How often do you consider what’s beneath your feet—whether it’s the floor of your home or office?
Many people overlook their flooring, but this can be a mistake. Daily wear and tear can lead to noticeable signs of damage, which can create a poor first impression for guests or clients.
While it might be tempting to opt for the cheapest flooring option when replacing floors, this can be a costly error. Just as you wouldn’t hire an unqualified employee, you shouldn’t install a floor that doesn’t suit its intended purpose.
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect flooring for your home or office, keep these key factors in mind and contact Hauglie’s Flooring serving the greater Minneapolis Minnesota area.
Durability
Not all rooms experience the same level of foot traffic. Flooring in high-traffic areas needs to endure significant wear while showing minimal signs of damage.
In entryways, durable flooring is crucial since this is the first area visitors encounter. These spaces not only see heavy foot traffic but also endure dirt, water, and debris brought in on shoes.
Purpose
The function of each room dictates the type of flooring that should be installed. For instance, water-resistant options like tile or vinyl are essential in restrooms. Materials such as carpet or wood can struggle in these spaces, as wet carpets can promote mold growth, and wood can warp when exposed to moisture.
Maintenance
If you’re managing a busy household or running a business, you likely have more pressing concerns than floor maintenance. Choosing flooring that is easy to clean and maintain is a smart choice for those with a hectic lifestyle and high foot traffic.
What Creaks and Squeaks May Indicate
As homes settle over time, you might notice creaking noises on hardwood floors or upper levels. What should you be on the lookout for? Should you be worried? If you hear occasional squeaks, it’s a good idea to know when to consult a flooring professional for assessment and repairs.
It’s Not Just Temperature…
Squeaky floorboards often result from changes in temperature and humidity. When conditions are dry, hardwood floors lose moisture, leading to creaks, while increased humidity can cause the wood to swell. While some noises are typical, they can also indicate improper installation, particularly if the wood wasn’t allowed to acclimate.
Popping Sounds
Have you ever heard a popping noise when walking across your floor? This could signal that loose planks are rubbing against the subfloor nails. If the installation was flawed, it might be necessary to screw down loose boards or even replace sections of the flooring. A professional installation team should ensure that the subfloor is level and that the moisture barrier is adequate before laying down hardwood, engineered wood, or laminate planks.
Hollow Sounds
A hollow sound could point to insufficient underlayment, particularly if the flooring was installed using a floating method. If the noise originates from the underlayment—ranging from economical foam to high-end cork—it’s worth examining the material used. Persistent hollow sounds might require reinstalling the flooring using glue, nails, or staples.
Fortunately, regardless of the cause of your creaks and squeaks, solutions are available to restore peace and quiet.
Flooring Experts
We’re here to help you choose flooring that will last for years to come. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect flooring for your home or office, keep these key factors in mind and contact Hauglie’s Flooring serving the greater Minneapolis Minnesota area.
