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Frequently asked questions
Answers about hardwood, ceramic vs porcelain, natural stone, sealing, and kitchen counters.
Why choose hardwood floors?
Health benefits
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air pollution is a risk you can do something about—and one of the top health threats. Wood floors contribute to a healthier living environment because hard surface flooring does not trap or harbor dust mites or mold that can worsen allergies and asthma.
Environmental factor
Wood is a natural, renewable resource. Most timber comes from carefully managed forests that ensure continued supply. Studies show almost twice as much timber is added every year than is harvested, and there is more standing hardwood timber today than there was 50 years ago.
Variety
There are more wood species and styles than ever—from traditional pine and oak to exotic options and bamboo—so you can find a color and look that fits your home.
Maintenance
With today’s finishes, cleaning hardwood is simple: sweep with a microfiber mop and use a light hardwood floor cleaner for tougher spills.
Warmth
Wood floors feel cozy and intimate, filling your home with the warm character of natural material.
Affordability
Quality wood flooring often costs closer to a good carpet than many expect, and it lasts for years. Hardwood can also help home value when buyers compare properties.
Engineered wood
Engineered wood flooring is real wood from top to bottom—not laminate. Laminate is melamine-infused paper over a wood-chip core. Engineered options include hickory, oak, maple, and more, often prefinished so you can walk on them soon after install.
What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain?
Ceramic tiles are typically made from red clay baked at high temperature with a glaze on top; only the glazed surface resists water and stains. Porcelain uses finer clay compressed at high pressure and baked hotter, so the entire body resists water and stains and can be used outdoors. Tile can be fragile before install, but once set correctly it becomes part of the structure and should last a lifetime with proper care—unless hit by a heavy object or damaged by a natural disaster.
What types of natural stone are there?
The basic types are travertine, marble, granite, and slate. Any of these can take a lot of abuse and last many years. Marble and travertine take a little more maintenance and care. Your lifestyle and home design will determine which fits your house.
Do natural stones require sealing?
All stones need to be sealed. Marble, travertine, and other soft stones must be kept well sealed or they may stain. Use a sealer made for natural stone. Granite is extremely hard and naturally resistant to stains, but polished stones are still porous and should be sealed with a penetrating sealer.
Are certain stones more practical to use as kitchen counters than others?
We suggest granite for its ability to stand up to acid, heat, and daily use. Lemon and other citric acids will not harm granite, but they can etch marble or travertine. Heat can also damage marble and travertine.
If my stone has a polished (shiny) finish, does it still need to be sealed?
Yes. Most marble, granite, travertine, and slate with a factory polished finish are still porous and subject to staining. They should be sealed with a penetrating-type sealer.