FAQs
General Services
What types of hardwood flooring services do you offer?
Do you perform hardwood floor repair?
Do you provide free consultations or estimates?
How do I schedule an appointment for a consultation or service?
Choosing and Installing Your Flooring
How do I choose my flooring?
What types of flooring can you install?
We specialize in installing solid hardwood flooring, engineered wood flooring, prefinished wood flooring, reclaimed wood flooring, wide plank wood flooring, and luxury vinyl flooring.
What are the different types of wood flooring?
There are four main types of wood flooring to choose from:
- Solid hardwood flooring: Milled from a single piece of wood, this timeless option offers unmatched durability and can be refinished multiple times for a lifetime of beauty.
- Engineered hardwood flooring: Constructed with layers of wood for enhanced stability, it is a great option for spaces where solid wood may not be practical, such as over radiant heating systems.
- Prefinished wood flooring: This factory-finished flooring comes ready to install, featuring a durable, factory-applied finish that ensures quicker completion and consistent quality. Available in a variety of stains and finishes, it offers a convenient and efficient solution for achieving a high-quality look with minimal disruption to your home.
- Unfinished hardwood flooring: Customizable after installation, this option is perfect for creating unique designs or matching existing floors.
What is engineered hardwood flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is crafted with a top layer of real hardwood and multiple layers of plywood beneath. This construction enhances durability and makes engineered hardwood floors more stable, reducing the risk of warping or shrinking in areas with fluctuating humidity or temperature.
One of the main engineered hardwood flooring pros is its versatility—it can be installed over radiant heating systems where solid hardwood may not be suitable. Additionally, engineered wood flooring can be installed in basements and glued directly to cement subfloors, offering flexibility for spaces where traditional solid hardwood is impractical. It provides the same natural beauty as traditional wood but with enhanced resistance to environmental changes. However, one of the cons is that it typically has a thinner top layer, limiting the number of times it can be refinished compared to solid hardwood.
Available in a variety of species, finishes, and textures, engineered hardwood flooring is a stylish, durable, and practical option for many homes, blending the look of real wood with modern advancements in stability and performance.
Do you install luxury vinyl flooring?
Yes, we offer professional vinyl flooring installation, including luxury vinyl flooring and vinyl plank flooring, as a durable and stylish alternative to hardwood. Luxury vinyl is highly resistant to moisture, making it an excellent choice for basements, kitchens, and bathrooms where humidity levels can pose challenges for traditional hardwood. Its water-resistant nature, combined with realistic wood and stone designs, ensures both functionality and visual appeal. Additionally, vinyl plank flooring provides a comfortable, low-maintenance option that’s easy to clean and withstands daily wear, making it ideal for busy households or commercial spaces. Whether you’re updating a single room or an entire home, luxury vinyl flooring offers versatility and longevity without compromising on style.
How long does a typical hardwood floor installation take?
Why are hardwood floors better than carpet for allergy sufferers?
Hardwood floors are allergy-friendly because they don’t trap dust, pollen, pet dander, or mites like carpet does. They’re easy to clean with a quality wood floor cleaner, which helps maintain a healthier indoor environment. By reducing allergens and improving air quality, hardwood floors provide a cleaner, more comfortable space for allergy sufferers.
Wood Species, Colors, and Design Options
What wood species are available for hardwood flooring?
We offer a wide variety of wood species to suit any style and preference, from classic options to exotic designs. The following list includes some of our most popularly requested choices, but if you have something specific in mind that isn’t listed, additional options are available.
- Hickory hardwood flooring: Hickory hardwood flooring is prized for its exceptional durability and strength, perfect for high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children. Traditional hickory offers a clean, consistent grain with subtle color variations, while rustic hickory hardwood flooring features bold grain patterns, knots, and dramatic contrasts, adding warmth and character to spaces with a country-inspired aesthetic. Both styles deliver timeless appeal and long-lasting performance.
- Maple hardwood flooring: Sleek and versatile, featuring a smooth, fine grain and light, neutral tones that brighten spaces and complement a wide range of design styles. It is ideal for both modern and traditional interiors.
