Tag: flooring

House Improvements

The Different Types Of Basement Flooring

Laura

There are many reasons why you may be looking into replacing or upgrading your current basement flooring. You may wish to convert your existing basement space from a storage area to a recreational room for your family to spend time together. You may want to install a working wet bar and a big screened television to football parties on the weekend. Or perhaps you would like to have a guest room available for when company drops by. Whatever the particular plans for your cellar happens to be, there is a plethora of flooring choices available for purchase on the market today.
Before shopping for or installing basement flooring, it is always a good idea to bring a professional in to examine your cellar for moisture. The most common sub flooring used today is concrete, which comes in direct connection with the earth. This is why getting your basement checked for moisture accumulation is imperative to the proper functioning of the new flooring you wish to have installed. Once you have determined whether or not your current concrete flooring is properly sealed and ready for a new layer, you can move forward.
The most general flooring choices being used in a basement setting are often installed throughout the rest of the home. Hardwood and laminate flooring, carpet and tiles made from porcelain or ceramic are all popular choices for basement flooring. Depending upon your specific aesthetic goals and design aspirations, which flooring you choose to utilize really comes down to taste. Again, as long as your concrete sub flooring is sealed and you do not live in an area that is exposed to continual flooding, you have a pretty wide selection of flooring. However, if your region is prone to excessive rain, perhaps finishing your current basement concrete floors is the best option for you. For many who find themselves in this situation, painting lends an affordable and easy solution. For those seeking a fancier method of sprucing up their basement floors, stenciling or painting on a faux finish are two other options.
An economical basement flooring option is vinyl or linoleum. These two types of cheaper flooring come in one of two ways: on a roll or in pieces. When found on the roll, a special adhesive is used to attach the cut piece of flooring directly onto the cellar concrete. This same type of adhesive can be used on tiles that do not already have a sticky back. Tiles with sticky backs come pre-measured and once the piece of paper is removed from the underside, they can be applied to a clean surface. A benefit to using the pre-measured sticky back tiles is they oftentimes can be adjusted once or twice before permanent placement, which gives some room for error.
More expensive options that include hardwood and tiling are not suitable for every home. However, the aesthetic value added by these types of flooring is almost unmatchable by other contenders. Hardwood floors must be installed in extremely dry basements …

Home Improvement Contractors

Hand Sculptured Wooden Flooring – Information

Laura

In case you are thinking to set up fresh flooring in the house or at your work place then wooden floor is probably the best and very famous option available in the market. There are different kinds of wooden floors that you can select from such as the likes of laminate flooring and solid floors etc. Many of the customers are interested in buying the hand sculptured wooden flooring because of its many qualities like the antique and beautiful appearance of these floors is very famous all over the world.
In case you are thinking to buy hand sculptured wooden flooring, you can decide accurately how distressed the flooring should be. In this way you can give your own customized appearance to the wood flooring. In case you are looking to have a floor for the home that appears to be very ancient and old then that is absolutely not a problem at all as hand sculptured flooring can be customized whichever way the consumers want to. You have got all the choices available and you may design the flooring as such that it will look exclusive and match the furniture and design of your house as well.
When you have bought this kind of flooring for the house then do not worry at all as this floor is absolutely strong and would not break even if a dining plate falls on its surface. These floors are durable and last for years and years.
Coming to the purchasing part of the hand sculptured wooden floors; First of all you are required to analyze the environment and climate of the place where you reside before deciding the kind of flooring you want to buy. Some of the flooring providers offer both natural wood and laminate wooden hand sculptured flooring. You need to do proper research and examination before making the final buying decision; otherwise you may end up buying the wrong wooden floor for your house. As it is handmade, so it takes a little more time and cost to make such kind of wooden floors. That is the reason why their price per square foot is a little higher as compared to the machine sculptured wooden floors. However the beautiful appearance of these floors and the customized look that they bring to the house makes you think that it is worth spending extra cash on the hand sculptured wooden floors.…

Basement Remodeling

Prepare Your Home For Resale By Replacing Outdated Flooring

Laura

When preparing a house for a sale, many homeowners choose to take on some remodeling projects to make their home more appealing to buyers and increase its resale value. If you are preparing your home for resale, you want to be sure you are choosing improvement projects that will give you the best return on investment. One of the first improvements you should consider is replacing your old or out-dated flooring. This will make your home much more attractive to potential buyers, and has the second-highest ROI, after repainting.
Just like clothes, hairstyles, or any other aesthetic statement, flooring styles can go in and out of fashion. Chartreuse linoleum and deep shag carpet are no longer in style, and potential buyers will be unimpressed by outdated flooring. These days, natural looks are in. Hardwood flooring and tile are very popular, and high-quality vinyl flooring realistically imitating these looks at a fraction of the cost is also in vogue. Even if your flooring is not out of fashion, if it is old and no longer in good condition, you should replace it before attempting to sell your home.
If you floors are covered in carpet, find out what is underneath. If the carpet is covering hardwood flooring, pull up the carpet and have the hardwood refinished for an entirely new look. Hardwood flooring is easier to clean and maintain than carpet, and is very stylish. If cement or plywood lie under your carpet, however, it will probably not be cost effective to replace all of the carpet with hardwood flooring unless you are planning to stay in your home long enough to enjoy the new floors.
If you cannot afford to replace the flooring in your entire house, there are still some steps you can take to prepare your home for resale. If you have hardwood floors, have them refinished or stained to give them new life. If you have carpet, have it professionally cleaned. Another option is to replace the flooring in just one or two rooms, such as the kitchen and living room. No matter what your budget, there are many flooring improvement options to help you prepare your home to be sold.…

