Hardwood Store & Installation Near Rockville MD

Transform your home with the timeless elegance of hardwood flooring from Aladdin Carpet & Floors, the leading flooring specialists in Rockville, Bethesda, and the broader Washington Metropolitan area. Our extensive collection in our Rockville and Gaithersburg showrooms features an impressive range of solid and engineered hardwood floors, showcasing various wood species perfect for any design aesthetic. Allow Aladdin Carpet & Floors to install your hardwood floors and enjoy Aladdin's known lifetime care at no additional cost. We are committed to providing top-notch installation services, ensuring a seamless and satisfactory experience. Begin your home's transformation by scheduling a Free In Home Estimate today. Embark on your flooring journey with us and revel in the unparalleled beauty and durability of our hardwood flooring solutions.

Choosing Hardwood Flooring for Your Home

What factors should I consider when selecting a hardwood species?

When choosing hardwood for your home, consider two crucial factors:

Grain Patterns: Certain species like Oak, Ash, and Hickory showcase prominent grain patterns that not only add character but also help conceal scratches and dirt, making them suitable for busy areas.
Janka Scale Rating: The Janka Scale rating measures wood plank strength. For areas with heavy use, prioritize species with a higher Janka rating to ensure long-lasting floors.

Red Oak Hardwood Flooring

Maple Hardwood Flooring

Hickory Hardwood Flooring

Birch Hardwood Flooring

In total, the choice of the right hardwood species for your home should be based on factors like grain patterns and the Janka Scale rating. By taking these considerations into account, you can make an informed decision for your hardwood flooring project and enjoy both aesthetics and durability. Explore your options and choose the best fit for your needs!

Which hardwood species is best for my space?

The ideal hardwood species depends on various factors, including your lifestyle, traffic levels, and design preferences. Species like Oak, Ash, and Hickory are excellent choices for high-traffic areas, as they feature distinctive grain patterns that effectively hide wear and tear.

What is the difference between Solid and Engineered wood?

Comparisons between solid and engineered are on the minds of homeowners every day. Here are the differences:

Composition:
- Solid Wood: Single solid plank or strip.
- Engineered Wood: Multiple wood layers bonded together.
Installation Flexibility:
- Solid Wood: Requires plywood subfloor, limited installation areas.
- Engineered Wood: Versatile, suitable for basements.
Installation Methods:
- Solid Wood: Typically installed using the nail or staple method.
- Engineered Wood: Installation options include glue down, staple, or floating methods.
Acclimation Requirement:
- Solid Wood: All wood manufacturers require acclimation in the installation area for solid hardwood.
- Engineered Wood: Not all manufacturers require acclimation for their engineered hardwood.
Refinishing Potential:
- Solid Wood: Solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished up to 4 times, depending on the thickness of the plank.
- Engineered Wood: Some engineered wood floors can also be sanded and refinished, but this varies by manufacturer and product.

Installing Floating Engineered Hardwood Floors Under Cabinets:

Is It possible to install floating engineered hardwood planks under my kitchen or bathroom?

Key Insigth: Installing floating floors under kitchen or bathrrom cabinets is not recommended. Here´s why:

Nature of Floating Floors: Floating floors are distinct from traditional hardwood floors in that they are designed to freely expand and contract in response to changes in humidity and temperature. This is because they are not anchored to the subfloor; instead, each plank is interconnected with its neighbors, allowing the entire assembly to "float" above the subfloor without direct attachment.

Why It Matters for Cabinets: The inherent movement of floating floors poses a challenge when placed under heavy fixtures like cabinets. The restriction of natural expansion and contraction can lead to flooring issues such as buckling or gaps.

Recommended Alternative Approach:

Plywood Subfloor: For areas under cabinets, installing a plywood subfloor with the same thickness as your floating floor is the best approach. This method ensures a stable and level base for your cabinets while allowing the necessary space to move.
Accommodating Expansion: It's crucial to leave adequate gaps between the floating floor and any fixed structures, including walls and cabinets, to facilitate this movement. This precaution helps prevent potential flooring issues associated with natural environmental changes.