- White oak hardwood flooring: Timeless and adaptable, known for its straight grain and subtle gray undertones that suit both contemporary and classic aesthetics. It is a reliable choice for long-lasting beauty in any room.
- Red oak hardwood flooring: A perennial favorite for its warm, reddish-brown tones and consistent grain pattern. Red oak blends seamlessly with both modern and traditional decor, offering a classic look that enhances the natural beauty of any space.
- French oak flooring: Renowned for its elegant, European-style grain patterns and soft, neutral tones. French oak exudes sophistication and works beautifully in upscale and rustic settings alike, complementing a variety of finishes and furniture styles.
- Walnut hardwood flooring: Known for its deep, rich brown hues and fine, straight grain, walnut adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any space. Its softer feel underfoot and natural luster make it a luxurious choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and formal spaces. For those seeking a more rustic and unique aesthetic, character walnut flooring showcases natural knots, color variations, and distinctive grain patterns, adding warmth and personality to your home.
- Cherry hardwood flooring: With its smooth grain and vibrant red undertones, cherry flooring stands out as a bold, eye-catching option. Its rich, warm coloration deepens over time, adding a dynamic and inviting aesthetic to any room.
- Brazilian cherry hardwood flooring: An exotic option prized for its striking, deep red tones and natural variations in color. Brazilian cherry offers a dramatic, high-end look that pairs well with both contemporary and traditional interiors.
- Ash hardwood flooring: Light and bright with a subtle grain, ash creates an airy, open feel that enhances natural light in a space. Its durability and resilience make it an excellent choice for active households or high-traffic areas.
- Mahogany hardwood flooring: Exotic and luxurious, mahogany is loved for its rich, reddish-brown tones and striking grain patterns. Its timeless beauty and natural warmth bring a sense of opulence to any room.
What are my options for light wood floors?
Light wood flooring is a timeless choice, with species like maple and white oak offering natural, clean tones that brighten and open up spaces. For a modern touch, light stains can achieve effects such as whitewashed finishes, creating an airy and contemporary aesthetic. These versatile options suit a variety of styles, from classic to contemporary.
What are my options for dark wood floors?
What are my options for hardwood floor colors?
Can you customize my floors with unique designs?
Do you offer textured hardwood flooring and unique surface options?
Do you offer wide plank wood flooring?
Hardwood Floor Refinishing and Staining
How often do I have to refinish my floors?
Hardwood floors typically need refinishing every 5-10 years to maintain their beauty and durability. Factors such as foot traffic, pets, and floor care practices can influence this timeline. Regular refinishing ensures your hardwood floors stay smooth, polished, and protected from wear.
How can I tell if my hardwood floors need refinishing?
What is the process for refinishing hardwood floors?
How long does the refinishing process take, and how long to dry and cure?
The time required for refinishing hardwood floors depends on the scope of the project:
- Damage Repair: Repairs for issues like water stains, dents, or warped boards typically take 1-2 days.
- Sanding and Refinishing: Sanding down to bare wood, applying stain, and finishing generally takes 3-5 days.
- Recoating: A screen and coat process, ideal for refreshing floors in good condition, can be completed in 1 day.
After refinishing, floors typically dry to walk on in 12 hours, with full curing taking 3 days to achieve optimal durability. To protect your floors, we recommend limiting heavy traffic and furniture placement during the curing period.
What are my options for staining and finishing hardwood floors?
We offer a wide variety of Bona’s staining and finishing options to enhance the natural beauty of your hardwood floors while matching your personal style and home design. Choose from classic tones like Jacobean, Red Mahogany, or Early American for a traditional and timeless look. For a more contemporary aesthetic, colors like Ebony, Graphite, or Grey provide sleek, urban sophistication. If you prefer a bright and relaxed feel, Natural, Golden Oak, or Birch are excellent choices.
In addition to stains, we use professional-grade finishes to enhance durability and create the desired sheen, whether you prefer matte, satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss finishes. These finishes protect against wear, moisture, and stains, ensuring your floors remain beautiful for years to come.
