for most homeowners, deep cleaning requires more care. The last thing you want is to risk your floors with improper techniques.

Read on for expert tips on keeping your hardwood floors pristine and to find out why sometimes, it’s best to leave deep cleaning to the professionals.

Daily and Weekly Maintenance

Learning how to deep clean hardwood floors starts with having a solid routine of daily and weekly care. Regular hardwood floor maintenance is key to preserving the natural beauty and shine of your floors.

First, sweep or dust using a microfiber mop or soft-bristled broom. This will help pick up the dust and debris that can scratch the surface. Don’t forget those hard-to-reach areas like corners and baseboards.

Vacuuming is another essential step. Make sure to use the right attachment-preferably one designed for hardwood floors-to avoid causing any scratches. In Pittsburgh, where pollen and dust are common, vacuuming regularly will keep your floors looking their best.

Deep Cleaning Tips and Techniques

When it’s time for a more thorough clean, you’ll mop with a damp, not wet, mop. Why is wet mopping not a good idea? Excess water can seep into the wood and cause damage over time.

Choose the best hardwood floor cleaner that’s suitable for your wood type. Always mop in the direction of the grain to protect the wood fibers.

Drying your floors completely after mopping is vital to avoid any potential damage from moisture. Follow up with buffing to restore the floor’s shine and keep it looking polished.

These deep-cleaning tips ensure your hardwood floors remain in peak condition, even with Pittsburgh’s climate.

When to Call in the Professionals

Even with regular care, sometimes your floors need more than just a routine clean. Stubborn stains, deep-set grime, or damage caused by Pittsburgh’s winter salt and summer humidity can be tough to handle.

Professionals not only know how to deep clean hardwood floors safely, but they also have access to advanced floor cleaning solutions. Trusting experts for deep cleaning ensures your floors get the specialized care they need, leading to longevity, and preserving their gleaming finish.

We Understand How to Deep Clean Hardwood Floors

By following our deep cleaning tips, you’ll protect your investment and enjoy beautiful, lasting wood floors for many years. But remember, while routine hardwood floor maintenance is a good DIY project, deep cleaning is best left to the professionals.

Peak Floors, serving all of Western Pennsylvania, is who your neighbors call when they need experts who know how to deep clean hardwood floors. Not only do we have the experience, but we also truly care about our customers.

Reach out today to request a free estimate. See how our team can help you keep the luster in your wood flooring!

Are your old hardwood floors looking dull and worn out? Refinishing might be the solution you need. It can restore their beauty and extend their lifespan.

Join us as we look at the benefits, costs, and process of refinishing hardwood floors!

Understanding the Condition of Your Old Hardwood Floors

Before deciding to refinish your old hardwood floors, you need to assess their condition. Check for scratches, dents, and discoloration. Look for signs of water damage or warping.

If the floorboards are loose or creaky, you might need more than just refinishing. Small issues like surface scratches and minor stains are often easy to fix with refinishing.

However, deep gouges or significant structural problems might require replacing parts of the floor.

Benefits of Floor Refinishing

Refinishing hardwood floors can restore their original beauty. Over time, floors can become scratched and dull. Refinishing removes these imperfections, making the floors look new again.

This process also helps to protect the wood from future damage. A fresh finish acts as a barrier against wear and tear. Another benefit is the increase in property value.

Well-maintained hardwood floors are a desirable feature for homebuyers. Refinishing is a cost-effective way to enhance the appeal of your home without the need for a complete replacement.

Cost of Refinishing Floors vs. Replacing

When deciding between refinishing and replacing hardwood floors, cost is a major factor. Refinishing is usually cheaper.

The process involves sanding down the existing floor and applying a new finish. This can cost between $3 and $8 per square foot.

Replacing floors is more expensive. It involves removing the old floor and installing a new one, which can cost $12 to $20 per square foot. Refinishing also saves on materials and labor.

DIY Floor Refinishing vs. Professional Services

DIY refinishing can save money, but it requires time, effort, and skill. You need to rent or buy equipment and learn the proper techniques. Mistakes can be costly, both in terms of money and time.

