A. Probably the number one advantage you will find from installing hardwood flooring in your home is added value. Most home buyers look at improving the value of their homes on a regular basis, and one of the best ways to do so is with hardwood. Add to this the additional character, durability and ease if maintenance and hardwood flooring is the right choice for many homes.

A. Let the flooring acclimate for five to seven days, with boxes opened and laid flat in the room where the flooring is to be installed. If you are in an area with high humidity, you may need to install some humidity controls like a humidifier or dehumidifier.

A. Excessive moisture can lead to numerous problems with your flooring, such as cupping, buckling or warping. To ensure this does not happen, please minimize the use of water to clean your hardwood flooring.

A. In order to maximize the durability and beauty of your hardwood flooring, we recommend the following practices as part of your floor's normal care and maintenance.

1. Place doormats or rugs at entrances to collect moisture. sand, grit and other potentially damaging materials from being tracked onto your hardwood floor.

2. Dust mop or vacuum with a soft accessory to keep your hardwood floor clean from dust, dirt or grit. Hardwood flooring cleans easily with a Swiffer or similar type dry mop. For sticky spots, use a soft, damp cloth to gently scrub the floor. If necessary use a generic hardwood floor cleaner. Do not use steel wool or other abrasive scouring pads. Do not use harsh detergents, abrasive cleaners, or corrosive chemicals to clean your hardwood floor.

3. Avoid excessive water. Use mats in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room to protect against spills. If a spill occurs, blot it up immediately with a dry cloth or slightly damp mop. Use only colorfast and non-scratch carpeting or pads on your hardwood floor. Protect the floor from furniture legs and do not walk on the floor with high heeled shoes. Although the hardwood has effective UV inhibitors in its pre-finish, it is recommended that it not be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time.

A. Hardwood flooring is an extremely durable flooring product. It can be installed in virtually any room of your home that is above ground. There are several locations that are not recommended for hardwood flooring. Because hardwood flooring is a natural flooring product it is not recommended that it be installed in wet locations such as bathrooms, washrooms, saunas, enclosed porches or verandas, or anywhere that may require wet-mopping. Extended exposure to moisture of this type may cause your hardwood flooring to warp, swell or crack.