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). 

Spring Cleaning Your Floors

When the snow is melting, the life is coming back to nature, temperatures are rising, and people are getting happier, you know that spring is here. Sure, there is still some snow on the ground in much of the midwest but we know that spring is this close to being here and the age old concept of "spring cleaning" is knocking at our doors.

Now, no matter what kind of floors you have, it is important that you get them clean and looking good for all those fun times you are about to have now that the roads aren't impassable due to the weather.

Hardwood flooring is definitely one of the simplest floors to clean and takes the least amount of work. Typically, to keep them in good shape means just having to sweep and vacuum them; you just want to keep all the dirt and dust (and other junk) from making your floors home and ruining them. Now, if you have spills or stains, you may have to use a mop or a wet mop device (the ones that have the spray and you attach the tissue to the base). If you use either one of these, make sure you do not soak your floor with too much of the liquid; use enough to get it clean but not to flood the place. Too much moisture can get in between the seems in the floors and ruin them; this can ruin the backing on the floors and perhaps ruin the finish.

If you are one to prefer carpeting, then what you have to do is vacuum and make sure that the vacuum filter is clean (this will give you a real good job at cleaning your carpet). If you have more aggressive cleanings to do, like for stains, then use a proper cleaning solution and blot the stain, don't wipe or rub.

If you have ceramic floors, then you have a pretty easy cleaning job as well, much like with hardwood flooring, your cleaning job is going to be a lot of vacuuming and easy mopping. However, you may have to do cleaning more regularly, daily almost. You have to do regular cleaning to avoid the buildup of things like mold, mildew, grime, etc. Use clean water and then wipe them dry. Make sure your grout is clean and good to go as well. If you have grout to clean, then mix some mild detergent (1/4 cup) with a gallon of water.

They say April showers bring May flowers, should there be April showers (or any other spring month), then try to keep the water out of the house and off your floors. If you have any questions, then contact Chicagoland Pro - a hardwood flooring company.