Dark Floors or Light Floors, Which Is Best For Your Home?

If you want to change the look and feel of your home, where do you start?

While a new couch or even a new shade of paint can make a big difference, the best place to start is with your flooring. Flooring sets the tone for your entire living space. And depending on whether you select dark floors or light floors, it will create a canvas you can continue to play up.

What’s the best choice: dark floors or light floors? Luckily, there isn’t a right answer. No flooring is perfect, each has its pluses and minuses. Only you can decide what’s suitable for your family.

But, if you’re trying to decide between the two, we’re here to help. We can offer some friendly advice, to help you make the best decision for your situation. Start with a few questions:

  • What do I prefer, dark or light floors?
  • What is the style of my home?
  • Do I have a busy household that makes maintenance-free living a necessity?
  • Do I have pets that add to the equation?
  • How often will I have time to clean?
  • How big is my home? How open are my rooms?
  • What flooring choice will go best with my decor?

Even with simple questions like these, you might start seeing one choice pull away from the other.

Let’s compare cleaning

Nobody enjoys cleaning – wouldn’t you rather spend time with your family and friends? If that’s the case, there’s a distinct winner in which type of flooring you should choose.

Dark Floors or Light Floors, Which Is Best For Your Home?Light floors have a distinct advantage over dark. Light floors show less of the dirt on your floors than dark. If you have a large, messy household, light can help you conceal it longer.

If you still prefer dark floors, consider lightening the shade you choose. Satin finishes are also better known for showcasing dirt on the floor.

Of course, you can always just clean more. Make it a part of the family chores, and buy the appropriate tools so you can make cleaning a snap.

What about scratches?

If you’ve ever had hardwood flooring in your house, you know scratches are unavoidable. Its soft surface means that the more wear, the more you’ll have slight imperfections, dents, and scratches showing through the wood.

Yet dark hardwood tends to show scratches even more. This is because most hardwood species are lighter in color, and stained to achieve the dark wood look. When a scratch is placed on the surface, it takes away the dark pigment, allowing the lighter wood to shine through.

If you want dark floors, understand they will take more maintenance. Instead of pushing out the timeframe to refinish the color, with dark wood, it may need recoating every three to four years.

No matter what color finish you have, you can consider buying a stain marker. They make them in all kinds of colors, and help camouflage the scratch until you can refinish the entire floor. This is an easy way to mask imperfections and keep your floors looking good.

Are dark floors or light floors better for a small home?

In general, dark floors will make any space look a bit smaller, and light floors will make the space a bit bigger. However, there’s more to it than that. Color is often an optical illusion, and you can play with color on both the floors and walls to change the way a room looks and feels.

When you see layouts with dark floors, they tend to showcase well in larger homes or homes with open concept living. If you’re worried about your space being too enclosed, you can change up the look by adding in lighter colored walls, and increase the amount of overhead lighting. Don’t block out the natural light with heavy shades or drapes. Let the natural light flow in.

Let’s talk costs – is one more expensive than the other?

When you’re shopping for new hardwood floors, you’re going to find all colors across the various price points. No matter what color of stain you choose, there’s going to be a product for you to choose from.

That said, you should always focus on quality as it will help with both upkeep and maintenance down the road.

Costs also are determined by whether you install prefinished floors, or will be handling all of the finishing work after installation.

If you’re finishing on site, more natural colors are often easier and will be less expensive to stain. If you have a specific color, are trying to go with a gray or whitewash color, it can take more coats to achieve the desired results. It may also be more expensive for a specific type of polyurethane. Specific flooring often requires different coatings depending on traffic and use. Talk with one of our flooring specialists if you have specific concerns.

How to select the right color you’ll fall in love with

The world is now being driven by technology in every aspect of our daily lives, renovations included. Maybe you’ve found flooring in a magazine you love. Or maybe you’ve pinned a bunch of samples, and one color of flooring keeps surfacing again and again.

Yet when you see it in person, you’re just not sure it’s you.

It’s good to know that what you see in print or online isn’t always the way it appears in person.

It’s okay to like something online, and change your mind on it once you see it in person. Better yet, take a few selections home with you, and lay them out in your room. Which looks better with your design? Which makes you feel happier when you enter the room? Be sure to see it in all lighting conditions, morning, noon, and evening.

Bringing home samples can also help you choose undertones of a particular color. If you have red-toned furniture, it might not look right with yellower hardwood. After setting up one sample near your favorite sofa, you may settle on a color quickly.

And don’t forget, you can further change the impact of a room by adding an area rug. You can bring out the color of the hardwood, and blend it with your furniture.

Which is right for you: dark floors or light floors?

We can help you make a choice, install it, and love it for years.