Remodeling Contractors

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Vinyl Plank Flooring

Laura

For a number of different reasons, wood flooring is probably the most popular type of flooring amongst homeowners today. While it can be quite expensive, hardwood flooring adds a certain level of comfort and warmth to practically any room. Some of the negative aspects of hardwood flooring include its vulnerability to damage including stains, scratches, and more. Overall, it can be a pain to maintain and clean on a regular basis.
Vinyl plank flooring is a newer type of flooring that offers many of the advantages of hardwood floors, but at significantly reduced prices. There are also some other key advantages that vinyl plank floors have over hardwood floors that make it an attractive option for anyone who wants that classic wood floor look without the hassles and high price tags.
You can find vinyl plank flooring in a wide variety of wood grain sizes. This gives you the ability to pick out a grain size that closely matches your preferred choice of wood. In addition, it is available in an array of shades resembling cherry, oak, mahogany, maple, or any other wood of your fancy. In fact, it does such a good job mimicking these natural woods that oftentimes you would not be able to see the difference between vinyl and wood flooring.
Probably the biggest advantage of vinyl flooring is how cheap it is. The cost for this type of flooring will generally fall within the range of 1 to 4 US dollars per square foot. Another great advantage of these floors is that it is extremely durable and water resistant. Its ability to effectively repel water allows you to use it in your home’s kitchen or bathrooms. It is also resistant to the cracking and scratching that you will often find with natural hardwood floors.
There are a few disadvantages to vinyl flooring that you should consider as well. Since your average vinyl plank is not nearly as thick as natural wood planks, oftentimes you will need to install an additional sub-flooring before installation. You also have to be quite careful when it comes to cleaning vinyl plank flooring. Certain types of solvents and cleaners can actually damage these floors so you need to find cleaners that are specifically designed to clean vinyl floors without damaging them.
Flooring is one of the most noticeable and important aspects of any home. Therefore, choosing the right flooring is a very big decision that you want to get right. Before you decide to install vinyl plank flooring, you will want to learn about its advantages and disadvantages so you can make the right purchasing choice.…

Remodel Kitchen

Hardwood Flooring Installation

Laura

In most homes carpet is a thing of the past. New homes and many older homes have hard wood flooring. This option of all types and colors are flying of the shelf in home improvement stores. Recent studies have shown that carpet can hold pet dander, dust and that will aggravate allergy suffers. Vinyl linoleum can be easily scraped and scared. Linoleum does not have the durability of other types of flooring.
Some a large number of homeowners have turned to this as another type of covering. The maintenance on this type is less than that of carpet. These only require mopping as opposed to vacuuming and shampooing. Hardwoods also add value to any home.
Hardwoods come in any color or finish that is desired. There are local stores that specialize in flooring as well as internet sites. After choosing the type of wood for your home, it is time to find someone to install it. A carpenter or installation specialist can lay the floor in place as it should be. A do it yourself can install their own hardwood flooring. This is a lifelong investment. The right covering will make an old home look brand new.
If you desire a pattern in the floor, it is best to let the installation person to lie this. A cheaper type to install is to laminate. A new one can be installed in a day. Some specialists may ask to bring flooring a day or two earlier so that the wood will expand in the new atmosphere.
After installation, it is time to maintain the wood floor. This type can be scratched and scraped as furniture is moved over it. The floor must be cleaned and moped. If it is an unstained floor, it will need to be stained to the color that the homeowner will like. After this it is time to set back and enjoy the new changes.
A realtor can access and let the homeowner know how much value is added with a specialized or customized installation. This is an expense that will give the homeowner a great return. This type adds charm and warmth to any home. Unlike carpet, this is a durable investment that will last for years to come. With the proper maintenance, generations to come can see the beauty of hardwoods installed today. So opting for this type might just be a mighty good step.…

Bathroom Remodel

Laminate Flooring Vs Hardwood Flooring – What Should You Choose?

Laura

It’s come to that time. You want to upgrade the flooring in your home and you’re weighing up the options. You don’t want to bother with carpeted floors because they’re a nightmare to maintain, love gathering dust, fleas, and dirt, and just don’t have the modern feel that wooden flooring brings.
Your options have boiled down to laminate flooring and hardwood flooring because they both achieve that modern look you’ve always wanted. However you’re torn between the two and want some advice. Well, welcome to this article, where we’ll look at a couple of key differences that may help you reach a conclusion.
The price
Price is often an important factor when making a purchase of any kind. If money is no object then you may as well skip to the next section. However, if you’re part of the price conscious majority, then you should know that laminate flooring is much cheaper than hardwood. Typically, it will cost you twice as much to install hardwood flooring over laminate flooring. Sometimes, it can cost even more than this.
Installation
Now, depending on how much of a handy man (or woman) you are, will influence whether you choose to take the DIY route or enlist the help of flooring specialists. If you like DIY, then you’re going to have an easy ride with laminate flooring. Most laminate floors are designed to be easy to install, with no need for nails, and in most cases, no need for glue.
Hardwood, on the other hand, will require a particular level of expertise for a pain-free installation. Unless you really know your stuff and are a genuine handy man or handy woman, then you should use a professional for installing a hardwood floor.
Longevity
The longevity of your flooring will be another important consideration when you’re weighing up your options. Well, in this department, both flooring types are pretty good. Both laminate and hardwood floors can last for decades if looked after. However, laminate floors tend to be a little more resistant to scratching and fading than their hardwood companions. Nonetheless, a slightly faded and scratched hardwood floor can add a little personality and character to your home. So, in that respect, it is really down to your personal choice.
The looks
As expensive as it can be, there is no denying that hardwood flooring looks beautiful. It really brings that natural yet modern feel into your home. Although laminate flooring can also do its bit at making your home look tidy, hardwood flooring wins hands down in the aesthetic department. If you’re one that likes to impress, then hardwood flooring will be the sensible choice.…

Bathroom Renovations

How to Choose the Right Carpet Flooring For Your Home Or Office

Laura

Choosing the right carpet flooring for your home or office is a decision that requires some serious thought. There are actually quite a few things that should be taken into consideration that will enable you to get the right carpeting for your needs.
There are two basic style of carpeting-loop pile and cut pile. Loop pile and cut pile are the two most common and popular carpet styles, yet each have their own unique benefits. Loop pile carpeting has individual strands of yarn that are brought through the backing of the carpet two times, which creates a rather small loop.
The cut pile carpet, on the other hand, has the loop cut toward the top of the strand, leaving tufts of yarn that stand pointing straight up. This style of carpet is generally more durable that the former. Some examples of cut style carpet are shag, textured, saxony, and velvet carpets. Loop pile carpet examples include berber, cable, or sisal. For high traffic areas, loop pile is generally the right choice to make.
And what about the material? There are many ways to go, and each carpet choice has its own benefits and drawbacks. See which may work best for you…
If you are in the financial position to purchase wool carpeting, it will be your best bet. There is simply no man made carpet fiber that can even come close to the durability, terrific look, and great feel of wool carpet- which can also last for thirty years or more.
Acrylic carpeting is actually pretty close to wool on many ways, which is why it is often referred to as man made wool. It is resistant to moisture, fading, mildew, crushing, and staining. Even thought it seems very durable, it is not recommended in high traffic areas.
Olefin is an inexpensive carpet choice that is perfect for both indoor or outdoor carpeting. Olefin is colorfast and strong which makes it one of the easiest carpets to maintain and clean. This kind of carpet can get crush, so it is not great in every situation.
For high foot traffic areas, nylon is usually going to be the best choice to make. Many people shy away because of the price of nylon compared to other synthetics, but it is cheaper than wool and yet very durable and long lasting.
Use these tips to choose the absolute best carpet for your home or office needs. Carpeting is a great flooring choice that can look great and last for many years.…

