Do You Believe These Vinyl Flooring Myths?

What do you think of when someone mentions vinyl flooring? Most people have a distinct thought pop into their minds. Maybe it’s reminiscent of your grandmother’s house. Maybe you think of yellowing surfaces where the wear layer peels back and cheapens the look.

If this is close to your beliefs about vinyl flooring, it’s time to upgrade your thinking.

Today’s vinyl flooring is growing in popularity. If you haven’t seen the latest in vinyl flooring, it’s time to take a second look.

Do you believe any of these vinyl flooring myths?

Myth #1 – Vinyl flooring is bad for your health

Are you trying to clean up your living arrangements? Want a cleaner, more sustainable home?

Manufacturers get that. That’s why they’re dedicated to making a better product, one you’ll want to install inside your home.

Heading back in time, vinyl was created with high concentrations of lead, cadmium, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). People weren’t aware of toxic chemicals, and never gave a thought to how flooring was produced. Even today, vinyl is a petroleum-based product made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and if it’s manufactured from a less-that-reputable source, it could off-gas VOCs into the environment for long periods of time.

Manufacturers supply what consumers are willing to buy. Because more homeowners are asking for a cleaner product, they’ve gone to great lengths to provide it to the marketplace.

The EPA provides guidelines for manufacturers to follow to ensure safer products. Many other organizations have started to review product lines and give consumers safety scores. Places like Scientific Certification Systems provide FloorScore to show how a product will impact indoor air quality.

If indoor air quality is at the top of your wishlist, and you’re worried about air quality, talk with a flooring representative. They can show you clean lines of vinyl flooring you’ll be happy to install inside your home.

Myth #2 – Vinyl is all the same

You might have a picture in your mind of what vinyl will look like. We find it’s usually based on the flooring they remember from their grandparents’ homes.

It’s time to take another look at vinyl flooring.

Do You Believe These Vinyl Flooring Myths?When you start looking at vinyl flooring, you’ll quickly find a variety of products:

  • Tiles
  • Sheets
  • SPC
  • WPC
  • LVF

What does it all mean?

Yes, vinyl comes in peel-and-stick tiles, or vinyl sheets where you can roll it into place. The colors, patterns, and possibilities are vast; it’s still a great way to add flooring to areas that need water-resistant or waterproof flooring.

Vinyl has also created a whole new market thanks to Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVF).

The luxury vinyl market is built to mimic some of the most popular flooring products available. Stone, tile, hardwood – there’s a luxury vinyl product that closely resembles it.

WPC offers a wood-plastic composite core that ensures a waterproof structure. It’s soft underfoot and works well in residential situations.

SPC refers to a stone-plastic composite core, also known as rigid core. Its waterproof features stand up well in both residential and commercial applications.

Luxury vinyl planks mimic hardwood so closely, even the experts have to take a second look. They work great in situations where you might be holding back from installing hardwood, like the basement. It creates a dynamic look and feel, with qualities you’d never expect from traditional hardwood.

Myth #3 – Vinyl is only good for bathrooms or laundry rooms

We get it; you’re trying to put function over design. With today’s vinyl flooring, you no longer have to compromise.

Homeowners before would often select vinyl for the smallest rooms in their homes. You can always add a rug in the bathroom – you’ll never notice it’s vinyl.

Luckily, you no longer have to worry about combining good looks with functionality. You can have both – and you’ll want to install it all over your house.

Luxury vinyl planks are growing in popularity because of their classic good looks. One glance, and you’ll be sold – they really do look like hardwood. Yet you’ll also get the advancements luxury vinyl brings to the market. By choosing the right product, you’ll have a water-resistant or waterproof flooring.

That means you can install it in your entryways, kitchen, laundry room, and bathrooms. It’s a perfect choice for the basement, where the moist environment has impacted other types of flooring.

Myth #4: Vinyl is outdated

You want something new and refreshing. You want the latest styles and trends.

It’s time to give vinyl another look.

There was a time when vinyl was the most basic floor covering. No more. Today’s vinyl offers you everything you want from flooring … and more.

Technology has made it possible for vinyl manufacturers to create realistic flooring that mimics the most in-demand flooring. If you want natural stone or classic hardwood, yet installing either isn’t practical, luxury vinyl may be just the thing you’re looking for.

