A Guide To Buying The Right Carpet

Want to add style, color, and comfort to your home? Look no further than carpet. It brightens up any room. It softens hard spaces. It takes away the chill on a cold winter morning. What could be better than all that?

Homeowners have many reasons they select carpet for various rooms throughout their homes. Yet deciding to install carpet is the easy part; the difficult part comes with the selection process. Where do you begin when so many choices are presented to you? Styles, patterns, materials, thickness, color – the decisions seem to go on and on. Wouldn’t it be better if you had a guide to buying the right carpet before you stepped onto a showroom floor, something that would help you understand what to buy even before you started looking?A Guide To Buying The Right Carpet

The good thing is we have that guide. When you’re ready to buy the right carpet, we have the perfect solution for you.

What terms you should know before you shop

Buying new carpet isn’t something you’ll do a lot of in your life. Carpet manufactured today is designed to last 5 to 15 years, depending on the quality, the padding used, and how well the carpet is maintained. It’s easy to get confused by the terminology, especially as new concepts enter the marketplace.

Backing – the material used to back the carpet and reinforce stability.

Density – this refers to how close the fibers are woven together into the backing. You’ll find this detailed as ounces per cubic yard. The higher the density, the more durable the carpet will ultimately be.

Fiber – fiber is one of the most important factors for durability. It’s the material used to create the yarn.

Pile – pile refers to the length of the yarn and the way it’s attached to the backing. You’ll have loop pile or cut pile to select from.

Twist – with a cut pile, the twist comes from how many times the fiber is twisted together on themselves. Higher twist counts, in general, mean better performance.

Weight – face weight refers to how much fiber is used, whereas total weight refers to the backing and the yarn.

Of course, there are many more terms that refer specifically to type, style, and various manufacturing processes. When you have a question, just ask.

Evaluating your room use

When you shop, the first question a flooring consultant will ask you is what room you’re looking to add carpet to. Why? Because that shapes the direction they’ll suggest for what type of carpet handles best.

Not all carpet is designed for every room in your home. You wouldn’t install delicate carpet in a high-traffic office space. Nor would you install commercial grade carpet in a baby’s room. The more questions a consultant asks, the more they’ll learn about what carpet will work best for you.

  • What room will the carpet be installed in?
  • How much traffic will flow through that room?
  • Do you expect a lot of entertaining in that room?
  • How large is your family? Ages?
  • Is their direct access from the outside?

The consultant isn’t being nosy; they are attempting to ensure you get a product that’s perfect for your needs and desires. By getting a detailed picture of how you’ll be living once the carpet is installed, they’ll have a better idea of choices to steer you to so you’ll be happy with your final selection.

Pile types

Pile refers to the style of carpet – how it’s woven and constructed. While every carpet starts as a loop pile, some loops are trimmed and become cut pile.

Berber – this is a loop pile with small tufts that stands up well under pressure

Frieze – tightly twisted fibers that give exceptional durability

Patterned – a combination of loop and cut pile used to create different looks

Plush – closely packed yarn gives carpet a smooth look and feel

Saxony – less dense than plush, but the fibers are treated with a heat process to make them stand up straight

Shag – long, loosely spaced fibers that present an informal look

Textured plush – patterned plush where yarn in varying colors and heights are used to create a textured look

Fiber types

Two things have the greatest impact on how well a carpet will handle throughout its life: pile and fiber. You’ll find carpet is made from two different categories of materials: natural or synthetic. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully.

Acrylic – a synthetic material that has many of the properties of wool. It’s durable and helps hide dirt, cleans well, and resists mildew.

Nylon – one of the most common carpet materials, nylon is durable and stain-resistant. Not all carpet is created equal, so it’s important to do your due diligence.

Olefin – the least expensive material, it’s synthetic and made to change out on a regular basis. You’ll often find this used in rentals so it can be changed out with frequency.

Polyester – dyes well, which makes this synthetic material popular when creating vibrant, fade-resistant colors.

Wool – a natural, hypoallergenic material that is very durable. It repels oils and stains, and is warm and comfortable underfoot.

Quality and Durability 

For most homeowners, quality and durability go hand in hand. Yes, you want to install carpet that will give you the longest life possible. Yes, you want it to look good for years. What should you know about today’s technology that will really make a difference?

Stainmaster – if you’re in the market for carpet, you’ve probably heard that phrase. It’s one of the most popular technologies that give carpet a long life. But what you might not know is there’s more to the technology than just avoiding stains.

Stainmaster also has:

6,6 Nylon Technology – a patented fiber technology that helps carpets avoid crushing, color fading, and abrasive wear.

TEFLON Protection – this is a superior soil resistance technology that separates dirt from fibers easier, and allows it to be vacuumed away.

Anti-Static Technology – if you’ve ever felt tiny zaps as you walk across carpet, you know it can be a shocking experience. Having anti-static protection does more to keep your expensive electronics save as you walk across your carpet and touch your devices.