Professional services come with expertise and experience. Professionals can achieve a high-quality finish efficiently.

They also handle any unexpected issues that might arise. While hiring professionals costs more, it often results in a better and longer-lasting finish.

The Refinishing Process: What to Expect

First, the floors are sanded to remove the old finish and smooth out any imperfections. This can be a dusty process, so proper preparation is important.

After sanding, a stain can be applied if you want to change the color of the wood. Finally, a protective finish is applied to seal the wood and add shine.

The entire process can take several days, depending on the size of the area and the drying time needed between each step. Expect some disruption during this time, but the results are usually worth it.

Make Your Old Hardwood Floors Shine!

Refinishing old hardwood floors can restore their beauty, extend their life, and increase your home’s value. Assess your floors, weigh the costs, and decide between DIY or professional help. With the right approach, your floors can look stunning again.

At Peak Floors, we’re a family-owned business that serves customers throughout western Pennsylvania. We’re proud to offer the very best technicians in the business, with a focus on top customer service.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your flooring needs!

You’ve just hosted an epic game night at your cozy home, filled with laughter, snacks, and a little friendly competition. The last guest waves goodbye, and you finally sink into your favorite armchair, reliving the night’s best moments. Suddenly, you notice a horrifying sight – a deep red wine stain glaring at you from your beautiful hardwood floor, as if taunting your pride of homeownership.

Before panic sets in and you consider hiding the evidence under a rug, take a deep breath. Whether it’s wine, chocolate, or those mysterious stains you can’t quite identify, fear not!

Let’s go through our top tips for cleaning stains from hardwood floors.

1. Figure Out the Stain Type

Before you start cleaning, it’s essential to identify the type of stain on your hardwood floor. Different stains require different approaches, and using the wrong method can worsen the stain or damage the wood.

Water stains often appear as white or light-colored rings or spots on the surface of the wood. These marks usually result from moisture getting trapped under a finish layer, often caused by spills or wet items left on the floor.

Oil-based stains, such as those from grease or food spills, typically create dark, oily spots on the hardwood. These stains can be tricky because oil seeps into the wood fibers, making them harder to remove.

2. Water Stains

To remove superficial water stains, you can use a simple home remedy. Apply a little bit of non-gel toothpaste or a paste made from baking soda and water to the stained area.

Rub the stain, moving in circular motions. Be careful not to scrub your floors too hard, as this can damage your hardwood floor finish Once the stain is gone, wipe the floor area clean with a cloth and dry it completely.

3. Oil Stains

Oil stains on beautiful oak hardwood floors are a frequent challenge, often resulting from food spills, cooking oils, or greasy substances. These stains can be particularly stubborn.

Start by blotting any excess oil from the surface using a paper towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the oil further into the wood. Once you’ve removed the surface oil, sprinkle some baking soda or cornstarch over the stain.

These powders are excellent at absorbing oil and will help draw it out of the wood. Let it sit on the oil stain for several hours, or even overnight, to maximize absorption.

4. Hardwood Floor Maintenance

Maintaining your hardwood floors is super important for preserving their beauty and longevity. Regular upkeep not only helps prevent stains but also ensures your floors remain in excellent condition.

Coatings can help protect your hardwood flooring. You might also want to consider hardwood floor refinishers.

Place rugs or mats in busy areas and near entryways to catch dirt and moisture. Ensure the mats have a backing to prevent accidents.

Cleaning Stains From Hardwood Floors: Start Today

There are so many options when it comes to cleaning stains from hardwood floors. Use this hardwood care guide, and you’ll have squeaky-clean floors in no time.

Are you looking to replace your hardwood floors? Check out Peak Floors. We’re a family-owned business dedicated to ensuring our customers get exactly what they need.

Contact us today.

Discovering gaps in hardwood floor installation can be frustrating. You might have envisioned a flawless, beautiful floor that adds elegance and warmth to your home. Instead, those pesky gaps can be a real eyesore and might even pose a tripping hazard.

The good news is that these gaps aren’t necessarily a sign of poor craftsmanship. Often, they result from natural changes in temperature and humidity or minor installation issues.

