Parquet Hardwood Floors - Invest in your Home

Parquet hardwood floor tiles have made a comeback in recent years with their distinctive wood block patterns and stain variations. Look for prestained parquet flooring tiles that are finished with a protective urethane top coat.

Some parquet floors can be installed much like vinyl tiles - others are a tongue and groove construction. Before laying the tile allow the hardwood strips to sit inside the room for several days to absorb humidity from the air. Intermix pieces from several boxes to blend the naturally occurring variations found in the hardwood.

Parquet wood floors are sealed to stop dirt from penetrating and damaging the surface. If the floor is newly installed a professional should sand the surface before the sealing topcoat is applied.

Stains and burn marks can be repaired with a mallet and chisel. Remove the damaged strips of hardwood along with old adhesive and any dust. Prepare the new strip and fit it into place - planing the sides may be necessary.

Apply adhesive to the floor and press the wooden piece into position. Once it has dried, rub with fine grade sandpaper and clean the area. Stain may be required to match the rest of the hardwood.

If there is a minor chip or slight damage, a color blended chip filler is an option. Touchup kits help repair scratches and chips.

When a parquet floor begins to shows signs of wear a light sanding and resealing with polyurethane varnish is recommended. The finish is tough, hardwearing and easy to maintain.

A hardwood floor will go through a natural process of aging called patina where it becomes lighter. This happens noticeably where the floor is exposed to bright sunlight. Covering part of the floor with an area rug, then moving it, also makes a change in the color of the wood more evident.

Enjoy the beauty of your new hardwood floor for years to come. Remember to use mats at doorways, in front of the kitchen sink and refrigerator where there is the most traffic.