A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc

HARDWOOD FLOORING GUIDE: THE BEST WOOD SPECIES FOR ILLINOIS HOMES

If you’re considering hardwood floor installation, hardwood floor refinishing, or replacing old flooring, understanding the differences between wood species can help you make the right investment for your home.

At A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc., we install and refinish hardwood floors throughout Palatine, Arlington Heights, Barrington, Inverness, Long Grove, Buffalo Grove, Lake Zurich, Deer Park, Kildeer, Northbrook, Glenview, Libertyville, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Wauconda, Grayslake, Crystal Lake, Cary, Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, Huntley, McHenry, Mount Prospect, Rolling Meadows, Schaumburg, and surrounding Illinois communities.

MOST POPULAR HARDWOOD FLOOR SPECIES

WHITE OAK HARDWOOD FLOORS

White Oak is currently one of the most requested hardwood flooring species for both traditional and modern homes.

Pros:
✔ Excellent durability and stability
✔ Beautiful grain pattern
✔ Accepts stain colors exceptionally well
✔ Available in natural, light, medium, and dark finishes
✔ Ideal for modern, farmhouse, and contemporary designs

Cons:
✘ Higher material cost than Red Oak
✘ More noticeable grain pattern than Maple

RED OAK HARDWOOD FLOORS

Red Oak has been one of America’s most popular hardwood flooring species for decades.

Pros:
✔ Excellent value
✔ Readily available
✔ Easy to repair and refinish
✔ Traditional hardwood floor appearance

Cons:
✘ More red and pink undertones
✘ Slightly softer than White Oak
✘ More seasonal movement than White Oak

HICKORY HARDWOOD FLOORS

Hickory is one of the hardest domestic hardwood species available.

Pros:
✔ Extremely durable
✔ Great for active households
✔ Excellent resistance to dents and wear
✔ Distinctive rustic character

Cons:
✘ Significant color variation
✘ More difficult to install and sand
✘ Not ideal for homeowners seeking a uniform appearance

MAPLE HARDWOOD FLOORS

Maple flooring offers a clean, modern appearance and exceptional hardness.

Pros:
✔ Smooth grain pattern
✔ Contemporary look
✔ Highly durable
✔ Popular in luxury homes

Cons:
✘ More difficult to stain evenly
✘ Color matching repairs can be challenging

AMERICAN CHERRY HARDWOOD FLOORS

Cherry flooring provides warmth, elegance, and timeless beauty.

Pros:
✔ Rich natural color
✔ Elegant appearance
✔ Ages beautifully

Cons:
✘ Softer than Oak and Hickory
✘ More susceptible to dents
✘ Darkens naturally with age and sunlight

ACACIA HARDWOOD FLOORS

Acacia flooring has become increasingly popular because of its dramatic grain patterns and exotic appearance.

Pros:
✔ Unique character
✔ Excellent durability
✔ Distinctive appearance
✔ Highly resistant to everyday wear

Cons:
✘ Significant natural color variation
✘ Future repairs may not blend perfectly
✘ Product quality varies by manufacturer

WHY HARDWOOD FLOOR ACCLIMATION IS IMPORTANT

One of the most overlooked parts of a successful hardwood floor installation is acclimation.

Hardwood flooring should typically acclimate inside the home for approximately 5–7 days before installation. Wood naturally expands and contracts as humidity and temperature change.

Improper acclimation can lead to:
• Gaps between boards
• Cupping
• Crowning
• Buckling
• Excessive movement

Before installation, moisture levels in the flooring, subfloor, and home environment should be properly evaluated.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR HARDWOOD FLOOR FINISH

Whether your floors are finished with Bona Traffic HD, waterborne polyurethane, or another professional-grade finish, proper maintenance will significantly extend the life of your investment.

Recommended:
✔ Vacuum or sweep regularly
✔ Use felt furniture protectors
✔ Maintain indoor humidity between 35% and 55%
✔ Clean with hardwood-floor-approved cleaners
✔ Place mats at exterior entrances

Avoid:
✘ Steam mops
✘ Excess water
✘ Vinegar-based cleaners
✘ Murphy’s Oil Soap
✘ Dragging furniture across the floor

HOW LONG DO HARDWOOD FLOORS LAST?

