Author: Tomasz Poznanski

With all of the options that exist for do-it-yourself projects, one may assume that they’re all pretty much the same. This could not be further from the truth. As an example, hardwoodflooring might require more than a good YouTube video in the way of instruction and full comprehension of what you’re up against. A hardwood flooring project can easily be derailed by nothing more than a lack of experience. If you’re not careful, you might even nullify the warranty of the flooring. So, without prior experience or vast knowledge, you might want to leave the installation of hardwood flooring up to the professionals. That said, we are going to show you a handful of tips regarding hardwood flooring installation. This way, if you are an accomplished do-it-yourselfer, you may be more likely to succeed in the pursuit of your project.

Cleaning Agents

When it comes to newly installed hardwoods, one of the biggest problems is cleaning agents. Chances are, there are flooring care instructions recommended by the manufacturer. Using the wrong cleaning agents can actually void the warranty. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning/care instructions to maintain your hardwood floors.

The Addition of VOCs

The fact that you’re using a natural product increases the healthy home advantage. Don’t make the mistake of using high VOC adhesives for the installation of your new floors. Your lungs and the atmosphere will thank you. We recommend using Bona R851® silane-based wood flooring adhesives as these products release zero VOC’s, are GREENGUARD Certified and can be used over Radiant Heat Systems.

Subflooring Inspection

To avoid “overwood” (plank unevenness) and other associated problems, make sure that your subfloors are level, well attached, sturdy, and clean prior to installation. If you are planning to remove old flooring, remember to completely remove the old adhesive from the subfloor. If the new layer of glue contains remnants of the old adhesive, the latter may compromise the new adhesive’s performance and your floors will not adhere properly. If in doubt, always read adhesive application instructions thoroughly.

Flooring Acclamation

You may run the risk of shrinkage or expansion if, at the time of installation, the flooring has not adapted to the moisture in the environment. The correct term for this process is called acclimation. It is important to begin preparations at least three to five days prior to installation. For example, store the flooring cartons in the room (open both ends) to allow for sufficient air flow. This will help the flooring products acclimate to the conditions in the room. Always refer to the Manufacturer’s Installation Guidelines for proper acclimation instructions.

Figuring the Square Footage

One of the most common mistakes that people make is not ordering enough flooring tiles for the project. That’s why it is better to get slightly more than what you
actually need. After measuring the square footage of the work area, increase these measurements at least 7 to 10%. This practice will help reduce shortage issues. In addition, consider including stairs, hallways, closets, etc. (if applicable). Quick Pro Tip: A laser measurement device is much more accurate and quicker than a tape measure. Additionally, don’t hesitate to measure at least twice. This way, you can order the correct amount of wood flooring products from the get-go.

But Before You Begin…

With all of the above already stated, one of the most important things to remember when installing hardwood flooring is to completely and thoroughly read the warranty
and manufacturer’s installation instructions. We can’t stress this enough! With each subfloor situation and from product to product, manufacturer’s installation instructions may vary. Reading the warranty will help you not void it by something that you do either before, during, or after installation. Shop Eko Flooring and Woodwork for organic, eco-friendly, sustainable, and high-quality flooring options. We carry hardwood flooring that can make any room in your home look renewed, refreshed, and revitalized. Why not set up a time and date at which to speak to one of our team members? Contact us today.

Toxic spaces in your home make for poor indoor air quality, in addition to ruining the environment as a whole. If you have any doubt, ask one of your friends who suffers from migraines, allergies, or asthma. Children, as well as ill or elderly individuals’ lungs can be compromised by poor indoor air quality. Additionally, significantly contributing to the environment’s air quality are VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

So, what does all of these have to do with eco-friendly wood flooring? The answer should be relatively obvious. Here is a breakdown:

Indoor Air Quality

The following components can affect our indoor air quality:

• Allergens
• Poor ventilation
• Humidity and/or moisture

In your home, any of these (or a combination) elements can create less than desirable breathing and living conditions. Noxious circumstances take everything a step further through “off-gassing”. Your health and environment can be adversely affected by off-gassing.

Off-Gassing and VOCs

When VOCs or chemical particles (volatile organic compounds) are released into the air you breathe, off-gassing occurs. They can be released through electronic devices, paint, countertops, mattresses, drapes, cabinetry, furniture, etc. The reason that flooring is one of your home’s major contributors to off-gassing is its sheer square footage. Adding to the problem are certain hardwoods, ceramic tiles, vinyls, laminates, and carpets that include grout, plastics, finishes, sealers, and/or glue.

In your home, formaldehyde is one of the most common VOCs found in the environment. It occurs naturally everywhere around us in non-toxic levels – even in our bodies! However, even with an organic product like hardwood, when formaldehyde levels are compounded by chemical additives, higher levels of VOCs can be produced by one’s flooring.

Toxic Flooring

Off-gassing  adversely affects both the ecosystem and our personal well-being. Many people today are examining their carbon footprint with concerns for the environment. When choosing a floor, there are a number of factors to consider.

Contributing to ground level ozone formation are VOC emissions. Poor air quality and smog are created by ground-level ozone. This, in turn, can impact our agriculture, nutrient cycles, water, crops, and more.

Will choosing the right eco-friendly flooring really make that big of a difference? You have to start somewhere. Each and every choice you make can help transform the environment, yourself, and one’s house, into a happier, healthier existence.

Turn To Eko Flooring and Woodwork For Eco-Friendly Flooring

Eko Flooring and Woodwork takes pride in doing things differently than the way everybody else does it. We use eco-friendly, non-toxic finishes that are healthy for our customers’ families and the environment. With years of experience, our technicians are certified under numerous classifications and extensively educated. Our floors are Green building certified. To see our certifications, click here.

Naturally, customer satisfaction is guaranteed for every job we do.

At Eko Flooring and Woodwork, we carry wall and ceiling coverings, wide plank flooring, design flooring, and much more. We offer light wood tones, grays, naturals, and darks. Whatever your decor, whichever room you want to floor, and whatever affect you wish to achieve, we’ve got you covered – and your floor, too! Contact us today to find out more.