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The Easiest Ways To Save Money On Your Hardwood Flooring

Homeowners often dream of adding hardwood flooring to their homes for good reason. It’s one of the best investments you can make, especially if you’re thinking about selling. It looks good. It wears great. It can add a touch of class to any living space.

But when you start to price hardwood for your home, it can send your dreams spiraling downward.

We’re not going to lie; hardwood flooring is expensive. Depending on your final selection, it can be one of the highest costs in your home renovation.

But what we often see is homeowners attempt to get the dream while taking shortcuts too. They find a “good deal” and think they’ll have a great quality flooring. That’s rarely the case.

If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

But there are still ways you can save on hardwood flooring, and love it for years to come. It doesn’t mean sacrificing in terms of quality or labor to get what you want.

A look at how much it costs for hardwood floors

The Easiest Ways To Save Money On Your Hardwood FlooringWhen people decide to install hardwood floors, they focus on the price of the hardwood. But there’s more to it than that. If you get an estimate on how much it will be to add hardwood flooring to different rooms in your home, it will contain several costs.

Materials – this is the one place where the homeowner has the most flexibility in controlling the costs. You can stick with a more standard hardwood and keep costs low. Or bump it up to an exotic species, and you’ll spend more. You can even move into engineered wood, where prices will vary widely, depending on the veneer top layer and the plywood underneath.

Labor – contractors typically charge for labor based on the square footage of the space they’ll be working in. They also charge based on the amount of work it takes to lay the flooring into place. Hardwood will take longer than engineered wood. You’ll also pay more if your space includes irregular shapes, or you’ll be combining it with other materials for a unique look.

Other –  there are always unexpected costs that can arise during the project. Is your subfloor in good shape, or do the contractors find a problem? Costs are always based on what they can see at the time of the estimate. If something else arises during the process, it’ll cost more in the process. Plus, there may be costs for removing old flooring and hauling it away.

All of that can make your estimate a little shocking when you finally receive it. If you see hardwood planks on an endstand at your local big box store for a low price, and your estimate jumps up the cost significantly compared to what you calculated, these reasons are why.

If you want to install new flooring, and have the desire to save where you can, getting a handful of estimates will result in a variety of different bids. Why is one so much higher or lower than the others? How do you compare and make a selection?

Ultimately, it comes down to the materials. Every installer will have virtually the same amount of labor. They’ll have the extra costs of removing materials and dealing with unseen problems. Which means where they control costs is the final product they sell to you.

That’s why this is where you should put your attention. Look at the species, plank size and width, whether it’s solid hardwood or an engineered variation. Look at manufacturers and warranties. Understand the quality of the product.

And if you aren’t sure about something, ask. A reputable dealer will provide you with an answer that makes sense.

The easiest ways to save on hardwood flooring

If you’re getting closer to narrowing your choices down and installing hardwood flooring, here are few things that will help you save money and get the best product at the same time.

Adjust your desire for type or grade of wood

If you come into our showroom floor with one specific type of hardwood flooring in mind, you won’t have choices. It’s better to come in with a concept, and ask for variations around it.

For example, maybe you want dark hardwood floors. One of our associates can give you a variety of options. They can show you the differences between solid and engineered, as well as differences in species and color. They can let you feel different grades of hardwood. They can even give you advice on what’s worked for other customers.

Not every homeowner is the same. Maybe you like a little color variation throughout the planks. Maybe a narrower plank suits your needs. If you come in with an open mind, we can give you a wider array of options.

Install the hardwood yourself

This might not be a perfect solution for everyone, but for some, it is an option. If you have experience in home building and are an experienced do-it-yourselfer, installing hardwood can cut your costs in adding a new floor. Just keep in mind that hardwood is one of the most challenging flooring choices to install and get it right.

It’s important that you get everything in correctly, or you risk breaking the warranty. We don’t recommend installing unfinished and attempt sanding and staining yourself.

But if your goal is a DIY project, there are still lots of options. Instead of a traditional wood floor, maybe you move to a floating floor with click-in-place technology.

There are always options depending on your desires.

Split the work into multiple projects

If you find that your budget doesn’t get you everything you desire, you can always adjust the scope of work now, and add in other rooms later.

The good thing about hardwood is it lasts for a very long time. You can start with rooms in your main living space now, and add the rest as you save up.

If you’re going to do this, it’s wise to talk with a flooring dealer who understands the industry. Choose hardwood that stands the test of time, and will be there when you’re ready to add it to your home. They can also help you budget and select wisely, so it makes the most sense to your living space. They can make the entire process efficient, helping you save even more money in the long run.

What next?

It’s time to make your choice. How will you save on hardwood flooring, and get the home you truly desire?

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Is It Time To Buy a Sisal or Jute Rug For Your Living Space?

Homeowners are spending more time at home than ever before. And when you spend hours shuffling from room to room, you start to notice the little details you’re missing.

