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Preparing Your Floors for a D.C. Winter

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Braving the Winter Obstacles in D.C.

As winter descends upon Washington, D.C., with its biting cold, drifting snow, and slick ice, the flooring in your home faces intense challenges. These severe conditions demand proactive measures to shield and sustain your floors throughout the season.

Hardwood Floors: Frigid air and shifting humidity wreak havoc on hardwood, causing contraction, expansion, and sometimes warping or cracking. Snow and ice carried indoors can liquefy, seeping into the wood, leading to moisture-related damage.

Carpet: Winter spells trouble for carpets, with snow, ice, and gritty road salt traipsing in and leaving stains. The spike in moisture fosters mold and mildew, while hefty boots can compress fibers, ushering in premature wear.

Area Rugs: Like carpets, area rugs bear the brunt of winter’s muck. They harbor moisture and grime, which, if ignored, can ruin fibers and cause unpleasant odors.

Vital Floor Care Strategies for Winter

As D.C.’s winter looms, it’s critical to act preemptively to shield your floors from the elements. Below are crucial floor care strategies to preserve your hardwood, carpet, and area rugs during the coldest months:

Maintaining Clean and Dry Floors

The cornerstone of winter floor protection is cleanliness and dryness. Snow, ice, and melting salt can inflict major damage if neglected. Adopt a rigorous routine to mop up moisture promptly and regularly remove salt residue to avert stains and decay.

Shielding Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are susceptible to winter’s wrath. One effective measure involves refinishing ahead of winter to fortify them against moisture. Place area rugs and mats in high-traffic spots to curb the assault of snow and salt. Steer clear of water-based cleaners, which exacerbate swelling and warping. Instead, use specialized hardwood floor cleaners proposed by flooring authorities.

Preserving Carpets and Area Rugs

Though different in needs, carpets and area rugs demand equal attention in winter. Regular vacuuming is crucial to eliminate abrasive particles brought indoors. Entry mats capture much dirt, moisture, and salt before it infiltrates your carpets and rugs. Swiftly clean any salt or moisture to prevent long-term harm. Periodic professional cleaning is recommended for comprehensive care.

By adhering to these strategies and staying ahead of your floor care responsibilities, you can uphold the elegance and resilience of your flooring throughout Washington, D.C.’s winter.

Top Picks for Winter Floor Care Products and Services

Premier Products for Winter Hardwood Maintenance

While winter imposes on hardwood floors, the right products can provide significant relief. Choose premium hardwood floor cleaners adept at tackling cold and moist conditions. Opt for natural ingredient-based cleaners to avoid harsh chemical damage. Polishes and sealants that bolster the protective layer on hardwood are indispensable during this season.

Effective Tools for Winterizing Your Floors

Protecting your floors from winter’s onslaught involves using rugs, mats, and moisture barriers. Strategically placing mats at entry points curtails snow, ice, and salt from entering your home and compromising your floors. Durable and visually pleasing, wool and nylon rugs are excellent choices. Moisture barriers under rugs add an extra layer of protection for hardwood from unexpected spills or dampness.

Signature Services by Classic Floor Designs

Classic Floor Designs provides a suite of services to keep your floors immaculate through the D.C. winter. Our restoration and installation craftsmanship ensures your floors retain their splendor and integrity. We specialize in dustless refinishing, rejuvenating the appearance of hardwood without creating a mess. For carpeted zones, our proficient carpet care services help maintain cleanliness and fend off winter grime and allergens. Rely on us to fortify your floors against winter’s relentless trials.

Winter Preparedness for Hardwood Floors: Vital Insights

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Grasping the Influence of D.C. Cold Spells on Hardwood Surfaces

The frigid embrace of Washington, D.C. winters brings not just freezing temperatures but wild swings in atmospheric moisture, posing a real challenge to your hardwood floors. As the mercury plunges, wooden planks may shrink, resulting in those notorious creaks and the appearance of unsightly gaps between boards. This behavior, although entirely natural, can be curbed through attentive care and preemptive actions.

Moreover, the confluence of indoor heating methods and the bone-dry chill outside depletes indoor moisture levels significantly. Such dryness renders hardwood more susceptible to brittleness, cracks, or splits. Knowing these impacts allows you to take proactive measures for preserving the elegance and longevity of your floors during the colder months.

