Wall Paneling
Wooden walls have a long and interesting history. In the early colonial times, boards were often installed over a house’s skeleton, forming interior surfaces that often had decorative beads or chamfered V-grooves. Today, wall paneling is in high demand. Alpine Flooring & Design installs wall paneling in commercial spaces, such as lobbies, conference rooms, and restaurants. We also install panels in residences, creating interesting dimensional effects in family rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is the fastest-growing type of flooring worldwide. This is because vinyl flooring comes in planks similar to hardwood flooring. Once installed, it replicates the look of natural wood with these added benefits:
- High durability
- Low maintenance
- Waterproof
Replace your old basement carpet with a new vinyl plank floor. You’ll love the way this floor will completely transform your basement!
Care Tips
Sweeping or Vacuuming
Regularly sweep or vacuum floors to prevent dirt and dust from scratching the finish. Use only a brush or felt-type vacuum head. Also, make sure that the wheels of the vacuum do not damage the finish.
Fewer Scratches and Dents
To reduce scratches and dents, attach adequate protection, such as felt pads, to the feet of all furniture pieces before placing them on hardwood floors. When moving heavy furniture, place a blanket or a scrap of carpet facedown under each leg. After that, slide the furniture carefully. Also, whenever possible, carry the furniture.
Shoes and Paws
Keep your shoes in good condition. If they lose their protective caps, they will dent the surface. Also, avoid high-heeled shoes as much as possible.
Keep your pets’ nails trimmed and their paws free of dirt. We all love our dogs, but a 100-pound German shepherd going crazy around the house and digging his long nails into the floor will certainly damage your new floors!
Area Rugs
Use area rugs in heavily traveled areas, especially if you have a large family. Place rugs at all entrances, as well as by the kitchen sink and dishwasher. To avoid changing the shade of your floors, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight. Also, periodically rearrange rugs and furniture to avoid discoloration from occurring.
Cleaning Methods to Avoid
Never use a wet mop or water to clean your hardwood floors—this can dull the finish or permanently damage your floor.
Also, never use the following:
- Abrasive cleaning soap
Acidic materials, such as vinegar
- Ammonia-based cleaners
- Bleach
- Detergents
- Oil soap
- Polishes
- Wax-based products
Never use wax on a surface finish such as polyurethane. Apart from making your floor too slippery, it also interferes with subsequent finishes. Also, watch the hairspray and the furniture polish because they can cloud your floor’s finish. Wipe them up immediately with a damp cloth.
Remove spills promptly using a soft piece of cloth. Never allow water (or any other liquid) to stand on a hardwood floor for any length of time. Also, don’t ever pour water on your floor because it can damage your wood’s structure and finish.
Recommended Product
We recommend Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner for all your hardwood floor cleaning needs! For interiors with solid hardwood flooring, maintain an indoor humidity level of 45% to 55% all year round. Wood floor dimensions will be slightly affected by varying levels of humidity within your home, so it’s important to control humidity levels within this range.
To protect your investment, follow these recommendations.
Dry Season
A humidifier is recommended to prevent excessive shrinkage in hardwood floors due to low humidity levels. Wood stoves and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions.
Humid Season
Proper humidity levels can be maintained by using an air conditioner or dehumidifier. You may also turn on your heating system periodically during the summer months.