Understanding why these gaps occur and how to fix them is crucial for maintaining the longevity and beauty of your hardwood floors. In this article, we’ll explore common causes, simple fixes, and effective preventive measures for dealing with gaps in hardwood floor installation. Read on to learn more about how you can tackle this problem and keep your floors looking their best.

Causes of Gaps in Hardwood Floor Installation

Gaps in hardwood floors can appear due to several factors. Seasonal changes are a common cause. Wood expands and contracts with fluctuations in temperature and humidity.

This leads to gaps during dry seasons when the wood contracts. This is especially noticeable in areas with distinct seasonal variations.

Installation issues also play a significant role. If the hardwood installation was rushed or if the wood wasn’t given enough time to acclimate to the home’s environment, gaps can form. Professional hardwood installers emphasize the importance of proper acclimation to avoid such problems.

Additionally, subfloor problems can lead to gaps. An uneven or improperly prepared subfloor won’t support the hardwood properly. This causes spaces to appear over time.

Assessing the Severity of the Gaps

Determining the severity of the gaps is straightforward. A simple visual inspection can help identify minor versus major gaps.

For a more precise assessment, a feeler gauge can measure the width of the gaps. This tool helps in deciding the appropriate repair method. If the gaps are wider than a credit card, they may require more attention.

Solutions for Fixing Gaps

Fixing gaps in hardwood floors involves several methods depending on their size. For small gaps, wood filler is an effective solution. It can be applied directly into the gaps, then sanded and stained to match the surrounding floor.

For slightly larger gaps, flexible caulk can be used. This material accommodates the natural expansion and contraction of the wood to provide a durable fill.

For wide gaps, natural fiber rope stained to match the floor can be used. This technique is particularly useful for older wood flooring where gaps are more pronounced. The rope fills the gap and blends in with the wood to maintain the floor’s aesthetic appeal.

Expert Help for Your Flooring Needs

Gaps in hardwood floor installation can be addressed effectively with the right approach. By understanding the causes and applying appropriate fixes, you can restore the beauty of your wood flooring.

At Peak Floors, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch floor repair and maintenance services. Our team of professional hardwood installers is dedicated to ensuring your floors look their best for years to come. Contact us today for a free estimate and experience the quality and care that set us apart.

As much as you may like your current flooring, it might be time to buy some new ones. Some signs that you need new floors are if there’s visible wear and tear, they make noise, and they start to smell bad.

However, you have another option if you have a tile with only surface damage. Instead of tearing it out, you might put another type of floor on top of it. Hardwood is one that is considered by many to be a more premium flooring than tile.

But can you install hardwood over tile, and what are the challenges of doing so?

Can You Install Hardwood Over Tile?

DIY tile removal isn’t always your best option, as it can create a lot of dust and debris. Installing a new floor on top of it means avoiding that issue.

Whether or not you can install hardwood over a tile floor will depend on the condition of the tile. It needs to be in good condition, not cracked or loose.

If the room has a low ceiling, then putting another layer of flooring on top will cause some height problems.

You’ll also want to purchase engineered hardwood over solid hardwood so it can be more stable over the existing floor.

Benefits of Hardwood Floor Over Tile

The first benefit of hardwood installed over tile is that it can save time and money. You’ll generate less mess, which means you’ll keep your home cleaner.

You may enjoy the overall aesthetic of wood flooring over tile. Wood goes with a lot of different types of furnishings, while patterned tile can clash with certain colors and designs.

Most importantly, hardwood can be refinished to look brand new if it starts to show wear and tear.

Hardwood Installation Process

There are a few steps involved when doing a floor installation on top of tile.

First, you’ll need to clean the tile floor so you have a smooth surface. Next, you’ll need to level the floor. Any uneven parts can damage the hardwood.

Install underlayment on top of your tile to provide a moisture barrier and cushion the space between your flooring. Finally, you’ll install the hardwood either using glue, nails, or the floating method.

Potential Challenges

You may face some challenges with doing a floor installation on top of preexisting flooring.

As previously mentioned, floor height could be an issue. It’s all too easy for a room to feel more cramped when you add another layer to the bottom.

