Make Your Home An Easy Sell With Hardwood Flooring

The housing market is improving and with these improvements come buyers looking for homes that they can do more than live in. Buyers today are looking to make an investment when they purchase.  Young buyers are especially specific in their needs and want to know that they truly are buying something that is going to last the test of time, and the market. 

So how can hardwood floor help sell your home? The number one way is it is a proven investment. Hardwood floors can last over 100 years with proper care.  People looking to buy not only want to make an investment, but they also do not want to do all the work to increase the value of this property. They expect the value to already be in the home and wood flooring is something that they are asking and looking for in this purchase. 

The buyers today are a busy bunch. They are increasingly working more hours and doing more in their communities. They do not want to do more work after the purchase. Homes that already have wood flooring as a major plus in their eyes, because they will have more time for themselves, rather than devoting their free time to home improvements.

Easy cleaning is a major factor homeowner’s love wood flooring. Carpets can be difficult to clean, and even when professionally done can still have staining and dust mites. For those people that suffer from allergies or have kids, the idea of constantly cleaning carpet is daunting and time consuming. Buyers want to have more free time and less hassle. For people suffering from allergies walking into a home with wall-to-wall carpet can be a nightmare. Dust mites, mold and other allergens can get trapped in the carpet and give people serious reactions if they are not careful.  Hardwood floors create a healthier daily living experience and provide a better space for entertaining. Carpet can be a deal breaker for those suffering from allergies or do a lot of entertaining at home. 

One of top reasons hardwood floors can help sell your home is the actual installation of them can take time, money and create hassle for those looking to move in.  If the floors are already in the home, the buyers don’t have to worry about moving furniture, taking time away from the home or cleaning dust after an install.  While many people would love to have hardwood flooring, the time commitment and hassle of going through an installation keeps them at bay. By installing the wood floors before selling, people can move in and enjoy their new home without having to even think about making changes.

The new push for more eco-friendly or GREEN homes, makes hardwood flooring an easy sell.  

Wood flooring, especially sustainable wood like Bamboo, Engineered, or Recycled wood, makes those looking to live a green lifestyle thrilled to see the floor when they walk in to an open house. 

Considering all of the reasons above, as well as a better quality of life, it is easy to see why hardwood in a new home is ideal. 

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Hardwood Floor Trends 2015

Hardwood Flooring Trends for 2015

The New Year is almost here so we decided to take a look at the top trends in hardwood flooring for the upcoming year.  Those considering a new installation or simply wanting a fresh look for their flooring have a lot to consider.  Popular looks for 2015 depend more on the function of the space and style. Even more things to think about is how green you want your new floor to be. By green, we do not mean the color green, but sustainable and eco-friendly. 

For the Green Home the floor that will be most sought after is refurnished or recycled wood flooring. This type of flooring has gained in popularity recently but it has also increased in cost.  Often the wood is collected from old barns and other retired facilities and then refurbished. This is not only the greenest option, because no trees are cut down to create your new flooring,  but it can have a wonderful distressed look to it. There are also many new products on the market that are either LOW VOC or are VOC Free. This helps those that are not interested buying recycled wood, but would like to have options to have their home and flooring have as limited impact on their health and environment as possible.

Other green options include bamboo flooring and engineered wood flooring. Bamboo has become more popular in recent years and is being viewed in a more reliable light. Bamboo grows quickly and can be harvested to create wood floor. This helps to keep deforestation down and offers people peace of mind, knowing that the wood is being ethically harvested.  Engineered wood floor is another that is gaining popularity. It is becoming more a more available because of advancements in the industry and the ease of installment that engineered floors offer. We foresee these trends only growing and becoming more of a norm in the hardwood floor industry. 

When it comes to style, the most eye-catching flooring trend is the mosaic look. Recently Hardwood Floor Magazine featured its winners for floor of the year, and not surprisingly mosaic flooring won.  People are using mosaics and creating many different designs with wood. The most interesting is the puzzle piece floor, which looks like an Escher painting. Small puzzle wood pieces are connected to form the floor. Chevrons designs are also popular. You can find this design on everything from curtains, chairs and pillows, creating a zigzag effect and giving the room a modern feel.  People can use a variety of woods to create these effects or alternate opposite colors or shades; switching off between dark and lightwoods creates the most dramatic effect.

