FAQs
Scott's Hardwood Floors, LLC
Have a flooring-related question? We have the answer. Check out these FAQs and give us a call today for more information!
Should I refinish my hardwood floors or replace them?
Refinishing is typically the ideal choice if your floors have minor issues like surface scratches, dullness, or light wear and minor gouges. However, replacement might be necessary when boards are warped, severely damaged, or have undergone multiple sandings in the past. To determine the best course of action for your specific home, it is wise to consult with the experts at Scott's Hardwood Floors, LLC, who can assess the structural integrity of your timber. If the damage is too deep for a simple sand and finish, you can begin your search for high-quality replacement materials by looking for a reputable flooring store near me to explore modern styles and wood species. Making the right call between a refresh and a total overhaul will ensure your investment adds lasting value and beauty to your living space.How long does hardwood floor installation take?
Hardwood flooring installations generally require 2-5 days, with the timeline varying based on project size and whether existing flooring needs removal. For refinishing projects, you can expect a 3–4 day process that includes sanding, staining, and applying protective sealants. Scott's Hardwood Floors can provide you with a more accurate timeline upon consultation.
Choosing a professional hardwood flooring company ensures that these timelines are met with precision while avoiding common DIY pitfalls like uneven sanding or improper moisture testing. Beyond the immediate aesthetic transformation, the long-term financial benefits are substantial for those considering a future sale. According to Clever, new hardwood flooring can return approximately 118% of its installation cost at resale, making it one of the strongest-performing interior upgrades for homeowners looking to increase property value. This exceptional return on investment highlights why quality materials and expert installation remain a top priority for savvy property owners.How long do hardwood floors last?
With proper maintenance, our experts find that quality solid hardwood floors can serve your home for 50-100 years. We recommend refinishing every 7-15 years to preserve their beauty and structural integrity. Regular upkeep, such as using specialized cleaners and avoiding excessive moisture, helps prevent the premature degradation of the wood fibers. When the time comes for a complete refresh, searching for a reliable "flooring store near me" will give you access to the latest durable finishes and trend-setting stains. Investing in these preventative measures and professional guidance ensures that your floors remain a stunning focal point of your interior design for decades to come.What is the best type of hardwood flooring for my home?
Oak, maple, and hickory are frequently chosen for their exceptional durability and resistance to everyday wear. The ideal selection for your home will depend on factors such as foot traffic levels, your design preferences, and your established budget. Partnering with an experienced hardwood flooring company allows you to navigate these options by viewing physical samples in your home's unique lighting conditions. These professionals can explain the Janka hardness scale ratings for each species, ensuring you choose a wood that can withstand heavy pets or active children. By matching the grain pattern and density to your specific lifestyle, you guarantee that your new floors will maintain their elegance and structural integrity for years to come.Can hardwood floors be installed over existing flooring?
Hardwood can often be installed over plywood, concrete, tile, or existing wood flooring, provided the subfloor is level and structurally sound enough to support the new installation. Before proceeding, it is essential to have a professional measure the moisture levels of your subfloor to prevent future warping or cupping of the planks. If you are unsure if your current surface is suitable, visiting a flooring store near me allows you to speak with specialists who can recommend specific underlayments or leveling compounds tailored to your home's foundation. Taking the time to properly prep the base ensures that your high-end wood surfaces stay flat and silent for decades.How do you maintain hardwood floors?
Effective hardwood floor maintenance includes regular sweeping, cleaning with hardwood-appropriate products, and preventing excess moisture exposure. Using felt pads under furniture and strategic placement of area rugs can help minimize scratching and finish wearing in high traffic areas. For a deeper, professional clean or to address deeper scuffs that standard household tools cannot reach, a local hardwood flooring company can provide specialized buffing services that restore your floor's original luster. These experts can also recommend specific pH-neutral cleaners that won't strip away the protective topcoat or leave a cloudy residue over time. Consistency in these small habits is the most effective way to protect your investment and keep your home looking its absolute best between major refinishing cycles.Do hardwood floors increase home value?