If your flooring isn’t installed properly, then there could be stability problems. This will warp the hardwood floor over time and cause creaking.

Revive Your Home’s Floor

Can you install hardwood over tile flooring? Assuming your tile is in good condition and the room has a high enough ceiling, then yes you can. In fact, it can save you a lot of trouble trying to remove the preexisting tile.

Peak Floors provides hardwood refinishing, installation, and maintenance services in the western Pennsylvania area. We can also handle your epoxy floor installation. Reach out today to get your free estimate and learn more.

Hardwood floors add beauty and warmth to any home. They’re able to be timeless, persistently being in style no matter what the current home trends are. They’re also able to be modern, adding a sleek detail to a room.

However, you might not know there are a variety of hardwood floor installation patterns you can choose for your home. Each different pattern can add unique texture and designs to your room.

These will look beautiful in a living room, entryway, bedroom, or anywhere in your home. If you’re looking to do something unique for your home, consider these unique wood floor patterns.

Herringbone

If you’re looking to bring elegance into your home, herringbone is one of the most beautiful flooring patterns you can choose. This pattern creates an offset V-pattern that looks absolutely beautiful in the home.

Herringbone looks good with a variety of types of wood flooring, from white oak to dark cherry. This pattern can look very luxurious and elevate any interior design.

Versailles

One of the most intricate wood floor layout patterns is the Versailles. The mix of square and rectangular boards in an elegant patchwork is a beautiful option for large spaces like living rooms.

The design is incredibly grand, making any room feel very royal. Versaille floors look great paired with traditional and elegant home decor.

Chevron

Chevron is similar to herringbone in that it creates V-shapes. However, with a chevron pattern, the ends of the boards are cut at a 45-degree angle so they meet at a point.

This pattern can add tons of drama and movement to a room. It feels sleek and modern, but doing it with natural wood floors gives it some timeless appeal.

Diagonal

Standard floor installation has the wood planks running parallel to the walls. This creates a straight look that has a timeless beauty. However, you may want to consider a diagonal installation.

A diagonal installation has the boards installed in a straight line but running from one corner of a room to another. This installation style can open up the room, making it appear larger.

Parquet

One of the most traditional flooring patterns is parquet. This pattern features short planks in sets of six perpendicular to each other, creating a basketweave effect. It’s especially beautiful in small spaces like entryways.

If you have an older home, it may have original parquet flooring, which you can refinish to its original glory. The geometric look can be both timeless and modern.

Unique Hardwood Floor Installation Patterns for Your Home

Hardwood floors make a beautiful detail in your home. You can make them even more of a feature by using unique hardwood floor installation patterns. Herringbone and parquet flooring, among others, are popular options.

Unique flooring patterns paired with the warmth and beauty of wood will set your home apart. You can use any of these patterns with a standard rectangular board.

Peak Flooring is family-owned and strives to provide a personalized experience for all customers. Contact us today to discuss your next flooring project.

Whether you decide to DIY hardwood flooring installation or not, you still have to choose between solid and engineered hardwood floors.

After that, you must decide whether to go for prefinished hardwood flooring or site finish. With the latter, you or a professional can finish the hardwood planks after installation. Meanwhile, prefinished wood means the planks already have a stain and top coat applied.

For DIYers, prefinished flooring takes less time to install. However, you’re unable to customize the stain and sheen. Read on to learn more about prefinished hardwood floor’s pros and cons.

Prefinished Hardwood Flooring: The Pros

As mentioned, prefinished hardwood flooring is easier to install than unfinished hardwood flooring. Especially with DIY floor installations, where so many things can go wrong, you’d want to reduce the potential for error even more.

Since you have to level the subfloor, lay the underlayment, etc., it makes sense to want to cut down on staining, curing, and sanding. With prefinished wood floors, the last three processes (also very time-consuming) can be taken off your to-do list.

Other advantages include:

• Fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds) released during refinishing
• Offers finishes that meet industry standards (also comes with a manufacturer warranty)
• Cheaper in the long run since finishing costs can end up costing you more and
• Lasts for centuries with maintenance and possibly, multiple refinishing

Prefinished Wood Floors: Some Cons to Consider

Compared to other types of flooring, hardwood floors (prefinished or not) contracts and expands with temperature and humidity changes. That’s why installation is best left to the pros in many cases.