Strategies for Tackling Moisture

Moisture stands as a formidable adversary for hardwood, particularly in the frosty months of D.C. Absorb these critical strategies to combat moisture effectively:

Utilize Humidifiers to Stabilize Indoor Moisture

The stark drop in indoor humidity during the city’s wintry months, exacerbated by heating systems, calls for the use of humidifiers to maintain steady moisture levels between 35% and 55%. This not just shields the wood from becoming dry and brittle but also enhances the comfort of your living space.

Prevent Over-Watering; Address Spills Swiftly

Overexposure to water can deform hardwood, marring its appearance with stains. Promptly tackle spills with a dry or marginally damp cloth. Invest in durable mats and rugs for entries and high-traffic zones to further protect against moisture damage. Such proactive measures safeguard your hardwood surfaces throughout the winter.

Fortifying Your Floors

Ensuring your hardwood floors withstand D.C.’s harsh winter requires some sound protective practices:

Deploy Entryway Mats

Strategic placement of mats at all entry points markedly reduces the influx of dirt, moisture, and debris onto your hardwood. Opt for mats with robust backing to prevent slipping and ensure they cover ample wiping area.

Equip Furniture with Pads

Furniture pads are your floors’ frontline defense against scratches and dents. Affix them to the undersides of chairs, tables, and other movable pieces, preventing surface damage when items are shifted. Regularly assess and replace these pads to provide ongoing protection.

Schedule Seasonal Floor Inspections

Undertaking a thorough seasonal inspection of your hardwood can spotlight emerging issues before they escalate. Identify and promptly remedy signs of damage like cracks, gaps, or water stains. Professional inspections offer deeper insights and customized maintenance advice, ensuring your floors remain impeccable all winter long.

Why Hardwood Floors Are the Best Choice for Your Home: Durability, Style, and Value

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When it comes to home flooring, few options compare to the classic beauty and durability of hardwood floors. Whether you’re remodeling or building a new home, hardwood floors offer timeless appeal, versatility, and long-term value. Here’s why homeowners are increasingly choosing hardwood floors for their living spaces.

Benefits of Hardwood Floors

  1. Timeless Style
    Hardwood floors never go out of style. Their natural warmth and beauty create an inviting atmosphere, complementing any interior design, from modern to traditional.
  2. Durability and Longevity
    One of the main advantages of hardwood flooring is its durability. With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades, even a lifetime. Unlike carpet or vinyl, they can be sanded and refinished multiple times, restoring them to their original shine.
  3. Increases Home Value
    Investing in hardwood floors can significantly boost your home’s resale value. Potential buyers often view hardwood flooring as a premium feature, making your home more attractive on the market.
  4. Easy Maintenance
    Contrary to popular belief, hardwood floors are easy to clean and maintain. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping keep them looking pristine, while spot cleaning ensures they stay free from dust, dirt, and allergens.
  5. Eco-Friendly Option
    Many hardwood floors are sourced from sustainable forests, making them an environmentally conscious choice. Additionally, wood flooring lasts for generations, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Types of Hardwood Floors

There are several types of hardwood flooring to choose from, depending on your budget and design preferences:

  • Solid Hardwood: Traditional planks made from a single piece of wood. Available in various species like oak, maple, and cherry.
  • Engineered Hardwood: More affordable and resistant to humidity, engineered hardwood consists of layers of wood topped with a hardwood veneer.
  • Reclaimed Hardwood: Perfect for eco-conscious homeowners, reclaimed hardwood comes from salvaged wood, giving your home a rustic, one-of-a-kind look.

Hardwood Floor Maintenance Tips

To maintain the beauty and longevity of your hardwood floors, follow these tips:

  • Use rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to minimize wear.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
  • Clean spills immediately to prevent water damage.
  • Consider refinishing your floors every 7-10 years to restore their luster.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and durability to your home, hardwood floors are an excellent choice. With their timeless style, ease of maintenance, and long-term value, they are an investment that will enhance your living space for years to come.

