Our popular hardwood species
Cherry flooring
Cherry is known for its rich, warm colour. It ranges from light golden to reddish‑brown. This North American species offers a medium hardness that's perfect for residential areas.
Characteristics:
- Fine, even grain
- Smooth, uniform finish
- Ages beautifully over time
- Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms
Maple flooring
Canadian maple is one of the most prized species. Its exceptional hardness resists wear very well. Its natural colour ranges from creamy white to pale brown with golden highlights.
Advantages:
- Exceptional hardness
- Takes stains very well
- Suitable for high‑traffic areas
- Tight, uniform grain
Oak flooring
Oak remains a timeless classic. Available in red oak and white oak, this species offers remarkable durability. Its pronounced grain gives it distinctive character.
Highlights:
- Exceptional durability
- Accepts all types of finishes
- Durable enough for every room
- Choice of warm or neutral tones
Ash flooring
Ash is growing in popularity for its modern appearance. This northern species offers a naturally light colour with a pronounced grain. Its superior hardness suits heavy use.
Why choose ash:
- Contemporary appearance
- Superior hardness
- Compatible with dark stains
- Modern alternative to traditional species
Hardwood floor installation
Subfloor preparation
A successful installation starts with thorough subfloor preparation. The surface must be perfectly level, dry and structurally sound.
You should check the moisture level and correct any unevenness to ensure an optimal result. A vapour barrier may be required depending on site conditions.
Each project should be evaluated individually to recommend the appropriate preparation.
Installation methods
There are several installation techniques to suit each specific situation.
Nail‑down installation on joists remains the traditional method. It offers the best stability and durability.
Glue‑down installation is suitable for concrete subfloors. It's also ideal for heated floors.
Floating installation allows for quick installation. It offers perfect flexibility for renovations.
The choice of the optimal method depends on your specific project.
Estimated installation time
Installation time varies according to several factors. The surface, project complexity and chosen method influence the timeline.
For a standard 200 sq ft room: expect 1–2 days for installation.
For a full house (1000–1500 sq ft): generally allow 3–5 days.
Times include preparation, installation and finishing. A detailed schedule is provided before work begins.
Sanding and finishing hardwood floors
When to sand your floor
Sanding becomes necessary when the finish shows significant wear. The wood starts to look dull despite regular cleaning.
Signs that sanding is needed:
- Deep scratches
- Persistent stains
- Uneven wear
Generally, a residential floor needs sanding every 10 to 15 years. It depends on use and maintenance. Preventive sanding can extend your floor's lifespan.
Restoration process
The restoration process includes several meticulous steps.
Main steps:
- Coarse sanding - removes the old finish and imperfections
- Fine sanding - progressively finer for a smooth surface
- Thorough dust removal - preparation for the finish
- Stain application - if desired
- Final varnish - multiple coats with intermediate sanding
Choice of stains and finishes
Sanding allows you to completely transform the appearance of your floor.
Stain options:
- Natural tones (preserve the original colour)
- Contemporary grey tones
- White or black colours
Types of varnish:
- Polyurethane - maximum protection
- Oil‑based varnish - natural look
- Matte finishes - modern look
Professional services vs DIY
Sanding may seem within reach for DIYers. However, this task requires professional expertise and equipment.
Advantages of professional service:
- Experience and specialized tools
- Guaranteed uniform finish
- Avoids sanding marks
- Optimizes adhesion of the new varnish
Investing in a professional service protects your floor. It also maximizes its lifespan.
Frequently asked questions about hardwood floors
What is the difference between solid hardwood and engineered hardwood flooring?
Solid hardwood is made of 100% a single species, typically 3/4-inch thick. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is made of a top layer of noble wood glued to a multi-layer core. This type of flooring offers better dimensional stability and adapts better to concrete surfaces. Solid wood, however, can be sanded and restored more often over the years.
How long does the installation take?
For an area of about 1,000 square feet, installation generally takes between three and five days, including preparation and finishing. For a smaller space of about 200 square feet, you can expect one to two days. The exact duration depends on the complexity of the project and the installation method chosen.
How often should a hardwood floor be sanded?
On average, a hardwood floor should be sanded every 10 to 15 years, depending on the level of wear. High-traffic areas may require more frequent sanding. Regular maintenance can nevertheless extend this interval. Species like maple tend to retain their appearance longer between sandings.
What are the advantages compared with other floor coverings?
Hardwood stands out for its exceptional durability: it can last 50 to 100 years, compared with 10 to 20 years for most other coverings. It adds real value to your property, can be restored by sanding, and its natural, timeless appearance works with any decorating style.
Is it suitable for kitchens and bathrooms?
It is perfectly suitable for kitchens, provided you ensure good maintenance and limit exposure to water. For bathrooms, it is recommended to choose more stable species like maple or white oak, paired with a highly waterproof finish. Adequate ventilation is also essential. Engineered wood remains more stable than solid wood in humid environments.
What maintenance is required?
Regular sweeping is recommended to remove dust and debris. Weekly cleaning with a product designed for hardwood helps preserve the finish. Avoid excess water and harsh chemicals. Place mats at entrances to reduce wear. An annual reconditioning with a reviver or a specific finishing product helps maintain the floor's luster.