Basement Remodeling

Help the Environment by Choosing Cork Flooring

Laura

Cork flooring comes from the bark of the cork tree. It is considered sustainable flooring, because the floor material is derived from bark that grows back quickly. In addition to being eco-friendly, floors made out of cork bring a fresh, modern look to any room of your home. Unlike hardwood, cork does not take years to grow back so you can feel good about using this flooring in your home.
Cork comes in different shades as manufacturers of this flooring tint it with various stains and finishes. You’ll find that cork flooring is very durable not only because of its natural composition but also because the floor tiles or planks are coated with a high tech coating that imparts incredible durability and sometimes a shiny or glossy finish. You can also get untreated cork, and cork floors that have a low sheen clear coating for protection.
To find the best value, comparing different flooring choices can help you narrow down the vast selection. You want to get a floor that is easy to install, meets your needs for performance and durability, is good for the environment and that fits your sense of style. Also, your price range will need to be considered to ensure you don’t pay more than you can afford.
There are so many reasons to select cork as your floor material. As previously stated, this type of flooring is beautiful. It looks exotic in any room and gives a breezy look to the area. It is easy to care for, and can stand up under heavy foot traffic thanks to the protective coating. There are different shades to match different room color schemes including the natural shade, which is a textured medium brown shade that goes with everything.
Cork flooring can make all the difference in your home. It looks stylish and modern and does not have a negative effect on the environment. It is one of the most ideal flooring materials for any household who wants to go green while keeping their personal style intact. And, there are different price ranges so you don’t have to pay a fortune for these fantastic benefits.…

Renovation House

VOC Free Flooring

Laura

VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds. These are carbon based chemical compounds that vaporize under pressure. You may have seen or heard the words,” low VOC’s, or no “VOC’s describing different floor coverings, underlayments, and or adhesives. VOCs cannot be seen by the naked eye. They also aren’t detectable by odor as they don’t smell. But they are extremely hazardous to your health! Side effects are headaches, coughing, pneumonia, fatigue, asthma attacks, and have been linked to several others.
You may ask, “Where do VOCs come from?” Some options, like vinyl flooring, are made up of them. In wood flooring products like bamboo and laminate, VOC’s usually come from the adhesives or other additives. In such cases, it is possible to find VOC free products, so long as the manufacturer has not used VOC-emitting glues or finishes. With regard to plywood subfloors, there are alternative materials you can use, or you can investigate sealants to keep the gases from escaping into your living area… Wow, what a big risk it would be to have this in your home!
VOC’s are commonly found in most flooring materials, dry cleaning solvents, paint thinners and gasoline. Whether you know it, or not, VOCs pollute the air inside your home, causing poor air quality. If it seeps outdoors, it’s likely to damage groundwater and soil. These are very important factors to remember when you are shopping for flooring for your home. Make it a safe place for you and your family always read the labels for VOC free, or low VOC contents.
Carpet is a good example of high VOC exposure. Within the first few days of carpet installation it holds bacteria, and dust. A suggestion would be to keep your house well ventilated, open windows and doors during installation to lower the VOC’s.Other examples are Cork, Bamboo, and Vinyl flooring. All of them use some type of adhesive to install, it is a must to read your labels to check the VOC level, or use water based polyurethane. An alternative would be to use recycled hardwood flooring. This is actually a good “Green” way to go; otherwise they would be left to rot. Why waste wood that adds character to your home and is also VOC free?
Reclaimed wood flooring offers a truly distinctive choice when it comes to wood floors. Reclaimed and recycled wood reduces the demand for new wood and helps to conserve our forests and moderate the potential impacts of incremental logging upon the environment. Using recycled or salvaged wood is a socially and ecologically responsible decision. Hardwood flooring does not collect dust unlike carpet; this alone will cut down the VOC level. It is a quick fix with a dust mop, and you are dust free. This makes it a very healthy and logical choice for your flooring needs. The quality and life span of using solid wood out weighs carpet, or any laminated flooring option by a long shot. By sticking to low VOC, or VOC free flooring …

Bathroom Renovations

Installing Hickory Hardwood: Considering Hand-Scraped Flooring

Laura

Its attractive appearance of reddish heartwood and cream-colored sapwood captures your eye and grabs your attention. Yet, beneath that beautiful appearance, hickory hardwood is durable – one of the most durable domestic species, in fact. With a Janka scale rating of 1820, hickory offers excellent density, but its strength can be a detriment. Why? Coupled with closed, rough grain, hickory hardwood is difficult to machine, sand, and finish. For adding this product, what options do you have?
Prefinished is extremely practical across all species. When it comes to adding a full floor of hardwood, the planks just need to be added without finishing. In a day, you can place all of your furniture back into the space. On the other hand, prefinished products, hickory and other species, come with a limited set of stains, and if you have a particular look in mind, the existing options may not reflect your vision. Additionally, adding a stain or finish tends to make newer flooring blend in better with existing materials.
Unfinished with an alternative approach. If you have a specific look in mind, you’re willing to go through the rigors and unconventional techniques to installing hickory. What does this entail? For sanding, go with a belt sander. As you sand with the grain of the wood, change from an 80-grit belt to 120-grit for smoothing out the surface and 220-grit for any finishing touches.
For staining, the pores must be opened or closed. In its natural state, hickory produces a blotchy patina. A wood conditioner fully closes off the grain, after which a stain can be added on top, while water-popping opens it, making the wood more receptive.
Hand-scraped flooring. A textured surface of natural character marks and manual distressing makes hand-scraped flooring the perfect choice for a rustic look. Added to this, the texture camouflages any blotching resulting from an applied finish. This way, hand-scraped hickory flooring allows you to add the distinct red and white look and include a stain of your choosing.
Yet, keep in mind that not all hand-scraped flooring is identical. Products tend to be divided between classic and rustic hardwoods. Classic is considerably smoother, with texture carved into the surface. Rustic, as the name implies, is characterized by knots, mineral streaks, and graining. Beyond these two basic classifications, hand-scraped hardwood is distressed through a combination of scraping, aging, or a darker stain. Floors, after an unfinished hardwood is added, can even be custom distressed before a finish is applied.…

