OLD MASTER PRODUCTS

Hardwood Flooring and Mouldings

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Why More Contractors Are Choosing Ipe Decking

If you’re a contractor, you know how important it is to choose materials that deliver on durability, performance, and appearance. Whether you’re building a small backyard deck or managing a large commercial install, you need products that make your life easier and keep your clients happy.

That’s why more contractors are turning to Ipe decking. At Old Master Products, we’ve seen the demand for this hardwood skyrocket in recent years. Here’s what makes Ipe such a smart choice on the job.

Ipe decking for contractors in Los Angeles

1. Built for the Long Haul

Ipe is one of the hardest woods available, with a Janka hardness rating of 3,680. This makes it incredibly resistant to wear and tear, even in high-traffic or harsh outdoor environments. It handles:

  • Heavy use and impact
  • Rot, mold, and insect damage
  • Rain, humidity, and extreme sun

If you’re looking for a deck that will last 40 years or more without showing signs of breakdown, Ipe is the right call.

Ipe decking for contractors in Los Angeles

2. Low Maintenance Means Fewer Callbacks

Once installed, Ipe requires very little maintenance. It does not need to be sealed or treated to remain structurally sound. Over time, the wood naturally weathers to a soft silver-gray, which many clients love. For those who want to preserve the rich brown tones, a simple oil application once or twice a year will do the trick.

Less maintenance means fewer questions and complaints from your clients down the road.

The best decking available in Los Angeles

3. Premium Look That Sells Itself

One of the biggest advantages of Ipe is its appearance. It has a rich, natural color with tight grain and minimal knots, giving your finished project a clean and upscale look. It cuts and installs well and lays flat, so you spend less time correcting imperfections.

If you’re trying to win a bid or impress a client, showing them Ipe can help seal the deal.

Ipe Decking in a backyard with a fireplace

4. High Fire Resistance for Safety and Code Compliance

Ipe carries a Class A fire rating, the same category as steel or concrete. For jobs in fire-prone areas like California, this can be a major selling point. It also helps meet building codes in stricter zones, giving you more flexibility in project planning and faster approvals.

Ipe Decking on a luxurious balcony by the ocean

5. A Responsible, Long-Lasting Choice

Ipe is naturally rot-resistant and extremely long-lasting, which means it avoids the need for chemical treatments. We offer FSC-certified Ipe, sourced responsibly from verified forests. If you’re working with eco-conscious clients or building LEED-qualified projects, this helps you meet their requirements.

Ipe Decking in a backyard with a fireplace and a pool

6. Available Now at Old Master Products

We keep Ipe decking for contractors in stock in a variety of lengths and widths, so you’re not waiting weeks to get started. Our team knows the product well and can help you choose the right specs for your job, whether it’s residential, commercial, or custom.

Ipe Works as Hard as You Do

As a contractor, you need decking that delivers long-term value, looks great, and installs clean. Ipe checks all the boxes. It’s a product that reflects the quality of your work and makes your jobs stand out for the right reasons.

Visit an Old Master Products location near you or contact your representative to check inventory, get pricing, or request a sample today.

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Enhancing Home Value with Hardwood Flooring: Why It’s a Smart Investment

Light-colored luxury hardwood flooring in a modern California home, enhancing the open, sunlit space with its elegant grain and smooth finish.

When it comes to enhancing the value of your home, only a few upgrades offer timeless appeal and a substantial return on investment (ROI) like hardwood flooring. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or simply wish to enjoy a more beautiful and functional living space, hardwood flooring is a smart choice. Here’s why:

1. Timeless Aesthetic Appeal

Old Master Products’ hardwood flooring exudes a classic, elegant look that complements virtually any home décor. Unlike carpet or tile, which can quickly become outdated, hardwood maintains its stylish appearance over the decades. The natural grains and rich colors of wood add warmth and sophistication, making spaces feel more inviting.

2. Durability and Longevity

One of the most compelling reasons to choose Old Master Products’ hardwood flooring is its durability. When properly maintained, hardwood floors can last for generations. While the initial cost might be higher than other flooring options, the long-term benefits far outweigh the upfront investment. High-quality hardwood can withstand heavy foot traffic, pets, and everyday wear and tear.