Homeowners love today’s vinyl products because they combine the latest styles and trends with waterproof technology. If you’ve been holding back from installing hardwood because you know it doesn’t work with your lifestyle, luxury vinyl planks may be the perfect fit. It protects your floor from water damage, while remaining beautiful at the same time.

Myth #5 – Vinyl is hard to install

If you’re looking for a do-it-yourself project, vinyl might be just what you’re looking for.

Luxury vinyl planks and tiles come with tongue and groove installation. Also known as click-and-lock, each tile or plank snaps together, requiring no adhesives. It floats into place, making it easy to install and easy to remove. Need to repair an area? Not a problem.

Even if you stick with more traditional vinyl, you’ll find it easy to use. Tiles with peel-and-stick installation mean you can place them anywhere, at any time. Just peel back the paper and stick it into place. Press down … and your new floors will be ready.

Sheet vinyl is even easier, just roll it out and cut it to fit. When you’re ready to install it, spread the glue into place. You’ll have durable flooring ready in no time.

Is vinyl flooring the right choice for you?

Did you believe any of these vinyl flooring myths before?

Now that you know many of these myths are no longer true, it’s time to give vinyl a second look. Today’s vinyl is the perfect choice for many homes. Whether you choose tiles, sheet vinyl, or luxury vinyl planks, you’ll love the look they give each room in your home.

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It’s The Holidays – Flooring Advice Before The Parties Begin

It’s the most wonderful time of the year …

Unless your flooring isn’t up for the occasion. Maybe your floors are already looking a little worn and dated. Maybe you’re worried this year’s festivities will only add to the problem. Or maybe you want something new.

The question is: What should you do? It’s the holidays. With a bit of flooring advice, you’ll be ready to greet each guest with a smile, knowing your floors look great and will wear well in the coming years.

Protection is key

Holidays are synonymous with parties, great food, and lots of action. They’re also reminiscent of spills, stains, and damage.

Many homeowners face the New Year looking at red wine stains on the carpet, scratches and dents on the hardwood, and rips and tears on vinyl. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Prevention is the key.

To avoid the many things that can impact your flooring, it takes a little planning. Anticipate the problems before they occur, and you’re more likely to build in protection. You can:

Place mats and trays at the entryways

It’s The Holidays - Flooring Advice Before The Parties BeginThe quickest way to damage floors is by tracking the outside in. Taking off your shoes at the front door will save mud, rocks, and other loose particles from spreading throughout your home. Keep plenty of mats and trays by the front door, and request guests take them off. If you want to ramp up comfort and thoughtfulness, have a selection of slippers nearby they can slip into if they desire. Look for rugs that are easily washed, won’t slip, and aren’t rubber-backed, as they can mar floors.

Use area rugs

For high-traffic areas, consider area rugs to protect the floors. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you can use them anywhere. Choose permanent fixtures under your dining room table, in the living room, and by the front door. Purchase high-quality rugs to ensure they absorb moisture, pick up dirt and debris, and prevent slips. You can use temporary rugs for high-traffic areas during parties, then remove them when it’s just your family.

Build a spill kit

If you’ve ever had a stain set because you didn’t have the right removal gear ready, you know how frustrating it can be. To avoid stress and prevent permanent stains, build your spill kit before the first guest arrives, and keep it handy nearby. There are products specifically for wine, and others for ground in dirt. Do your research early, and select the best products for you. Be sure to test them ahead of time to ensure they are color-safe.

Prep your furniture

When Uncle John drags the chair across your new hardwood floors, your anxiety won’t peak if you’ve already prepared. Ensure all furniture legs are affixed with felt pads to so they won’t scratch and dent when the unexpected happens. Replace rugs if they might be a tripping hazard, or add backings to ensure they stay in place. Safety is critical – and you’ll be thankful you prepared ahead of time for one less thing to worry about.

Upgrade for better durability 

Have your floors come to the end of their useful life? Sometimes the only way to make flooring look better is by ripping it up and starting over. Yet the thought of doing it before the guests arrive might leave you a little nervous. Who wants spills, dents, and damage to something brand new?