Maybe it’s time to add new decor, something that makes your rooms feel homier.

Or maybe it’s time to get rid of the synthetic look, and select something more natural instead. Natural area rugs are growing in popularity for a good reason. It’s a great way to bring style and sustainability back into your modern home.

Both sisal and jute are eco friendly, sustainable, and biodegradable. We’ve seen them added into homes and bring on a country, minimalist, or even modern look, one that has homeowners raving about it for years.

There’s just something about bringing natural fibers into your home. And both sisal and jute rugs can do the job quite nicely.

Yet before adding a sisal or jute rug into your home, it’s important to understand the differences. They may have a similar appearance, but they are distinctly different in durability, softness, and texture.

What is sisal?

Have you ever toured the tequila farms in Mexico? Sisal is created from the agave leaves used in tequila production. The leaves are spun into a yarn-like material, and then weaved into fibers, rope, and twine. If you have a natural scratching post for your cat, in many cases, it’s made from sisal.

Sisal isn’t soft, but has a more coarse texture. It’s one of the strongest fibers you’ll find in nature, which is why they’re perfect for the busiest place in your home. Use sisal in entryways, hallways, and stair steps, and you’ll have a long-lasting effect.

Sisal fibers are woven together, bound by a cotton canvas that helps continue sustainability. You’ll usually find it sticking close to nature, with colors ranging from cream, wheat, beige, and greys. Sisal does hold pigment better than jute, so that the occasional color may be mixed in.

Because of the rough texture, they are not well-suited for areas where you spend a lot of time. If young kids play or crawl around on sisal, it can be rough on hands and knees.

They also tend to absorb moisture, so you should avoid areas where they will be in constant contact with moisture.

And you should never place them directly on hardwood, or any other surface that is easily scratched. Even with an underlay, sisal is rough enough that it will eventually wear through the pad, and possibly damage the floor as you walk on it.

Yet in the right place, they are simply stunning. Every single sisal rug is unique in its own way. You’ll find traditional textures and patterns such as herringbone, basketweave, and zigzag patterns. Select the right color for your home based on your needs. Lighter colors will show dirt easier. A mix of dark and light color patterns will wear better over time.

What is jute?

Is It Time To Buy a Sisal or Jute Rug For Your Living Space?Like sisal, jute is made of natural fibers derived from Jute plants. Jute is grown mainly in Bangladesh and India from a tall, spindly plant that is also used to produce burlap. It comes with a natural light brown hue that can be dyed. But because of the color and texture, the hues will take on a more muted, earthy tone.

If you’re debating between sisal and jute for living spaces, you might move towards jute because it’s softer to the touch. Because jute comes from a plant stalk rather than leaves, it’s more flexible, softer, and has a cozier feel. You can walk barefoot across it and not feel a thing. That makes it a better choice in a busy household, for adults, kids, and your furry friends.

Because of both its texture and feel, it works well in all kinds of living spaces, including bedrooms, dining rooms, and family rooms. You won’t have to worry about jute scratching hardwood floors. And because of the natural earth tone, it can be a beautiful contrast against darker hardwood.

What we love the most about jute is it’s imperfect look. You’ll never find two rugs that look exactly the same, and it will give you a down to earth feel. Whether you create a rustic cabin in the woods, or prefer a beach house vibe, a jute rug may just be the perfect choice.

Is sisal or jute the right choice for your home?

Sisal and jute are both created from different parts of the plant. They are also harvested differently, resulting in different degrees of softness.

Sisal is derived from a stiff plant, its fibers are going to be significantly rougher and more durable than its counterpart, jute.

If you’re looking for softness, jute will meet your expectations. That’s why you’ll find it used quite commonly in decor materials for your home. It has a way of creating a cozy feel that homeowners love. Plus it has a soft texture, and equally creates a warm and comfy look and feel.

If you want rugged beauty in your living space, you’ll never go wrong with sisal.

If you prefer coziness and ease when you walk upon it, look more towards jute.

Of course, you can use both in different areas of your home, and love the results from both. Both are a great way to bring natural good looks to any room in your home.

It’s impossible to say which material is best. Because they are distinctly different, and it’s up to your preferences and needs that can push you towards one or the other.

Sisal rugs are durable and stiff, the perfect choice for high traffic spaces. If you want to install them onto stair steps, it can be the perfect way to make your home a little safer.

Jute rugs add a certain finesse to any living space. We love how the soft look yet bold designs give a sense of richness and depth wherever it’s laid into place.

Plus, both offer you a way to remove synthetics from your home once and for all. Both are eco-friendly, safe, healthy options you can use on your quest for greening up your home.

What’s the right choice for you: sisal or jute?

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What’s The Best Flooring For Flipping a House?