Absolutely. Hardwood flooring remains one of the most sought-after flooring upgrades among homebuyers and can significantly enhance your property's resale value and market appeal. Real estate professionals often emphasize that homes with these timeless surfaces sell faster and for higher prices than those with wall-to-wall carpeting. By collaborating with a reputable hardwood flooring company, you ensure that the installation is performed to the highest industry standards, which is a key selling point during future home inspections. Ultimately, the transition from old, worn surfaces to premium wood planks acts as a powerful statement of quality and care that resonates with every prospective buyer.What is the difference between laminate flooring and LVP (luxury vinyl plank)?
Laminate flooring consists of compressed wood fiber with a printed design layer, while LVP is a waterproof vinyl material designed to resemble hardwood. For moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, LVP typically performs better, whereas laminate offers a more cost-effective solution for living rooms and bedrooms. To see these differences in person, visiting a flooring store near me allows you to compare the textures and protective wear layers of both materials side-by-side. Seeing the realistic wood grains and feeling the durability of the planks can help you decide which option best fits your home's aesthetic and functional requirements. Ultimately, having a professional explain the specific click-lock installation methods for each can give you a clearer picture of the long-term performance you can expect.How long does laminate or vinyl plank flooring last?
With correct installation and regular maintenance, laminate flooring typically provides 10–25 years of service, while premium LVP flooring can last 20–30 years or longer, depending on the level of foot traffic and how well it's maintained. To ensure you are selecting a product with a wear layer suited for your home's specific activity level, it is beneficial to visit a flooring store near me to speak with a knowledgeable professional. These experts can help you distinguish between residential and commercial-grade options, ensuring your chosen material doesn't show premature signs of aging in high-traffic zones. By investing in a high-performance product from a local supplier, you can enjoy the look of natural wood with a lifespan that rivals much more expensive alternatives.Should I refinish my hardwood floors or replace them?
Refinishing is generally the best option for floors with minor issues such as surface scratches, dullness, or light wear and small gouges. Replacement becomes necessary when your hardwood boards show warping, severe damage, or have been sanded multiple times previously.How long does hardwood floor installation take?
Most hardwood flooring installations require between 2-5 days, depending on the project size and whether existing flooring needs to be removed. Refinishing projects typically take 3-4 days to complete the sanding, staining, and protective sealant application process. Scott's Hardwood Floors will provide a more precise timeline during your consultation.How long do hardwood floors last?
Quality hardwood floors can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. We recommend scheduling refinishing every 7-15 years to maintain their aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.What is the best type of hardwood flooring for my home?
Oak, maple, and hickory are popular choices due to their exceptional durability and resistance to daily wear. The most suitable option for your home will depend on specific factors including foot traffic intensity, your aesthetic preferences, and your established budget constraints.Can hardwood floors be installed over existing flooring?
Hardwood installation is often possible over plywood, concrete, tile, or existing wood floors, provided the underlying subfloor is sufficiently level and structurally sound to support the new hardwood installation.How do you maintain hardwood floors?
Proper hardwood floor maintenance includes regular sweeping, cleaning with products specifically designed for hardwood, and preventing excessive moisture exposure. Installing felt pads under furniture and strategically placing area rugs can help reduce scratching and finish wear in high-traffic zones.Do hardwood floors increase home value?
Yes, hardwood flooring remains one of the most desirable flooring options among potential homebuyers and can substantially enhance your property's resale value and marketability.What is the difference between laminate flooring and LVP (luxury vinyl plank)?
Laminate flooring is composed of compressed wood fiber with a decorative printed layer, while LVP consists of waterproof vinyl material designed to mimic hardwood. LVP generally performs better in moisture-prone areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, whereas laminate provides a more economical option for living rooms and bedrooms.How long does laminate or vinyl plank flooring last?
With proper installation and regular maintenance, laminate flooring typically lasts 10-25 years, while premium LVP flooring can endure 20-30 years or more, depending on foot traffic intensity and maintenance quality.