Light color European Oak hardwood floors los angeles

3. Increased Home Value

Real estate professionals often highlight Old Master Products’ hardwood floors as a major selling point. According to multiple studies, homes with hardwood floors sell faster and at higher prices than those with other types of flooring. Prospective buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with hardwood flooring due to its perceived value and low maintenance requirements.

4. Easy Maintenance and Improved Air Quality

Unlike carpets that trap dust, allergens, and pet dander, Old Master Products’ hardwood floors are easy to clean and maintain. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping are all that’s needed to keep them looking pristine. Additionally, hardwood flooring contributes to better indoor air quality, making it a healthier choice for families, particularly those with allergy sufferers.

Light-colored luxury hardwood flooring in a modern California home, enhancing the open, sunlit space with its elegant grain and smooth finish.

5. Versatility in Design

Old Master Products’ hardwood floors are incredibly versatile, offering a wide range of species, finishes, and stains to choose from. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of reclaimed wood, the sleek modern look of dark-stained oak, or the traditional warmth of cherry, there is a hardwood flooring option to match your style. This adaptability ensures that your flooring choice will remain relevant even as your design tastes evolve.

6. Environmental Benefits

For the environmentally conscious homeowner, a hardwood flooring inveestment is a sustainable option. Many wood flooring products are sourced from responsibly managed forests and are designed to last for decades, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, wood is a natural insulator, helping to maintain indoor temperatures and potentially reducing energy costs.

7. Positive ROI

Investing in Old Master Products’ hardwood flooring is not just about aesthetics or functionality; it’s a financial decision that pays off. According to the National Association of Realtors, homeowners can expect to recoup up to 106% of the cost of new hardwood floors when selling their home. This impressive ROI makes hardwood flooring one of the best investments you can make in your property.

Old Master Products: Your One-Stop Shop for Flooring in Los Angeles and Southern California

When it comes to selecting the best provider for your flooring needs, look no further than Old Master Products. As the premier one-stop shop for all flooring needs in Los Angeles and Southern California, Old Master Products offers the best prices on a wide array of flooring materials, including engineered hardwood, vinyl, and laminate. Here’s why Old Master Products stands out:

Wide Range of High-Quality Materials

Old Master Products boasts an extensive selection of flooring materials to suit any preference and budget. Whether you’re looking for the classic elegance of engineered hardwood, the durability of vinyl, or the affordability and versatility of laminate, you’ll find top-quality options at competitive prices.

Comprehensive Selection of Sundries

Beyond flooring materials, Old Master Products also provides all the sundries you need to complete your flooring project. This includes adhesives, underlayments, and a variety of flooring tools. Having all these products available in one place ensures a seamless and efficient shopping experience.

Best Prices and Exceptional Service

At Old Master Products, you’ll not only find the best prices but also benefit from exceptional customer service. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through your selection process, ensuring you choose the right materials for your home and providing expert advice on installation and maintenance.

Conclusion

Hardwood flooring is more than just a flooring choice; it’s an investment in your home’s future. Its unmatched beauty, durability, and ability to increase home value make it a wise choice for any homeowner. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your living space or preparing to sell, installing Old Master Products’ hardwood floors is a decision you’ll appreciate for years to come.

For those in Los Angeles and Southern California, Old Master Products offers the perfect solution to all your flooring needs. With their wide range of materials, comprehensive selection of sundries, and unbeatable prices, you can trust Old Master Products to help you make a smart investment in your home. So, if you’re considering a home improvement project, make sure to visit Old Master Products and explore their exceptional offerings.

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Benefits of Professional Floor Installation: Quality Assurance and Peace of Mind

Professional floor installation is essential in the world of home improvement. Few things can transform a space like new flooring. Whether you’re considering the timeless elegance of hardwood, the versatility of vinyl, or the affordability of laminate, installing new floors can breathe fresh life into your home. However, before you embark on a DIY flooring project, it’s essential to ask yourself a crucial question: Do I need a professional to install floors?

While the allure of saving money by tackling a home project yourself may be tempting, there are numerous reasons why entrusting the installation of your floors to a professional is not only wise but often necessary.

Expertise and Experience:

Professional floor installation crews possess the skills and knowledge gained through years of experience. They understand the nuances of each flooring material and the specific requirements for proper installation. Whether it’s ensuring the subfloor is adequately prepared, handling intricate cuts around corners and doorways, or addressing unexpected challenges during the installation process, professionals have the expertise to deliver high-quality results.

