Hardwood Flooring in Prince George: Installation and Refinishing Guide

Hardwood flooring brings timeless beauty, lasting value, and natural warmth to Prince George homes. Whether you're installing new hardwood floors or refinishing existing ones, understanding your options ensures results you'll love for decades.

Why Choose Hardwood Flooring?

The Benefits of Real Wood Floors

Timeless Beauty

Natural hardwood offers:

• ✓Unique grain patterns

• ✓Rich, warm appearance

• ✓Classic elegance

• ✓Never goes out of style

• ✓Complements any decor
Increases Home Value

Solid investment benefits:

• ✓Higher resale value

• ✓Attracts quality buyers

• ✓Premium home feature

• ✓70-80% ROI typical

• ✓Desirable in Prince George market
Durability and Longevity

Built to last:

• ✓Can last 100+ years

• ✓Withstands heavy traffic

• ✓Can be refinished multiple times

• ✓Maintains beauty over time

• ✓Proven performance
Health Benefits

Cleaner indoor environment:

• ✓No carpet allergens

• ✓Easy to clean

• ✓Doesn't trap dust or pet dander

• ✓Better air quality

• ✓Hypoallergenic option

Types of Hardwood Flooring

Understanding Your Options

Solid Hardwood

Traditional choice:

• ✓100% solid wood throughout

• ✓Can be refinished many times

• ✓3/4 inch thickness typical

• ✓Must be nailed down

• ✓Not for basements
Engineered Hardwood

Modern alternative:

• ✓Real wood veneer on plywood base

• ✓More stable in humidity changes

• ✓Can be installed over concrete

• ✓Suitable for basements

• ✓Multiple installation methods
Popular Wood Species
Oak - Most popular choice:

• ✓Red oak: Prominent grain, warm tones

• ✓White oak: Subtle grain, grey undertones

• ✓Durable and affordable

• ✓Takes stain well
Maple - Light and smooth:

• ✓Fine, consistent grain

• ✓Light natural color

• ✓Very hard and durable

• ✓Contemporary appearance
Hickory - Extremely durable:

• ✓Dramatic grain patterns

• ✓Color variation

• ✓Hardest domestic wood

• ✓Rustic character
Walnut - Luxury option:

• ✓Rich, dark chocolate tones

• ✓Straight grain

• ✓Softer than oak

• ✓Premium appearance
Exotic Woods:

• ✓Brazilian cherry

• ✓Acacia

• ✓Teak

• ✓Bamboo (technically grass)

• ✓Unique characteristics

Hardwood Floor Installation

Professional Installation Process

Pre-Installation Steps

Critical preparation:

• ✓Acclimate wood to home (7-14 days)

• ✓Ensure proper humidity (30-50%)

• ✓Prepare subfloor (level, clean, dry)

• ✓Install moisture barriers if needed

• ✓Remove existing flooring
Installation Methods
Nail-Down Installation

Traditional approach:

• ✓For solid hardwood over wood subfloors

• ✓Uses specialized nailer

• ✓Very stable

• ✓Squeaks can be fixed

• ✓Industry standard
Glue-Down Installation

Alternative method:

• ✓For engineered over concrete

• ✓Strong bond

• ✓Good for radiant heat

• ✓Quiet underfoot

• ✓Permanent installation
Floating Installation

Click-lock systems:

• ✓For engineered hardwood

• ✓Faster installation

• ✓Can be removed

• ✓Works over many subfloors

• ✓Growing in popularity
Layout and Pattern Options

• ✓Straight/parallel (most common)

• ✓Diagonal (dynamic look)

• ✓Herringbone (classic pattern)

• ✓Chevron (contemporary)

• ✓Random width (custom look)

Hardwood Flooring Costs

Investment Considerations

Material Costs

Price varies by species and grade:

• ✓Oak: $4-8 per sq ft

• ✓Maple: $5-10 per sq ft

• ✓Hickory: $5-9 per sq ft

• ✓Walnut: $8-15 per sq ft

• ✓Exotic: $8-20 per sq ft
Installation Costs

Professional labor:

• ✓Basic installation: $4-8 per sq ft

• ✓Complex patterns: $8-12 per sq ft

• ✓Subfloor prep: $2-6 per sq ft

• ✓Removal of old flooring: $1-3 per sq ft

• ✓Trim and transitions: $3-6 per linear ft
Total Project Costs

Average Prince George home:

• ✓500 sq ft (bedroom): $4,500-9,000

• ✓1,000 sq ft (main floor): $9,000-18,000

• ✓2,000 sq ft (whole home): $18,000-36,000

Hardwood Floor Refinishing

Restoring Beauty to Existing Floors

When to Refinish

Signs it's time:

• ✓Visible wear patterns

• ✓Deep scratches

• ✓Dull, faded appearance

• ✓Stain wearing off

• ✓Water damage (if minor)
Refinishing Process
Step 1: Preparation

• ✓Remove all furniture

• ✓Repair damaged boards

• ✓Nail down loose planks

• ✓Fill gaps and cracks

• ✓Clean thoroughly
Step 2: Sanding

Multiple passes:

