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Frequently Asked Questions About Wood Flooring

Jan 20, 2021

In our more than 75 years of selling quality wood, we've heard hundreds of questions about our flooring products at Marks Lumber. Whether you're selecting and installing wood flooring for the first time, or this isn't your first rodeo, we're here to answer your questions so you can get moving on your project. Here are some of the most common questions we hear about wood flooring, from texture to dimensions, to installation.



How durable is your flooring?

Wood flooring is slightly more delicate than engineered flooring options. However, circle sawn flooring is great because it is difficult to see the dings and scratches that come with everyday wear and tear. In fact, many dog lovers seek out our flooring because it hides those inevitable claw marks and gives them a little more traction to prevent sliding.

Is your flooring tongue and groove (T&G)?

Yes, our flooring is end-matched, tongue and groove, meaning it has tongue and groove on all sides and ends. This style of wood flooring is easier to install and helps minimize waste!

Can you float your flooring, or do you have to nail it down?

Our flooring needs to be nailed into place. We recommend using a flooring nailer and 1 ¾ - 2" flooring nails. 

How do I install flooring myself?

To view our installation guide, please click here


What widths do you offer?

Our flooring comes in a 4", 6", and a 4" and 6" mixed width. The actual coverage of these widths is 3 1/4" and 5 1/8", respectively. 

How long do I need to let it acclimate?

We recommend letting the flooring acclimate in your house for two weeks. Acclimation is crucial to making sure your flooring moves as little as possible once it is installed. 

Does your flooring come fairly dry?

Yes, our flooring is dried to approximately 12% moisture content. Typically, we recommend waiting to install until it is at about 10% moisture to avoid as much movement as possible. 

What lengths does it come in?

Our flooring is bundled by the linear foot. Bundles contain random length, 2’-10' pieces. 

What type of stain do you recommend?

Choosing your stain can be one of the hardest parts of the decision-making process. Our flooring comes unfinished, meaning the possibilities are endless! While we do not sell stains at Marks Lumber, we can provide you with suggestions. We recommend using the Old Masters' brand, oil-based stain. In fact, we used the Old Masters' stain in Dark Walnut on our showroom floors.


Will circle sawn flooring feel rough on my feet?

Because you will sand, seal, and finish your floors while installing, the end product will feel smooth. With circle-sawn flooring, you get both the comfort of smooth wood floors and a unique, rustic appeal that adds character and beauty to any space. 

Do you have a more affordable flooring option?

We offer Grade 3 flooring in 4", 6", and 4 and 6" mixed widths for a more affordable option. This is still a circle sawn flooring, but it does have more surface defects, such as more knots or bigger knots. Unlike our end-matched flooring, this Grade 3 flooring is a center-matched tongue and groove, meaning it only has tongue and groove on the sides. 

Have a question that wasn't covered here? Don't hesitate to call or email us today!

Learn More About Our Montana Wood Flooring Products

View Montana Wood Flooring Products


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