Still, if you’re dead set on installing hardwood flooring yourself, make sure you only do it in areas not prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Since poorly installed wood can warp faster and show gaps easily, you’re better off with other waterproof flooring options for these areas.

Another disadvantage is noticeable seams. Without proper installation and maintenance, the planks’ seams are exposed. This makes them more prone to spills and damage.

Making the Most of Your Investment

Suppose you spent a lot on refinished hardwood flooring. How do you maintain it?

First, don’t use harsh cleaning products. It’s better to make sweeping or vacuuming a daily habit if your goal is to remove grit and dust.

Also, stay away from oil soaps. Not only is the residue left a dirt magnet, but it will also ruin the finish. Consider hardwood floor refinishing if you accidentally damage your floor’s finish with excessive cleaning.

Considering Flooring Upgrades? We Got You!

Prefinished hardwood flooring is worth the investment as long as you take care to maintain it. That, of course, involves refinishing from time to time.

If you have hardwood floors that have lost their former beauty, we can help. As hardwood floor refinishing experts, Peak Floors is always ready to help with flooring upgrades at a very competitive price.

As a family-owned business, we’re all about prioritizing homeowners’ flooring needs. If you need a refinishing contractor in the western Pennsylvania area, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Are you planning on renovating your home flooring?

It’s time to consider the aesthetic and functional benefits of white oak.

This wood is even harder than other hardwood options, making it a highly durable material for home renovations. With a hardness rating of 1360, it can handle more wear, tear, and contact than most hardwood flooring materials. Thus, you can worry less about unsightly floor dents and other imperfections.

Its exceptional durability also makes white oak hardwood flooring resistant to warping; this feature lends to its design versatility, from bathrooms to backyards.

Here’s a closer look at its various applications

Ideal For Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling

Kitchen and bathroom renovations remain the top remodeling projects for homeowners. These areas receive a lot of foot traffic throughout the day and are constantly in contact with water and moisture. Thus, you need a strong hardwood option that also works well with these layouts.

White oak is a top choice for homeowners who prefer the look of hardwood in these spaces over tile. Its high-density composition protects it from water damage and rotting. It also accepts stain finishes better than other hardwood floor types.

White oak comes in a signature light shade, making it perfect for bathrooms with cream, eggshell, and white wall treatments. It also helps expand the look of a small bathroom by creating the illusion of more space.

This material comes in a variety of natural shades. Since it responds so well to stain treatments, you have even more options for colors, even mimicking the look of other hardwood materials but with the structural benefits of white oak.

White oak hardwood is especially suited for modern or minimalist-style kitchens and bathrooms. You’ll find it often in open-plan kitchens, making it an excellent choice for living room layouts, as well.

Farmhouse and Shabby Chic

Not only does white oak respond particularly well to stains and refinishing, but it can also be distressed to create a more textured look that’s ideal for farmhouse-style homes. This style is also known as “shabby chic” and works wonderfully in cozy, cottage-style kitchens with glass cabinets with distressed wood frames.

Distressed white oak floors can transform the entire look of your home, inspiring a fresh farmhouse look. Consider installing this material during your next bedroom renovation, complete with a shabby chic day bed, thick rugs, and distressed vintage furniture.

Transform Your Patio With White Oak Hardwood Flooring

Since this flooring works so well in kitchens and bathrooms, it’s ideal for outdoor spaces that withstand moisture like backyard decks, patios, walkways, and gardens.

It’s perfect for that new poolside deck you’ve been meaning to install. Simply add your wood finish to enjoy a deck designed to withstand everything from humid summers to rainstorms. You can also install it around your jacuzzi to create more outdoor entertaining and relaxation.

Include White Oak In Your Next Renovation

If you’re looking for a hardwood material that works in every area of your home, white oak hardwood flooring is the perfect choice. Remember these tips as you brainstorm ideas for your project.

Are you ready to install white oak floors today?

Let Peak Floors handle everything from material selection to installation. Our experts are standing by! Get an estimate or call us today.