Some of the top requests we got in 2014 from our clients are a mixture  of colors including: Lights/Whites, Grays and Ebony floors. The light colors vary from white to cream and matte finishes. Some people are choosing to leave their floor looking natural. Others are choosing a light color that can open up many options for home design. Ebony or dark colored hardwood floors are also seeing a big comeback. They offer a rich and refined look to a room.  The Ebony color is by far the most popular of 2014 but people are choosing to use dark browns as well. The dark brown finish gives the floor a warmer feel than the ebony but both make the other features of the room pop with contrast. 

The last big trend we see growing quickly is the use of wide planks for floors. These floorboards are usually an average of 6” but can go up to as high as 7 ½” for some.  Wide plank floors are perfect for larger spaces and will be a trend that sticks around for some time. Wide planks are also easier to install as there are less pieces and they can adapt to humidity better, because there are less places for the wood to swell. 

One thing for certain, hardwood floors are here to stay and a great investment to any space. We have been installing, refinishing and repairing wood flooring for over 25 years and are loving these new trends.  

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How To Care For Your Wood Floor During The Winter Time

Chicagoland Pro: Wood Flooring Tips & Tricks For Winter Time 

Winter is almost here and we want to help you protect those beautiful hardwood floors.

First things first, why do you need to do more during the winter? The answer is simple, wood expands with changing levels of temperatures and humidity. During the winter, your home will change depending on how the house is used and how cold it is outside. Some people conserve on heat and lower temperatures during the day, while others keep their homes at a constant temperature. Either way, there will be variations. The humidity level will also change as heaters, fireplaces and cold winds enter the home.

Your hardwood floor will be affected by all of these changes during the winter months. We have decided to put together a simple list of things anyone can do to help protect their floors from damage this season. 

First things first, entrance ways are the key in protecting your hardwood flooring. Start by adding mats by your door and creating a specific place for visitors and residents to put their shoes. We suggest asking people to remove all shoes before walking on hardwood flooring. Having a few old towels or rags nearby to clean up salt and water near the door is important.  Rags can also be used for pets feet after walks. Its a good idea to train your pet to wipe their feet and even have a reward system for them to encourage them to stop at the door instead of running in and tracking snow across the floor. This will make clean up easier and avoid salt or water spots. 

While we can do our best to prevent snow and salt from entering, one way or another some will always get through. Ass mentioned above, having a few extra rags ready to clean up the mess will help it from spreading. This can be old towels or t-shirts or you can purchase special rags specifically made for floor clean up.  When winter approaches create a designated a place for rags, shoes, and include a way for snow to drain without creating a puddle. This can be done with a waterproof mat or a dish drainer with a rag under it. Make it easy for yourself and everyone els to use these things and wash rags weekly to avoid salt build up. 

Cleaning the flooring 1-2 times a week is a must. While we can be vigilant about keeping snow and salt out, the inevitable will always happen. Adding a bit of extra cleaning during this season will help protect the floors. There are several protective products on the market that will coat the wood floors and form a protective shield. This is not necessary but advised as Chicago has tough winters that can last into the spring months. Normal cleaning is also sufficient, increasing the amount of cleanings is the crucial part.  Simple steps like this will keep your floors looking great throughout the winter and well into the spring. 

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The Pro's of Laminate Flooring

Chicagoland Pro Laminate & Veneer Flooring Options

We often find that our clients have many questions about Laminate Flooring. While there are many options people are unsure of the benefits and differences between regular hardwood floor and laminate options. Chicagoland Pro offers both services and the right choice depends on the function and client. Both options are great additions to a home or office space but many don't realize that laminates can be a great option for their upgrade or remodel. 

Here are the Pro's of Laminate Flooring:

• There are substantial health and ecological benefits to laminate flooring. 
• It is incredibly versatile, offering many options for colors, styles and texture.
• Laminates are easy to clean and maintain. 
• Laminates are wonderful for high traffic areas and won't be scratched easily. 
• Laminate floor installation is easier and faster than traditional hardwood floor. 

Laminate flooring is made of "multi-layer synthetic flooring products." The floor itself is fused together through lamination. The floor is made of a combination of fiber board and melamine resin. It was first invented in 1977 by a Swedish company and then improved on again in Sweden by another company where they created a glue-less option. 