Don’t assume carpets have protection. Ask. All carpets that feature Stainmaster technology should be clearly marked. Your flooring consultant should be able to direct you to the best manufacturers that not only offer the best technological advances in the industry, but also have superior warranties to back up their promises. 

Read More

What Are The Best Flooring Options When You’re On a Budget?

Stepping into a room that’s worn or out of date can be frustrating. Everywhere you look is a reminder that your room is in desperate need of a remodel. But where do you begin?

Sure, you can change the color with a can of paint. New decor is always fun to shop for. You’ve been dreaming of a new couch; you even have it picked out from a local store.

But in truth, you know where the real problem lies. Yes, the paint and new decor will do wonders for improving your mood. Yet it’s the flooring that’s the real problem. And replacing the entire floor is a much bigger – and more expensive – job than you ever hoped to take on.What Are The Best Flooring Options When You’re On a Budget?

Where can you cut corners? Should you try and live with your ratty old carpet another year? Should you attempt a do-it-yourself flooring project you can take on yourself? We get when you’re shopping for best flooring options on a budget, you look at it from all angles. And luckily, you have a lot of choices.

However, if you focus on the “budget” part of the equation, you could end up with cheap flooring. And if it’s too cheap, you could regret your decision almost from the moment you have it installed.

Before you get started on your flooring project, it pays to do a little research first. Spend some time learning all you can about the most affordable flooring options on the market today. Then consider your lifestyle carefully. Do you see where the two marry up?

The perfect choice for one homeowner might not be the best choice for another.

But when you finally select the right flooring for your needs, and you spend your money wisely getting the highest quality product you can, you’ll love your floors for many years into the future.

That also means you consider costs carefully, weighing the costs and benefits to determine the right flooring choice for your budget. It might mean putting off the project for a bit until you can afford what makes the most sense for your home and lifestyle. It might mean taking out a home equity line of credit. Only you can decide what’s right for you.

Flooring To Consider

If you have your heart set on one specific type of flooring, shop with that flooring choice in mind. Keep an open mind, however, as you talk to one of our flooring consultants about choosing the best product for your situation. Some flooring choices hold up better than others, especially in high traffic areas. And if you focus on price alone, you might wind up with a product that can’t handle under pressure. No matter what your budget holds, here are some of our favorite flooring choices for your home.

Hardwood

Rather than putting it at the bottom of the list, we’re listing it right at the top. We know homeowners all across the Front Range have hardwood at the top of their wish lists. It’s a great flooring choice because it’s beautiful, durable, and timeless – you simply can’t go wrong when you install hardwood.

The biggest disadvantage of hardwood is they don’t stand up well in certain circumstances. They warp if they’re exposed to moisture. They dent and scratch when not properly maintained. They can shrink and swell if they are subjected to varying temperatures.

That means they aren’t the best choice in your bathrooms or basement. If you have an active kitchen, another product may be a better choice. But in the living room and dining room, spending a little extra might be the perfect thing to do.

Engineered Wood

Engineered wood looks like solid wood, but is made with layers to stand up better under pressure. It has layers of plywood, a thin veneer of natural wood on top, and a laminated top coat that makes it wear better than hardwood. It gives you the look of real hardwood at a more affordable cost.

Engineered wood can work well in the same spaces as solid wood. In addition, consider installing it in other rooms such as basements. For your main living areas, it’s regarded as the second-best choice.

Laminate

Laminate flooring is created in much the same way as engineered wood. Instead of a thin veneer layer, however, it uses a photograph under a clear plastic coating to create the final look of the product. That means laminate can take on just about any look, including stone, tile, or hardwood. And with today’s technology, the photograph is extremely real looking, often requiring even the best experts to kneel to see the difference.

Laminate comes in both tiles and planks, and you can install them without nails or glue. They float into place. Because they are easy to install, it makes a perfect do-it-yourself project – another great way to save money.

Laminate is a good flooring choice for high traffic areas. It’s also a good choice for basements. But avoid laminate where standing water might be a problem, such as in laundry rooms or bathrooms, as they can warp and crack.

Vinyl

Vinyl has come a long way from the flooring choices your parents installed. It’s considered resilient flooring, made from a flexible material that feels softer underfoot. It comes in several forms, including sheet, tile, and click-style planks that replicate the look of hardwood.

Vinyl is a tough material that stands up well to both traffic and moisture. If you’re looking for the perfect choice to stand up well in all conditions, comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, and simulates any look your desire, vinyl may be your choice.

How To Save On Flooring

Once you make a choice, it’s important to focus on quality rather than price. However, there are still ways you can buy the best flooring options for your home, and stick with your budget too.

Be flexible

Don’t go in with your heart set on specifics. Instead, be willing to look at alternatives. A flooring consultant can show you ways to get the look you desire and still stick with your budget.

Ask for samples

Don’t make a decision on the showroom floor. Instead, take a sample home and live with it for a few days. Do you like the color in all lighting conditions? Does it work well with the rest of your decor?