Quality Assurance:

Investing in new flooring is a significant financial commitment, and you want the finished product to reflect that investment. Professional installers are dedicated to delivering superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. They have access to the right tools, techniques, and materials necessary to ensure your floors are installed correctly the first time, minimizing the risk of errors or imperfections that could detract from the overall appearance and longevity of your floors.

Time and Efficiency:

DIY flooring projects can quickly escalate in both time and frustration, especially for those without prior experience. What may seem like a straightforward task can turn into a time-consuming ordeal, leading to delays and unnecessary stress. Professional installers work efficiently and effectively, completing the job in a fraction of the time it would take most homeowners. By hiring a professional, you can enjoy your new floors sooner without sacrificing quality.

Warranty Protection:

Many flooring manufacturers offer warranties that require professional installation to remain valid. Attempting to install your floors yourself could void these warranties, leaving you financially responsible for any future repairs or replacements. By hiring a licensed contractor, you ensure that your warranty remains intact, providing peace of mind and protection against unforeseen issues down the road.

Safety Considerations:

Installing floors can involve working with heavy materials, sharp tools, and potentially hazardous chemicals. Professional installers are trained to prioritize safety at every stage of the installation process, minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries. From proper handling and disposal of materials to adhering to safety protocols and regulations, professionals prioritize the well-being of both themselves and their clients.

In conclusion, while DIY projects can be fulfilling and cost-effective in some instances, when it comes to installing floors, the benefits of hiring a professional far outweigh the potential drawbacks. From expertise and quality assurance to time efficiency and warranty protection, professional installers offer a level of skill and service that simply cannot be replicated through DIY efforts.

So, if you find yourself asking, “Do I need a professional to install floors?” the answer is a resounding yes. By choosing to work with a licensed contractor, you’re not just investing in new floors—you’re investing in the long-term beauty, durability, and value of your home.

Need help finding a licensed contractor? Old Master Products is here for you! We have an extensive national network of credible licensed contractors. Contact us today to learn more!

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Elevate Your Hardwood Flooring: A Comprehensive Guide to Mouldings

Hardwood floors by Garrison with Old Master Products Mouldings

When it comes to hardwood flooring, the details matter. Mouldings, often the unsung heroes of interior design, play a crucial role in enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your hardwood floors. In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of hardwood mouldings, exploring different profiles, the distinctions between “solid” and “MDF” options, and the pros and cons associated with each choice.

Understanding Moulding Profiles: Adding Dimension to Your Floors

Moulding profiles encompass distinct contours or shapes applied to wood edges or surfaces, elevating both the visual and architectural dimensions of the flooring. These subtle yet impactful details contribute significantly to the overall aesthetics of an interior space. The following section, delves into the characteristics and use cases of commonly used moulding profiles in hardwood flooring.

Baseboards

Installed at the bottom of interior walls, where the wall meets the floor, baseboards serve a dual purpose. They protect the wall from potential damage caused by furniture, vacuum cleaners, and foot traffic. Additionally, baseboards provide a seamless transition between the wall and the floor, effectively covering any expansion gaps or imperfections in the process. Old Master Products baseboards can also be custom-designed, further enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your space.

Quarter Rounds

Placed strategically between floors and vertical wall surfaces, quarter rounds excel in their role as master illusionists. Their purpose is to mask expansion gaps or hide cuts, ensuring a flawless and harmonious connection between different surfaces.

Base Shoe

Slightly smaller than base mouldings, base shoe mouldings serve as delicate concealers in various installations. Specifically, they hide cut lines without the need to cover expansion gaps, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall appearance of different flooring materials.

Risers

Strategically positioned along staircases, risers enhance the visual appeal of the steps. Serving as decorative elements, they contribute to a more polished and refined appearance in the transition between stairs and walls.

Casing

Found around doors and windows, casing mouldings play a crucial role in framing these openings with elegance. They define the edges of doors and windows, and help to cover up gaps in installation, contributing to a finished and cohesive look within the overall interior design.

Crowns

Installed at the junction of walls and ceilings, crown mouldings serve both a decorative and functional purpose. They create a smooth transition between walls and ceilings, effectively concealing any inconsistencies or imperfections that may exist in the joining process

Solid vs. MDF: Decoding the Materials

Mouldings when to use solid vs MDF

Solid Mouldings:

Solid hardwood mouldings are crafted from the same wood species as your flooring. This creates a seamless, cohesive look throughout your space. These mouldings are durable and can be stained or finished to match your floors precisely. However, they may be more prone to expansion and contraction with changes in humidity, and are also considerably more expensive than MDF options.