Remodel Kitchen

Care Tips For Your Karndean Flooring

Laura

If you have made the decision to go lay Karndean flooring then you have ultimately chosen a unique and stunning surface. When you have had it fitted, you are obviously going to want it to remain in top condition for as long as possible. To do this there are certain cleaning tips and precautions that should be followed that will ensure your new floor stays in top condition.
It should be noted that in order for you to keep your manufacturers guarantee, you need to use the products from Karndeans cleaning range as they are made especially for their surfaces. If you decide to use other products then they may possibly contain ingredients that can damage the floor.
When you come to clean your surface you should use a soft brush to get rid of any surface dust and debris. It is important that a soft brush is used as any other brushes bristles could potentially scratch your floor. To actually clean the surface you should use a damp mop with the recommended cleaning products to ensure a quality, risk free finish to the job. It is also important that you never use any bleach to try and clean the floor as this can again cause damage to it. If you are placing a mat on the floor then you should check that it will not leave a mark as some black rubber varieties may do so. If you are unsure then it is best to check with your carpet supplier.
Generally, if you use some common sense then you should not have too many problems. Any spillages should be dealt with immediately and it is best for people to either take off their shoes or at least give them a good wipe on a mat before walking on the surface. If you follow the above tips then you should find that your Karndean flooring will keep its quality for a much longer period of time.…

Home Remodeling

Commercial Fitness Flooring – Various Benefits Of Rubber Flooring In Sports Centers And Arenas

Laura

When you go to the gym and work hard, you’re prone to several injuries. Now if you actually look at the chances of you falling down on the floor, you can’t even imagine the kind of risk you’re taking. This is the reason why commercial fitness flooring is quite important in sports centers and arenas.
Rubber gym flooring can definitely reduce the chances of serious injury. Apart from that, even if you drop weights on it, the ground beneath will not be affected because it can absorb the shock. This is the reason why rubber flooring for gyms is considered as the right option.
When it comes to commercial fitness flooring, there are quite a lot of options and there are a lot of advantages for each and every option that is available. Athletic flooring and sports flooring should ensure the safety of the people who involve in these kinds of activities. Recycled rubber floor tiles can actually take the wear and tear of all the activities taken up in such places.
Apart from all these advantages, you tend to make a lot of noise when you actually move, lift and drop the weights in the gym. So imagine the kind of nuisance it might create to the people around or the neighbors in that locality. So there is a high need to absorb the kind of noise that is generated in such a place and this is the reason why rolled rubber flooring is preferred.
So in order to ensure that everything is damage free, the right kind of choice for the flooring is quite important. Apart from that, in most of the sports centers or in the gyms, people tend to sweat a lot and if the flooring is completely exposed to this kind of condition, there are chances of various sweat stains or even scratches on the floor because of the equipment.
So in order to minimize this kind of damage done to the floor, it should be protected with the right kind of material on it. Recycled rubber flooring as a part of commercial fitness flooring will definitely work well when it comes to absorbing noise that is created. This way, it is a solution for quite a lot of issues and is the most suitable option.
Above all, if you actually go for the right colors and design options, this kind of flooring will definitely enhance the beauty of the whole place. And when it comes to affordability, you can definitely save a lot of money if you choose this material for the flooring. Other flooring options are quite costly and when it comes to the durability factor, they’re not a match for recycled rubber flooring.
This is the reason why, it is quite important to completely understand about all the benefits of this material in order to choose it as the primary option. May it be a gym, or a sports center, or even a children’s play area; when it comes to solving all …

Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen Flooring

Laura

Choosing the right option for kitchen flooring is essential for any homeowner looking to remodel or refurbish an outdated kitchen. Since the kitchen is one of the most highly-trafficked rooms of the house, it is essential that flooring options are durable and reliable, as well as easy to clean. The ideal flooring options can safely take a beating from drops, spills and more, as well as a constant flow of foot traffic in and out. Choosing a stylish, yet affordable option from a reputable dealer is the best option for experienced renovators and DIY home improvement aficionados alike. Wood, vinyl and tile are often the most common materials used, and all have their benefits and drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making a final purchase.
Vinyl
Vinyl is the most affordable option to homeowners on a budget, and it is available in an almost endless supply of styles, designs and colors for any desired d?�cor. Vinyl is also easy to clean and maintain. However, because vinyl is so inexpensive upfront, it is less durable than some of the other options out there, and it may need to be replaced regularly in order to avoid damage.
Tile
Ceramic tiles can be a longer-lasting alternative to vinyl while still being budget friendly. Tiles are easily maintained and easily cleaned, and are able to withstand scratches, dents or other damage commonly experienced in high-trafficked areas. However, if the structure of the house experiences movement, it is easy for ceramic tiles to break or crack and damage the floor. Tiles are also more slick when wet, and can raise some safety concerns that need to be taken into account especially if there are children in the household. Ceramic tiles do come in a variety of options though, and a textured surface can reduce the possibility of accidental falls or injuries.
Wood
Wood floors may seem a risky choice when considering flooring options for the kitchen given its susceptibility to moisture damage. But wooden floors offer a unique and pleasant feel to a very popular room of the home, and are easily maintained when installed properly. Wood is very resilient to high volume traffic and can withstand a lot of impact that would otherwise damage an alternative floor surface. If a wooden floor has been selected for your kitchen, it is imperative that it is coated with a substantial protective finish to keep out moisture and spills common in the kitchen or bathroom.
When shopping for a new flooring solution for the home, it may be tempting to peruse the selection often found in big retail chains specializing in home remodeling, but that’s not always the best option available. Local dealerships that specialize in home flooring often offer better deals as well as higher quality products than those offered in mass-production alternatives. By locating a reputable and trustworthy local dealer, customers can get higher satisfaction as well as specialized advice in purchasing their kitchen flooring, and are sure to get products that match …