You’re in luck. By selecting suitable flooring materials, you’ll create a space that is as functional as beautiful.

Use resilient flooring for your entryways

Wouldn’t it be advantageous to have resilient flooring that pops back no matter what you do to it? It’s possible! Manufacturers have resilient flooring in many product lines, including vinyl products like LVT, rubber, cork, and linoleum. What makes them great for your entryways is they withstand scratches and dents, and resist moisture. In some cases, they may be waterproof. That makes them perfect for entryways where you pile boots and shoes regularly.

Use luxury vinyl planks in the kitchen

If you’ve been avoiding hardwood in the kitchen because you regularly make messes, there’s another flooring choice that might be perfect for you. Consider luxury vinyl planks. They have the look and feel of hardwood, tile, or stone, yet offer the benefits of being scratch-resistant and waterproof. No more worrying when someone drops a plate of cranberry sauce on the floor. Just wipe it away.

Use hardwood in the dining room

Hardwood will always be a popular choice because of its classic good looks. To make a bold statement, place it in the dining room where you and your guest will spend hours talking. With hardwood still in high demand, manufacturers have made it even more durable than hardwood you might have installed before. Look for high-performance hardwood that will give you a durable surface area that can withstand lots of pressure.

Tile is perfect for bathrooms

More visitors bring more trips to the bathroom. That increases the risk of water hitting the floor and puddling unnoticed for hours.

You won’t have to worry if you install tile flooring. It’s the smart choice for any high-traffic, high-moisture surface area. And you won’t have to compromise on looks. Tile has more patterns, colors, and styles than ever before. If you want to carry the classic looks of hardwood throughout your space, you’ll find tile that mimics it closely.

Are you ready for the next holiday party?

Whether you’re ready for new flooring, or trying to protect existing flooring, the more you prepare ahead of time, the longer your floors will last.

Start by selecting the right floors for each room. Make sure they’re up for the job, for all you can dish out.

Then have your toolkit ready for when the spills happen. It’s the holidays – spills will happen. But if you have the appropriate products ready for action, you’ll never worry when someone yells, “uh-oh.”

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Avoid These Mistakes If You’re Replacing Commercial Carpet

It’s time for replacing carpet in your commercial space. Why not go with what was installed before?

Many property managers take this approach because it requires less time and hassle. It’s worked before, why not just keep it in place?

Here’s something to consider: It might not be the best choice for your current situation.

Flooring products have changed a lot over the past few decades. With so many options available for consideration, what if there was something better for your space?

Carpeting plays an important role in commercial spaces. It has to be durable and stand up to the traffic. It should also be attractive to make a solid first impression. How do you ensure your new commercial carpet does all of that?

Common mistakes to avoid when replacing commercial carpet

With any commercial flooring renovation, it’s essential to do your research early. Yes, you can find anything online. There are many options out there that look like a “good deal.” That can lead to costly mistakes.

Mistake #1: Not considering your options

Avoid These Mistakes If You’re Replacing Commercial CarpetAs a property manager, you have opinions about everything. You’ve listened to tenants and visitors talk about the space. Before you invest in new commercial carpet, spend some time listing out your complaints and expectations based on past performance.

  • What comments do you hear from tenants and visitors about property conditions?
  • How does the current flooring function?
  • How long has the existing flooring lasted?
  • What is one thing you wish the current flooring had or did?

Maybe you’ve wished for a different color. Or it didn’t need cleaning as much. Or it didn’t look so worn.

These are options you can fix by moving to a different carpet line.

Mistake #2: Choosing commercial carpeting for a commercial setting

Walk into the carpet studio and you’ll find thousands of potential samples. However, not all of them are suitable for your commercial location.

There’s a difference between residential and commercial carpet. Commercial carpet is created for higher traffic situations, and is constructed to be more durable. Residential carpeting typically has a longer pile, which can snag easier, be more of a tripping hazard, and attract dirt, debris, and moisture. This can be especially damaging in open areas with higher traffic situations.

It also allows allergens to be trapped in the fibers, impacting indoor air quality. If you’re attempting to create a cleaner, more sustainable building, paying attention to the type of commercial carpets you’re installing is essential.

Additionally, commercial carpeting is better suited for heavy furniture, large mechanical equipment, and helping control ambient noise.

