Ask the Experts — asktheexperts

When it comes to keeping the wood flooring in your home looking its best and lasting as long as possible, some homeowners consider the question, “Can you paint over stained wood?” The simple answer is yes, you can. But the question you may want to ask is: why would you? Before you reach for that can of paint, here’s a look at why using natural oil stains from WOCA Woodcare is a better investment in aesthetics, durability, and environmental impact. Preserve the Wood’s Natural Beauty Stained wood, especially high-quality varieties such as walnut or rift and quartered oak, has an...

Choosing the right type of wood for your flooring can feel like trying to find your way through a forest full of options. Two species that often come up during the decision-making process are European Oak and White Oak. But what's the difference, and how do you choose between the two woods? Before we look into the specifics, it helps to understand the broader picture. Both European and White Oak are hardwood species known for their durability and strength. They also have similar (and highly sought-after) grain patterns, which contribute to a beautiful, classic look. However, we will look at...

Many homeowners treasure wooden floors for their beauty, warmth, and durability. Protecting their charm depends on the right choice of care and maintenance products. WOCA offers two outstanding options for maintaining wood floors: Natural Soap and Oil Refreshing Soap. But which one should you choose and when? Let's take a closer look at these premium products and when each is best suited for your specific needs. How Do You Use WOCA Natural Soap? WOCA's Natural Soap and Oil Refreshing Soap are two great products that can help you maintain the beauty and longevity of your wooden floors. So, how do...

Hardwood floors are a beautiful part of any home, offering natural elegance, warmth, and charm you simply can’t get from other types of flooring. Keeping your wooden flooring looking its best means using the right tools and techniques to clean and protect it. You might be tempted to cut corners or opt for cleaning methods that promise quick results, but are they the best options? If you have ever wondered if you can use a steam mop on hardwood floors and if it is safe, you've come to the right place. With our fundamental tips and tricks, you'll learn how...

Hot enough for you? It’s that time of year again, and longer days and summer weather bring higher temperatures inside and out. Even if your summer routine involves catching some rays on your outdoor deck, you’ll likely want a cool place to retreat to when you’ve had enough solar energy for one day.Soaring temperatures don’t have to drag your energy bills up with them. There are steps you can take to make your house more energy efficient during the summer. That means you keep your cooling budget smaller (and your vacation budget bigger). Manage the summer heat and maximize comfort...

Water damage is one of the most common and costly problems a homeowner can face. It can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and other costly and dangerous issues. Unfortunately, it can also cause significant damage to your hardwood floors. It begs the question: Can you repair water-damaged hardwood floors? Well, it depends.Unlike outdoor decking, interior hardwood floors aren’t generally treated to tolerate excess water. Though caring for outdoor wooden surfaces  comes with its own challenges such as algae removal, water on the inside of your home can end in more damage if not addressed properly. Water damage can occur...

There's a lot to love about staining hardwood floors. Staining can emphasize the natural beauty of the wood, adding colors from subtle to bold and enhancing the look of the wood's grain and texture.But painting may be an option to consider if you're looking for a more uniform, even look or are dealing with wooden flooring that’s been neglected, damaged, or too worn. Keep reading for a closer look at wood staining vs. painting and when each option is best suited for your project. What's the Big Difference?  Whether you choose to paint or stain your wood floors, both options...

The right wood stain is an exceptional way to enhance the beauty of wooden flooring or wood furniture. With the variety of color choices available, the right tone to match or accentuate your décor has never been more accessible. However, wood stain can become sticky and feel damp or tacky to the touch if it isn’t applied correctly. Sticky stain then becomes a magnet for dust, fingerprints, and any dirt or debris it comes in contact with. Ick!Understandably, this can be a frustrating experience and often requires refinishing to remedy. If you find yourself asking, “Why is my stained wood sticky?”...

Bleach is a powerful cleaning agent useful for removing stains from both laundry and hard surfaces like ceramic tile. But, can you put bleach on a wood floor? It may sound tempting. Bleach can remove tough stains because it is a highly caustic agent that breaks down chemical bonds. Unfortunately, these same chemical bonds are present in all types of wood. In other words, if bleach is applied to hardwood flooring, decks, or furniture, it typically deteriorates the structure of the wood at a chemical level. This causes changes in color and weakens the material, making it more porous and...

Hardwood floors are a great investment for any home or business. If treated properly, they have a potential lifespan of a few decades. During that time, you can refinish and restain your hardwoods a number of times, but how do you know when it’s time to replace them entirely? Here, we’re breaking down the most common signs to look out for.  Thin floors One of the benefits of having hardwood floors is that if it’s time to refresh them or change the color, you simply refinish them. With a polyurethane finish, each time you do, it requires sanding them down to...