Home Remodeling

Hardwood Laminate Flooring

Laura

Hardwood laminate flooring is a flexible floor covering that provides you with the feel of having hardwood floors, devoid of the large expense. Hardwood laminate surfaces are highly valued for their toughness as well as their aesthetic beauty. This beauty has the capacity to express warmth and character to most any kind of room and will fit with almost any decor.
Despite the fact that hardwood laminate flooring really does resemble hardwood, it is not constructed of solid wood. It’s produced from a number of materials bonded together under extreme pressure. Made from many layers of ply laid cross ways, it is truly as tough as real hardwood. This machine created product will not stain, warp or even buckle. The coated surface provides it a high degree of scratch resistance. This flooring is tough!
A main benefits of laminate flooring are not simply its replication of genuine hardwood and its intense toughness, but the ease with which the flooring may be installed and maintained. It can be installed very quickly. After you observe the initial number of tiles going together, it is possible to finish the project yourself. The introduction of glueless laminates has changed the flooring business, opening a door for the “do-it-yourself” market.
Hardwood laminate floors are exceptionally stain repellent and requires only minor routine maintenance. A vacuum cleaner can certainly perform the task in most instances. Mopping hardwood laminate flooring with a hot damp mop, along with a gentle cleaner can remove just about all filth and grime. Always read the manufacturers cleaning recommendations prior to washing your floor, since they may fluctuate from brand to brand.
Laminate hardwood flooring comes in many types and designs. This kind of flooring can replicate essentially any wood floors, such as mahogany, oak, bamboo, cork, and pine. All wood varieties have their own particular features, so a style, texture, and color of laminate can easily be found to go with just about any decor. Hardwood laminate flooring will increase the value of your home without breaking the bank. Laminate flooring can be bought and put in for a portion of the price associated with authentic hardwood. Even though the labor might be time consuming, as well as a bit tough on ones knees, you most likely can save about 40% of the total job cost as a result of installing the floors yourself.
The hardwood flooring “look” is one which is always classic. Umpteen flooring fashions have come and gone (remember shag rugs? ) but the classic hardwood flooring look will always be in fashion. Since hardwood laminate flooring emulates that “wood look”, your floors will always be chic!…

Home Repair

Laminated Wood Flooring 101 – Facts You Need to Understand About Them

Laura

There are a lot of floor coverings that you can choose from. You can opt for stones, vinyl and even wood. On the other hand, if you want to breathe new life into your floors, then you can do so by installing laminated wood flooring. However, this type of floor covering is entirely different from the ones that you are used to. Laminated wood floorings are more durable than the usual wood materials since it underwent the process of lamination. If you want to know more about them, then read on. Here are the things that you need to understand about laminated wood floorings.
The Materials That They Are Made From
Unlike the conventional wooden materials, the laminates are made from fiber board materials and melamine resins that are bonded together and undergo the process of lamination. Since the materials are made from scrap wood, they cost less than if you would buy slabs of hardwood. This particular floor covering also answers environmental concerns since they are made from recycled materials.
They Are Sensitive To Moisture
This type of floor covering is very sensitive to moisture and water. What happens if there is a presence of too much moisture is that the floors buckle or bends since the fibers absorb the moisture leaving a trail of an unsmooth surface on the floors. On the other hand, since it retains moisture, it is often attacked by molds and mildew. To remedy this problem, you need to make sure that you install this laminate tile flooring in places that are not subjected to high moisture such as the kitchen or the bathroom.
They Are Sensitive To High Heat
Although this rarely happens, low temperature on the floors would often result to shrinking of the floors therefore you can see gaps in between the boards.…

Home Contractors

How Laminate Flooring Can Transform Your Room

Laura

If you want to change the look of your room one of the best things you can do is take a look at laminate flooring. Although this style of flooring is not actually genuine wood, it is very strong and scratch resistant, and also in most cases is UV resistant, meaning it will not change color even though it is left in open sunlight for a long period of time. It can be a great choice when you are renovating your home because it is inexpensive in comparison to genuine wood flooring, and can be installed fairly quickly.
Laminate flooring is made from both synthetic and genuine wood materials, which are pressed together using high-pressure to make for a really hardwearing and durable flooring surface. In most cases the laminate is finished off with a polyurethane covering, which is a protective layer that will stop the wood surface from being scratched. This makes it ideal for places where it is possible for damage to occur, and is especially useful for people who have children. Due to the fact that it uses synthetic material, this kind of flooring also goes some way towards protecting the environment due to the fact that it does not use genuine hardwood.
This kind of flooring can be installed in most rooms, although you do need to make sure you do not install it in place where water can be present, such as the bathroom or in places that are near to sinks, perhaps in the kitchen. If water gets into laminate flooring it can damage the core of the wood, and then the planks will need to be replaced.
As mentioned above, this type of flooring is an excellent choice for people who have children, and it is an excellent choice for high traffic areas such as the hallway or the kitchen, since it is durable enough to stand up to a lot of wear. And now that modern technology has improved the look of this wooden flooring comes close to that of a genuine hardwood flooring at nowhere near the price.…

Room Additions

The Four Greatest Myths About Eco-Friendly Timber and Bamboo Flooring!

Laura

Myth 1
“All timber is environmentally friendly”
Not true! Tradition hardwood flooring taken from oak, bluegum, brushbox and other varieties, takes between 40 to 80 years to reach harvest maturity yet most will happily live-on for hundreds of years. Because these trees take so long to grow, animals, insects and plant life all have plenty of time to use the trees for homes and shelter and become well established. This means that harvesting of these trees is very destructive to the established life in, on and around the trees.
This destruction is also a lot worse than it could be due to traditional timber being from such large and heavy trees. This means that powerful, heavy and polluting machinery and equipment are needed to harvest the trees, compounding the damage and destruction.
Myth 2
“Bamboo is not as eco-friendly as traditional hardwood timber”
Again not true! Bamboo timber (technically from the grass family), is often described as an inferior flooring product by those who don’t understand it yet it has all the properties of hardwood and takes just five years to reach harvest maturity. It is also more than double the hardness of most hardwood timbers. Due to its light weight and prolific growth it is easily harvested with far less damage done to the ecosystem and environment.
It also doesn’t require re-planting as bamboo shoots will happily sprout again, fully replacing the harvest. This means that bamboo produces about 25 times more wood per acre per year than hardwood forests and it absorbs up to four times the amount of carbon as hardwood timber (Cooperative Research Centre for Greenhouse Accounting).
Myth 3
“If timber or bamboo is certified as eco-friendly then it must be”
Not true! Because of the lack of enforced and other standards in many large timber and bamboo producing nations, this means that quality systems are not in place to ensure that only the best or most “eco-friendly” products are shipped. Much of the time it’s nearly impossible to assess just how eco-friendly timber and bamboo flooring is without the company selling the product clearly spelling-out the international standards their products comply with.
Myth 4
Environmentally friendly finishes are much better than traditional finishes
Not true! Many of the “environmentally friendly” finishes used on timber products such as stains and oils are great for their small environmental benefits but often are not practical when used on timber and bamboo floors. This is particularly true when they are used in high-traffic areas where they won’t tend to last more than two years. This means that they will need to be reapplied multiple times which just isn’t practical in most homes when you have to shift all your furniture out of each room that’s being treated. They are also quite a bit more expensive, costing between 30 and 40% more on average over standard finishes, so it’s another catch that you need to be aware of.…

