Frequently Asked Questions

Can Colonial flooring be floated?: No. We recommend glue-down installation. With the thick 6mm top layer, gluing down the flooring makes it less prone to environmental change and prevents cupping. See the Installation Guide.
Why is Colonial flooring not nailed only?: The primary reasons are: 1) to prevent cupping; and 2) due to the width and length of our boards. Any low spot in the subfloor can cause movement. Gluing down the flooring ensures an installation that’s more quiet and stable.
Are the moldings an exact match?: Standard moldings are made to blend. Upon request, the flooring can be made into stair nose for a perfect match. Additional lead time for production is required.
Can I do part of my house now and order more to cover other areas later?: This is not recommended. Many of our floors are fumed and will have some variation from run to run. It is recommended that you order materials for all rooms to ensure visual consistency.
Can I install my flooring before installing an A/C system?: No. Hardwood flooring cannot be installed until after A/C system is operational for livable conditions. Failure to do this can cause cracks in the material due to lack of humidity. See the Installation Guide.
Why is acclimation not required?: Hardwood flooring with 6mm top layers will move more than those with a thinner top layer. Please unbox on the day of install. Open only what you need for the day, and install all of it that day. This will keep your flooring in optimal condition.
What cleaning products can I use on my flooring?: We recommend the Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner. (https://us.bona.com/products/hardwood-floor-cleaner-36oz.html) See the Maintenance Guide.
How many times can I sand this product?: You can sand it 2 or 3 times if you choose to. With distressed or wire brush colors, you will likely want to do screening at some point to keep the look, and merely refresh the finish based on traffic and wear — generally after 7-10 years.
Can all products be installed over radiant heat?: All Colonial flooring can be installed over radiant heat. See the Installation Guide.
Is this product environmentally friendly?: Colonial engineered flooring products are manufactured to the highest quality standards, and comply with the latest CARB (California Air Resources Board) Phase 2 regulations, one of the strongest industry regulations in the world to limit toxic emissions from composite wood products. If you have a specific chemical allergy, your retailer can provide more detailed information.