Wide plank pine flooring is a versatile look that can go with a variety of decorating schemes. Country, contemporary or covered with antiques and bright leather chairs and sofa, this wood flooring practically screams “home sweet home.” Wouldn’t you like to have this be the foundation for your abode?
First thing that a homeowner needs to do is to find a style and stain color that they like. There is a large variety out there, so it’s wise to go to showrooms, pick up a few samples and bring them back to your house to see how they will look. There are narrow planks as well as wide ones, and light, medium and dark stains. There are some that are very smooth and refined looking, while others are adorned with personality-plus knotholes and irregularities. Some wood has been converted from antique sources that have been recovered from old barns, pickle vats, factories and homes. How’d you like to have a bit of history converted into your gorgeous new floor? Not only is this a huge design statement, but it’s a green thing to do in that you’re recycling used wood rather than cutting down another tree in the forest. Once the style of wood has been picked out, it’s time to get it installed.
Some handy homeowners can do it themselves. Others will need to hire an experienced installer in order to have it done professionally. Since pine is a softer wood than some of the hardwoods such as oak, it tends to be an easier installation. A do-it-yourselfer will need to own or rent a ready supply of tools such as a table saw, circular saw, a heavy duty stapler, nails, clamps, router, tape measure or ruler, and of course a hammer and some nails. Drills with an assortment of drill bits will also be needed. If there is existing flooring or carpeting in the home, tools will be required to tear it out as well. This tool list will depend of the type of flooring to be removed. A trip to the dump to discard the old carpet, padding or tile remains may be in order, as well.
Once the floor has been assembled in place, the handy homeowner or professional installer will need to finish with sandpaper, stain and wood oil. The best thing about wide plank pine flooring is that it will only get better with age. The natural wood will adapt to the surroundings and develop a look all its own.…