Install it yourself

Depending on the material you choose, there are flooring choices that are perfect for the do-it-yourselfer. You can save installation costs when you do the work yourself. That means you can get a higher quality product that will give you a greater lifespan. Plus, you’ll feel good every time you walk into the room, knowing you installed the best flooring choice for you.

If you’re thinking of taking on a home improvement project this year, it’s easy to find the  best flooring options on a budget. Stop by today, and we’ll help you find the perfect choice for your home.

Read More

Taking Care Of Your New Engineered Wood Floor

Are you thinking about adding engineered wood floors to your home? Congratulations, it’s a great choice.

There are so many reasons to love engineered wood flooring:

  • It’s beautiful
  • It’s durable
  • It’s easy to maintain
  • It comes in many styles and colors
  • It’s the perfect flooring choice for busy households

And that’s just the start!Taking Care Of Your New Engineered Wood Floor

Like other flooring choices, if you’ve decided to install engineered wood, your goal probably includes a desire to keep them looking new for as long as possible. It’s a big investment; why not do what it takes to make them look as good as possible for as long as possible?

The good news is you’ve chosen well. Engineered flooring will stand the test of time if you do just a few things.

What is the best way to clean engineered wood floors?

One of the reasons homeowners love engineered wood is because it’s so easy to take care of. It has the look and feel of real hardwood, yet it’s more durable, which makes it even easier to clean.

Keep a vacuum handy. Then run over your engineered wood floors regularly with a vacuum picking up dust, debris, tiny crumbs, and other small objects your family tracks in or drops. Be sure the vacuum was created for wood floors. If it has a beater bar or a power rotary brush head, it has the potential to damage the surface finish.

You can also use a soft cloth to wipe away daily spills. The key is ensuring you don’t dig harsh objects into the surface. Avoid using brooms with stiff bristles, or applying pressure to sweepers that can push dirt and debris across the surface area. Once a floor is damaged, it can be difficult to repair.

We also advise to stay away from harsh chemicals when cleaning your floors. A lot of cleaning products on the market today can do more harm than good. A simple combination of vinegar and water makes an excellent cleaning solution. Just be sure your rag isn’t saturated when you apply it to your engineered wood, and it dries from the surface quickly. Moisture can be a big problem for engineered wood floors.

What does moisture do to engineered wood flooring?

There are two big problems that can shorten your engineered wood flooring’s life. The first is scratches and dents that impact the surface of the flooring. The second is damage from moisture and humidity.

Most Colorado homeowners think moisture and humidity isn’t a problem here in our dry environment. But every home has a potential problem of creating too much humidity, and having trouble with things like mildew, mold, and warping.

Think about our seasons for a minute. In the heart of the winter, it can get bitter cold outside. With temperatures falling below zero degrees, your furnace kicks into overtime. This dries out the inside of your home, including your flooring. Then in the summer, the rain begins. You introduce cooled air from your air conditioner. All of that can cause your flooring to expand and contract.

If your flooring was installed correctly, there is room for expansion. If not, there is potential for your flooring to warp and buckle.

The easiest way to prevent this is by monitoring your humidity levels. Invest in a humidifier if necessary. Avoid excessive water on your floors. Clean up spills immediately. If there is risk for spills, such as in the kitchen, invest in area rugs to keep spills to a minimum.

Can you steam clean engineered wood floors?

This is a popular question we get about engineered wood flooring. In one word, the answer is: no.

Steam cleaners are designed to clean flooring using two things – steam and water – two things that aren’t good for engineered wood flooring. The steam can force water into the cracks and below the surface layer, potentially causing more damage than any other type of cleaning.

If your flooring needs a deep cleaning, start by using a product approved by the manufacturer of your floors. Check on their website for recommended solutions, or give us a call. We’re happy to make recommendations.

If your engineered wood looks dingy and dirty even after cleaning, it might be time for  refinishing. While engineered wood can’t always be refinished like traditional hardwood planks, a high quality engineered plank may have the potential to be sanded and refinished more than once. Again, check with your manufacturer for guidance.

Can you polish engineered wood floors?

An engineered wood floor is different than traditional hardwood. Because the planks are built with different layers, it can’t be sanded down like conventional planks. The wood veneer layer is usually ⅛” to 1/16” thick, so sanding it down has the potential to destroy the look of the flooring. While buffing and polishing may be an option, keep in mind that you will be reducing the top layer of the product. Always check with manufacturer guidelines first. When in doubt, don’t impact the top layer of the engineered wood.

Are there other ways to protect engineered wood floors?

Want to make your rooms look fantastic, complement your decor, and protect your wood planks too? Consider area rugs for both protection and aesthetics.

While homeowners use engineered wood to create a luxurious atmosphere, area rugs help make it even better. In the places where you spend the most time, they can help protect the finish from scratches, dents, and moisture, ensuring your flooring looks good for years to come.

However, you can’t throw down any rug and expect it to work.

Start by cleaning the area thoroughly before you lay down a rug. If you place the rug over dirt particles, debris, or oil, it can cause irreversible damage that will be noticeable after you remove the rug.

Think functionality first. While a fluffy rug might be the perfect way to add warmth to a bedroom, you’ll want to keep a low profile in high traffic areas to prevent falls.