Conclusion: While the appeal of floating engineered hardwood is understandable for its ease of installation and aesthetic appeal, it's important to consider the unique characteristics of these floors when planning your kitchen or bathroom renovation. By opting for a plywood subfloor under cabinets, you can enjoy appropiate areas while ensuring the longevity and stability of your cabinetry and flooring.

Installing Solid Hardwood Floors Under Kitchen Cabinets: A Guide

Is it possible to install solid hardwood planks or strips that are nailed down under kitchen cabinets?

Overview:Yes, installing solid hardwood under kitchen cabinets is entirely feasible, especially in new construction projects where you have full control over floor leveling. However, for kitchen remodels, a different approach may be advisable for practical and economic reasons.

Recommended Approach for Remodels:

Initial Step: Consider installing plywood of the same thickness as your hardwood flooring under the cabinet footprint first. This step ensures a level base for your cabinets.
Cabinet Installation: Proceed with installing your kitchen cabinets on the prepared plywood base.
Hardwood Installation: Finally, install your hardwood flooring, ensuring it seamlessly integrates with the rest of your kitchen design. The kitchen island can be installed after laying down the new hardwood floors.

Why Plan Ahead?

This method necessitates careful coordination between cabinet and flooring installers, so advance planning is crucial.

Advantages of Plywood Installation Before Cabinets:

Protection from Damage: Completing hardwood floors after other remodeling activities reduces the risk of damage from construction traffic or accidents, which can be costly and difficult to attribute responsibility for.
Flexibility for Future Changes: Should you decide to change your flooring later, having it independent of your cabinets simplifies the process and avoids the need to navigate around cabinet toe kicks.
Ease of Installation: A plywood base provides a solid and stable foundation for cabinet installation, enhancing both ease and security.
Leveling Solutions: Addressing any significant slopes in your kitchen floor is more straightforward with plywood. This step is crucial for ensuring a level floor before hardwood installation, benefiting both homeowner and contractor.
Cost Efficiency: You can minimize hardwood flooring costs by only installing it in visible areas, rather than under cabinets where it serves no functional or aesthetic purpose.

Professional Consultation: Always consult with a professional installer or contractor to evaluate your specific circumstances. Expert guidance ensures that installation adheres to the best practices and building codes, tailoring the project to your needs.

More Questions? Find out Here

Which Hardwood Brands Does Aladdin Carpet Offer?

Embrace the timeless elegance of hardwood with our range of species, finishes, and constructions. Our brands are synonymous with quality and sustainability, offering beauty that lasts a lifetime. Discover Brands We Proudly Offer: Bruce Hardwood Floors, Whickham, Lauzon, Mannington. Shaw, Summerset, PG Flooring; Kahrs; Eastern Hardwood.

Must Molding and Trims Match the Wood's Exact Color?

There's no need to stress about achieving an exact color match between your moldings and trims and the wood itself. These elements are designed to coordinate with the wood rather than precisely match it. Typically, they are produced in separate factories, and due to the inherent variations in natural wood, some differences in color may be noticeable

Why Do Gaps Appear in My Floors Periodically?

The phenomenon you're experiencing is known as seasonal gapping. These gaps come and go with the changing seasons, particularly in homes with gas or propane heating. It's important to understand that this is a natural occurrence and cannot be prevented.

I've Recently Installed a New Hardwood Floor and Noticed Minor Cracks in the Boards. How Can I Prevent This?

It's not uncommon to observe minor cracks, often referred to as 'checking,' in the finish of some wood boards, either right after installation or several months later. These cracks are most noticeable near the end of the boards, and they may appear or change as the seasons progress. It's important to note that this is a common and natural occurrence rather than a defect, and there's no surefire way to prevent it.

Why Has the Color of My Floor Changed Over Time?

Color changes in natural materials can occur due to factors like exposure to sunlight, lighting, or even being covered by area rugs. To minimize shading and maintain the floor's appearance, we suggest periodically rearranging furniture and area rugs.