Fix and flips have become a popular pastime for many, thanks to the shows you can currently find on TV. The concept is simple enough. Find a great deal on real estate that may be a little rough around the edges. Purchase it at a very low cost. Then put some muscle into fixing the place up, and sell it for a nice profit.

Of course, once you buy it and start making decisions, you can see your profit margin slipping away. Every problem needs a fix, and the fix is often more expensive than you planned for.

So you try and cut corners where you can.

But cutting corners on important things may reduce your profit even more. Buyers want certain things in a new house, and if you don’t provide it or go for “cheap” instead of quality, it will impact the bottom line.

What’s The Best Flooring For Flipping a House?And the flooring is one of the prime examples where this process comes to light.

When you see a bargain in flooring, you might be tempted to install it. Will it really matter?

What is the best flooring for flipping a house? The answer might surprise you.

What is the best flooring for flipping a house?

We wish there was a simple answer to this question. But like every question out there, the answer for this one is: it depends. Before you settle on a particular type of flooring, ask yourself a series of questions.

What neighborhood is the house in? Your goal is to sell the house to a potential buyer who wants to live comfortably inside this new neighborhood. They want to fit in. They have the desires of other people currently living in this community. You wouldn’t want a Mercedes in a community that thrives on pickup trucks. Likewise, exotic hardwood wouldn’t appeal to a homeowner in certain neighborhoods.

What are your pricing goals? How much did you buy the house for? How much do you hope to sell it for? That’s your sticking point for the work you’ll put in it. If you blow the budget on flooring, it means other upgrades in the house will be lacking. Look at the overall project to determine how much you can put into each room and material.

What is your budget? Before you ever purchase your first tool or appliance, it’s important to determine how many individual projects you’ll be completing throughout the home. Assess how much of your budget you wish to spend on each room, each material or application. It’ll help you make wise choices as you make your selections.

Stick with flooring principles – they’ll win buyers every time

It’s easy for a “fix and flipper” to focus so much on profit, they forget that in the end, this is a home a family will love and want to come home to. Think logically with your choices, settling in on things you would want for your own family.

In the end, when it comes to selecting flooring, homeowners have a few principles they stick to across the line.

1. Consistency is most important. You don’t want a hodgepodge look. You should never have more than three styles of flooring in a home, and transitions matter most when creating flow.

2. Select hard surfaces over carpet wherever possible.

3. Carpet is for bedrooms only. You can install it in the basement if you’re adhering to a budget. But in all other cases, keep carpet at a minimum.

Let’s start with your main living spaces. As you walk in from the front door, cohesiveness is important. Start here with the flooring material you want to install, and use it on the main level as much as possible. Use the same flooring, the same color, the same pattern.

You will see a better ROI by making everything the same.

Next, think hard surfaces. Hardwood is preferred by most homeowners. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find the hardwood look in other products. Look at luxury vinyl planks. Consider laminate. There are amazing products in the marketplace today that can create a beautiful look at a reduced cost.

The smaller the home, the more you should consider using the hard surfaces throughout. If you do want to fall back on carpeting because of costs, add it to the bedrooms only.

A few flooring options for flipping a house

With all of these ideas in place, it’s time to select the right flooring for the home you’ll be putting on the market soon.

Hardwood

Hands down, hardwood is always a good choice. In every neighborhood, every price range, it’s the flooring people want.

Luckily, there are many ways to install it. You can stick with the standard materials, such as oak, and have the planks laid into place. You can choose finished or unfinished, having it stained after installation.

Hardwood is what people want, because it offers years – decades – of enjoyment. Homeowners know they can refinish it in the future and still have lasting effects.

Carpet

We’ve mentioned it several times, while carpet is economical, that doesn’t mean you should install it throughout the home. Presentation is everything when it comes to maximizing your profits. If you want to get all you can from the home, leave carpet in the bedroom.

Engineered hardwood

If you’re looking for a more economical hardwood, consider engineered hardwood. It gives the same look and feel of hardwood because it is real wood.

Engineered hardwood planks are created in layers to increase durability and moisture resistance. That makes it a great choice for laying throughout the home because it works well in basements and kitchens.

Plus, the potential homebuyers will love the look.

Luxury vinyl planks

There’s another entry in the marketplace that is catching decorators’ eye. Luxury vinyl planks are resilient, waterproof, and the perfect addition in many situations.

Because technology has increased so much in recent years, it’s often difficult telling this product apart from the real thing. But because it handles better in all situations, it’s a great choice for putting into bathrooms, laundry rooms, and below grade rooms like basements.

Plus it gives a crisp, modern look any homebuyer will love.

Are you fixing and flipping a home?

Then make the right choice for your situation.

What’s the best flooring for your fix and flip remodel?

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Use Flooring To Brighten Your Basement

It’s exciting redecorating your home. You can take a room that has fizzled out, and turn it into a place you love.

