How To Identify Wood Floors In Old Houses

How to Identify Wood Floors in Old Houses: A Comprehensive Guide

Discovering original wood floors beneath layers of carpet or linoleum in an older home can be an exciting find! Restoring them can dramatically increase your home's value and charm. However, knowing how to identify if you even have wood floors hidden beneath the surface is crucial before you begin any demolition. This guide will walk you through various methods to help you determine if those beautiful hardwood floors are waiting to be rediscovered.

Visual Clues: The First Steps in Identification

Before you get your tools out, start with a simple visual inspection. Look for subtle clues that might indicate the presence of hardwood floors:

Inspecting Baseboards and Trim:

• Look for gaps: Examine the baseboards and trim around the edges of the room. Gaps between the baseboards and the floor might suggest the presence of flooring beneath the current covering.
• Note the height: Historically, baseboards were often taller when installed over hardwood floors. If your baseboards are unusually high, it might indicate the presence of hidden flooring.
• Check for nail holes: The presence of nail holes just above the floor's surface may indicate where hardwood flooring was previously nailed down.

Investigating Doorways and Transitions:

• Peeking Under Doors: If there's a gap beneath your door, try to peer underneath. You might catch a glimpse of the flooring material.
• Transitions and Thresholds: Check areas where different flooring materials meet, such as thresholds between rooms. If there's a transition strip that seems inappropriate, such as carpet to vinyl, it might be covering a transition from one flooring to another.

Advanced Techniques: When Visual Clues Aren't Enough

If visual clues are inconclusive, it's time to employ more advanced techniques:

Testing with a Probe:

• A simple tool: A screwdriver or similar probe is useful. Carefully insert it into the floor's surface. If you encounter resistance that feels like wood, you may have located your hardwood floors.

Using a Floor Scanner:

• Professional approach: While not strictly necessary for identification, specialized floor scanners can detect the presence of hardwood floors under other coverings, often with significant depth measurement. These tools provide more accurate information.

Strategic Test Cuts (Proceed with Caution!):

• Least Invasive Approach: Choose the most inconspicuous location for a small, test cut. If feasible, an area beneath a large piece of furniture could work.
• Limited Exposure: Make a small cut through the top layer of the flooring. If you find wood beneath, you've confirmed your suspicion. If not, you'll have a small area to repair. Always proceed with caution and start small.

Understanding Wood Floor Types in Older Homes

Once you've confirmed the presence of wood floors, consider the type of wood you may find:

• Hardwood: This is most commonly oak, but pine, maple, and other varieties are also possible.
• Softwood: More susceptible to damage, these floors need careful consideration during restoration.

Important Note: Before undertaking any renovation, consider consulting with a professional contractor. They can advise on the best course of action and the feasibility of restoring your old wood floors.

By employing these techniques, you'll greatly increase your chances of successfully identifying hidden hardwood floors in your old house, allowing you to preserve its character and potentially add significant value to your property. Remember to work carefully and methodically. Good luck with your discovery!