Pros and Cons of Solid Hardwood Mouldings:

Pros:

  • Seamless match with hardwood flooring.
  • Can be stained or finished to match flooring precisely.
  • Durable and long-lasting.

Cons:

  • More susceptible to moisture and changes in humidity.
  • More expensive than MDF options.
  • Installation: Heavier, trickier to cut, prone to splintering.

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) Mouldings:

MDF mouldings are composed of engineered wood fibers bonded together with resin. They offer a smooth, uniform surface and are resistant to warping or splitting. While MDF mouldings may not have the same natural feel as solid wood, they provide a budget-friendly option with consistent quality.

Pros and Cons of MDF Mouldings:

Pros:

  • Resistant to warping and splitting.
  • Budget-friendly option.
  • Consistent in quality and appearance.
  • Installation: Lighter, more manageable, cuts with precision.

Cons:

  • More susceptible to nicks, scratches, and dents, less durable than solid hardwood.
  • Limited options for staining or finishing.

Choosing the Right Moulding for Your Space:

Ventasso Hardwood floors by allora with Old Master Products Mouldings

Choosing the perfect moulding for your space involves considering both aesthetic preferences and budget constraints. Solid wood mouldings exude a natural, authentic look with unique grain patterns, though they come at a higher cost. On the other hand, MDF mouldings provide a sleek, uniform surface that can be painted or finished, offering a cost-effective alternative without compromising quality. Factor in aspects like moisture resistance, weight, ease of finishing, environmental impact, installation considerations, and long-term maintenance to ensure the moulding aligns seamlessly with your overall design vision and practical needs.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Space with the Right Mouldings

Hardwood floors by Garrison with Old Master Products Mouldings

In the realm of hardwood flooring, mouldings serve as the final flourish that elevates your space from mundane to magnificent. By grasping the nuances between various profiles and the disparities between solid and MDF options, you can make a knowledgeable choice that harmonizes with your style, budget, and the moisture conditions of your environment. Delve into the array of possibilities, and watch as your hardwood floors gleam with the ideal moulding companion.

Looking to add mouldings to your space? Contact your Garrison representative or reach out to your local Old Master Products branch to learn more!

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SikaBond Adhesives Now Available!

Old Master Products is proud to announce the addition of SikaBond Adhesives to our extensive inventory. Sika’s Adhesives redefine excellence, delivering unmatched performance for a variety of applications. From seamlessly bonding surfaces to meeting the demands of challenging projects, Sika’s adhesive range ensures top-tier results. These adhesives, including T-100, T-25, T-35, and T-21, offer versatile solutions for various hardwood flooring applications. Let’s explore the key features and benefits of each product, empowering you to make informed choices for your projects.

SikaBond®-T100: All-in-One Hybrid Adhesive for Wood Flooring
















SikaBond®-T100 stands out as a single-component, zero-VOC, permanently elastic, exceptionally robust, and low-permeability adhesive. This all-in-one hybrid polyurethane adhesive provides unlimited moisture protection, effective crack bridging, and sound reduction, making it the ideal choice for comprehensive wood floor bonding.







Overview:





    

  • Elongation of 150%.
    • 




  • UNLIMITED subfloor moisture vapor transmission.
    • 




  • No moisture testing required – a dry substrate is sufficient.
    • 




  • Excellent Green Grab with a tenacious bond.
    • 




  • Permanently elastic, allowing for wood expansion without damage.
    • 




  • Meets local IIC and STC sound reduction codes.
    • 




  • 4 Gallon Pail
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Where to Use:





Designed for prefinished hardwood flooring based on the ease of cleanability, T-100 is deal for solid and engineered wood floors, mosaic parquet, industrial parquet, wood paving, chipboards, and plywood. Forms a robust bond and reduces moisture vapor transmission post-cure.