But what works on your main level living space isn’t always the greatest advice for your basement. Basements can be darker, dingier, and leave you feeling like you’re walking into a cavern.

Here’s the secret: it starts with your basement flooring. As you’re redecorating your basement and turning it into a space you’ll love, make sure you select the right flooring.

Understanding light

Basements are different because of the way they are lit. They exist underground, and have few or no windows. Even if windows exist, they are usually smaller than other windows throughout your home. And yet when it comes to decorating, most homes are lit the same way as other rooms.

No wonder they’re so dark!

It is possible to add more windows, or even enlarge the ones you have. Keep in mind it isn’t as easy as replacing other windows throughout your home. But if you’re renovating your forever home, it might be worth the cost.

Use Flooring To Brighten Your BasementWith windows in place, ensure that they aren’t covered and are fully used to give off natural light to the space throughout the day. Make them light, bright and airy by keeping the glass as clean as can be. If you do add curtains or blinds, be sure you can pull them away from the window during the day. Amplify this natural light as much as you can because it will improve the way your basement looks and functions.

Of course, you can always bring in additional lighting sources too. Think multidimensional lighting as you add in sources. Layers will fill every space with appropriate light. Start with recessed lighting as it gives off a broader range of light. Lights in the ceiling add more light to the room, and because they aren’t taking up space, they can add more room to play with other decor.

From there, layer the lighting in other places, such as a lamp on an end table, and spotlights on artwork and shelving.

The more light the better.

Stick with light colored basement flooring

Before you start shopping for new basement flooring, consider all your basement goes through in a year.

Is it damp? Do you have trouble with moisture from time to time?

Keeping your flooring in good condition throughout the year should be your first thought. You don’t want to have to worry about mold or mildew after a few months.

As you narrow in on your choices, focus on light colored flooring. You may love your dark hardwood in the main living space, but the dark color can make your basement look smaller. Light flooring opens up basement areas. Also, try to use the same flooring throughout the basement, as that will also open up the space.

If you love your hardwood and want to stick with it, if possible. We suggest you move towards one of the other popular floorings such as engineered wood, luxury vinyl planks, or wood look tile. But whatever you decide, go with a lighter shade. Select a natural wood look, whitewashed, or even a light gray.

Light is always better.

A lot of homeowners move towards carpet because it adds warmth to an already cooler basement. If your basement includes a movie theater, a bedroom, or a game room where you love to come together as a family late into the evening, carpet may be a good choice. Again, make sure you stick with lighter shades of beige or gray to keep the space open and inviting.

If warmth is one of your top concerns, you can also look towards radiant heating. It sits underneath tile or luxury vinyl planks, making the floors warm to the touch, and adding warmth to the space from the bottom up.

Other tricks to try to brighten your basement up

Have you noticed how we’ve suggested sticking with light colored decor so far in this article? We’re going to continue with that suggestion here. Skip the dark wood furniture, and the black or navy sofas and chairs. Consider white, cream, or light gray instead. You might even use glass coffee or end tables to help reflect the light.

Mirrors are also a great way to make the space look larger. Find unique ways of incorporating them in every room. Creating a mirrored wall will open up a home gym. Adding a large mirror in a game room will enlarge the space. As you shop around you’ll find mirrors in all kinds of formats. Focus on the frame, and you can easily replace artwork with a mirror and have it stand out in your space.

It goes without saying that when you select paint for the walls, stick to light colors. You don’t have to go with pure white to open up the room. With so many shades of white, you’ll find the perfect one for your decor. You can even use two different tones, select a whiter white for doors and molding to make the whole thing pop.

Now let’s go back to the floors. Even if you decide to cover the floors with engineered wood, luxury vinyl tile, or wood look tile, you can make the room cozy by laying down a rug. Once again, focus on the color and the pattern, ensuring it’s weaved with light colored fibers. With so many choices today, you can find a variety of area rugs that can handle the activities of any basement space. Focus on patterns to help camouflage dirt. Or play with color to add a bit of pizazz to the space.

Above all, have fun with the process and love everything you put into your basement’s decor. Ultimately, this is about making a space you and your family will use from day to day.

Do a few searches online. You’ll find motivation everywhere in the home remodeling websites, online magazines, and even on Pinterest.

It’s easy to dream about the perfect living space when you start at the base. Lighten up your basement flooring, and use that as a way to breathe new life into the rooms you’ll use most.

How can we help you make the right flooring selection?

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Why Buy DIY Flooring From a Flooring Retailer

A lot of homeowners across the Front Range have been bitten by the home remodeling bug this year. And why not? We’re spending more time at home than ever before.

Maybe you’re redoing an extra bedroom into a home office. Maybe you’re reconfiguring your open concept floor plan to have individual work stations. Maybe it’s time to refinish the basement to add more space.