Kitchen Renovation

Epoxy Flooring: An Introduction

Laura

Epoxy flooring is a way of sealing and protecting concrete floors. An epoxy coating can prolong the life of your floor, and also achieve a great look. An epoxy floor is created when a protective resin is applied over the top of an existing concrete slab. This epoxy resin is clear, and will create a glossy but non-slip surface. These kinds of resins are often used over specialist flooring like terrazzo or marble.
Epoxy is a hard and durable material, which is why it is well suited to flooring applications. A floor sealed with epoxy will have a long life dealing with a large amount of traffic. Epoxy is also waterproof and dust proof, meaning that cleaning a sealed floor is quick and easy.
For many years epoxy was used in industrial settings for its affordability and durability. Recently, the designer appeal of epoxy has increased. With a wide range of concrete finishes available, as well as choices in resin, epoxy is being used to create great looking floor finishes in shops, offices, and private homes.
Epoxy Floors in the Home
Epoxy is used in many domestic settings. If you are considering a polished concrete floor, a coloured aggregate floor, or other specialised surface, then chances are it will be sealed with an epoxy resin. Many people with allergies or asthma choose epoxy floors because of the low levels of dust and other allergens. Because it’s easy to clean and doesn’t attract dust and dirt, epoxy is also a hygienic choice of floor covering. Many young families are electing for this type of flooring in traffic areas and living zones.
Industrial and Commercial Settings
Their high level of hardness, durability, and economic viability make epoxy sealants a sensible choice for workplaces. For factories and workshops, epoxy flooring can be strong enough to hold a truck without cracking, but also functional for storage, as well as staff. There is no problems with concrete dust, and cleaning is also easy. Epoxy is a good option for hygienic areas such as kitchens and toilets, as it is waterproof and repels dust, it’s well suited to these kinds of areas.
Retail Spaces
Hard-wearing, durable, and affordable epoxy floors are a popular choice among restaurants, cafes, shops, shopping centers, and other retail spaces. It looks great, can take a high amount of traffic, and is also easy to clean up when things go wrong. While practical, epoxy flooring can also be stylish. Choosing a coloured aggregate mix or other designer flooring options can create a wide variety of different finishes.
The Benefits
The cost of an epoxy floor is comparable to that of other flooring types. The real advantage is the durability that these kinds of floors have, along with their good looks. This ind of flooring is also ideal if you have damaged flooring currently. Epoxy can be used to level out problem areas and ensure and even surface. Epoxy flooring is a true low maintenance option.…

Renovation House

10 Questions to Ask Your Hardwood Flooring Supplier

Laura

10 Questions to Ask Your Hardwood Flooring Supplier Before Purchasing
1. If there are any problems, who do I call?
Most flooring stores will be buying the flooring they are selling to you from a distributor who purchases the flooring from the manufacturer. Sometime, especially with products coming from overseas there is more than one distributor involved. In many cases if you have an issue with your flooring and complain to the retailer they will call the distributor and let them know there is a complaint, the distributor will tell the manufacturer there has been a complaint. In most cases the manufacturer will deny the complaint and if you are lucky they will even send a representative to deny your claim in person. Most retailers would correct a manufacturing problem to make their customers happy because they are the ones dealing with the customers face to face but in reality they do not have the final say unless they want to replace the flooring out of their own pocket. The manufacturer is so far removed from the actual client that they know it is better for their bottom line to deny the claims and assume they will never have to deal with the issue because they are so protected by their warranties. Picture a person at a desk with a pile of hardwood flooring claims on their desk with a big stamp that says “denied”.
2. How durable is the finish?
Durability is probably the most important things to consider when purchasing a prefinished hardwood floor. The finish is what you are actually walking on and must be very durable to have a beautiful lasting floor for years to come. Many imported prefinished floors have very little durability and the finish can be taken off with a few swipes of 150 grit sandpaper. When buying hardwood there are a few ways to test the finish: one would be to take 150 grit sandpaper and rub the finish to see if the finish will come off and two would be to firmly press the edge of a coin against the finish, a quality finish will dent but not come off. Quality manufacturers will have aluminum oxide or better yet titanium oxide hardeners in the finish. Many offshore manufactured products will say they have aluminum oxide in them but actually do not. To test if a hardwood floor has aluminum oxide in the finish simply put the sample in your microwave and if it sparks, it does indeed have aluminum oxide in the finish. I know that may seem a little strange but it’s something worth checking because hardwood flooring is a big investment and you want to know the durability of the finish.
3. What is the structural and surface warranty?
This is a very important part of choosing a hardwood floor. Anyone can put a 25, 30, or 40 year warranty on the finish of their product but the real question is; will they stand behind their warranty. Many large …

Kitchen Renovation

Kitchen Hardwood Flooring – Is It a Really a Great Idea to Have Hardwood Flooring in Your Kitchen?

Laura

It is common to have hardwood flooring in most rooms but not in kitchen because of regular wetting on the floor that can possibly affect the durability of the wood material. Most homeowners like this particular type of flooring because it provides warm and pleasant feel that can create additional value to their houses. It seems that bad things would happen to the floor if you insist to install such flooring in your kitchen – for instance, unnecessary cracks and warps on the floor due to the overly exposure to the water.
Should you abandon the idea of having a wooden floor in your kitchen or go ahead with the idea of installing it and neglect the unwanted consequences when it is exposed to water?
The ideal answer is – you can actually install hardwood flooring in your kitchen but you need to take note of few things below:
1. Choose such flooring with polyurethane finish – Be sure that you choose flooring which contains polyurethane finish, which has water resistant properties and it provides long-lasting effect. In addition, such flooring requires little waxing – perhaps 1-2 times per year. Therefore, do not choose unfinished flooring as unexpected wetting of kitchen floor can affect the lifespan of the flooring materials over a long period of time.
2. Choose the right hardwood material – Kitchen is a place where inhabitants would regularly visit especially when someone wants to prepare meal, washing dishes and other daily activities that you can do in the kitchen. Therefore, you need to choose certain species of wood floors such as ash, maple or oak which is more durable than cheery, fir and pine wood floors.
3. Fix any possible holes, dings and dents on the floor – Whenever you have found any holes, dings and dents on it, you need to mend the deformities of the floor before the condition gets worse when it is exposed to high amount of water. It is wisely that you contact a flooring repair service to deal with this issue.
4. Choose engineered hardwood flooring – It is basically made of sandwich of several laminations of wood which includes both finish wood (on the surface) and unfinished plywood (underneath. Furthermore, it is capable to tolerate high moisture conditions which are suitable to be installed in kitchen and bathroom. Apart from that, it can be sanded in order to remove unwanted ding and dents, and scratches on it but it can only be done 1-2 times.
5. Ask help from flooring experts – Before you start installing it in your kitchen, you need to seek professional advice from flooring experts so that you can have a perfect flooring kitchen without worrying about the unwanted effects that could possibly spoil the whole flooring materials.
Hope that you would be able to have your own favorite hardwood flooring in your kitchen by considering these few things mentioned earlier. It is a better option than tile flooring, which is much harder to maintain on …

