OLD MASTER PRODUCTS

Hardwood Flooring and Mouldings

By

Flooring Installation Tips for Contractors: Mistakes to Avoid with Old Master Products

Flooring installation is a high-stakes process—one misstep can cost contractors time, money, and reputation. That’s why seasoned pros turn to proven, professional-grade products to simplify the process and prevent costly issues.

At Old Master Products (OMP), we’re committed to helping you do the job right the first time. From adhesives and subfloor prep to tools and finishes, our product lineup is engineered for performance, consistency, and ease of use.

In this guide, we’re sharing practical flooring installation tips for contractors, including the most common mistakes—and how OMP products help you avoid them.

1. Using the Wrong Adhesive (or the Right One the Wrong Way)

Worker laying parquet flooring. Worker installing wooden laminate flooring.

The Mistake: Choosing the wrong adhesive for the material or applying it incorrectly can lead to loose boards, hollow spots, or complete failure.

Flooring Tip: Use the right adhesive for the job—and follow proper trowel techniques to ensure even coverage and strong bonding.

The OMP Solution:
We offer two contractor-trusted adhesives built to reduce errors and boost efficiency:

🔹 OMP 9000

Two jobs, one product. OMP 9000 is both a urethane moisture barrier and wood flooring adhesive, perfect for solid or engineered wood over concrete. Trowel it on once—seal and stick in one step—saving time and materials.

🔹 Garrison 605

Strong, versatile, and clean. Garrison 605 is a moisture-curing polyurethane adhesive that works on wood, concrete, cork, recycled rubber, and more. Ideal for a clean, durable bond without the mess.

2. Skipping Proper Subfloor Preparation

The Mistake: Even the best adhesive won’t compensate for an unprepared subfloor. Moisture, dust, and unevenness lead to long-term issues.

Flooring Tip: Always level, clean, and treat your subfloor before installation—especially over concrete.

The OMP Solution:
We stock the best subfloor prep products from Sika, Bostik, Wakol, and more. Whether you need a moisture barrier, self-leveler, or primer, we have the tools to set a solid foundation.

3. Not Following Manufacturer Guidelines

The builder draws an arrow pointer during its operation. Light lock laminate in the house. The process of laying laminate with your own hands. Repair with high-quality materials

The Mistake: Rushing through installation or skipping steps—like ignoring expansion gaps or curing times—can ruin an otherwise perfect job.

Flooring Tip: Read and follow product instructions every time. Even seasoned contractors benefit from a quick refresher.

The OMP Solution:
We make it easy to get it right. Our adhesives come with clear documentation, and our reps are always ready with expert advice to support your success.

4. Using Low-Quality Materials and Tools

Appalachian Flooring at Old Master Products

The Mistake: Cheap materials may look good on paper but often lead to poor adhesion, fast wear, or installation do-overs.

Flooring Tip: Invest in professional-grade products that stand up to the demands of the job site.

The OMP Solution:
Our full line of contractor-approved tools, adhesives, flooring, and accessories helps you get the job done right—and on schedule. From durable, easy-to-use installation products to premium hardwood flooring like Crystal Valley, Appalachian, and other American-made options, OMP delivers quality you can trust to reduce callbacks and keep projects running smoothly..

5. Overlooking Jobsite Safety and Cleanliness

Industrial safety helmet

The Mistake: A messy jobsite isn’t just a safety hazard—it can lead to adhesive issues, dust under planks, or product damage.

Flooring Tip: Keep the workspace dry, clean, and organized to protect your materials and speed up installation.

The OMP Solution:
From low-VOC adhesives to moisture control systems and high-performance cleaning tools, OMP helps you maintain a clean, safe jobsite. We offer innovative solutions like the Dust Halo, a universal dual-port tool that delivers 360° dust suction and keeps debris under control, and WOCA cleaning products, trusted for their effective, surface-safe formulas. With the right tools and products in place, you’ll minimize hazards, protect your materials, and deliver a flawless finish—every time.

Final Thoughts: Pro Tips for Professional Results

Whether you’re a seasoned installer or training up new crew members, following these flooring installation tips for contractors can make the difference between a smooth job and an expensive do-over.

At Old Master Products, we’re more than just a supplier—we’re your partner in getting it right. From prep to finish, our contractor-grade materials help you:

✅ Avoid costly installation mistakes
✅ Work more efficiently
✅ Build a reputation for flawless results

Want to streamline your installs and reduce callbacks?
Explore our full product line or reach out to your OMP rep for help selecting the right solution for your next project.

By

Click vs Tongue & Groove Flooring: Which is Right for Your Space?

Click vs Tongue & Groove Flooring: Which is Right for Your Space?