While all of that remodeling can spur your inner interior decorator, and kick your designing personality into high gear, finding the best products to use can be a tricky experience.

You might be tempted to spend a weekend shopping at your favorite big box store, but is it really the best place to buy?

Take flooring, for example. They have rows of great looking products. The carpet is a great color. The luxury vinyl planks are just what you’ve been looking for. And the price! It was good before, but now that they are having their “holiday blowout”, the price is out of this world.

Why look anywhere else? Why would you ever shop a flooring retailer with prices like these?

Like anything, you get what you pay for.

Expertise

Why Buy DIY Flooring From a Flooring RetailerWhen you visit with an independent flooring retailer, you’ll talk with someone who has a wealth of knowledge ready and waiting for you. Flooring is all they do, and they do it well. They know all of the products on the marketplace, how easy they are to install, and how they wear over time. Because many independent flooring retailers have been in business for years, they also understand trends, and what flooring will stand the test of time. You can benefit from all of this expertise and more, and be able to get all of your questions answered easily. Try that with part-time help at a big box store, whose only goal is to make it to the weekend.

Personalized service

While an associate at a big box store might have worked a particular department for a bit, they still were hired as an employee for the store, not as a flooring expert. Their goal is to sell you on a product in stock, and get you out of the store. They deal in quantity, not in quality.

Not so with a flooring retailer. They pride themselves on gaining customers that will stick with them for life. They want you to select the right flooring for your needs, and be happy with the outcome for years to come. If you’re happy, you’ll be back when you need new carpet for the bedrooms, or are ready to renovate your basement. You’ll also remember them when you’re talking with friends.

A flooring retailer knows how to dig deep, ask the right questions, and help you finalize your purchase so it’s the right flooring for your needs.

Shop local

Let’s face it, the big box stores are in every major city, and focus on buying large quantities at bargain basement prices so they can continue to ramp up profits from year to year. They want you to shop again and again, no matter what city you’re in.

But when you visit an independent flooring retailer, chances are you’re visiting with locals. Like us, many independent flooring retailers have lived in the community for years, have a home nearby, have raised a family in the local neighborhood. You’re supporting friends who walk the same streets as you, and care as much about the community as you do.

If supporting the local community is on your list of to-do’s, pay attention to where you shop.

High quality products

Do you know how well the products at the big box store are made? It’s a hit-or-miss when it comes to quality.

Big box stores buy in mass quantity. They are looking for manufacturers that can fulfill their orders by the masses. And that means they often pick up products that are inferior at best. They can’t take time to wait for higher quality – they care about getting things on the shelves.

Sometimes, that means inferior glue on luxury vinyl tiles, or less than stellar wood used on laminate flooring. Of course, you may not notice it on the samples in the store, or even as you finish up your DIY project. But you will notice it over time, as the glues come unglued, and the laminate flooring starts to warp.

Large selection

The thing about big box stores is they select just enough products to keep their aisles and shelves full and ready for you to shop. Each department only has so much space. So the buyers ensure they find the best deals to fill it well.

But what if the gray-washed luxury vinyl planks aren’t quite the color you were hoping for? What if the carpet tiles aren’t quite the pattern you want? Don’t give up, check with an independent flooring retailer instead.

When you shop someone who exclusively deals with flooring, they will be able to find exactly what you are looking for.

Availability

A big box store works big box hours. When an associate’s shift ends, they go home. While you can ask questions to any associate who happens to be working that day, you’ll have to start over asking your questions and filling in the details. The customer service you receive will vary from person to person.

And only during store hours, of course.

Not so with a flooring retailer. We care about our business, and so we make ourselves available to you. Plus, when you call or visit with us, rest assured every person you talk with will have a wealth of knowledge about the product you’ve purchased, and will be ready to answer every question you have.

Independent flooring retailers have a 24/7 commitment to ensure they keep every customer and prospect they come in contact with happy and well informed.

Think a box box store can keep up with that?

Are you ready for your next DIY project?

Then maybe it’s time to give an independent flooring retailer a call. Whether you have your mind made up on a particular product or color, or are just starting the exploration process, we’re here to help. We can help you find the best DIY flooring for your needs.

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7 Great Reasons To Install Waterproof Floors

Imagine dropping an entire bucket of water and not having to worry. Picture the kids leaving the faucet running, splashing water all over your floors … and you simply throw down a towel to wipe it up, and walk away.

Sound too good to be true? Think again.

Waterproof floors are a thing, and you can have them installed throughout your home. What’s more, this isn’t the vinyl product your parents had in their homes. This is high quality flooring that looks as great as it wears. You’re really going to love these floors.

What are they? Before we get into the details, it’s important that you understand what to look for.