A professionally installed hardwood floor can last 50 to 100 years or more when properly maintained. Unlike carpet, laminate, or vinyl flooring, real hardwood floors can often be sanded and refinished multiple times, making them one of the most valuable long-term investments for your home.

Looking for hardwood floor installation, hardwood floor refinishing, hardwood floor sanding, stain color changes, stair refinishing, or hardwood floor repairs in Palatine, Arlington Heights, Barrington, Buffalo Grove, Lake Zurich, Long Grove, Libertyville, Vernon Hills, Crystal Lake, Cary, Algonquin, or surrounding areas?

A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc. specializes in:
• Hardwood Floor Installation
• Hardwood Floor Refinishing
• Hardwood Floor Sanding
• Hardwood Floor Staining
• Stair Tread Refinishing
• Hardwood Floor Repairs
• Custom Stain Color Matching
• Prefinished and Unfinished Hardwood Flooring

Call A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc.
(224) 602-5151

What hardwood species do you currently have in your home?

WHY DO HARDWOOD FLOORS DEVELOP GAPS?

One of the most common questions we receive from homeowners is:

“Why are there gaps between my hardwood floor boards?”

In most cases, gaps are completely normal and are caused by seasonal changes in humidity.

Hardwood is a natural product that expands when it absorbs moisture and contracts when the air becomes dry. During the winter months, when furnaces are running and indoor air becomes drier, hardwood flooring often shrinks slightly, creating small gaps between boards. During the spring and summer, those gaps frequently close back up as humidity levels increase.

To help minimize seasonal movement:

✔ Maintain indoor humidity between 35% and 55%
✔ Avoid excessive dry heat during winter
✔ Clean spills immediately
✔ Use proper hardwood floor cleaning products
✔ Consider a whole-home humidifier if your home becomes extremely dry

Not every gap is a problem. However, large gaps, buckling, cupping, crowning, or loose boards may indicate a moisture issue that should be inspected by a flooring professional.

Hardwood floors are one of the few flooring products that can last for generations when properly maintained. Understanding how wood naturally reacts to its environment can help protect your investment and keep your floors looking beautiful for years to come.

Have questions about your hardwood floors? Post a picture in the comments or send us a message. We’d be happy to help.

A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc.
(224) 602-5151

Did you know that many hardwood floors can be restored instead of replaced?

One of the biggest misconceptions homeowners have is that scratches, worn finishes, and dull-looking hardwood floors mean it’s time for new flooring. In many cases, a professional hardwood floor refinishing process can bring your floors back to life for a fraction of the cost of replacement.

A professional refinishing project removes years of wear and tear, restores the natural beauty of the wood, and adds a durable protective finish that can help your floors last for decades.

Here are a few signs your hardwood floors may be ready for refinishing:

✔ Surface scratches and scuff marks
✔ Dull or faded finish
✔ Minor pet damage
✔ Water spots and discoloration
✔ Areas where the finish has worn away

At A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc., we specialize in hardwood floor refinishing, installation, repairs, stair refinishing, and stain color matching. We use premium Bona finishing systems designed to provide long-lasting beauty and durability.

Remember: Replacing your floors isn’t always the answer. Sometimes the hardwood you already have is the best floor in your home—it just needs the right craftsmanship to bring it back to life.

If you’re wondering whether your floors should be refinished or replaced, send us a few pictures. We’d be happy to help guide you in the right direction.

A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc.
(224) 602-5151

Did you know that most hardwood floors can be refinished instead of replaced?

Many homeowners assume that scratched, worn, or faded hardwood floors need to be torn out and replaced. In reality, refinishing existing hardwood floors can often save thousands of dollars while restoring the natural beauty of the wood.

This hardwood floor refinishing project was recently completed by A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc. in Algonquin, Illinois. By sanding away years of wear and applying a new stain and finish system, we were able to completely transform the appearance of the floor without the expense and disruption of a full replacement.

Benefits of refinishing hardwood floors:

✔ Removes scratches, dents, and surface damage
✔ Restores the natural beauty of the wood
✔ Allows you to change the stain color
✔ Increases home value
✔ Extends the life of your hardwood floors for many years
✔ Costs significantly less than replacing the flooring

One question we often hear is:

“How do I know if my floors can be refinished?”