As a trusted leader in the flooring industry, Old Master Products is committed to providing insights to help you make informed decisions about your flooring options. Today, we’re breaking down the key differences between two popular flooring types: Click vs Tongue & Groove flooring. Both systems create beautiful, interlocking floors, but they differ in installation methods, durability, and suitability for various applications.

Installation

Click Flooring

Click flooring is celebrated for its straightforward installation process. The planks snap together seamlessly without the need for nails or glue. This makes it easier for professional installers to complete the job efficiently, saving you time and money. Its floating installation method requires an underlay but no attachment to the subfloor, which also allows for quick installation over existing floors.

Featured Click Floor: VinylNova – Copper

Tongue & Groove Flooring

Tongue & Groove flooring, on the other hand, requires more skill and time for proper installation. Each plank is fitted together with glue or nails to create a solid, secure floor. This process necessitates professional expertise to ensure a flawless result, providing a beautifully crafted, stable floor that can last for generations.

Durability

Tongue & Groove Flooring

Tongue & Groove flooring is known for its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and maintain its integrity in high-traffic areas. The secure fit created by glue or nails makes it highly durable, ideal for active households or commercial spaces.

Featured Tongue & Groove Floor: Beverly Hills – Burton Way

Click Flooring

While Click flooring offers convenience, it may be more susceptible to damage in areas with heavy use or frequent moisture. However, it can still provide excellent performance in spaces like bedrooms or offices, where traffic is lighter.

Repair and Maintenance

Click Flooring

One of the standout benefits of Click flooring is its repairability. Damaged planks can often be removed and replaced without disrupting the surrounding floor, saving time and money.

Featured Click Floor: AquaBlue II – Moonlight

Tongue & Groove Flooring

Repairing Tongue & Groove flooring is more complex, as it often involves removing multiple boards and resealing them. However, this type of flooring’s long-lasting nature means repairs are rarely needed.

Suitability

Tongue & Groove Flooring

Ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with active families, Tongue & Groove flooring’s durability and stability make it a long-term investment. Additionally, it can be installed over various subfloors, including joists, adding to its versatility.

Featured Tongue & Groove Floor: Private Selection – Gobi

Click Flooring

Click flooring is a perfect option for those seeking an efficient installation process. It’s especially suitable for temporary spaces like trade shows or rental properties due to its ability to be disassembled and reused.

Additional Considerations

Subfloor Preparation: Both Click and Tongue & Groove flooring require a well-prepared subfloor to ensure proper installation and performance.

Moisture Resistance: While Click flooring is often glue-free, adding glue to the seams can enhance moisture resistance and extend the floor’s lifespan. Tongue & Groove flooring’s glued or nailed connections naturally provide better moisture protection.

Eco-Friendliness: Click flooring avoids the use of formaldehyde-containing glues, offering a greener installation method. This makes it a great choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Why Choose Old Master Products?

At Old Master Products, we pride ourselves on offering a wide selection of both Click and Tongue & Groove flooring options, backed by our expertise and dedication to quality. Whether you’re looking for the ease of Click flooring or the timeless durability of Tongue & Groove flooring, our team is here to help you find the perfect solution for your home or project.

Contact us or visit one of our showrooms to explore our extensive collection of premium flooring options.

By

Discover the Best in North American Hardwood Flooring with Old Master Products

At Old Master Products, we are proud to partner with Appalachian Floors to offer the finest North American-made hardwood flooring. This collaboration brings you exceptional craftsmanship and long-lasting durability, creating beautiful flooring solutions that enhance any space. With a wide range of customizable options, you can tailor every detail – from species and sheen to texture, color, and construction – to design the perfect floor for your home.

Why Choose North American Hardwood?

Choosing North American hardwood flooring means investing in enduring quality. Sourced from responsibly managed forests, Appalachian Floor’s eco-friendly prefinished and solid hardwood offers beauty with sustainability. Better yet, you can customize your hardwood by selecting the species, sheen, texture, color, and construction. With hundreds of combinations, you can create the perfect floor tailored to your style and needs.  

Trusted Craftsmanship by Appalachian Floors

Appalachian Floor’s hardwood flooring is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Each plank is designed to enhance the wood’s natural beauty, with a range of finishes and textures available to suit any look – from sleek modern to warm rustic. Not sure how it’ll look? Click here to visualize your custom floor in your space.

Solid Hardwood, A Solid Choice

Appalachian Flooring at Old Master Products

Solid hardwood is an excellent choice for many homes; however, it requires careful installation to ensure its stability over time. Although each plank is made from a single piece of wood, which provides strength and longevity, its tendency to expand and contract with humidity changes makes professional installation crucial. Solid hardwood floors also can be sanded and refinished multiple times, ensuring they retain their beauty for decades. Whether refreshing a room or renovating an entire home, solid hardwood is a great long-term investment.