Remodeling Contractors

Vinyl Flooring Prices – How to Estimate Cost

Laura

When it comes to computing for vinyl flooring prices, it is important to remember that the cost of vinyl tiles or sheets is not the only thing that you need to consider. There are other costs involved in laying vinyl flooring.
For instance, you need to take into consideration labor expenses just in case you do not want to do your own vinyl floor or you need to hire someone to remove your old tiles, carpets or other flooring materials before you can start laying vinyl flooring. Read on to learn important tips on how you can estimate the costs when you change your flooring to vinyl.
The first thing that you need to consider, when thinking of the cost of your vinyl flooring is the price of tiles or sheets. The price of each tile will depend on its size as well as design and quality. Most common vinyl tiles are 18 by 18 and 12 by 12 inches. If you plan to change a huge area, you can also opt to use vinyl sheets, which can either be 12 or 6 feet wide. If you are really on a tight budget, there are $1 vinyl tiles.
However, if you want to make sure that the quality and design will last a long time, you might want to invest in vinyl sheets or tiles that cost around $2 to $5 per square foot. So, if you plan to renovate your 10-by-20-foot kitchen, for example, you will have to shell out $400 to $1,000 for vinyl tiles or sheets.
Aside from the tiles or sheets, you also need to include the cost of labor when estimating your vinyl flooring prices. For simple projects, the cost of vinyl installation can be about $1 per square foot. There are also vinyl flooring suppliers who offer free installation, so you might want to inquire about that.
However, if your sub-floor surface has problems and needs to be smoothed out before the installation of vinyl materials, you should expect higher fees. Be sure to ask several installers so you can compare their fees.
Another thing that you need to consider when computing for vinyl flooring expense is the price of vinyl adhesives.
Although there are vinyl tiles or sheets that are self-adhesive, you may still buy special vinyl adhesives to ensure that the vinyl tiles in areas that have high foot traffic will not easily peel off. The prices of vinyl adhesives can range from $9 to $30.…

Bathroom Remodel

Two Reasons to Buy Brazilian Hardwood Flooring – Beauty and Durability

Laura

Anyone who wants to install beautiful hardwood floors in their home needs to take a look at exotic Brazilian Cherry flooring materials. Not only does this wood have beautiful graining and natural color, but it also is one of the most durable woods available. It is especially desirable, because even though it doesn’t dent easily, if a time comes when you want or need to refinish it, it sands easily and takes stain well. These are all characteristics that make Brazilian cherry hardwood one of the most recommended solid wood floors on the market.
Everyone who installs hardwood floors wants them to be durable. You may have seen floors in some homes that are scratched and pitted and thought you’d never want to trade in your carpets for wood. Some woods using for flooring are soft, though, and become damaged much easier than others do. Brazilian cherry is the ideal material to use, because it is so hard. On the Janka Hardwood Hardness Scale, it has a rating of 2820 out of a possible 4000 which makes it one of the hardest woods around. In fact, you really wouldn’t want anything much harder, because even this hard cherry requires some extra effort in cutting and nailing.
Problems with cutting and nailing are obstacles that aren’t difficult to get around, though, so don’t worry. Special saw blades and pre-drilling of nail holes will help your cherry floors become a reality. Although this will create a bit more work in laying the floor, the beauty and durability of the finished product will make the extra effort well worth your while. After all, what’s the point of laying a floor that’s going to start looking tacky after a few months of family use?
Brazilian cherry flooring is available either pre-finished or unfinished. The wood itself can range from a dark orange to a reddish-brown in its natural state. When choosing a floor, you need to realize that the color will probably darken over time. In addition, exposure to direct sunlight can lighten it. Prefinished floors are finished with multiple coats of scratch resistant polyurethane varnish to increase the floor’s durability. After all, any floor will only be as tough as the top surface. Inferior varnishes will become badly scratched making your floor look dull, so make sure that your flooring has the best possible varnish, whether you purchase it prefinished or do the job yourself.…

Remodeling

Five Steps To Choosing Acoustic Flooring For Christmas

Laura

It’s not just children that may get treated this festive season. You may be considering investing in acoustic flooring for your own Christmas present. If so, here are five steps to choosing the right flooring.
1. Firstly, you need to consider what type of noise you are attempting to reduce. For instance, is it airborne sound? This is the sound that comes from television, music or even talking. Or is it impact sound – the noise made by things banging, slamming or vibrations? Alternatively, it may be flanking sound, such as those transmitted through walls or floors despite not being loud. The type of sound you’re looking to reduce will determine the type of sound control you require.
2. Secondly, it’s important to think about where in your home or workplace that you’d like the flooring installed. You may want to convert the basement into your own music studio or practice room for your band? Or, perhaps you have a spare room that you want turning into a media room so you can play films and TV as loud as you like.
3. It’s important to make sure that you are legally permitted to install the flooring you want. Whether you’re looking to put acoustic flooring into a new build or refurbishment, there may be different rules to adhere to. There are different types of flooring for both new builds and refurbishments, so make sure you choose the right one for your project.
4. You have a number of different options when it comes to what you can do with your floorboards. You may decide to change the existing floorboards to acoustic ones, especially in new builds. On the other hand, you could improve sound reduction by using joint treatments. A third option, which is often chosen because it is less intrusive, is to install overlay boards for your existing flooring.
5. The last thing to decide is how you’re going to install the flooring. This may be something you can do yourself, especially if you’re particularly skilled when it comes to DIY. It may help reduce the cost of your installation. Alternatively, DIY novices may prefer to avoid potential problems by having a professional carry out the installation for a quality finish.
So, do you want to install acoustic flooring for Christmas? Perhaps an alternative type of sound reduction is best? Why not speak to some sound control experts before making your decision?…