COMMON TYPES OF DAMAGE TO HARDWOOD FLOORS

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Hardwood floors are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their durability and timeless appeal. However, even the sturdiest of hardwood floors can fall victim to various types of damage over time. Understanding the common types of flooring damage to hardwood floors can help homeowners take proactive measures to prevent and address these issues.

1. Scratches and Scuffs: One of the most common types of damage to hardwood floors is surface scratches and scuffs. These can occur from the regular wear and tear of foot traffic, moving furniture, or even pet claws. While these may seem like minor issues, they can detract from the overall appearance of the floor and lead to more significant damage if left untreated.

2. Water Damage: Hardwood floors are particularly susceptible to water damage, which can result from spills, leaks, or excessive humidity. Water can cause the wood to warp, swell, or even develop mold and mildew. It is crucial to address any water damage promptly to prevent further deterioration of the flooring.

3. Gouges and Dents: Heavy furniture, high heels, or dropped objects can cause gouges and dents in hardwood floors. These deep marks can be unsightly and compromise the integrity of the floor if not addressed.

4. Fading and Discoloration: Exposure to sunlight and UV rays can cause hardwood floors to fade and lose their original luster over time. Additionally, certain chemicals and cleaning products can lead to discoloration of the wood.

5. Warping and Cupping: Changes in humidity and moisture levels can cause hardwood floors to warp or cup, resulting in uneven surfaces and potential tripping hazards.

Preventative measures such as using furniture pads, area rugs, and promptly cleaning up spills can help minimize the risk of damage to hardwood floors. Additionally, regular maintenance such as refinishing and resealing can help restore the appearance and integrity of the flooring.

Understanding the common types of flooring damage to hardwood floors is essential for homeowners looking to preserve the beauty and longevity of their investment. By taking proactive measures and addressing issues promptly, homeowners can enjoy their hardwood floors for years to come.

BEST HARDWOOD FLOORING OPTIONS FOR YOUR OUTDOOR DECK

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When it comes to outdoor deck flooring, hardwood is a popular choice due to its durability, natural beauty, and timeless appeal. However, not all hardwood flooring options are suitable for outdoor use. In this article, we will discuss the best hardwood flooring options for your outdoor deck.

Ipe Wood

Ipe wood, also known as Brazilian walnut, is one of the most popular choices for outdoor decking. It is extremely dense and durable, making it resistant to rot, decay, and insect infestation. Ipe wood has a rich, dark brown color that can add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. While it is on the pricier side, its longevity and low maintenance requirements make it a worthwhile investment.

Teak

Teak is another excellent hardwood flooring option for outdoor deck flooring. It is naturally resistant to moisture, rot, and insects, making it an ideal choice for outdoor use. Teak also has a beautiful golden brown color that can weather to a silvery gray over time, giving your deck a rustic, aged look. Like ipe wood, teak is a long-lasting and low-maintenance option for outdoor decking.

Cedar

Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor deck flooring due to its natural resistance to decay and insects. While not as dense as ipe or teak, cedar is still a durable and attractive option for outdoor use. It has a warm, reddish-brown color that can complement a variety of outdoor design styles. Cedar is also more affordable than ipe or teak, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking for hardwood flooring for their outdoor deck.

Mahogany

Mahogany is a luxurious hardwood option for outdoor deck flooring. It has a rich, reddish-brown color and a smooth, fine grain that can add a touch of sophistication to any outdoor space. While mahogany is not as dense as ipe or teak, it is still a durable and long-lasting option for outdoor use. It does require regular maintenance to preserve its color and finish, but many homeowners find the beauty of mahogany worth the extra effort.

In conclusion, hardwood flooring can be a beautiful and durable option for your outdoor deck. When choosing the best hardwood option for your deck, consider factors such as durability, resistance to moisture and insects, maintenance requirements, and budget. With the right hardwood flooring choice, you can create a stunning outdoor space that will stand the test of time.

Classic Floor Designs Answers the Top 10 Questions about Hardwood Floors

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Hardwood Floors Are More Popular Than Ever

If you love the idea of having hardwood floors in your home you’re not alone.  In fact, hardwood flooring is so popular, the wood flooring market is expected to register a growth rate of 4.8% from 2018 to 2024. Whether you’re making the switch to hardwood floors or wishing to revamp your existing flooring, the professionals at Classic Floor Design are here to help.

