Monday, May 07, 2012

Wood Monsters Design Tips: Aniline Dyes

Until recently, hardwood flooring professionals have had only one choice when it comes to adding color to their floor: staining it. Indeed, most hardwood installation contractors only use common brown and red stains when finishing hardwood floors. Hardwood flooring doesn't need to be restricted to traditional colors, though. There is another option for the more adventurous homeowner: aniline dyes.

Unlike traditional hardwood stains and finishes, aniline dyes are available in any color you can imagine: jade, ruby, gold, teal, etc. Using aniline dyes on hardwood floors gives homeowners and installers the ability to match the floor to virtually any color scheme and decor. It is also a great way to add drama and energy to an otherwise drab room.

Dyes are also absolutely transparent. They soak directly into the finished wood surface, adding color without sacrificing the wood's natural grain and texture. You can even dye different boards different colors, creating dramatic color combinations that are sure to impress your friends and family.

Aniline dyes do come with a few drawbacks, of course. They can be much more difficult to apply than conventional stains, and if they’re not applied with great care, the finish can have an uneven appearance. Some hardwood flooring installation companies or contractors are unfamiliar with the use of aniline dyes, which is unfortunate; even though they can be difficult to work with, the design benefits of aniline dyes are well worth the effort. And because they are more difficult to work with, flooring installers can often charge a bit more than they would for a traditional stain.

At Wood Monsters, we pride ourselves in helping contractors and hardwood flooring professionals with the home design process. Contact us today to discuss your customer's specific design needs and how our high-quality flooring products can play a part.

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