In most cases, solid hardwood floors can be refinished multiple times throughout their lifespan. An on-site inspection is usually the best way to determine whether refinishing or replacement is the better option.

If your hardwood floors are looking worn, dull, scratched, or outdated, feel free to send us a few photos. We’d be happy to give you our professional opinion.

What stain color would you choose for your home—Natural, Medium Brown, Dark Walnut, or something lighter?

Comment below and let us know!

A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc.
Free Estimates
(847) 890-1496
(224) 602-5151

Serving Algonquin, Palatine, Arlington Heights, Barrington, Lake Zurich, Crystal Lake, and surrounding communities.

8 Professional Tips to Make Your Hardwood Floors Last a Lifetime

HOW TO KEEP YOUR HARDWOOD FLOORS LOOKING BEAUTIFUL FOR YEARS

One of the most common questions we receive at A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc. is:

“What is the best way to clean and maintain my hardwood floors?”

The good news is that hardwood floors can last for generations when properly cared for. The bad news is that many homeowners unknowingly damage their floors by using the wrong cleaning products and maintenance methods.

Here are some professional tips to help protect your investment:

✔ Sweep or Dust Mop Frequently

Dirt, sand, and small debris act like sandpaper on hardwood floors. Regular sweeping or dust mopping helps prevent scratches and premature wear of the finish.

✔ Clean Up Spills Immediately

Hardwood and standing water do not mix. Wipe up spills as soon as possible to prevent moisture from penetrating the wood and causing discoloration, swelling, or cupping.

✔ Use the Right Cleaning Products

Avoid oil soaps, wax-based cleaners, vinegar solutions, steam mops, and excessive water. These products can damage the finish or leave residue behind.

Instead, use a hardwood floor cleaner specifically recommended for your floor finish, such as Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner.

✔ Protect High-Traffic Areas

Place rugs or runners in entryways and other high-traffic areas. This helps reduce wear and protects the finish from dirt and grit brought in from outside.

✔ Use Felt Pads Under Furniture

Chairs, tables, and furniture can easily scratch hardwood floors. Felt pads provide a simple and inexpensive way to protect your floors from unnecessary damage.

✔ Maintain Proper Humidity Levels

Hardwood flooring expands and contracts naturally with seasonal humidity changes. Keeping indoor humidity between 35% and 55% can help minimize gaps, cupping, and other movement-related issues.

✔ Remove Shoes at the Door

Small rocks, dirt, and debris trapped in shoe soles are one of the leading causes of scratches on hardwood floors. A simple no-shoes policy can dramatically extend the life of your floor’s finish.

✔ Recoat Before It’s Too Late

Many homeowners wait until the finish is completely worn through before taking action. A maintenance coat applied at the right time can often extend the life of your floor and delay the need for a full refinishing project.

A hardwood floor is more than just a surface to walk on—it’s an investment in your home’s beauty and value. With proper care and maintenance, your hardwood floors can continue looking beautiful for decades.

If your floors are showing signs of wear, scratches, fading, or dullness, contact A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc. for a professional evaluation.

A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc.

Chano Aniceto – Owner

Office: (224) 602-5151
Cell: (847) 890-1496

Professional Hardwood Floor Installation, Refinishing, Repairs & Restoration

WHY SOME HARDWOOD FLOORS LAST 50+ YEARS WHILE OTHERS FAIL PREMATURELY

Many homeowners think all hardwood floors are installed the same way. The truth is that the longevity and appearance of a hardwood floor depend heavily on the installation process and the products used.

At A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc., we recently completed a 1,300-square-foot hardwood flooring project in Algonquin, Illinois, where we laced new 2-1/4” Red Oak hardwood flooring into the existing floors, sanded the entire surface, stained it, and applied a premium Bona finish system.

What makes a hardwood floor last?

1. Proper Acclimation

Before installation, hardwood flooring should be allowed to acclimate to the home’s environment. Wood naturally expands and contracts with humidity changes. Skipping this step can lead to gaps, cupping, buckling, and other costly problems.