So you’re ready to get started, but you’re not sure what you’re looking for when it comes to the ins and outs of hardwood flooring options.  Here are 10 frequently asked questions we hear a lot related to installing or refinishing hardwood floors.

Which Wood Species Is Best?

Simply put, your personal preference will determine what the best option is for you. To achieve a cozier aesthetic, we recommend going with oak or hickory. If you’re more interested in establishing an open, airy atmosphere, maple or ash will do the trick. No matter your style, we’ll help steer you in the right direction.

Prefinished Vs. Unfinished: What’s The Difference?

Much like its name suggests, prefinished hardwood floors are sealed with multiple coats of finish in advance. Aluminum oxide, which is the second hardest substance after diamond, is included in the final coats to ensure optimal protection. Meanwhile, unfinished floors are finished after the installation. Aluminum oxide isn’t used because the particles within would sink to the bottom of the finish.

Can A Hardwood Floor Be Floated?

A floating hardwood floor refers to a floor that doesn’t need to be glued or nailed to the subfloor. Some prefer this method because it allows the wood floors to change based on the room’s humidity without buckling. A solid hardwood floor can’t be floated, but an engineered hardwood floor can.

Are Wood Floors Worth It?

As hardwood floor installation experts, we’re well aware of how beneficial this flooring solution can be. In addition to increasing the value of your home or building, wood floors are also easy to maintain. Best of all, they’re durable, customizable, and unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.

Will Pets Ruin The Hardwood?

Depending on the pet you have, you may want to consider a more durable hardwood floor. Bigger, more playful dogs will warrant more protection, while an outdoor cat won’t be much of a problem. We recommend using the Janka hardness test to determine what type of wood will hold up against your pet. Between this proven method and our industry insight, we’ll help you make the ideal selection.

How Do I Prevent Wood Floors From Fading?

Much like cheese, wood floors get better with age. In other words, while it’s essential to care for your hardwood floors, they do an excellent job preserving themselves. To increase their life span and prevent fading, periodically move furniture, rugs, etc. to limit their exposure to the sun.

Can A Hardwood Floor Be Installed Over A Concrete Slab?

Thinner wood floors can be installed over concrete, but standard wood floors shouldn’t be because excessive moisture can cause swelling and contracting. Engineered hardwood would also work because it’s less likely to expand and warp over concrete.

When’s The Best Time To Install Wood Floors?

Unless you’re building or restoring a home or property, any time is a good time to install wood floors. Otherwise, you’ll want to wait until the renovations are nearly complete before moving forward. Installing wood floors prematurely makes them more susceptible to damage.

To Sheen Or Not To Sheen?

Once again, this is entirely up to you. A gloss finish will deliver a shiny finished look and reflect the greatest amount of light. A semi-gloss finish will produce the same effects, but they’ll be subtler. For the lowest level of shine, a matte or satin finish will be your best bet.

How Much Do I Have To Order?

For your peace of mind, we suggest ordering about 10 percent more wood flooring than is needed. Ordering the exact amount is ill-advised because you’ll need extra to account for corners, stairs, doors, etc. By purchasing more than you need, you’ll have enough when it’s time to trim, cut, and fit the floors into your desired space. At Classic Floor Designs, we’ve mastered the art of hardwood installation. No matter your questions or concerns, we’re qualified to answer and address them. Give us a call today at 202-872-9860 to see how we can assist with your installation needs. If you prefer, you can also fill out our online form by following this link.

Five Tips for Your Floors During the Summer

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As summer begins, people around the country are welcoming warmer weather. While your flooring may be down a few notches on your list of t0-do priorities, it’s still important to protect your floors from being damaged over the summer. Increasing heat and humidity accompanied by wear and tear can cause your floors serious harm. Below, we’ve compiled some tips to prevent that from happening.

Protect your Hardwood from Sunlight

UV rays can easily cause color deterioration in hardwood. Shutting your blinds, drapes, or shutters can keep your home cool and prevent UV damage. If your home has horizontal blinds, simply tilt them upwards. This directs the sunlight up towards your walls and ceilings instead of down on your hardwood floors. You can also use large area rugs in the parts of your home that are exposed to significant amounts of sunlight. 

