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Frequently Asked Questions

Engineered Hardwood

  • What is engineered hardwood?

    AEngineered hardwood is created by stacking multiply plies of wood one on top of the other in opposing directions. This is called cross-ply construction. A real wood "veneer" is placed on top of the many plies, making it just as beautiful as solid hardwood, but approximately 9 times more dimensionally stable. This technique also allows for wider board widths and longer planks.

  • Will the chosen floor look just like the sample?

    ASamples are intended to give an overall idea of color and style. As with all flooring products, there will be slight variation from floor to floor and from sample to floor.

  • If I choose an engineered product, will I still be able to re-sand and refinish my floor in the future?

    AOf course! Just like a traditional, solid hardwood floor, engineered hardwood can be re-sanded and refinished. This misconception comes from the misunderstanding that solid hardwood can be re-sanded right until the bottom of the product. A solid hardwood can only be sanded until just before the tongue and groove joint. This means that typically you will be able to get between 1 - 4 sandings out of a solid floor, and approximately 1 -3 out of an engineered hardwood floor. By the time a floor has become so worn that it would need a sanding, most people choose to rip it out and start from the beginning anyway.

  • Can engineered hardwood be installed below grade?

    AYes. Engineered hardwood can go on, above, or below grade.

  • Can engineered hardwood be installed over radiant heat?

    AYes, however this is dependent of the type of wood species. Generally, engineered maple and hickory floors are not recommended for installation over radiant heat.

  • Can engineered hardwood be glued down?

    AYes. Engineered hardwood can be installed either via direct glue down or double glue installation.

  • How do I clean my new flooring?

    AWe like to use the acronym VMB - vacuum, mist, and buff. Always vacuum first, followed by a light misting of your microfiber mop and a quick buff of the floor. Make sure to use a product specifically suited for your flooring type. Complete care and maintenance guides are available in the resources section of our website.


Laminate

  • What is laminate flooring

    ALaminate is a multi-layer synthetic flooring product, fused together by a laminating process. Laminate simulates wood with a photographic appliqué layer under a clear protective layer.

  • Will the chosen floor look just like the sample?

    ASamples are intended to give an overall idea of color and style. As with all flooring product, there may be slight variation from floor to floor.

  • How does the installer decide which direction the laminate flooring will be installed?

    ALaminate flooring will be installed perpendicular to the floor joists and not parallel. This can result in a change of direction in the laminate flooring from one room to another. If you have selected the option to have the laminate installed on a 45 degree angle, the installer will install the laminate based on the direction that is indicated on the sketch that you will need to sign off on.

  • How does the installer decide what length of board to use?

    ASome laminate products come in random lengths varying from 9" to 84" in length. Laminate floor boards will be staggered to ensure a favorable overall appearance. There is no industry installation guideline. Staggering is a function of aesthetics and will.

  • Can I use water to clean laminate floors?

    ANo. Never wet mop or clean laminate floors with water. Do not use any wax or cleaner that must be mixed with water such as oil soap, as this may result in damage to the floor. Water can dull the finish and damage the floor permanently. Divine carries a product specifically for laminate flooring.