Flooring FAQ

Water vs. Oil

The question of which is better water-based finished or oil based finishes does not have a definitive answer. Generally speaking either type of a similar quality will have similar durability. The urethane content, sometimes referred to as solids content, affects the quality and durability most often, the higher solids content levels indicate a better finish.

The quality issue usually comes down to hardness and resilience. Most often in residential application resilience ( the ability to “bounce back”) is more important. Higher levels of resilience will reduce scratching and finish wear.

Most higher-grade water based finishes will be clear and will not yellow with age. This does not mean that the floor will not change colour. UV rays will affect the wood itself. Some water based finishes will be or can be slightly tinted to give an oil look. Most oil based finishes will have an amber tint, which will darken with age.

The biggest differences between the two types of finish are the cure time and odor. Generally speaking water-based cures quicker usually 80% within 72 hours and 100% within 60 days. Oil based finishes cure at about 50% within 72 hours and 100% within 90 – 120 days. Cure times can vary substantially with products, site conditions and application methods. If this is of major concern ask your contractor for product information. The V.O.C.s (volatile organic compounds) in both products can be hazardous to work with and it is important that you review the material safety data sheet when working with floor finishes.

Prefinished vs. Unfinished Flooring

In general the cost from one to the other on a completed job will be the same when comparing similar grades and species.

Unfinished wood will require installation then sanding and finishing. It will give you more sandings in the future that will lengthen the life of the floor. Having the floor finished onsite will give you more options as to species, size, colour and custom patterns or inlays. Normally, unfinished wood will have a better average length. The floor will be virtually flat when finished.

Prefinished wood will only require installation, which will reduce the time until you can use the floor. There will be less dust created and there should be no odors. By being finished in a controlled environment there are less opportunities for finish defects. In areas of high relative humidity change the micro-bevel, on virtually all Prefinished solid wood flooring, will make any gaps from contraction of the wood less visible.

What is Engineered Hardwood Flooring?

Engineered wood flooring is basically a multi-ply product. It usually consists of three or more plys with the top and bottom layer of the same or similar species and the core layer(s) oriented perpendicular to the surface layers. The surface layer can be rotary cut, sliced or sawn and this will affect the performance of the flooring in certain situations. Generally this flooring will be priced higher than solid wood but it has site condition advantages. Some engineered flooring can be floated (glued or connected together without connection to the sub floor), glued or fastened. It can be used in areas where humidity change would prohibit the use of solid wood (below grade, etc.) Many engineered products have a surface layer thick enough that refinishing is possible.

What is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring generally consists of the high-density fiberboard core with dyed or printed paper surface that is then coated or finished. It can be used in even more extreme humidity change areas. It can be floated or glued. Most laminates are now designed with a “click” or self-locking connection making them easier and quicker to install. Laminates are generally lower in price and some now come with a textured surface to more accurately replicate wood or other flooring products. It will expand and contract but not to the degree that solid wood will.

Solid Wood vs. Engineered Wood vs. Laminate

The best way to determine which product is best for your application is to understand the advantages of each. Generally speaking solid wood will retain or increase in value, it will allow for more short term and long term options. Engineered wood can be used in areas where solid wood would be problematic, it has a solid wood look and retains some value. Laminate is often less expensive, it can be used in areas where even engineered wood could be problematic and often it is easier to do yourself.

Can I do my own Installation?

Yes, but ... flooring is a finishing part of the job and some special skills and care are required. If you wish to install the flooring yourself, get as much information as you can before starting, consider all the issues your jobsite might create, anticipate the amount of time it will take and consider getting a quote from a professional. Most contractors will be able to complete the job in substantially less time and will stand behind their workmanship. You can sand and finish your own floor but you will require equipment from a rental company and a source for the quality of finish you wish to use.

How Do I Find a Qualified Installer?

Investing a little time in finding a contractor can save a lot of time and money in the end. Check out the listings in the local yellow pages, call the local distributors, get referrals from other people you know with wood flooring. Take the time to check references and view jobs or at least pictures of jobs. Professional floor installers work on reputation and should not hesitate to give references.