Regulate Humidity

Wood responds to humidity by expanding and contracting. Failing to keep your home at a consistent level can cause your hardwood to warp. Keeping your home’s humidity level between 35% and 55% is a good practice. Using a dehumidifier may also be necessary in areas with natural high humidity, but otherwise, regulating your home’s temperature with air conditioning should be enough to keep your hardwood safe.

Use Doormats 

Homes typically see as much or more in and out traffic during the summer months. This leads to mud, dirt, and sand being easily tracked into your home. Even trace amounts being tracked in can damage the finish of your hardwood. A doormat conveniently located at all outside entrances is a simple way to prevent that from happening.

Vacuum and Sweep

As much as we try to avoid it, outside substances will undoubtedly make their way into your home. Consistent sweeping and vacuuming around your home can add years on the life of your floors. It’s important to follow a two step process: sweep with a broom, then vacuum the same areas, at least once a week.

Use the Right Cleaning Products 

Some products can strip your hardwood of its shine, damage the wood, and lead to faster aging. Harsh and damaging cleaning product chemicals will exacerbate the damage to your floors. Always make sure to do proper research on the products you use for your floor.

Contact Us

Contact us today to get in touch with a Classic Floor Designs expert. We are here to help make your next project come to life! With over 40 years of experience, Classic Floor Designs provides hardwood floors, wool and nylon carpet, carpet, area rugs, leather, cork, exotics, and green flooring services to residential flooring, commercial flooring and government clients in the DC area.

Things to Avoid if You Have Hardwood Floor

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The organic material in hardwood flooring makes it much more susceptible to damage than other floorings. Instead of focusing on what you can do to increase the longevity of your hardwood, look to what to avoid. In fact, it is often the most common of practices that can end up ruining your hardwood. Below, we have compiled a list of what to avoid in order to preserve the beauty of your hardwood for as long as possible!

  • Don’t wear your shoes in the house

This one may seem obvious, and a rule prohibiting this is already in place in many households. In addition to scuffs and scratches, moisture and dirt brought in by your shoes can seep into the floor, causing noticeable damage over time.

  • Don’t use harsh cleaners (including vinegar!)

Cleaners that are not specifically designed for wood flooring can cause serious damage. Many households report using vinegar to clean their wood floors, believing it is a natural alternative to the harmful chemicals found in synthetic cleaners. In reality, the acid present in vinegar will eat away at the protective finish covering your floor over time.

  • Carefully move furniture and appliances

Professional movers take moving client’s furniture very seriously. Any damage caused during the move will come right out of their pockets. Use the same caution they do by using felt pads or furniture straps when deciding to move any heavy furniture and appliances. Those dents and scratches are not easily fixed and can end up costing you big. After moving things around, always remember to use protective padding.

  • Don’t steam clean

Steam cleaning your hardwood can cause water damage and warping. Use a damp mop or cloth if necessary, but try to avoid any water contact unless necessary. A microfiber pad or dry mop pad such as a Swiffer will do fine for normal upkeep.

  • Don’t forget about the dog

Your dogs, as cute they may be, can cause a lot of damage to your hardwood floors. The only effort you can make to mitigate this is by keeping his or her nails trimmed. This will limit the scratching when the dogs run around the house. If you have a puppy, you’ll want to have house training done as soon as possible. A urine stain is one of the worst for the health of your floor.

  • Don’t forget to refinish

No matter how careful you are, the time will come for a refinishing. Reapplying a protective finish smooths out any imperfections and gives your hardwood its shine back.

Contact Us

Need help picking out your new hardwood flooring? Already have an idea in mind? Give us a call at (202) 872-9860 for a FREE consultation. Classic Floor Designs has over 40 years of experience in the Washington DC area, and we are proud to be a premier flooring expert for our clients. Let us get you started, call today!

Hardwood Flooring: Everything You Need to Know

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Hardwood is the most popular flooring option in the United States for a reason. Its durability, beauty, and versatility instantly make your home look great. Hardwood is highly sought after by home-owners and potential home buyers, and offers a look and feel that other types of flooring simply cannot provide. There’s more to simpling picking a type of hardwood for your home. The options available to homeowners may turn out to be a taller task than previously imagined. Here are a few things you should know before making the leap to a hardwood home.