• ✓Coarse grit (36-40) removes finish

• ✓Medium grit (60-80) smooths surface

• ✓Fine grit (100-120) final smoothing

• ✓Edge sanding for borders

• ✓Vacuum between passes
Step 3: Staining (Optional)

Change the color:

• ✓Choose stain color

• ✓Test in inconspicuous area

• ✓Apply evenly

• ✓Allow proper drying time

• ✓Multiple coats if needed
Step 4: Finishing

Protective coating:

• ✓Polyurethane (most common)

• ✓Oil-based or water-based

• ✓2-3 coats typical

• ✓Sand lightly between coats

• ✓Final coat determines sheen level
Refinishing Costs

• ✓Basic refinishing: $3-5 per sq ft

• ✓With staining: $4-6 per sq ft

• ✓Repairs extra: $100-500

• ✓Whole home (1,500 sq ft): $4,500-9,000

Hardwood Floor Finishes

Protecting Your Investment

Finish Types Polyurethane

Most popular choice:

• ✓Water-based: Low odor, dries fast, clear

• ✓Oil-based: More durable, amber tint, slower drying

• ✓Very durable

• ✓Easy to maintain
Hardwax Oil

Natural alternative:

• ✓Penetrates wood

• ✓Easy to repair

• ✓Natural appearance

• ✓Requires more maintenance

• ✓Growing popularity
Aluminum Oxide

Factory finish:

• ✓Extremely durable

• ✓Pre-finished flooring

• ✓Can't be applied on-site

• ✓Long-lasting protection
Sheen Levels

Choose your look:

• ✓Matte (modern, hides imperfections)

• ✓Satin (most popular, subtle sheen)

• ✓Semi-gloss (more shine, easier to clean)

• ✓Glossy (traditional, shows every mark)

Maintaining Hardwood Floors

Long-Term Care

Daily Maintenance

• ✓Sweep or vacuum daily

• ✓Use soft-bristle broom

• ✓Vacuum without beater bar

• ✓Wipe spills immediately

• ✓Use furniture pads
Weekly Cleaning

• ✓Damp mop with wood cleaner

• ✓Never saturate floor

• ✓Dry mop to finish

• ✓Avoid steam mops

• ✓Use manufacturer-approved products
Preventive Measures

• ✓Entry mats to trap dirt

• ✓Remove shoes indoors

• ✓Trim pet nails

• ✓Control humidity (30-50%)

• ✓Use window treatments to prevent UV fading
Periodic Maintenance

• ✓Screen and recoat every 3-5 years

• ✓Full refinishing every 10-15 years

• ✓Address damage promptly

• ✓Professional deep cleaning

• ✓Monitor for moisture issues

Prince George Climate Considerations

Hardwood in Northern BC

Humidity Control

Critical for hardwood:

• ✓Winter: Add humidity (wood shrinks)

• ✓Summer: Control excess (wood expands)

• ✓Maintain 30-50% year-round

• ✓Use humidifier/dehumidifier

• ✓Prevents gaps and cupping
Temperature Stability

• ✓Maintain consistent temps

• ✓Avoid drastic fluctuations

• ✓Proper insulation helps

• ✓Radiant heat compatible (engineered)

• ✓Monitor seasonal changes
Best Species for Prince George

More stable in our climate:

• ✓White oak (very stable)

• ✓Hickory (minimal movement)

• ✓Engineered options (best for basements)

• ✓Avoid very soft woods

• ✓Consider quarter-sawn for stability

Hardwood vs. Alternatives

How Hardwood Compares

Hardwood vs. Laminate

• ✓Hardwood: Real wood, refinishable, higher cost

• ✓Laminate: Photo layer, replace when worn, budget option
Hardwood vs. Engineered

• ✓Solid: More refinishing potential, not for basements

• ✓Engineered: More stable, basement-suitable, real wood look
Hardwood vs. Vinyl

• ✓Hardwood: Natural, increases value, traditional

• ✓Vinyl: Waterproof, softer, budget-friendly
When Hardwood Makes Sense

• ✓Main living areas

• ✓Bedrooms

• ✓Long-term home ownership

• ✓Value-focused renovations

• ✓Traditional aesthetics

Choosing a Hardwood Professional

What to Look For

Experience Matters

• ✓Years installing hardwood

• ✓Portfolio of work

• ✓Knowledge of species and finishes

• ✓Proper tools and equipment

• ✓Industry certifications
Questions to Ask

• ✓How long have you installed hardwood?

• ✓Can I see recent projects?

• ✓What species do you recommend for my situation?

• ✓How do you handle moisture issues?

• ✓What warranty do you provide?
Quality Indicators

• ✓Detailed written estimates

• ✓Proof of insurance

• ✓Local references

• ✓Clear timeline

• ✓Professional communication

Why Choose PG Home Solutions

Hardwood Flooring Experts in Prince George

At PG Home Solutions, we've installed and refinished hardwood floors throughout Prince George for years. We understand the unique challenges of our northern climate and use techniques that ensure your hardwood floors remain beautiful through our temperature and humidity swings.

Whether you're installing new hardwood, refinishing existing floors, or repairing damage, our experienced team delivers craftsmanship that enhances your home's value and beauty.

We work with all wood species and can help you choose the perfect option for your home, budget, and lifestyle.

Request a free hardwood flooring estimate or contact us to discuss your project.