There are many styles and options with laminates. Color and style range from stone, wood and tile. Most people think of tile when they think of laminates but there is an incredible amount of wood options, from gray's, brown and exotic cherry.  

For those thinking about installing hardwood but worried about high traffic, pets, kids and want to avoid scratches, laminate is the perfect option. It is durable and hard to damage. This type is flooring is also easy to clean, with out the need special products, cleaners or home remedies. It will not absorb water as hardwood does and can be easily cleaned with a mop.  Recently, BONA the same product we use to finish hardwood floors is started offering disposable cleaning pads for laminates to make cleaning even easier. 

Installation is also much faster than traditional wood floors. We recommend that clients purchase their own supplies for these installs but fortunately for them this is easy as laminates are smaller in size. Most people who purchase laminates find that they can transfer them form the store in just car one load. 

For the eco-concious consumer  laminates are also a win. They are commonly used in LEED homes. Laminates have potential health benefits and produce less emissions providing a better product for your family and the enviornment. 

If you are interested in laminates and are in the Chicagoland area get in touch with @ChicagolandPro.

We offer FREE Estimates and will answer any questions you may have regarding laminates, hardwood and veneer flooring to help you make the best investment for your home. 

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Technology & The Hardwood Floor Industry

Chicagoland Pro Blog

The wood floor industry is in full swing. We at Chicagoland Pro have seen a major comeback for our industry and an increased desire for wood floor in the last 25 years. With this revived interest there are tons of new and exciting things in the industry with the help of technology. From engineered wood to new apps there is something for everyone and its easier than ever to purchase, choose and install wood flooring in your home. 


The biggest advancement in the hardwood floor industry is engineered wood. This wood includes several layers of hardwood. The layers are stacked and bound by using a pressurized heat system. This type of wood is more durable and is less likely to be effected by indoor humidity and water making it an excellent choice for kitchens or bathrooms, a recent trend for homeowners. 


Other advancement include new ways to help home and property owners decide on the design and style of their wood floors. Advancements in technology has brought us apps like the Quick-Step App which is currently available in the Apple Store. This tool allows people to easily view and create a design plan for their flooring. Other web sites include design tools which make viewing floor options and styles easier than ever. With these new tools consumers can check out what their floor would look like in the desired space, identify types of wood and stains that would work for them.  You can match the rooms and color to your desired floor to preview the look pre-purchase. These tools allow customers to have a better end-result that is more satisfying to their taste and style of home. They also save consumers time and money by allowing them to view these options from the comfort of their own homes versus traveling to stores and then returning home to match samples.  It greatly relieves the stress of not knowing what the floor will look like once installed and creates a better overall experience for clients. 

Training and education for industry professionals has benefited from recent technological advancement as well. A good example of this can be found on the Restoration Science Academy website which offers training for floor professionals on I-Pad's. Class subjects can include cleaning and restoration of hardwood floor, water extraction and legal contract assistance. This allows those with limited resources and time to save while at the same time helping them to develop their professional skills. 

While these are all wonderful achievements, the biggest gains have been in the use of NEW LOW VOC products currently available on the market. The overall improvements to the flooring products has created healthier and more environmentally friendly options for consumers and professionals alike. BONA is a company we use and we are proud of the many products they have that limit the amount of toxins that people are exposed to. From cleaning, to sealing these products are much better for our health and the health of our clients while being more environmentally friendly overall. 

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Top 5 Ways To Care For Engineered Wood Floors

Just like other wood floors engineered wood needs special care. 

Most wood responds the same when exposed to water and humidity so to make sure your are protecting your investment here are a few helpful tips:

1) Keep floors dry and control the level of humidity in the home.

While engineered wood floor is more water resistant it will respond to water in the same ways regular hardwood does by molding, warping and loosing its value. The worst-case scenarios is buckling which is what will happen if the floor is exposed to water for an extended amount of time like a flood.

2) Sweep and mop once a week.  

If there are spills or dirt it is encouraged that people clean them as soon as possible to avoid damage. 

When mopping wood floors damp cloth or micro fiber mops are the best. After moping the floor it is also advised that the floor be dried with a cloth. Vacuums can be used but they must have soft brushes. Using a broom can ensure there will be no dents or scratches.

3) Avoid chemical cleaners. 

