We’ve all heard about these kinds of floors but let’s be honest, if you’re not a contractor, a decorator or builder you’re likely unsure about the real differences. So, what is the difference between a laminate, hardwood and an engineered hardwood floor? The answer: 3 simple parts! Laminate is durable, cost-effective and comes in a variety of colours, textures and sizes.The core of product is typically made of High Density Fiber (HDF) as opposed to actual slabs of wood. The top layer is a photographic layer which is designed to mimic the look you’re going for i.e. hardwood, bamboo, knotted wood, etc.  Laminate planks are typically 3/8” thick and are installed using a tongue and groove locking system, meaning you can install or uninstall with ease. It’s the most durable and easiest to clean (read: it can handle the most abuse). When you walk on it, you hear a shallow tap. Hardwood floors are made from solid, natural wood and depending on the kind of floor you want, you can purchase a variety of wood species.

The entire plank is made from wood, it is the only material used in the manufacturing of hardwood floors.  Modern hardwood is typically made with a tongue and groove system for easy installation . Hardwood floor is easy to sand and refinish, and requires a healthy amount of maintenance to keep them looking great.  They are easier to damage than the two other floor types discussed here though, so buyer beware.  how much dryer vent cleaning costNot only do they dent easier (i.e. if you walk with stilettos or drop a heavy object on the floor you’ll see dents), they cannot be left  wet or else they’ll become damaged (the boards will swell and expand).canadian tire duct cleaning service Hardwood flooring is almost always more expensive but no one can argue how gorgeous it looks or feels when you walk on it.what is the easiest way to clean horizontal blinds

The best way to describe engineered hardwood flooring is to think of it like a hybrid car; it’s a little bit of  laminate and a little bit of hardwood. It’s core is usually plywood or high-density fibreboard (HDF) and the  top layer is composed of a of hardwood veneer which is glued atop the core to mimic nearly any species of hardwood.  Engineered hardwood has the natural characteristics of the selected wood species as opposed to a photographic layer (which is what you get with laminate).  best hardwood floor cleaning mopThe reason people tend to choose engineered hardwood over natural hardwood is garner greater moisture and heat resistance because of the core material.duct cleaning equipment for sale canada Despite the differences, all of these floor types can be cared for the exact same way.best way to clean graco car seat

Use a  simple solution composed of a ‘pinky nail’ sized drop of dish liquid added to a bucket of hot water.  Sometimes, I’ll add a capful of plain white vinegar to the mix too, it helps cut dirt.  I recommend a microfibre twist mop which is well wrung out to mop the floors.  You can also use a steam mop or a flat head mop. Watch Our Hardwood Floor Cleaning Video!5 Simple Tactics For Keeping Your Hardwood Floor Clean A hardwood floor gives your home a classy, alluring look. There are few flooring types that are more stylish. However, most homeowners avoid hardwood because they believe that cleaning them takes too much effort. The good news is that you can still give your home the elegant look it needs. These cleaning tactics will help you clean any type of hardwood. Dust or vacuum the floor regularly – Keeping your hardwood floor clean means having to invest in a dust mop. These are mops treated with dusting agents to remove annoying dust particles and pet hair.

Sweeping it daily with a dust mop keeps it shining. If you want to get down on your hands and knees, use an electrostatic cloth to clean your floor. Find these disposable cloths at any discount store. Avoid using vacuum cleaners with beater brushes that are not designed for hardwood floors. These leave ugly scratches behind. Use area rugs and runners – Consider using area rugs or runners. Place area rugs in thigh traffic areas. They help to trap loose dirt particles that leave scuff marks. Placing them at entryways is not a practical idea, as they will need constant washing and become easily spoiled. Instead, install floor mats. Carpet runners are a wonderful alternative to area rugs. Use them in the living room, dining room and other places in your home that get the most traffic. Use a damp mop weekly – Some people mistakenly believe that you should not mop your hardwood floor. While you do not want to leave scuff marks on the floor, you still need to make sure that it is clean. 

Mopping weekly with a well-wrung, damp mop helps you do this. Make sure not to use a dripping, wet mop. Remember that the floor consists of real wood that cannot absorb too much moisture. If your damp mop does not remove tough stains, use a cloth and mineral spirits to clean them. Take care not to leave scuff marks – Another tactic for cleaning your hardwood floor is not to leave scuff marks. While this is not a cleaning activity per se, it keeps it looking pristine and shiny. Scuff marks will ruin the look of your hardwood floor, no matter how you clean it. Place your tables on furniture pads. Never drag your furniture on hardwood floors, and avoid wearing shoes on them. Some shoes and heels dent your floor. Pay attention to your floor finish – The last, but most important tip is to pay attention to the finish. Know exactly what finish the manufacturer used to coat your floor. Different finishes have different cleaning needs. Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations to clean your floors diligently.

Dust the floor with a dust mop or sweep it with a soft broom. Combine a little dish washing liquid and water and completely clean the floor.  Dry it out with an absorbent cloth. Floors Treated With Oil or Penetrating Seals Prepare yourself to put in more effort to clean your floor if your manufacturer treated it with a penetrating seal. Regular dusting is not enough. You have to constantly remove the oils wax with stripper products. Use a vacuum cleaner or dust mop to clean the area. Avoid using damp mops on these floors as they trap dirt and leave scratches. Then, apply a new layer of penetrating wax on the floor. Varnished floors, too, need more care and attention. Merely sweeping or dusting them is not enough. Before using any cleaning agents, dust the floor thoroughly. Then, pour a few drops of a cleaning agent or solvent on a wash cloth. Follow the grain as you clean the floor. Then, remove the cleaner with a dry cloth. Floors with no sealants are probably the hardest to clean, because water easily seeps into the unprotected wood.