Be sure to use non-slip rug pads underneath. Never use rubber backs, as they can damage the finish on the floor. Choose a rug pad specifically made for your flooring material. This will help avoid friction between the rug and the flooring, and prevent movement that can damage both your floors and cause a tripping hazard for your family.

Then, let your design ideas flow. There are many different types of rugs on the market today. You’ll find one perfect to create the look and feel you’re trying to achieve.

One of the reasons people love engineered wood flooring is because it gives you the look of traditional hardwood, but in a more durable package. If you’re in the market for engineered wood floors, stop by today and see our complete line. You’ll love the way it looks in your home. 

Read More

SPC vs WPC Vinyl Flooring – What’s The Difference? 

Flooring is a personal choice. For a lot of homeowners, it isn’t as much about what they want as it is about selecting the right flooring for their lifestyles.

Take hardwood, for example. You can’t ignore that it’s wildly popular along the Front Range. Every home decorating magazine you buy, every big box store you visit, every renovation expert you speak with will tout the positives of installing hardwood. But for many homeowners, hardwood doesn’t make sense.

Why install something you know will be destroyed almost as quickly as it’s laid into place?SPC vs WPC Vinyl Flooring - What’s The Difference? 

One of the latest trends in the flooring industry is rigid core flooring. It’s a stylish and relatively affordable option that brings a lot of positives to the table. Rigid core flooring has two main subsections: stone plastic composite (SPC) and wood plastic composite (WPC). These two types of vinyl flooring are similar, except for their core layers.

The SPC core is made up of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizers.

The WPC core is made from recycled wood pulp and plastic composites.

Both are considered rigid core flooring because they are created with multiple layers:

  • Wear layer – this is the top transparent layer that provides resistance to scratches, dents, and stains.
  • Vinyl layer – this gives it durability and strength. This is also where the color and pattern are printed and adhered to the product.
  • Core layer – this gives the product its waterproof qualities, and is either SPC or WPC.
  • Base layer – made from EVA foam or cork, it creates the base of the planks.

As you can imagine, each of these layers is vitally important to creating a strong, durable product that will do well in your home for many years to come. Each layer is created differently, depending on which product you select and what manufacturer you purchase from. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to brands, and ask a flooring expert for advice.

Similarities between SPC and WPC flooring

In the flooring industry, WPC has been around longer than SPC, with SPC being newer technology in the industry. In some ways, SPC is an improvement on the original WPC flooring. Yet both are different and make wonderful additions to your home, depending on your needs.

Both SPC and WPC flooring are:

Waterproof – that’s what makes SPC and WPC vinyl flooring planks perfect for your home. If you’ve decided against hardwood in your kitchen, bathrooms, or basement, SPC and WPC flooring can give you the look and feel, yet stand strong against water damage. These are both perfect additions to spaces where hardwood is typically not recommended.

Durable – what makes both SPC and WPC so durable is its multi-layer construction. These products were built with strength in mind. That means they will hold up well to whatever your family dishes out, even in high-traffic areas. If durability is your focus, just look for manufacturers that create products with thicker wear layers.

Easy to install – many homeowners like the fact that both SPC and WPC products are perfect for the do-it-yourselfer. You can install both on virtually any subfloor. They also lock into place rather than utilizing messy glues for the installation process.

Stylish – both SPC and WPC offer a wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles. You’ll easily find something that fits your decor. Today’s homeowners love the fact that SPC and WPC vinyl planks mimic tile, stone, or hardwood, and give you the look and feel of a more expensive product in a more affordable and durable package.

Differences between SPC and WPC flooring

The core layer in SPC and WPC is made up of different materials. Because both are different products, there are some distinct differences it’s worth paying attention to:

Thickness – because of the composite materials used, WPC tends to be thicker than SPC. SPC runs on average between 3.2 to 7 millimeters, whereas WPC averaged 5.5 to 8 millimeters thick.

Durability – even though WPC is thicker than SPC, SPC tends to be more durable under pressure. If you’re worried about damage from high traffic or weight distribution, SPC tends to do better under pressure.

Stability – both products do well at resisting water damage, but over time SPC wins out as it offers even more resistance to both moisture and temperature variances.

Noise – because WPC offers a thicker core, it tends to absorb sound better, which can make rooms quieter when walking or moving around.

Feel – WPC provides a better feel underneath. The thicker core offers more support and cushion underfoot.

How to shop for WPC and SPC vinyl flooring

Are you starting to see the benefits of these two products?

As a homeowner, think of WPC in a similar manner as if you were purchasing a plush carpet. It looks great and feels great underfoot. That makes it a perfect choice in a room where you want softness and warmth, yet went the look, feel, and easy maintenance of more traditional flooring. Whether you prefer tile, stone, or hardwood, WPC vinyl flooring can give you exactly what you’re looking for.