You’ll likely see waterproof floors for sale in several different ways:

LVT – luxury vinyl tile – this product looks like real hardwood or stone flooring, but offers many more benefits. It can be less expensive, is easier to install and maintain, and comes in many styles and colors, giving you options for every room in your home.

LVP – luxury vinyl plank – you’ll sometimes see vinyl hardwood planks referred to as LVP rather than LVT, but both offer you the same good looks with easy to maintain living. LVP closely mimics the look of genuine hardwood flooring, and can give you many options including embossed or hand scraped wood. LVP often gives you even more options than you’ll find in the genuine hardwood flooring market.

WPC – wood plastic composite – WPC vinyl plank or tile flooring are known for being 100 percent waterproof. It’s traditional luxury vinyl flooring that’s been given an added waterproof core that makes it perfect for any room in your home. It also works well in commercial applications too.

7 Great Reasons To Install Waterproof FloorsSPC – stone plastic composite – SPC has a rigid core that is virtually indestructible. It’s known for being 100 percent waterproof, and uses engineered technology to replicate both hardwood and stone tiles. Vinyl may have some give, has a flexible core. WPC does a pretty good job of firming it up and making it stand up well under pressure. SPC’s core is rigid – think concrete – and will stand up to whatever pressure you give it.

MLF – multilayer flooring – this is a generic term for all multilayer flooring lines, including WPC, SPC, and rigid core flooring or performance vinyl.

Rigid core – rigid core refers to a floating floor that uses click in place technology. The beauty of rigid core is it can be installed over many existing hard flooring surfaces, meaning you can have your remodel completed faster, without the mess that comes with ripping out old flooring.

Armed with this knowledge, you can now shop for waterproof flooring and be a little savvier with your questions. But before you go, let’s explore waterproof floors in a little more detail, because there is so much to love about these products.

They’re waterproof

Yes, they’re waterproof. That’s why you’re reading this article. But we wanted to take a moment to actually explain what that means.

If you drop a bucket of water on the floor, wipe it up. Your flooring won’t sustain any damage. If you’re kids drop their drinks, if they splash water out of the tub, if they bring in a “surprise” from the outside, you’re safe. Your flooring will stand up well to all kinds of activities.

However, it is still flooring, which means if something penetrates underneath, it can cause damage. If your house floods with several feet of water for a few days, it may not survive.

They’re great for DIYers

Not only are waterproof floors easy to maintain, but they’re perfect for homeowners that want a side project. With their click locking systems, it’s a snap to lay the planks into your space. Start in one corner of your room, snap them all into place, and you can be moving furniture back into place by the evening. No waiting for stain or varnish to dry, or your floors to settle into place.

They can be installed over existing flooring

This adds to the ease factor, and is an added bonus to DIYers. Depending on the flooring you already have down, you may not have to remove it before you click waterproof flooring into place. That’s because the rigid core isn’t sensitive to whatever imperfections exist within the subfloor. However, you should still evaluate the current condition of your flooring. If you suspect damage of any kind, including mold or mildew, it’s wise to repair the damage before you install any type of flooring over it.

They are more realistic than ever

When the first multilayer flooring products were released onto the market, they weren’t even close to the real thing. If you remember vinyl products installed in your parents’ homes, you know.

But with today’s products, technology has taken them a long way. The realistic graphics are so good, even experts have to get closer for a second look. In many cases, they are indistinguishable from the natural products they emulate. That adds to the elegance of your decor, and allows you to be creative with everything you bring in to your home.

They offer noise reduction and warmth 

One of the things people remember about the original line of waterproof flooring is the noise. It echoed as you walked over it. With the newest technology, they provide better sound absorption qualities than many of the flooring choices they mimic. And thanks to technology, they offer better warmth factors too.

What’s more, waterproof flooring is the perfect choice to install over radiant heating. If you’re tired of stepping out of bed onto cold floors, or want a more energy efficient way to keep your rooms toasty warm in the winter, take another look at waterproof flooring.

They offer benefits for commercial too

While homeowners love the technology behind waterproof flooring, it’s making its way into commercial applications too. SPC, in particular, is a good choice for retail and hospitality settings, and can even be found in some medical facilities. Why not have your flooring look good, with durability and easy maintenance built it?

They’re beautiful

While we’ve spoken a lot about how well they handle, we should mention again just how beautiful today’s waterproof flooring is. With their enhanced style and design, they can match any personality, and give you whatever look you’re trying to achieve.

Plus, because of how they are made, they offer even more colors, styles, and options than traditional products. Where hardwood or stone is limited to what is found in nature, that’s not so with waterproof floors. You’ll find an array of options from the lightest to the darkest colors of the rainbow.

If you are trying to match your decor, you’ll find it in waterproof flooring technology.

