Help
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of subfloor do I need for tile installation?
- What is the difference between solid and engineered hardwood?
- Why does my new carpet appear to be shedding?
- Are there going to be seams in my carpet or linoleum?
- Why does my hardwood seam to have changed colour?
- How should I maintain my hardwood or laminate floor?
- How should I maintain my carpet?
- What is stone sealer, and why do I need it?
If your subfloor is 5/8” thick, you will need another 5/8” layer of plywood over this, screwed down preferably. There is also a product call Ditra Matt we can install instead of plywood and this comes in 2 different thicknesses. The extra subfloor will prevent excess deflection in your floors, which could cause your grout or tiles to crack.
Solid wood floors are one solid piece throughout the entire board, usually ¾” thick. It is more susceptible to expansion and contraction due to changes in humidity. Solid wood is usually not installed below grade (i.e.: basements) or over underfloor heating. It is nailed, stapled, or glued down. Solid wood can be refinished several times. Engineered wood is made up of two or more layers. Usually the top and the bottom layer are comprised of the same wood, the wood that you want to see. The middle layer(s) are of a dimensionally stable wood such as birch or hickory, and each layer has the grain running a different direction. Engineered wood is more dimensionally stable with changes in humidity so is more suited for our climate. Engineered wood can also usually be installed below grade, and some of it can be installed over underfloor heating. Engineered wood can be refinished, and the number of times will vary with different products. Engineered is installed the same as solid wood; however it can also come in click-together format.