I've Noticed Minor Bumps in My Hardwood Floors. How Can I Prevent Them?

It's essential to ensure that the installation of hardwood strips and planks is done perpendicular to the joists. Minor bumps in the floor can occasionally occur over time due to the natural aging and structural settlement of the house. It's important to note that these bumps are typically related to the house's existing structure rather than the installation process, and they may project onto the new floor.

Why Should I Choose a Professional for Hardwood Installation Instead of a DIY Project?

While DIY projects can be rewarding, hardwood floor installation is exceptionally challenging and best left to the professionals. Many complaints related to hardwood floors stem from the installation process, not the product itself. Issues such as acclimation, precise nail placement, subfloor preparation, and more can affect the final result. Certified professionals, like those at Aladdin Carpet & Floors, possess the expertise, dedication, and experience needed to enhance the beauty of your newly installed hardwood, ensuring a flawless outcome.

Is it Possible to Install Hardwood Over a Crawlspace?

Yes, you can install hardwood floors over a crawl space, but it requires careful consideration. Ensure that the crawl space has proper air ventilation. Additionally, to prevent moisture issues, cover the ground with a minimum 6mm thick plastic barrier and scatter rocks randomly across the surface.

How to Properly Care for Your Hardwood Floors:

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your hardwood floors in excellent condition and enjoy their beauty for years to come.

Maintain Temperature and Humidity: Keep your home within the temperature range of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and maintain a relative humidity (RH) between 30% to 50%. Extreme variations can lead to issues like crowning, cupping, gapping, cracking, or raised grain.
Furniture Protection: Place felt pads under the legs of all furniture to prevent scratches and impression marks when moving items. Avoid sliding furniture directly on hardwood surfaces.
High Heel Caution: High heels can exert significant pressure on the floor. Ensure that high heels are in good condition to prevent excessive damage.
Pet Care: Keep your pets' nails trimmed and smooth to prevent scratching and gouging of the wood.
Regular Cleaning: Sweep, vacuum, or dust mop your hardwood floors regularly to remove dirt and debris. Leftover dirt can act like sandpaper, dulling the finish over time.
Handle Spills Promptly: Wipe up spills immediately with a damp cloth. Excessive moisture can harm the finish. Place mats or scatter rugs near areas prone to spills, such as sinks and dishwashers, to reduce moisture exposure.
Tackle Tough Stains: For marks or stubborn stains, use Acetone for cleaning. Fingernail polish remover will not harm the finish.
Use Trusted Wood Floor Cleaners: When cleaning the floor, use a wood floor cleaner from a reputable brand to ensure the best results and preserve the finish of your hardwood.

What actions should I avoid to preserve my wood floor's beauty and finish?

Following these guidelines will help you maintain the beauty and longevity of your wood floor while avoiding common pitfalls.

Avoid Wet Mopping: Refrain from wet mopping your wood floor, as excessive water can raise the wood's grain and ultimately lead to a dull finish.
Don't Pour Cleaners Directly: Never pour cleaners or liquids directly onto the floor surface. Instead, apply cleaning liquid to a mop or cloth for controlled application.
Steer Clear of Dust Treatments: Avoid using household dust treatments like Endust, as they may scratch the surface of your wood floor.
Skip Household Cleaners: Do not use regular household cleaners or detergents on your wood floor.
Say No to Electric Wood Floor Cleaners: Avoid electric wood floor cleaners, as they can damage the finish.
Ditch the Sprayer Mop: Refrain from using sprayer mops, as they have the potential to harm the finish of your wood floor.
Avoid Scrapers or Sandpaper: Do not use scrapers or sandpaper to remove dirt from the floor, as this can scratch the wood surface.
Chairs with Rollers are a No-Go: Don't use chairs with rollers on your wood floor, as they can damage the finish.
Watch Out for Vacuum Cleaners with Beater Bars: Avoid using vacuum cleaner nozzle with beater bars on your hardwood floor, as they can harm the finish.

Hardwood Flooring Installation