Hardwood Floors Juneau AK

With Expert: James J. Carroll II
Vice President
Legno Veneto
Buffalo, NY

Q. I have two small kids and a dog. How durable are hardwood floors in a high-traffic area?

A. Choosing the right wood and the finish are key to determining wear -- but so is traffic. Here's the skinny on all three factors:
 

Hardness
Wood hardness is measured by the JANKA hardness scale. Obviously a harder floor won't be as quick to show everyday wear. Generally, everything is compared against the benchmark rating of Red or White Oak at 1360 on the JANKA scale. A species like American Cherry can sink as low as 900, while a species like Doussie can reach as high as 1800.

Finish
The finish applied to a hardwood floor, be it in the factory for a pre-finished hardwood floor, or in the home for a site-finished hardwood floor, plays a big role in a floor's life span. Be aware that a poly matte finish will show a lot less wear than a shiny finish.

Some finishes contain Aluminum Oxide, a powder that is mixed into a urethane floor finish to add strength and durability. Another finish-factor to look for is how the factory actually applies the finish. Most mills use a "roll finishing line" with a UV Light system to dry and cure the urethane finish. Usually 3 - 5 coats with Aluminum Oxide. There are a few firms - primarily in Europe- that use a "curtain coat finish," a process that actually pours the finish 100% evenly over every inch of plank. This process is usually applied even AFTER roller coats have been applied. The curtain coat process leaves a very thick finish, so thick that Aluminum Oxide is not necessary.

Tongue oil finishes, wax finishes, etc. are not as durable but the look they emulate is often one of antiquity, so less durable is almost preferred.

Traffic
And finally, traffic. Whether it be in your home, office, showroom, restaurant, whatever; traffic will effect the life of any floor, har...