What hardwood species are native to our area?
If you're looking for hardwood specific to Oregon, some species are ash, aspen, birch, and western redwood. If you expand it to the Pacific Northwest in general, you'll see Douglas Fir, Oregon white oak, big leaf maple, and some spruces, pines, and cedars. Whatever you choose, make sure it's appropriate for your hardwood flooring installation needs. Consider the following so you can select the best when you come into our flooring store in Portland, OR.
Determine your needs, wants, and style
Just because something is categorized as hardwood doesn't mean they all have the same level of strength. If you have extra durability needs, discuss this with your flooring expert and ask about the Janka Hardness Rating Scale for Hardwood.
This is a numbering system that measures the capability to resist impact and dents with no scratches. As the numbers increase, so does the strength. For the most robust domestic species, look for a number over 1290. Some of the tougher ones harvested within North America are red oak,1290; white oak,1360 and hickory, 1820. Exotic species (harvested in locales like Indonesia, Brazil, and Africa) are always very hard; for instance, Brazilian cherry comes in at 2350.
Do you want the factory or site finished?
When a floor is finished at the factory, you'll know what you're getting with samples so you can start the coordination process even before the floors arrive. Factory-finished floors are stronger because they can use a more robust finish, usually used in commercial operations and not available on-site. However, many still prefer site-finished because there's a greater variety that allows for more control over sheen.
Determine thickness
Whether you?re choosing solid or engineered hardwood flooring, this affects the number of times you can have your floor refinished. Ideal for solid wood is ?-inch thick, and it can be refinished up to six times. Engineered has a range from ?-inch to ?-inch and the more robust, the better. Depending on that number, they can be refinished up to five times.
For decades, the expert staff at Marion?s Carpet Warehouse has been helping people achieve their dreams. For information about hardwood flooring and services, come into our showroom at either one of our two locations: Wilsonville and Portland, OR. You'll walk out with information, as well as a free quote and design consultation. We service areas in and around Wilsonville, Portland, Beaverton, Vancouver, and Lake Oswego.