Our team will work with you to find the perfect combination of stain and finish that suits your space, whether you’re aiming for a classic, rustic, or modern look. Let us help you customize your floors with top-quality products and expert craftsmanship.
Is the process dusty?
Wood Floor Cleaning and Maintenance
What is included in your wood floor cleaning service?
How often should I have my hardwood floors professionally cleaned?
What products do you recommend for maintaining and cleaning hardwood floors?
For daily maintenance, we recommend using Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner, a pH-neutral and residue-free solution that effectively removes dust, dirt, and grime without damaging the finish. Pair it with the Bona Premium Microfiber Floor Mop, designed specifically for hardwood floors, featuring machine-washable microfiber pads and a durable, extra-large mop head for efficient cleaning.
For those who prefer vacuuming, a hardwood floor mop vacuum or a wood floor vacuum designed for hard surfaces can help pick up debris while being gentle on the wood. Cordless models offer lightweight convenience and powerful suction without causing scratches. If you’re considering a steam cleaner for hardwood floors, ensure it’s compatible with sealed hardwood to avoid moisture damage.
For a comprehensive solution, the Bona Ultimate Hardwood Floor Care Kit includes everything you need for dusting and cleaning to keep your hardwood floors beautiful and durable for years to come.
By incorporating these recommended products into your cleaning routine, you’ll ensure your hardwood floors stay elegant, clean, and well-protected.
What is the best way to clean spills on hardwood floors?
How do you disinfect hardwood floors?
To disinfect hardwood floors without causing damage, it’s important to use the right techniques and products. Start by sweeping or vacuuming to remove dust and debris. Then, use a wood floor cleaner specifically designed for hardwood, such as Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner, which is safe and effective for sanitizing while preserving the wood’s finish. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as these can strip the finish and harm the wood.
For added disinfection, you can use a damp microfiber mop with a solution of water and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol (70%) or a pH-neutral disinfectant approved for hardwood floors. Always wring the mop thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, which can cause warping or damage. Regular cleaning and occasional disinfecting will keep your hardwood floors hygienic and looking their best.
What do you recommend for how to deep clean hardwood floors?
Deep cleaning hardwood floors starts with a high-quality wood floor cleaner like Bona hardwood floor cleaner. Use a microfiber mop and avoid excess water to protect the wood.
How do I fix a scratch on a hardwood floor?
How do I fix worn spots on hardwood floors?
Worn spots on hardwood floors can often be addressed with touch-up kits or professional refinishing, depending on the extent of the wear. For minor surface issues, touch-up kits allow you to blend and repair small areas. For more significant wear, professional hardwood floor cleaning and recoating can refresh the surface and add a new protective finish to prevent further damage. In cases of deep wear or extensive damage, sanding and refinishing may be necessary to fully restore the floor’s original beauty and durability.
How can I protect my hardwood floors from scratches and damage?
Cost and Pricing
What is the cost to install hardwood floors?
What is the cost to refinish hardwood floors?
Durability and Performance
What is the most durable wood flooring?
Hickory, maple, and white oak are among the most durable hardwood flooring options, each offering unique benefits. The Janka scale, which measures wood’s resistance to wear and denting, highlights hickory as one of the hardest domestic woods with a rating of 1,820, making it highly resistant to scratches and dents. Maple follows with a Janka rating of 1,450, providing exceptional durability and a smooth, clean grain for a versatile look. White oak, rated at 1,360, combines strength and flexibility, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with pets. These hardwoods not only offer durability but also timeless beauty, making them excellent choices for a variety of spaces.
What type of wood floor do you recommend for heavy traffic areas or households with pets?
For high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children, we recommend durable hardwoods like hickory and oak. These species resist dents and scratches effectively. A matte finish is also a great option as it minimizes the visibility of wear and scratches, keeping your floors looking fresh.
Company, Certification, and Warranties
Are you Bona-Certified, and what does that mean for your services?
How long has Karl’s Wood Floors been in business?
Our family-owned business has been serving Appleton and the Fox Valley area since 2012, continuing a legacy of craftsmanship that spans two generations.
Do you offer warranties or guarantees for your services?
Contact Us
Have questions or need a quote?
Our team is here to help.