If you have more extreme conditions, SPC vinyl flooring is a good choice. It’s no wonder it’s growing in popularity in commercial spaces. It offers all of the benefits associated with traditional vinyl flooring, but adds the virtually indestructible core that gives it longevity. It keeps going, no matter what you dish out. It can handle moving furniture around without showing dents and scratches. It can take high traffic from an office space where people come and go all day long. No matter how much traffic you see, the SPC core bounces back.

Keep in mind that different manufacturers sell WPC and SPC vinyl flooring using different names. You might see it listed as:

  • Rigid vinyl planks
  • Enhanced vinyl planks
  • Waterproof vinyl flooring
  • Engineered vinyl flooring

Be sure to inspect it thoroughly to understand what the core layer is made from to determine which product you’re getting. And if you have any questions, just ask. A flooring consultant should be able to answer all your questions to your satisfaction. If not, find someone who can.

Read More

Plank Tile 101: Everything You Need To Know About Tile That Looks Like Wood

It’s a modern day catch-22.

On the one hand, you want a timeless, beautiful floor that will look great for years to come.

On the other hand, you want a durable floor that can take all that your family can dish out.

What’s a homeowner to do? Consider plank tile.Plank Tile 101: Everything You Need To Know About Tile That Looks Like Wood

What is the tile called that looks like wood?

You’ve probably seen it before and wondered what it is. Walking in, it looks just like hardwood. But once you get closer, walk on it, it’s clearly not hardwood. It feels more like tile.

Tile that looks like wood is made from either ceramic or porcelain tile, designed to give the look and feel of a hardwood floor. If often comes in plank tile format, even though it can take on many sizes and shapes.

What we love best about plank tile is how close it looks to the real thing. Many people have to get down on the floor and touch it to discover the difference. It’s that good. And if you’ve ever installed tile in your home before, you already know the benefits tile can bring to some of the most high-traffic areas. Plank tile is a great compromise when you want classic good looks, yet know your floor takes a beating throughout the year.

What are the benefits of plank wood tile?

Why are plank tiles gaining in popularity? Because of their strength and durability.

Here in Colorado, we love hardwood. Maybe it’s something about growing up with pine trees all around us. When we think about the Rockies, we think cabins and mountain retreats. Hardwood goes hand in hand with that concept.

But hardwood isn’t practical for every home, or every situation. Hardwood in an entryway or mudroom is nothing but trouble. Hardwood in a kitchen or bathroom can be more trouble than it’s worth. Hardwood isn’t designed for water and moisture, which means you’ll spend a lot of time on care and maintenance when you install them in these spaces.

That’s where plank tile has the edge. Plank tile looks like hardwood, but it acts like tile. It can be matched with any decor; installed in a variety of color choices, one that will perfectly match your style.

It never has to be refinished. It’ll stand up through spills, and messes, and moisture. And if you’re worried about having a cold tile floor on a Colorado winter morning, stop worrying. Plank tile is perfect for laying over radiant heating. That means you can have toasty warm floors you’ll love all winter long.

What is better, tile or wood?

It depends.

Flooring is a personal choice. If you really love hardwood, then by all means, install it. You’ll love it.

But if you’ve got questions about whether it’s the right choice for your home, then it may be time to look at other options. Plank tile is one of the best choices you can make when durability and strength are in question. If you know your floors take a beating from high-traffic, pets, and kids, plank tile might be the right choice for you.

It’s easy to get confused by studies that show what materials hold their value best. If you know you might be selling your home in the future, is it better to get what real estate agents tell you will help your home sell? Or do you listen to your gut and select something you know you’ll love, and will last through all you can dish out? We think it’s best to look at the big picture.

For example, a recent Consumer Reports article makes suggestions as to the best upgrades to make to boost your home’s value. If you dive down for specifics, you’ll see hardwood flooring rules. But if you back away and look at the big picture, you’ll see it’s more about the aesthetics of a room. If you have a well-designed room with classic good looks, people don’t focus on individual items. Instead, they work to picture themselves living there. And if plank tile makes sense, of course, they’ll jump at it.

Do you grout wood plank tile?

Plank tile is designed to mimic the look of hardwood floors. But if you know anything about tile, you know you install tile with grout holding each individual tile in place.

Do plank tiles need grout? It depends.

Tile typically needs grout to allow for movement and settlement. This narrow material has give, to allow tiles to continue to look good without cracking or breaking.

Yet grout is also what will make plank tile look like a tile floor rather than hardwood flooring.

The key is getting an installer who is good at installing plank tile. The best installers can install without grout, placing the tiles flush against one another for a smooth look. They can also install it with minimal grout – just enough to give your flooring a chance to move. This might be your best choice if you’ve had problems with settling in the past. Only you know how your home reacts; if you’re worried about movement, stick with the grout.

How expensive is tile that looks like wood?

The good news is there are options for every budget. Just like hardwood, you’ll find a wide variety of wood-look tiles that fluctuate according to quality, type, manufacturer, and durability. Can you get plank tile for a few dollars a square foot? Of course. Can you find it for $20 dollars a square foot or more? You bet.