2. Professional Installation

A properly installed hardwood floor creates a stable foundation that can last for generations. Attention to detail during installation is what separates an average floor from an exceptional one.

3. Quality Sanding

Sanding is one of the most important steps in the refinishing process. Proper sanding removes imperfections, creates a smooth surface, and prepares the wood to accept stain and finish evenly.

4. Premium Stain and Finish Systems

For this project, we applied:

• One coat of DuraSeal Dark Walnut stain
• One coat of Bona Intense Sealer
• Two coats of Bona Traffic HD Extra Matte finish

Bona Traffic HD is widely recognized as one of the most durable hardwood floor finishes available, offering outstanding protection against daily wear while maintaining a beautiful natural appearance.

5. Craftsmanship

Products matter, but craftsmanship matters even more. The best materials in the world cannot compensate for poor installation or improper sanding techniques.

The result of this project was a beautiful, seamless hardwood floor that blended the old and new flooring together as one continuous surface.

A special thank you to Amish Wood Floors for supplying the premium 2-1/4” Red Oak flooring used on this project.

Whether you’re installing new hardwood flooring, expanding an existing floor, or refinishing floors that have seen years of wear, investing in quality materials and experienced craftsmanship will pay dividends for decades to come.

A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc.

Chano Aniceto – Owner

Office: (224) 602-5151
Cell: (847) 890-1496

Serving homeowners throughout the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago with professional hardwood floor installation, refinishing, repairs, and staircase restoration.

✨ Another beautiful transformation completed in Arlington Heights by A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc.!

We recently finished a professional hardwood floor refinishing project that brought these worn, dull floors back to life. Our process included full sanding to remove years of scratches and surface wear, detailed edge work, stain enhancement, and premium finish coats for long-lasting protection and a rich, clean appearance.

Hardwood floors are one of the best investments in any home. Refinishing can restore their natural beauty, increase home value, and make your entire space feel fresh again—without the cost of replacing them.

At A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc., we believe in doing things the right way: proper preparation, quality materials, and craftsmanship that lasts.

📍 Serving Arlington Heights, Palatine, and surrounding Northwest suburbs
📞 Free Estimates: (224) 602-5151

Restore the beauty beneath your feet.

Another transformation completed in Hoffman Estates.

We had the opportunity to restore and upgrade this home with a full hardwood floor refinishing, new floor installation, and stairwell remodeling—and the results speak for themselves.

The existing floors were worn down and lacked consistency throughout the home. Our team sanded everything down to raw wood, properly prepped every surface, and applied a DuraSeal stain to achieve the desired color, followed by Bona Traffic HD water-based finish for long-lasting durability and a clean, modern look. We also installed new hardwood flooring where needed to seamlessly tie everything together.

The stairwell was completely remodeled, giving it a clean, updated appearance that now matches the rest of the home. From the treads and risers to the railings and overall finish, every detail was handled with precision.

This is the kind of work we stand behind—done the right way, with no shortcuts.

If you’re considering refinishing your hardwood floors, installing new flooring, or upgrading your stairwell, reach out today for a free estimate.

📞 224-602-5151
🌐 APlusHardwoodFloorsInc.com

A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc.
“Restore the beauty beneath your feet.”

Just wrapped up another hardwood floor project in Elgin, IL—refinishing existing floors and installing new hardwood to create one seamless, uniform look throughout the space.

For this project, we sanded everything down to raw wood, removed imperfections, and applied an Ebony stain to achieve that rich, modern dark tone.

We then sealed and protected the floors with Bona Traffic HD, giving it a strong, long-lasting finish while keeping a clean, natural look.

We also laced new white oak hardwood into the existing flooring, making sure everything blends together properly—no visible transitions, just one continuous floor done the right way.

No shortcuts. Just solid work built to last.

A Plus Hardwood Floors – Restore the Beauty Beneath Your Feet.

If you’re considering refinishing or installing hardwood floors, make sure it’s done right the first time.

📞 Free estimates
A Plus Hardwood Floors Inc.
(224) 602-5151

🌐 Learn more about our hardwood flooring services:
www.aplushardwoodfloorsinc.com