Hardwood flooring in Swift Current, SK lends warmth, character, and value to any home. However, with the rise of convincing wood-look alternatives like laminate and vinyl, it can be tricky to determine if your floor is genuine hardwood.
Whether you're considering refinishing, repairing, or simply curious, here's how to distinguish real wood from imitations.
How to tell if a floor is real wood floor
Inspect the surface and edges
Look for the Grain: Real hardwood features unique, natural grain patterns that vary from plank to plank. Look closely for subtle inconsistencies and variations in color and texture. Imitations often repeat patterns, giving them a less organic appearance.
Examine the Edges: Real hardwood boards usually have square edges or tongue-and-groove joints. Laminate and vinyl planks often have beveled or slightly rounded edges.
Tap test annd sound
Gently tap on the floor with your knuckles. Real hardwood should produce a solid, resonant sound. Laminate or vinyl will sound hollower and less natural.
Check for nail holes and staples
Hardwood floors are often installed using nails or staples, particularly in older homes. Look for small holes or marks along the edges or in corners of the room. Laminate and vinyl are usually installed using a floating or click-lock method, leaving no visible fasteners.
Look for imperfections
Scratches and Dents: Real hardwood is susceptible to scratches and dents over time. While some finishes are more durable than others, finding minor imperfections is a good sign you're dealing with real wood.
Fading and Wear: Hardwood can fade and show wear patterns in high-traffic areas. This is a natural characteristic of real wood and can actually add character to the floor.
Check underneath (if possible)
If you have access to the underside of the floor (e.g., in a crawl space or unfinished basement), inspect the backing. Real hardwood will be solid wood throughout, while laminate and vinyl will have a backing made of fiberboard or other materials.
Use the “drop test” (with caution!)
As a last resort, you can carefully drop a small, hard object (like a coin) on the floor. The sound it makes can give you a clue. Real hardwood will produce a sharp, distinct sound, while laminate or vinyl will be more muffled. Be cautious with this test, as it could potentially damage your flooring.
Additional tips for how to tell if your floor is real wood
- Check for Heat Transfer: Hardwood floors tend to feel cooler than laminate or vinyl.
- Look for Expansion Gaps: Hardwood floors will have slight expansion gaps around the perimeter to allow for natural movement.
Find high-quality, real wood floors with Decor Complete Ltd
By using these methods, you can confidently determine if your floor is made of real hardwood. This knowledge is essential for making informed decisions about refinishing, repairs, or future flooring choices.
If you're still unsure or have questions about your flooring, contact Decor Complete Ltd in Swift Current, SK. We've been serving the Swift Current area since 1976 and offer a wide selection of flooring products in our 10,000 square foot store. Our experienced team can help you identify your flooring type and recommend the best solutions for your needs.
