Posted by Jean H. Burkett on June 29, 19100 at 20:09:28:
In Reply to: Re: Questions about Harris Tarkett products posted by Jean H. Burkett on June 29, 19100 at 20:07:49:
: : Dixie, The Harris-Tarkett American Collection and the Vintage series are both "engineered" wood floors. The term "engineered" refers to the fact that the flooring is a ply type with the top layer being constructed of the would species you want such as oak, maple, etc., as opposed to a solid wood floor. I think what you're asking is the differences between engineered longstrip type floors, and engineered glue down type floors. Both have their pros and cons. If you're a do it yourself person, I would say that the longstrip series of products would most likely be a better bet. You don't have the expense or hassles of dealing with the glue down adhesive which is costly and hard to work with. I also feel that the free floating floor is a better product for use over concrete. Since the floor is not actually attached to the concrete, there's a lot less of a chance for it to be affected by the elements such as moisture, etc.
: : With regard to the Vintage series versus the American Collection, it will really depend on your budget. Although the American Collection is a bit higher priced, it is also a 25 year warranty versus the 15 year on the Vintage, and the wood is also cleaner looking than the Vintage. I think that depending on where you buy the flooring, you'll find that there is a $0.50 to $1.00 difference in cost between the two lines.
: : Yes, the maple is a harder species than the oak. What you have to be sure of, is what look you like better. Under normal residential circumstances, the oak or the maple should give you the same life. What I'm basically saying is, if you love the oak, don't just go with the maple because it's harder.