Eco-Friendly Hardwood - Less Wood and No Sanding

A little known but viable alternative to traditional unfinished 3/4" thick strip wood flooring is 3/8" thick solid wood flooring with a glue down installation method. Available in 3" or 2.25" widths, this flooring has some advantages when compared to 3/4" thick:

One - no sanding is required to finish. Planks have a micro eased top edge and tight milling tolerances are employed as it is run much slower through the molder than 3/4" thick flooring.

Two - the glue down installation method eliminates squeaks, reduces expansion and contraction and reduces noise transfer through the floor. It can also be used over radiant heat and applied to concrete, as no nails are necessary.

Three - quarter-sawn red or white oak is used rather than plain-sawn. Quarter-sawing allows the wood to expand and contract vertically rather than horizontally so no unsightly cracks appear from shrinkage or buckling from expansion. Also less cupping and warping occurs and creates a better looking floor.

Four - there is less variance in height compared to other flooring materials and is about the same height as carpet. Also in a remodel, you don't need to raise doors. If your wood subfloor is damaged, uneven, too weak or you have some areas that are concrete, you can first put down 3/8" or thicker plywood prior to installation of the 3/8" floor. You still have added only app. 3/4" thickness.

Five - it is eco-friendly and saves you money by using less wood and less freight which saves money and gas.

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Author: Tom Meyer SurfacingSolution.com Copyright © 2002 All Rights Reserved