Be cautious of generic plank tile that seems too good to be true. Your flooring takes a lot of abuse, no matter where it’s installed in your home. Do you really want chips, cracks, and breakage to occur in the first year after installation? We’re here to help you make the right choice to ensure high quality from the start.

Will wood tile go out of style?

When something comes into fashion, it’s natural to worry about trendiness. Will the look come and go in a matter of years?

Technology has an important part in the flooring industry. Plank tile wasn’t possible even a few short years ago. But now that it’s here, we think it’ll stay. It’s a beautiful addition to any home. It works well with radiant heating. And it’s a classic look that’s both durable and functionally, something busy households need.

If you’re ready for beautiful yet durable look of plank tile, stop by and see our full selection. It can make a welcome addition to any room in your home.

Read More

Best Time Of Year To Upgrade The Flooring In Your Home

Is there a best time of year to upgrade your flooring? Like most home improvement projects, the answer is: yes.

The great thing about flooring is it isn’t something you have to rush to make a decision about. You can weigh your options, compare your choices, and make an informed decision.

Flooring is all about lifestyle. What works for one homeowner isn’t necessarily the best choice for another. Whether you’re thinking of installing carpet, hardwood, or tile, your ultimate goal is to get the best deal possible. That stretches far beyond monetary; it also includes ensuring you get a product that will last, and deliver the results you are looking for.Best Time Of Year To Upgrade The Flooring In Your Home

If you’re ready to renovate your home, and want to know the best time of year to upgrade the flooring, we have a few things to consider:

  • When you can get the best deals on flooring
  • How the time of year impacts installation
  • How installation affects your health

When you can get the best deals on flooring

For most homeowners, there’s a fine line before need and desire. If you have champagne taste on a beer budget, you know what I mean. You have a strong desire to install the best, most luxurious flooring on the market, but your budget tells a different story.

The key to getting the best deal is to focus on what’s most important. Chances are if you’re reading this, you have a strong desire for a particular material. Maybe you want to rip up old carpet and lay hardwood throughout your living space. Or perhaps you want a fresh new color in the bedrooms, carpet that’s plush and soft to the touch.

When you start shopping, don’t walk into the first store and fall in love. Take your time to look around.

Also, don’t shop the big box stores and assume they buy in big quantities and get the best deals. It’s simply not true. They have less selection because they demand certain profit levels on every product they sell. They select products they know they can sell, and charge the most they can get for each selection.

As a flooring expert, we have a wide selection. That means we can help you get the best product for your money, as well as make suggestions based on your needs and desires. We can also steer you to comparable products that provide the same wearability, yet might be easier on your budget.

How the time of year impacts installation

Now that you’re comfortable with the deal you got on your flooring product, what about installation? Is there a best time of year to install your flooring?

In general, spring and fall are the best seasons for adding new flooring to your home for three reasons.

First, installing new floors takes a lot of work on the part of the installation crew. They have to rip out the old flooring before installing the new. They have tools to bring in and out to get the job done. They have to bring the new product into your home.

That means the doors will be open a lot. If you do this on a cold day, your furnace will be running excessively to compensate for the temperature difference. In the summer, your air conditioner will work overtime to keep up with demand.

Next, you’ll want the option of leaving your windows open for ventilation. No matter what flooring choice you select, there will be fumes and odors that come along with the process. Depending on the flooring you choose, you may have offgassing from the materials, floor adhesive odors, fumes from adhesive removal materials, stains, and sealers. Being able to leave your windows open and create cross-breezes for ventilation means you’ll eliminate the smells faster.

Finally, it’s also important to pay attention to temperatures and humidity levels, depending on what flooring you’re installing. While temperature and humidity can impact all flooring installations, it’s especially crucial for hardwood and laminate. Both need to acclimate to the environment before they are installed. This is easier to do when the temperatures stay between 50 and 75 degrees, and you don’t need to turn on the furnace or the air conditioner.

If you install flooring without the acclimation process, it can dry out your flooring. In winter, running your furnace regularly can suck moisture out of the air. In summer, your air conditioner acts as a dehumidifier. When your wood floors dry out, they can crack, shrink, warp, or even pull apart.

A good rule of thumb is to have materials acclimate for 7 to 14 days before the installation process. Rely on your flooring consultant for what’s best for the flooring product you select.

This can impact when you make your purchase, as well. If you’re planning a holiday party, or want your home to look good for a summer event, be sure to give yourself plenty of time.

How installation impacts your health

If you focus on bringing a sustainable, low VOC product into your home, you might think you’re at lower risk for having chemicals released into the air supply. While it is a good idea to make conscious choices for how they impact your health, the truth is all new products produce some offgassing when they are introduced into your home. You can’t avoid that new product smell, no matter what choices you make.

Some of it can dissipate quickly, especially when you can leave doors and windows open. By letting the fumes and odors release out of your home, that means they aren’t accumulating in every room in your home, impacting your health.

For this reason alone, we often suggest the best time of year for installing new flooring is fall and spring. Of course, here in Denver, we can have spring and fall-like weather almost twelve months of the year. It’s always a good idea to let fresh air into your home whenever possible.

