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Topic Areas
- Flooring
- Ceilings
- Moldings
- Wall Coverings
- Discontinued Products
Flooring FAQs
Is my subfloor level? What preparation needs to be done in my home?
- Subfloor flatness will vary based on the choice of floor selected and the method of installation. Each manufacturer has their own guidelines that will need to be adhered to.
Solid hardwood can be installed on or above grade over a plywood subfloor. Engineered hardwood can be installed on any level in the home by gluing, stapling or floating methods.
Our expert sales team can give you more details about these or answer any other questions about hardwood flooring you may have.
Should I be worried about pets/furniture scratching the surface of my floor?
- While the finish of your hardwood floor is protected, it is a natural product. No floor will ever be scratch-proof! This means that with enough force, any floor can be scratched or gouged, so it is best to keep this in mind.
A look at the Janka Hardness Scale can also be helpful in deciding what kind of wood would be best for your home.
It is recommended that all homeowners use felt pads under heavy furniture to prevent scratching the floor when moving the furniture.
It is also recommended to use walk-off mats at the entrances of the home to help prevent dirt and sand being tracked into the home, as dirt, sand and other bits from the outside can cause scratching to occur.
Proper maintenance and protection can reduce the chances of your floor scratching, but cannot completely eliminate the possibility.
Will my floor’s look change over time?
- Yes, it will. Long Island Paneling, Ceilings & Floors only sells prefinished hardwood flooring. Over time, all hardwood flooring products will change based upon exposure to light.
Depending on the wood, your floor may darken or lighten over time. Wood grains may become more or less noticeable as time passes. This is unavoidable. How long this process will take depends upon the factors in your home.
It is possible that if you install hardwood flooring, then set your furniture down and do not move that furniture for several years, that you will have noticeable areas of light and dark. There is nothing that can be done about this, but it is perfectly normal.
Hardwood flooring is a living product and changes with time.
Can I live with imperfections in my floor’s surface?
- Since hardwood flooring is a natural product, there are factors that can affect your choice. Various wood species have different variations in coloring, graining, knot appearance, and other characterstics.
Some woods, like Oak, naturally have a heavy grain that will be noticed, while Maple will have a softer, subtler, grain. Staining will greatly unify the look of the floor, but the grain will still be noticed.
This graining is what you are looking for in a wood floor, after all. Again, the grain will affect the overall look and feel of the room it is installed in. Because of wood grading, you can more carefully pick the look you desire.
When manufacturers choose wood pieces with few or no knots and very few color variations for a warm, uniform look, that becomes known as Selected Grade. Then, in the middle there are various grades with different amounts of color and grading, known as Middle Grades.
The flooring products with the most characteristics are often called “Rustic” or Character Grades. Although the clear grades tend to cost more, wood is wood. If you like the clear and consistent look, you will like the Selected Grade.
Often, the clear grades are used in formal settings. If you like heavy grains, knots and lots of character, you will enjoy the more rustic grades. These are often used in less formal, relaxed settings.
Do I need to worry about moisture in my home?
- Hardwood flooring is a natural product and is affected by the moisture level present in the home. For those of us on Long Island, there is an island climate to consider. We are therefore we more susceptible to high moisture content in the ground.
Almost all hardwood flooring manufacturers require an above grade installation for solid hardwood flooring; whereas engineered flooring can oftentimes be installed below grade (check the manufacturer’s guidelines).
During the summer months, the humidity level tends to be higher, causing the wood planks to swell. Again, this is normal. A properly installed hardwood floor will allow room for this expansion and contraction.
One way to help combat this issue is to maintain a constant humidity level in the home.
Do I want a traditional look and feel, or more modern and contemporary?
- This is a question that comes down to taste and personal preference. How do you want your home to look and feel? There is no right or wrong answer. However, it is important to consider that some looks are timeless while others are trendier.
Ceilings FAQs
What are ceiling tiles made of?
- Ceiling tiles are made of mineral or wood fiber, fiberglass or drywall with a vinyl face.
How much clearance is needed for a suspended ceiling?
- For a suspended ceiling, a 3 ½ – 4” clearance is required.
Are ceiling tiles paintable?
- All ceiling tiles (except for fiberglass) can be painted with latex paint.
What sizes do ceiling tiles come in?
- Ceiling tiles come in a 12”x12” size for attaching to existing ceilings Ceiling tiles that are 2’x2’ and 2’x4’ are for suspended ceilings.
Moldings FAQs
What are the different types of interior molding available?
- Interior molding comes in various types, including crown molding, baseboards, chair rails, and casings. Each type serves a specific purpose, enhancing aesthetics while adding architectural interest to a room.
How do I choose the right molding for my home?
- Choose molding based on your home’s architectural style and the room’s dimensions. Consider the scale—larger rooms may benefit from more substantial molding, while smaller spaces can be complemented by simpler designs.
Can I paint or stain molding to match my decor?
- Molding can be painted or stained to match your decor. Ensure you use appropriate primers and paints for the material, and follow proper techniques to achieve a smooth finish.
Wall Coverings FAQs
What type of wood is commonly used for planking wall coverings?
- Common types of wood for planking wall coverings include pine, cedar, oak, and reclaimed wood. Each type offers unique aesthetics and durability, allowing you to choose based on your design preferences and desired maintenance levels.
Can PVC be used for wall planking?
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a popular choice because it’s durable, water-resistant, and low-maintenance. PVC wall planks can mimic the look of wood or other materials, making them versatile for various design aesthetics. They are often used in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements where moisture might be a concern.
Are there maintenance requirements for planked walls?
- Yes, planked walls typically require regular dusting and occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Depending on the wood type and finish, you may need to reapply protective coatings every few years to maintain appearance and durability.
Discontinued Products FAQs
What should I know about buying discontinued products at Long Island Paneling, Ceilings & Floors?
- Consumers benefit from discontinued flooring inventory through savings and unique options. It’s a win-win situation that can lead to innovative design choices and economic benefits. We have a large selection of discontinued inventory in all categories.
Cost Savings: Discontinued items are often sold at a significant discount, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.
Unique Styles: You might find distinctive designs or colors that are no longer available, allowing for a unique aesthetic in your space.
Immediate Availability: Since the inventory is already in stock, it can often be delivered and installed quickly, reducing wait times.