Wax based cleaners that will live film on the top layer of wood. It is not recommended to use a vinegar and soap solution for your engineered wood floors. The best thing to do is ask the installer and manufacturer what is the best solution to use on your new wood floors.

4) Choose function over fashion.

It is important to consider for anyone with wood flooring. Engineered wood flooring is not exempt. Placing breathable floor mats in high traffic areas with vinyl floor undelaying’s will keep high traffic areas protected. Avoid using rubber underneath rugs as it could discolor the flooring you are trying to protect.

5) Avoid the urge to Steam or buff the floors. 

Steam will cause extensive damage. Buffering floors can remove the finish and damage the overall quality of the wood. Other things to avoid are ammonium-based cleaners, rough scrubs and brushes which will lead to scratching.

Want to Learn More Tips and Tricks ? Check out our the Chicagoland Pro Website for more helpful information!

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Chicagoland Pro is going GREEN!

Green Hardwood Floor Finish is here and there are so many benefits to them that we decided to dedicate a whole blog post to the topic. We are thrilled to see the revival of plant based products and eco friendly practices in our industry. The benefits are overwhelming as we can now offer our clients, our staff and the environment better health. 

As demand and our industry grew; new products came out that were chemical based. Some products could be up to 50% Petroleum derived. To this day many stains & finishes that are available include Petroleum but consumers are becoming more educated on the topic and choosing products that are oil or water based. The public really should be mindful of the disadvantages the chemical products have. Health concerns around these products are based on the fact that Petroleum does contain harmful human carcinogens and may result in major health problems if ingested, exhaled and misused. 

Currently NEW Eco Friendly products & practices of hardwood floor staining, sealing and finishing have just recently gained in popularity and the products available have become more durable than their chemical competitors. For those that are doing at home refinishing or installation it is important to note that there should be a Green Seal on the product certifying that it is indeed Green.  Consumers should consult the manufacturer, a professional from the industry, as well as doing some research to make sure that the product they are using is truly LOW VOC or VOC Free. 

Some of the benefits of using Green products include better health for the people in the home or space where the floor will be applied. While many don't realize it, floor stains that are NOT VOC Free or Low VOC can not only have lasting effects on the person applying the stain but also for those inside the home as these chemicals will be inhaled for an extended amount of time even after the floor has dried.  People who choose the greener products should also know that there is little if not any lasting effects on the environment. 

The products also help to greatly increase the safety for the people installing the floor's themselves, as they are constantly exposed to them throughout their work day. Industry professionals such like Wayne, owner of Chicagoland Pro are thrilled with these new advancements and are hoping that with time the chemical products will no longer be needed, offering professionals in this industry longer and healthier lives.  

At Chicagoland Pro we use the Bona Traffic HD Finish which is  scratch resistant, very low VOC's ( less than 125) Just one of the benefits of this products is its low odor and how fast dries! It is also not flammable and is easy to clean up with water.

With the advancement of new & innovative products on the market, you can now purchase stains & finishes that are so safe that residents can apply them to counter tops, toys and even dish wear! Residents are even able to spend time inside the space where the product is being applied in some cases. For many who are planning renovations in their homes this is a relief as they do not have to change their routines or loose access to their homes for an extended amount of time. Ultimately the green choice is not only healthier for the planet and people, but also saves time and money.  

How to Choose Hardwood Floor

Chicagoland Pro 

With so many choosing to invest in hardwood floors this spring we wanted to give a little insight to help consumers make the right choice when it came to their hardwood floor!

 In 2014 people are adding wood floors to increase property value but they are also getting creative with their floor of choice.  From the kitchen and bathroom, to wall's with wood installation, many are choosing to not only add wood, but are also refinishing old wood and modernizing the look of their home or office.

Creativity is driving people to think outside the box & we thought it would be helpful to provide some current insight into trends along with offering a few good tips for those choosing wood floors for the first time.

Some people may go for a modern & luxurious look while others may choose for a warm & natural look. Regardless of the style, both groups should consider all the options available to them and talk to a professional to ensure they are making the right choice for their space.

Things to consider when choosing Wood Floors

Major consideration should be placed on the finish, style, design, and location as well as the use of space where wood floors are being installed or refinished. 

Engineered Wood: More resistant to moisture & humidity. Quality of wood can be different from one manufacturer to another. 