So when is the best time to upgrade the flooring in your home? It depends on a variety of things, including the material you select your lifestyle.

If you have any questions about how to select the best flooring for your situation, or just want to compare your options, stop by today. We’ll provide you with honest feedback and help you make the right decision for you.

Read More

How Many Years Will Your Carpet Last?

Buying residential carpet isn’t something a homeowner does all the time. Carpet doesn’t come with an expiration date when you install it, nor does it give off a warning signal when it’s reaching end of life.

But there are signs that it might be time to replace your carpet. Stains, odors, threadbare areas, and stretch marks can’t be taken away with a vacuum or a carpet cleaner. At some point, it will be time to replace the carpeting in your home.

How old is your carpet?How Many Years Will Your Carpet Last?

When it comes to making a decision about keeping or replacing carpet, age matters. While you can’t mark a date on the calendar based on when you purchased it, you can use it as a guide for when it’s time to replace.

Carpeting has a lifespan of anywhere from five to fifteen years. The difference comes from the quality of the construction, and the amount of foot traffic it has on it each day. A carpet installed in a guest bedroom that is rarely used will have a longer life than carpet installed in a family room you use every day. Yet even if a carpet isn’t walked on daily, the carpet fibers and padding material start to break down over time. As this happens, you’ll start to feel lumps and unevenness underfoot.

Does carpet fiber matter?

When you start to shop for new carpet, you’ll start to notice the vast selection you have to choose from. Not only are there many colors, styles, and patterns, but fiber and materials are also different between brands.

If you take your hand and rub it over the fibers, you’ll quickly notice a difference. They just feel different. Some are plush to the touch, while others are stiffer, feel a bit more susceptible to damage.

That’s because carpet is designed with different things in mind.

Inexpensive apartment-grade carpet is designed for short lifespans, cheaper costs, and lower quality. Because landlords typically replace carpet in rental properties quickly, they design with lower grade materials that don’t handle well under pressure. You’ll be on the shorter end of the five to fifteen year expected lifespan.

High quality manufacturers put more energy into making the best carpeting possible. They use fibers and construction processes that push longevity towards fifteen years, with some brands increasing potential to up to 25 years or more. It all depends on the quality, the traffic in your home, and how you maintain it over the years.

Carpet is installed as a flooring material to provide a soft, cushiony, warm surface underfoot. To get that depends on the type of fiber used during construction, and the pile – how the loops of fiber are attached to the backing.

In general, types of fibers used to create carpet include nylon, polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, and wool. Nylon is the most popular because it’s inexpensive, resists stains, and is easy to create and dye. If well cared for, you can expect in upwards of fifteen years of life. Wool is at the other end, a natural and luxurious material that can last for years.

You’ll also find loop and cut pile carpet has different expected wearability. Loop pile is created using the entire yarn loop intact. It’s extremely durable, and won’t leave trails from vacuum marks of footprints. Cut pile is leveled off to leave exposed fibers, creating a soft, easy to clean carpet. It comes in different lengths and thicknesses, giving texture to hide wear and dirt. Though it’s more popular than loop pile, it isn’t as durable for the long term, and will have to be replaced more frequently.

Does flattened fiber matter?

It doesn’t matter if you choose loop or cut pile, if your carpet once stood tall but now looks flat no matter what you do to add “life” back into it, it’s a sign it’s past its prime.

It’s often the easiest to see in high traffic areas. You’ll see certain areas of a room looking worn, flat, matted more than others. Even with some of the most durable carpets on the market – Berber, for example – those looped fibers can succumb to matting over time.

When you vacuum, and your carpet won’t bounce back into place, it’s a sign that it’s time for new carpet. If a carpet looks stretched and out of place from its original shape, it’s a sign that it’s time for replacement.

What do threadbare carpets mean?

No matter how high-quality your carpets are, at some point, they eventually wear out. In the most used areas, you’ll start to see the backing through the fibers. You’ll see fraying along the edges. You’ll see thinning areas in different places. This is all a sign your carpet has reached the end of its useful life.

Another sign might be carpet pests. If you notice balding patches, particularly around the edges or in the corners, it could be an infestation of carpet moths, carpet beetles, or silverfish. They eat away at the fibers, lay eggs deep within, and the entire process starts all over again. Eventually, you’ll see these balding spots grow bigger. You may see evidence of them with tiny black or white spots near the carpet. While regular cleaning can ensure this potential problem is kept at bay, it can quickly cause enough damage that the only way to make your carpets look good again is to replace them.

What about how carpet looks and smells?

What’s that odor when you walk into a room? If you notice a musty smell, it might be your carpet. Carpet traps dirt, dust, and allergens, and over time, those smells become more challenging to remove.

Most carpet comes with stain resistance built in. While that might work for the first spill, it becomes harder to hide stains when they happen multiple times. If you’re placing your furniture around your home to keep stains hidden, it’s a sign that it’s time to replace your carpet.