Room Additions

Tile and Stone Flooring

Laura

Tile and stone flooring ranks among the most durable of options that when installed properly can withstand the lifetime of your home and even more. Other than the inherent strength, these offer almost everything that you will ever need for a flooring that is both functional and stylish. Though these choices make up for great investments, there are still essential things about tile and stone flooring you need to know for you and your New York home to fully avail of all the possible benefits. Read on to find out and make the selection easier with information ideal whether you are in Long Island, Staten Island, Queens, Manhattan or Brooklyn.
Tile and stone flooring are basically different materials but somehow meet somewhere. Tiles are hard-wearing floor option of fired clay that comes glazed or unglazed and in a very wide range of sizes, colors, and patterns that make up for unlimited designs. Stone on the other hand is a natural material that owes its exquisite beauty and strength to time and all earthly elements. Some of the most common stone floor materials include granite, limestone, travertine, marble, slate, sandstone and limestone. Stone can also come in the form of tiles-composed of genuine aggregate attached to polymer binder, which can be a relatively cheaper alternate for pure slabs.
Stone flooring can be classified among the high-end choices but nevertheless boosts home value considerably. Though pricey, it can prove to be a great investment so ensure proper installation and hire qualified contractors to handle the job efficiently for you. Tiles offer a very varied price range with costs depending on size, material, and how they are manufactured. Ranking first among the most expensive when it comes to both labor cost and the material itself is stone tiles. Custom-made art tiles are priced around $25 or more depending on the intricacy of the designs. The cost for ceramic tiles stretch between $5 to $20 per square foot with contractor service not yet included. The cheapest you can get is opting for vinyl.
When considering your tile and stone flooring options, it is important to assess the needs and functions of the room where it will be laid out. Each choice has its own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Generally, these floor alternatives are hard with the exception of vinyl tiles that offer resilience. Though most popular when it comes to bathrooms and kitchens, they can also serve living and bedroom areas sufficiently. Certain types like unglazed tiles and marble floors can easily be stained. And the list of the pros and cons goes on, so take time and weigh things carefully to land with the best fitting choice. Other than being practical when it comes to cost and functionalities, your choice will also be a matter of personal taste.
Another very important factor to consider when selecting through your tile and stone flooring options is the long term benefits. If you plan on selling the house in months time, having stones for your …

Bathroom Renovations

Do Your Bit for the Environment With Timber Flooring

Laura

Are you planning to renovate your house and refurbish its floors? This is a good opportunity to do your bit for the environment. You must be surprised by the connection between the two. What can possibly be the connection between decorating your floors and making a positive difference to the environment? The answer lies in timber flooring. This is because in this form of flooring, recycled timbers are used that are sourced from forests thereby encouraging more and more tree growth. We all wish to contribute something to the cause of a greener world but our super busy lives hardly give us a chance to fulfill them. Here, we can easily achieve that just by opting for timber while going for a flooring renovation. There are many individuals who feel that if something is environment-friendly, it cannot be good looking. However, this is completely untrue in this case. Timber looks really classy and colorful so that you can increase the style quotient of your house to a considerable extent.
This is not the only reason why you should go for timber. There are other benefits too that it has to offer. Firstly, it is a cakewalk to clean floors made of timber. While renewing your floors, you have to think of the practical side too. You cannot concentrate on appearance alone. It is true that the look will play an important role in defining the overall appearance of the house. However, that does not mean you should sacrifice on the practical aspect. In fact, it is something that you have to take into account in the initial stages of choosing and selection itself. Timber floors are better equipped to battle dirt and dust. Since they have a soft covering, you can easily eradicate dust mites. This is definitely convenient since now-a-days, nobody has the time to spend hours on cleaning floors and tiles. Moreover, it is not possible to spend a significant part of your savings on flooring frequently. You do want it to be a long-term investment. This can be guaranteed in this flooring type.
If you are an Asthmatic patient, you have one more reason to go for timber flooring. The simple reason is that timber has anti-allergic properties. Owing to this feature, timber is also used by professionals in their workspace such as offices, showrooms etc. The eclectic variety of colors facilitates a more inspiring work environment.
However, if you find this option to be too costly, you can go for regular hardwood flooring. Though it has been there for decades, you have no reason to think that it is outdated. There are certain things that never go out of fashion and it is one of them. When it comes to class and culture, hardwood truly scores. Moreover, if you ever sell your house in the future, you can get a slightly higher price just on account of wooden flooring. The best thing about it is that in spite of offering so many benefits, it is highly …

Home Improvement Contractors

Flooring: How To Make The Right Decision

Laura

When it comes to choosing flooring, there are so many options for you to choose from. When you think about what kind of floors you want, there are three things you should consider: the type of room you have, the amount of traffic you have going in and out of that room and what your budget is.
There are five basic types of flooring on the market today that you can choose from: hardwood, laminate, vinyl, ceramic tile and carpeting.
Hardwood floors are a very popular choice. Hardwood flooring will add character to most rooms in your home. Years ago, the old floor had to be taken out before installing the new hardwood floors. But with the advancements in technology, innovations have come along way since then and now hardwood can be installed over the old. Wooden floors are very easy to maintain. When considering hard wood floors, it is important to note that there are three types of wooden floor types available. There is plank, strip and long strip. You should do some research on each one to decide which one is best for your home. You also have a choice between prefinished and unfinished. If you are looking for something practical, then go with the prefinished kind. If you want a smooth surface, then you’ll want to choose the unfinished type.
Laminate floors have the look of real wood but are less expensive than hardwood floors. If your budget is not within the price range for the more expensive wooden floors, you may want to consider laminate instead. Laminate is also better for high traffic areas then the real wood is. Laminate is extremely easy to maintain, durable and is stain resistant. Laminate floors also do not fade. This type of flooring is perfect for households that have young children. Also, laminate floors snap together so it’s easy to install or reinstall them.
Vinyl floors come in a variety of colors and patterns so you can get the one that matches your room decor. With the new manufacturing processes that are being utilized, you can get vinyl floors that resemble tile, wood or stone. Vinyl is not expensive at all and is durable and very easy to clean.
Ceramic tile is durable and resistant to scratches, fire and water. There are various styles of ceramic tile flooring for you to choose from such as marble or granite. When considering tile for your home, think about the different cleaning solutions that you will need to use. Not every cleaning solution is made to be used on tile.
Carpeting has a softer and warmer feel to it. There are a variety of colors and patterns for you to choose from. Carpeting is also quieter, so it is perfect if you live in an apartment and have people that live below you. Carpeting is extremely economical. There are various carpet types that you can choose from such as shag or velvet.…