HUPOFLOOR HARDWOOD FLOORING GENERAL

How can I get a brochure on HUPO hardwood flooring?
Click to Download a E-catalogue of HUPOFLOOR.  

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, HUPO 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.

HUPO HARDWOOD FLOORING INSTALLATION

Can I glue down a 3/4" thick floor?
No, this is a nail-down floor only.

After my floors are installed, should I apply a finish coat to seal them from moisture getting down in the cracks?
Most floors expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, expanding in the summer, contracting in the winter, throughout their life. Therefore, sealing of the joints will only last until the first heating or cooling season.

Where can I install solid or engineered products?
Solid products can only be installed on or above the outside soil line. Engineered flooring can be installed on, above, and below the soil line.

Are there any rooms in the house where I should not install hardwood floors?
We do not recommend hardwood flooring in full bathrooms that have a shower or bathtub. These rooms have the potential for standing puddles of water that can damage wood floors.

HUPO HARDWOOD FLOORING MAINTENANCE

Are hardwood floors difficult to maintain?
No. In many cases they are as easy or easier than carpet, ceramic tile, laminate or vinyl.

What do I use under my furniture to protect the hardwood floor from scratching?
Bruce offers felt protector pads to use in place of the hard metal or plastic buttons that are placed on the legs of furniture. You should use these on all the legs of your furniture to prevent damage to the floor.

My hardwood floors have lost their shine. How do I get them to look like they did when they were new?
Bruce offers a product called Fresh Finish that can be applied to a urethane-finished floor to refresh the original appearance.

What should I use under my area rugs?
A breathable rug underlay. Mesh or grid patterns are best.

Can I roll heavy furniture across my hardwood floors?
No. When moving or rolling heavy pieces of furniture or appliances, use protection, such as strips of 1/4" hardboard as a runner under the wheels or legs. Always move items with caution (see denting under general FAQ's).

Can I mop my hardwood floors using hot, soapy water?
No. Water can prematurely age your hardwood floors and cause them to crack and split.