Do you see your carpet in any of these scenarios? If so, stop by today and see our entire selection of carpet. No matter what your desires, what rooms you want to upgrade, or how much carpet you need, we have the perfect choice for your needs.

Read More

Carpet Density – What You Should Know

Have you ever wondered why carpet is as thick and plush as it is? It isn’t by accident.

Imagine a carpet with a few scraggly fibers sticking up. You wouldn’t want that in your home. When you purchase new carpet, you expect a certain quality. That’s why, over time, rules and regulations started filtering into the carpet industry to protect you when you finalize your purchase.

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) establishes regulations about carpet weight and density, to require manufacturers to create products that meet certain requirements. They’ve created two categories: one for single or multiple family dwellings, and one for elderly or care facilities.Carpet Density - What You Should Know

Buying new carpet isn’t an easy endeavor. When you upgrade your carpet, you hope for a long life. If you get anything but the best, it’ll start to fail quicker, and you’ll be more convinced you made a costly mistake.

If you want to make a wise choice about the carpet you have installed, get past the color or pattern and dig deep down to the carpet grade. Your carpet’s specifications are the only way to know you’re installing the right product for the foot traffic you have in your home. The wrong grade will wear out faster, and will show the wear sooner rather than later.

Carpet Weight

Face weight is the weight of the fiber used in the manufacturing of the carpet pile. Face weight refers to the total ounces each square yard of fiber is. This does not include the weight of the carpet backing – that’s included in the total weight.

In general, you’ll find carpet across a full spectrum of face weight, somewhere from 20 to 100 ounces. For residential use, most carpet weight settles in between 35 and 60 ounces. A higher face weight does not equal a better grade of carpet. Higher face weights will not mean you’re selecting a more durable product.

Carpet Density

The FHA also requires fibers in carpeting to meet minimum density requirements, as well. Density refers to how close each fiber strand is at the base of the carpet. It also is determined by how many strands of fiber the carpet contains altogether.

Higher density numbers mean the carpet will have less matting and show less evidence of foot traffic through normal activity. You’ll often find higher density carpet used near doorways or main thoroughfares, where the carpet will get more use.

Keep in mind that once again, carpet density by itself will not tell you about quality any more than carpet weight; it’s all context. Think of it more as a starting point to learn more about quality.

Carpet Height

If you’re trying to find the best carpet for your situation, we have one more measurement you should consider. Carpet height refers to how long the fiber is from base to tip. The longer the carpet height, the more fragile the fibers will be. For high traffic areas, including stairs, pile height is a major determinant.

Calculating Carpet Density

To calculate carpet density, it’s a simple calculation of carpet face weight x 36/ carpet pile height. If you take the carpet face weight number in ounces and multiply that by 36, then divide that number by carpet height, you’ll get the density. Here’s a simple example:

Carpet with a 60 ounce face weight and a .75 inch pile height would be calculated as follows:

60×36/.75 = 2880

This would be a density of 2,880 ounces per cubic yard.

What does this number tell you? It can show you the best placement for the carpet, depending on the final number.

The Carpet and Rug Institute provides specific standards for the carpet and rug industry on carpet installation. When purchasing a carpet for most residential situations, you’ll want to install a carpet with at least a 3,600 density. Of course, higher is always better. Higher values signal a thicker, denser carpet that will handle better under pressure before it begins to show wear. If you’re installing in a commercial location, it’s recommended that you look for density of 5,000 or higher to ensure a long life.

How Carpet Density Impacts Daily Living

If you decide to install a carpet with higher density, it will impact wearability. Denser carpet lasts longer because it withstands impact better. It also makes it more difficult for dirt and stains to penetrate away from the surface and migrate down to the backing. When it’s easier to clean, which means you’ll have better looking carpet, longer.

However, there’s another carpet term to familiarize yourself with that impacts durability even more.

Carpet twist is the number of times a strand of fiber is twisted per inch. Higher twist level of four or more will be less likely to unravel over time, which makes them more durable overall.

Once again, the two are not interchangeable. A carpet doesn’t have to have high density to be durable; if the twist count is high, it might hold up well over time. The opposite can also be true.

Yet as you start to build a picture of the overall quality of a carpet, you can start seeing all of these things work together.

Carpet Padding

When selecting a carpet to install in your home, a lot of emphasis is placed on the carpet itself without mentioning the carpet padding. If you purchase carpet from a less-than-scrupulous source, they may play down the importance of padding, pushing you towards carpet that brings in more revenue. But we’ll tell you the two work closely together, and you should focus on the quality of each.

Carpet padding is what helps stabilize the carpet onto the subfloor. If you purchase the wrong padding for your situation, it can adversely impact the wear of your carpet.

Like carpet, pads also have a density rating. In most areas of your home, you should have a pad density rating of at least a 6 or greater. Pay attention to thickness as well, with 3/8 to ½ inch thick a good level for most locations throughout your home. For high traffic areas including your stairs, opt for a slightly thinner and higher density pad to give you more wearability.

Now that you know more about carpet density and how it impacts wearability, stop by today, and find the right carpet for your home.

Read More