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Why Carpet Works For Commercial Properties

As a property owner, you’re involved in many decisions each day. If the heat doesn’t work in the winter, that’s on you. If the windows aren’t clean and a tenant complains, that’s on you too.

And while a lot of decisions are made spur of the moment, especially in emergency situations, with other choices, it’s more important to weigh your options wisely.

Take flooring, for example.

Flooring is a significant investment. Choose wisely, and it’ll last you for years. But if you don’t consider all of your options, it could be a pricey mistake.

Choosing commercial flooring can be challenging at best. Not only does it have to look good, but it also has to wear well in a variety of situations. Entryways, hallways, offices, and conference rooms all have different needs.

Fortunately, technology has vastly improved commercial flooring in the past decade. No matter what you have your heart set on, there are ways to incorporate it into your final design.

Carpet typically comes in two categories. Both can be beneficial in a commercial setting; it all depends on your needs.

Broadloom carpet – this is also known as wall-to-wall carpet, and is what most people think of when it comes to buying carpet. They bring it in by the roll, and piece it into your space, depending on measurements. If you go this route, it will be tacked down in a continuous flow from one side of each room to the other.

Modular carpet – this is also known as carpet tiles. Carpet tiles continue to be a good choice for commercial properties that have a lot of change. They are durable and easy to install and replace as needed. Because carpet tiles are more manageable, they can be installed seamlessly anywhere, giving you flexibility with design.

I want carpet for my commercial property. Which one?

Carpeting is one of the best choices for commercial property for a variety of reasons. But it is still important for you to think about how each space throughout the building will be used, and select the right product for each situation. It is perfectly acceptable to use different products in different spaces.

Start with evaluating what the space is used for. In every commercial property, there are certain spaces that will be used more than others. Some for business, some for leisure. Some with heavy traffic, others will barely be used.

Entryways are one of the spaces with the highest traffic levels. And here in Colorado, it also means enduring a wide array of weather conditions. People will walk in with ice and snow on their shoes and boots. You’ll have dirt break lose and stick in the fibers. That means more cleaning too.

Why Carpet Works For Commercial PropertiesIf you head up several floors, or to the back of the building, traffic drops off considerably. That doesn’t mean you want to lower the quality. You still want a cohesive look throughout.

This is one of the reasons carpet tiles excel in commercial settings. You can replace them in high traffic situations periodically to keep them looking fresh. They’ll still match other areas of the building that won’t need replacing as often.

What you should focus on when making your final selection 

What are your top concerns when selecting carpet for your commercial properties? We know from experience these are the things you should weigh carefully:

Durability

At the top of the list is durability. The carpet you select should hold up well no matter what type of traffic it receives. You should also think about replacement – is that easy to do? Pay attention to specific areas where this will be of greatest concern.

Maintenance

If you have carpet, it will need to be cleaned regularly. Daily vacuuming will pull dirt to the surface and prevent it from settling in. Regular cleanings should also be top priority. With dirt and grime settling in, the more you clean and remove it, the longer your carpets will last. Also, consider using mats and commercial rugs on the messiest days of the year. That added protection can extend the life of your carpet by weeks, or months.

Use of space

Look beyond the general purpose of each room or space. Also, consider all traffic that moves through each location. How well does it handle with the use of carts or trolleys? Does it work well with a high number of visitors using walkers or wheelchairs? What kinds of deliveries are made each day? Is the space used in harsh conditions, or is it created more for high end use?

Appearance

While use trumps appearance in commercial spaces, it’s still important to keep in mind who is using or leasing your property. Financial institutions often want a more luxurious appearance, while medical focuses on cleanliness.

Noise

The number one reason property managers turn to carpet is for noise reduction. If you’ve ever heard the clunk, clunk of shoes down a tiled or wood hallway, you know how important this can be in some situations. Acoustics can be especially important in large, open spaces. Carpet absorbs noise, which can greatly impact the functionality where office workers may need concentration.

Health and safety

Different carpets have different properties. Commercial flooring should always have moisture barriers, and be able to handle a variety of situations. Mold is always a problem, which is why you should focus on installing a flooring that prevents buildup over time. But don’t forget to look for manufacturers that do so using low VOCs as well. If you’re leaning towards creating a greener environment, one that may qualify for LEED certification, composition may be everything.

And let’s not forget safety. Carpet provides better traction than almost any flooring option. Imagine a slick tile combined with ice and snow; that is a recipe for disaster. Which is why carpet is often the most logical choice. Especially if property visitors cover all age ranges, including people that may be at risk for falling in the first place.

Are you sold on carpet?

Have we convinced you that carpet is the best way to go in your commercial property?

Now it’s time to take the next step, and find out about your options. There are many different ways to incorporate carpet into every space in your design. You can do so and create a neutral palette, or liven things up with color and patterns.

How can we help you bring new carpet into your commercial space?

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