Floors Etc. Glossary of Terms | Definitions

any second level or higher

the process of adjusting (conditioning) the moisture content of flooring materials to the environment in which it is expected to perform

These fibers have a specific brand name and are manufactured to a strict set of standards and offer better performance, stain, static, and crush resistance. The fibers have been specially treated with stain and soil resistant resins, applied during the dyeing process. When you purchase a carpet made with any of these fibers, you’ll get a comprehensive warranty from the manufacturer.
Floors Etc. carries the following branded fibers:
  • R2X® by Shaw
  • Everstrand® by Mohawk
  • Smartstrand® by Mohawk

wood that is a minimum of 100 years old

any floor below ground level, including basements or sunken living rooms

when the hardwood boards expand across their width, causing them to lift upward and separate from the subfloor…
planks may show separation at the joints causing the floor to become uneven

condition where the secondary backing of the carpet separates from the primary backing

It can be caused by a variety of issues, including but not limited to:
  • a failure of the bonding agent, usually latex, between the primary and secondary backing.
  • improper installation
    Note: Floors Etc. has never had any reported issues regarding this issue on any carpets we have installed.
  • water damage – if carpet remains wet for an extended period, it could breakdown or deteriorate the latex glue.
    • Carpet loses 85 percent of its structural integrity while wet. Further, microbial growth from water-soaked carpet can actually feed on the latex glue. Carpets at risk are those that:
      • have been involved in a flood.
      • have been cleaned improperly with too much water

occur where two (carpet) ends meet – that is, where one roll finishes and the next one begins

condition where the center of a wood flooring board is higher than its edges

This is damage due to moisture exposure or imbalance.

condition where the edges of a wood flooring board are higher than its center

This is damage caused by excessive moisture which causes wood to expand.

damage or defect found on flooring made of composite material like laminate and engineered hardwood

You’ll know delamination when you see it because the flooring top layer begins to separate from the core. The floorboards might bubble or hump in the middle, or the top part might peel back from the edges. (This is not exclusive to flooring as it can be found on any laminate item, like a dresser or cabinet.)
  • Moisture damage is the primary culprit.
    • The layers that compose engineered wood are typically held together with glue. Intense pressure ensures its longevity and improves its ability to hold its shape, but once water penetrates the layers, the pressure releases and the layers begin to separate.
  • The best way to prevent delamination in your floors follow the Maintenance Guidelines provided to you upon installation – among those, be sure to choose your Engineered and Laminate cleaning products carefully
    • If the damage has already occurred, try to pinpoint the cause before you have it repaired to ensure you don’t have to deal with a repeat of the issue later.

the closeness of the yarns in a carpet

the time it takes the finish applied to achieve the cure necessary to hold prior to buffing or polishing

process of leveling or prepping the subfloor with
a sand aggregate mixed with water or
building up the subfloor with plywood and/or felt paper

occur where (carpet) seams and joins meet to form a right angle