Effortless Elegance, Hassle-Free Installation

One of the greatest benefits of the vast selection of Appalachian Flooring, is the convenience of prefinished floors. With options to customize everything from species to color, you can avoid the hassle of on-site finishing. Whether you’re a homeowner or contractor, North American hardwood guarantees elegance with ease.

Customization Options

Collections:

Signature Collection: The Signature Collection is Appalachian Floor’s most versatile series, offering a wide range of stain colors across 5 different North American hardwood species. With both solid and engineered profiles, Evershine™ protection, and options for ultra-matte or semi-gloss finishes, it’s designed to match any aesthetic – whether classic or modern – while providing endless customization possibilities.

Alta Moda Collection: The Alta Moda Collection celebrates the natural beauty of Red Oak and White Oak, using light wire-brushing to highlight their rich textures. With vibrant, eye-catching stains, each floor feels uniquely crafted while offering a practical solution for busy households and pet lovers, keeping your space looking fresh and flawless.

Verita Collection: The Verita Collection showcases the pure beauty of wood through an innovative process that highlights its natural characteristics. With an ultra-low sheen, this collection brings the raw, authentic appeal of natural wood to your home like never before.

Heritage Collection: The Heritage Collection offers a contemporary take on classic hardwood, blending natural beauty with a unique texture that hides daily wear are tear. Its practical design makes it ideal for modern living, combining style with everyday durability.

Green Mountain Collection: The Green Mountain Collection reflects the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains with its serene ultra-matte brushed finish. Offering a stunning variety, it brings tranquility and elegance to any space.

Want to Learn More?

Old Master Product’s partnership with Appalachian Floors allows us to deliver unmatched quality and limitless customization options. Contact an Old Master Products representative or visit us today to explore samples and take the next step toward creating your perfect floor.

By

Summer Loba Stain Panel Events: Flooring Pros, BBQ, and Prizes

This summer, we hosted a series of exciting Loba Stain Panel events at all of our locations, led by the talented Javier Flores. These events were all about connecting with our community of flooring professionals, experiencing the power of Loba Stain firsthand, enjoying some great BBQ food, and, of course, giving away fantastic prizes.

Why Loba Stain is the Ultimate Choice

Loba Stain Water based finish at Old Master Products

At the heart of our events was Loba Stain, a product that sets the gold standard for hardwood flooring. Here’s why it stands out:

  • 1-Hour Dry Time (all colors): A fast-drying solution that doesn’t sacrifice quality.
  • Guaranteed Adhesion with Loba Water-Based Finishes: Perfectly compatible with water-based finishes for a long-lasting finish.
  • Easy Application & Touch-Ups: Simple to apply and touch up, whether for large-scale projects or quick repairs.
  • No Lap Marks or Double Staining: Provides smooth, consistent finishes with no imperfections.
  • Low VOC Emissions: Loba meets CDPH v 1.2 standards and surpasses them with ultra-low VOC levels, ensuring healthier air.
  • Consistent Coloration: Delivers beautiful, uniform results every time.
  • Customizable Colors: Easily mix stains to create bespoke colors.
  • Not Self-Combustible: Safety is top-of-mind with Loba Stain’s non-combustible formula.

A Summer Full of Prizes

In addition to showcasing Loba’s innovative stain, our summer events included an exciting raffle. Four lucky winners scored an incredible deep-sea fishing trip with Javier Flores out of Long Beach, California. But the rewards didn’t end there! One winner also took home a Yeti cooler and swag pack, while another reeled in a Blackstone grill and swag pack.

Thank You to All Who Attended

We want to sincerely thank everyone who took the time to attend our Loba Stain Panel events this summer. Your participation and enthusiasm made these events a true success. From watching Loba Stain in action to enjoying the camaraderie over BBQ, it was a pleasure to connect with so many talented professionals in the flooring community.

A special thank you to Loba for their invaluable partnership in hosting these events and for making the grand prize fishing trip possible. We deeply appreciate your continued support and commitment to excellence.

Stay Tuned for More!

If you couldn’t make it to this summer’s events, don’t worry—there’s more to come! We’re giving away another Yeti cooler over on the Allora Floors Instagram, and you can also enter to win a Channel Lock rolling tool chest on the Old Master Products Instagram. To stay updated on all our upcoming events and giveaways, make sure to follow us on social media. Don’t miss out on more exciting product demos, prizes, and opportunities to connect with us and our community!

By

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.