Features & Benefits:





    

  • Easily cleans off prefinished floors before and after cure
    • 




  • Contains no water, solvent or isocyanates
    • 




  • Low moisture vapor permeability
    • 




  • Crack Bridging
    • 




  • Very easy to spread
    • 




  • Low odor
    • 




  • Advanced Hybrid Technology
    • 














SikaBond®-T25: Polyurethane Wood Floor Adhesive















SikaBond®-T25 is a single-component, low-VOC, and low-odor polyurethane adhesive. Specifically designed for wood flooring, it utilizes moisture curing for full surface bonding. SikaBond®-T25 forms a strong bond with various surfaces, including concrete, plywood, and properly prepared leveling and patch underlayments.







Overview:





    

  • Elongation of 125%.
    • 




  • Excellent green grab with a tenacious bond.
    • 




  • Permanently elastic, accommodating wood movement.
    • 




  • Easy trowel workability with crack bridging.
    • 




  • Up to 12lbs. MVER & 87% RH
    • 




  • 5 Gallon Pail
    • 






Where to Use:





Suitable for bonding engineered and solid wood, bamboo, cork, and parquet for glue-down applications. Also applicable in light commercial and residential projects.





Features & Benefits:





    

  • Low odor
    • 




  • Easy to trowel
    • 




  • Excellent workability
    • 




  • Fast curing
    • 




  • Crack bridging
    • 




  • Suitable for common types of wood floors
    • 




  • Suitable for in-floor radiant heat installation
    • 




  • Contains no water
    • 














SikaBond®-T35: Wood Floor Adhesive for Engineered Wood Flooring















SikaBond®-T35 is a single-component, low-VOC, low-odor, moisture-cured polyurethane adhesive designed for full-surface bonding of wood flooring. This adhesive forms a tenacious bond with various surfaces, such as concrete, plywood, and properly prepared leveling and patch underlayments.







Overview:





    

  • Elongation of 170%.
    • 




  • Excellent green grab with a tenacious bond.
    • 




  • Permanently elastic, accommodating wood movement.
    • 




  • Easy trowel workability with crack bridging.
    • 




  • Up to 12lbs. MVER & 87% RH
    • 




  • 5 Gallon Pail
    • 






Where to Use:





Similar to T25, suitable for bonding engineered and solid wood for glue-down applications.





Features & Benefits:





    

  • Low odor
    • 




  • Excellent workability
    • 




  • Fast curing
    • 




  • Crack bridging
    • 




  • Suitable for common types of wood floors
    • 




  • Suitable for in-floor radiant heat installation
    • 




  • Contains no water
    • 














SikaBond®-T21: All-in-One Adhesive for Wood Flooring















SikaBond®-T21 is a one-component, low VOC, permanently elastic, super strong, very low permeability moisture-cure polyurethane adhesive, vapor retarding, crack bridging, and sound reduction membrane all-in-one for full surface wood floor bonding.







Overview:





    

  • 270% elongation
    • 




  • Unlimited moisture vapor protection
    • 




  • No moisture testing required
    • 




  • Excellent Green Grab with a tenacious bond
    • 




  • Permanently elastic, accommodating wood movement
    • 




  • Meets local IIC and STC sound reduction codes
    • 




  • 4 Gallon Pail
    • 






Where to Use:





Versatile for solid and engineered wood, mosaic parquet, industrial parquet, wood paving, chipboards, and plywood. Bonds directly to concrete without additional layers.





Features & Benefits:





    

  • Extremely easy to trowel
    • 




  • Crack bridging
    • 




  • Low odor
    • 




  • Suitable for common types of wood flooring
    • 




  • Creates sound reduction layer
    • 




  • Effective for problematic woods such as beech and bamboo
    • 




  • Contains no water
    • 




  • Bonds solid wood flooring up to ¾” thick and 8“wide, and engineered planks up to 14“ wide directly to concrete without length limitations.
    • 




  • Eliminates sleepers and plywood over concrete and gypsum substrates
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Conclusion















In conclusion, Old Master Products’ introduction of SikaBond Adhesives offers a comprehensive suite of solutions for wood flooring projects. These adhesives not only provide superior bonding but also address challenges like moisture vapor transmission and sound reduction. Whether you choose the all-in-one hybrid adhesive, polyurethane adhesive, or specialized solutions for engineered wood, you’re ensuring a durable, reliable, and high-performance flooring installation. Trust Old Master Products and SikaBond Adhesives for an elevated wood flooring experience.





Contact your Garrison representative or visit your local Old Master Products branch to order today!