S.M Floors company

Should I expect color variations in my hardwood floor?

Yes - wood is a product of nature; therefore, you will see variations from board to board in all categories. No two boards are ever the same.

My wood is denting. I thought I was buying hardwood flooring?

Hardwood contains a cell structure; therefore, if enough pressure is applied, the cell wall will collapse and a dent will appear.

I moved my area rug and my wood is lighter where my area rug was. What happened?

Wood goes through a natural aging process called patina. Bright sunlight can also accelerate this condition. Moving area rugs or other items that may cause this effect from time to time is recommended.

When I walk across my hardwood floor, I hear popping sounds. Why?

There are a number of reasons for this condition. Usually it is caused by uneven subfloors (see manufacturer's instructions for subfloor tolerances). Improper trowel or improper adhesive could also cause this. Please use all items, tools, and adhesives recommended by Bruce for the product being installed. In most cases, the problem is easily corrected.

Can I have hardwood flooring installed in my bathrooms?

It is not recommended, due to the high moisture associated with these areas. It may cause unfavorable conditions for hardwood flooring.

Should I use unfinished or prefinished hardwood?

It is actually personal preference. They both have advantages. For example, if you want to match the existing woodwork, you may wish to go with unfinished so it can be stained to blend woodwork. However, prefinished is already finished with some great benefits: longer finish warranties, uniform stain application, and a cleaner environment.

What about high traffic areas?

Due to the sophisticated finishing systems on our products, (Dura-Luster® Plus), the finish is very durable. Bruce offers commercial rated products for commercial environments. Bruce always recommends walk-off mats at doorways and pivot points such as kitchen sinks, refrigerators, etc.

What are edge treatments?

Edge treatments refer to special milling on the edges of each individual board to create visual effects. We offer products with the following edge treatments: square - boards fit flush against each other; beveled - the sides are sanded to create grooves, or an outline effect around each board; and micro or eased edges - which is a slight sanding to create a less apparent outline.

My wood floor has some damage. Can it be repaired?

Yes, Bruce offers several suggestions. If you have a minor chip or slight damage, we offer a color-blended filler. Our touch-up kits take care of several different issues, such as scratches and chips. If the damage is severe enough, you can have individual boards replaced.

Can I wax my urethane floor?

Yes, however, it is not recommended. Once you wax a floor, it should be maintained as a wax-finished floor. Wax may inhibit the adhesion of future application of top coating materials or make it slippery.

Is there a stain formula available to match my hardwood floor?

We do not have stain formulas available. In order to get a stain to match your hardwood floor, we suggest that you take a sample of the wood flooring product as well as the wood you are preparing to stain to a stain specialist that can custom blend and mix the product to order. Most major paint stores have custom mixing programs as do most of the major home centers.