Glossary

A proprietary staining process that engages naturally occurring agents in the wood to create unique polychromatic effects.  The image shows an example of wood before and after an alchemic staining process.  Note: Alchemic stained floors may exhibit a high degree of color change after installation. See Color Change for more information.

Many hardwood floors exhibit a pronounced color change after installation, a process called oxidation which occurs when the wood is exposed to air, and which is accelerated by exposure to sunlight.  The change varies by species but is most noticeable in exotic woods like acacia, and in unstained (natural) floors.  Floors that have undergone a Smoking or Alchemic Stain process may also exhibit significant color change after installation.

As a natural material, every piece of wood has a unique appearance.  Some pieces may be very ‘clean’ and free of imperfections, while others exhibit natural characteristics including exaggerated grain patterns, knots of varying sizes, mineral streaks and other naturally-occuring effects.  In terms of natural characteristics, Kentwood floors are classified as low, medium or high. 

A process which draws the tannins in the wood to the surface, darkening the wood without the use of coloring agents.  Unlike a surface stain, the smoked effect penetrates deep into the wood. Also called fuming. The image shows an example of wood before and after a smoking process.  Note: Smoked floors may exhibit a high degree of color change after installation. See Color Change for more information.

Visual variation refers to the natural differences in color, grain patterns, and textures that are inherent in various wood species and even within the same species. These variations contribute to the unique character and beauty of wood, making each piece of wood distinct. In terms of Visual Variation, Kentwood floors are classifies as low, medium or high