Two types of hardwood floorboards

Solid hardwood 

Each board of solid hardwood is made from a single piece of wood. It has a beautiful appearance but comes with some drawbacks. The single piece of wood will expand and contract based on temperature and humidity in the room it’s been placed. Avoid installing solid hardwood in a basement or kitchen as it may be damaged easily. The hardwood flooring will also need to be acclimated.

Engineered hardwood

Engineered hardwood is made up of several pieces of wood, bonded together in layers. This allows for a much simpler, and cheaper, installation. Engineered hardwood will not expand and contract due to temperature and humidity 

Finishes and species  

Two huge considerations for new flooring in any home is the finish and the species of wood. Popular options for wood species include oak, birch, cherry, maple, bamboo, walnut, and hickory. When it comes to your floors finish, you can opt for a factory finish or site finish.

A factory finish will limit your options, but the installation will be much faster and less expensive than a site finish. The world is your oyster with a site finish, but the drying and curing process could take days or weeks. For a brand-new home, this is a more popular option. For a renovation, which is usually time-sensitive, a factory finish usually makes the most sense.

Other considerations

Check out other articles on our blog for tips and tricks on hardwood care, flooring trends for 2020, and signs that it’s time to replace or refinish your hardwood flooring. We cover refinishing, remodeling, and more!

Contact Us

Classic Floor Designs has been Washington DC’s premier flooring source for over 40 years. Our experts are here to help you tackle your project no matter the size or scope, and we are proud to have earned the trust and respect of our clients when it comes to hardwood. Call us at (202) 872-9860 to schedule your FREE consultation. Let us help make your flooring dreams become reality today!

Five Signs It’s Time to Refinish Your Hardwood Floors

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Hardwood flooring is a beautiful addition to any home and certainly adds a lot of value, but it’s no secret that its value decreases over time. Proper care and maintenance can extend the life of your hardwood floors, but how do know when the time has come to hire a professional to refinish your hardwood floors? Here are the top five signs to look for! 

Water damage 

Water is no friend to your hardwood floors. Quick spills in the kitchen or dining room are usually no big deal, but we’ve all had the problem of catching a leak or spill a little too late. For severe cases, such as a storm causing a large leak, a professional service should come in as soon as possible to attempt to save the wood from buckling or warping. A dark stain may be all that’s leftover for a less severe case. Nevertheless, whether it be extensive water damage or just a few stains, a full or partial refinishing is worth a look at.

Extensive scratches 

This is most common in homes with pets. Large dogs may seem like the most likely culprit, but smaller animals, like cats, can also damage your hardwood. Dragging furniture over your hardwood is another common way for scratches to appear. Most scratches only impact the stain and not the actual wood itself, making this strictly a cosmetic issue. Sanding and restaining may be all that’s required, but deeper or extensive scratches may call for a refinishing. 

Sun discoloration

Natural light is considered a desirable feature of a home, though your hardwood would disagree. Sun exposure can damage your hardwood flooring over time. Reapplying stain to discolored areas is only a temporary fix. Classic Floor Designs recommends a full refinish when the damage becomes too noticeable. 

Some boards are turning gray

You may be wondering why some of your hardwood is turning gray. As the polyurethane wears off, your hardwood absorbs water much more easily. Water dragged in by your shoes, spilled drinks, or even water from cleaning products during normal maintenance, all speed up this process. If not addressed, the wood will eventually turn black. Refinishing is the only way to fix this issue.

Change in style 

A refinish is a perfect opportunity to change the style of your flooring. If you have been pondering a change and have damage or discoloration, refinishing your hardwood floors kills two birds with one stone. Especially if you are putting your home on the market, a new style can be the perfect way to increase the value of your home to potential buyers.

Contact Us

Think it’s time to refinish your hardwood floors? Give us a call at (202) 872-9860 for a FREE consultation with one of our flooring experts! With over 40 years of experience, we are proud to be one of the most trusted names in flooring in the DC metropolitan area. Our team can help with your new construction, home improvement, restoration or maintenance project.