Solid Wood: Durable and long lasting while offering options for refinishing for future remodeling.  

One of the most important factors to consider is location of wood flooring. The location can affect the type of wood and it's durability. Certain wood is better placed above ground while others are better for lower level installation. 

On Grade: Flooring installed on ground level.

Above Ground: This implies that the floor is installed on the second level or above.

Below: Below ground level, usually applies to basements. 

• Size: Measure the space to get accurate quotes and prices for wood. 
• Color: Use a color wheel or a color book to match colors & find the desired color your space. 
• Texture: Depending on the style of the room, textures can vary and provide effects to compliment the style or furniture of the room. 2014 trends include textured distressed & antique looks for wood floor.
• Width: Wide planks are gaining in popularity. Reclaimed wood can come in wider lengths &  offer less seams. There are multiple styles and colors to choose from. 

The Species of the wood is important to consider and with so many options, it's good to decide on the use and intention of the space first. While consumers might like the look of a specific species based on appearance  they may come to find that it is not functional for the space they choose to remodel.  It is also good to consider how much moisture and traffic the floors will get after installation. Wood grains are all different and adapt differently to the environment they are put in. 

• Oak: Most Popular choice for consumers. Red Oak is a great choice for high traffic areas of the home or office. White Oak offers similar benefits but in a softer look with light brown and gray tones vs. pink and red. 
• Walnut:  Softer than Oak and is consistently a popular choice for consumers. 
• Maple: Harvested in North American and Canada.
• Beech:  Imported from Sweden, Denmark, Norway. Colors tend to be warm browns with some red pigment. 
• Cherry:  Varieties offered for color. American Cherry offers soft, warm colors. Others can be more exotic looking.   Example: Brazilian Cherry wood provides mosaic looks. 
• Ash: Suggested for use in bright spaces with light. 

For more information on Wood Floor Species visit the National Wood Floor Association for a visual gallery.

Learn more about our New Green Stain Options at Chicagoland Pro

• Reclaimed Wood This wood is often taken from older homes and sites. It can be salvaged from an antique home and provide many more years of enjoyment once refinished. 
• Cork : From "Cork Oak Trees' Trees are striped of bark and hand harvested. Great choice for people with allergies or looking for a truly sustainable option as trees are never cut down in harvesting methods. These trees usually are grown in the Mediterranean region and are imported into the United States. 
• Bamboo - Often imported from Asia but local manufacturers are becoming easier to find. Bamboo is the fastest growing plant in the world and can offer a more sustainable option for the green home owner. The negative side of bamboo is it dents easily so rooms with high traffic are not ideal for bamboo installation. The United States Green Building Councils offers LEED points for bamboo installation. 
• 100 % Green Stains: Many Green stains are available these days & for best results contact a professional for consultation to ensure your are making the best choice for your new floors.

Hardwood Flooring vs. Tile

There is the never ending battle between flooring types: hardwood flooring and tile. However, what are the pros and cons of each? Let's find out. Even as a hardwood flooring installation company, we will remain objective and provide accurate pros and cons for both.

Hardwood Flooring 
Pros:

• Hardwood is natural. If you're a person who prefers to know the materials of things that they put into their homes, then hardwood is something that will likely appeal to you. 
• Adds a sense of elegance to the home. 
• Hardwood compliments almost any decor styles. 
• It increases the value of the home. 
• Very easy to clean. 

Cons:

• More limited durability. Wood floors scratch more easily and those cost money to repair. 
• If you want hardwood but want floors better for pets, then go for laminate hardwood flooring. 
• It can be higher maintenance, if you spill a liquid, you need to clean it up quickly. It can also require a resanding and hardwood refinishing. 

Tile

Pros:

• It is versatile, it is doable for any climate and locations of your home. 
• Easy maintenance for tile. You don't have to worry about scratches and such as much with tile. 
• If you damage a tile, all you have to do is pull that tile and the replace the square. 

Cons:

• It gets real cold in the winter. 
• It doesn't add value to the home and can conflict with decor if that changes after the installation of the tile. 
• It can be loud when walked on. 

If you are unsure about which to go with, consider which one is better for your needs and desires. If you want hardwood, then contact Chicagoland Pro. We service the NW suburbs and northern suburbs (Evanston, Wilmette, Northbrook, Barrington, etc).