Mistake #3: Going with inexperienced carpet installers

Commercial carpet comes in rolls or tiles.

There are several issues with commercial carpet rolls. They usually come in large format, and if it isn’t unrolled correctly, it can cause several problems. It’s easy to snag or cause divots. Dips in the fibers could become tripping hazards. You’ll also put the carpet at greater risk of fraying and wearing out before its time. If it’s not unrolled and secured wall to wall, the gaps can cause hygiene and contaminant issues, leaving places for dirt and moisture to accumulate. This can impact air quality.

Tiles are easier to install, and provide options for replacing sections of the building rather than the entire carpet. However, it’s equally important to have a professional install the tiles to ensure a flush fit, blocking out potential tripping hazards and preventing hygiene and contamination issues.

Mistake #4: Choosing the wrong commercial installation team

When trying to save money and stick to a budget, it’s easy to find deals with overinflated promises. If a company doesn’t have experience in commercial carpet installs, you may have varying mistakes that can be costly down the road.

Commercial applications are different from residential. By partnering with someone who has experience, you’ll have a better understanding of the installation process, as well as other impactful decisions.

What about the subfloor? Do you have the proper subfloor in place for longevity?

Are you installing the right carpet for the various businesses in your building?

What about cleaning – do you understand how to clean the carpets throughout the year?

A quality installation team can answer all of these questions and more.

Mistake #5: Not having a big picture view

With residential carpet, most homes are small enough that the carpet is taken from one roll. Not so with commercial carpet. If you have a large area, it might require several rolls to complete the job. The right carpet dealer stands this and is familiar with roll sequencing and lot numbers for modular carpet tiles.

Roll sequencing is where each roll is marked and properly sequenced to help maintain a uniform and consistent appearance when multiple rolls are needed to complete the job. This is especially important in hallways, function rooms, or long corridors where changes in appearance would be noticeable.

Finished jobs are only as good as the installation. If you are replacing commercial carpet now, your goal is to have it last as long as possible. A proper installer should have a good understanding of progressive sequencing, ensuring the seams are adequately joined, and sealing is completed once the carpet is in place.

Replacing commercial carpet – Are you ready?

When done correctly, the carpet will provide a suitable base for all of your needs. It might be placing seams in the right locations to avoid tripping hazards, or to place them away from heavy furniture where they might cause unraveling at the seams. Or strengthening the subfloor for even better performance.

It starts with an understanding, taking into account all interactions within the building. Digging deep before you make your final selection can make a wiser decision.

Ask your questions first and spend time researching different products. Bring in other team members who can help you make the decision. Who will be cleaning it? Who will be maintaining it? They may have ideas you’ve never considered before.

And when you’re ready to finalize your decision, give us a call today. We’ll help you make the right decision for your building needs.

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Best Flooring When Creating a Home Gym

Homes and lifestyles changed when everyone stayed home for a year. Suddenly, you looked at your space a bit differently.

Do you really need a guest room that sits idly by almost every day of the year?

Or how about that extra space in the basement, the one with boxes stacked in the corner?

Why not turn it into usable space? Why not make it a home gym? It’s the perfect solution to ensure you get your workouts in each day without having to make time to go to the gym.

People have found that working a fitness routine into their lifestyle when the gym is at home is easy. In fact, Three out of four respondents said gyms are becoming more obsolete due to the pandemic because it’s easier than ever to incorporate fitness routines into their lives right from the comfort of their own homes.

Is the time right for you to add a gym to your home? Where do you begin?

It starts with the floor.

The best floor choices for a home gym

If you’ve ever placed a piece of workout equipment in your living room or bedroom, sitting it on top of carpet, you know the damage it can do. It crushes the fibers, compresses the padding, leaving divots and bumps in the carpet.

Even one simple machine can cause extensive damage. So you know the flooring in your home gym has to be carefully thought out.

Best Flooring When Creating a Home GymHome gym floors should be durable to stand up to your routines, without impact from the weights or machines. It should cushion your body as you jump and bounce during workouts, but also withstand and protect from scratches, dents, or gouges.

Take a look at commercial gym flooring choices to be your guide as you finalize your selection. The most popular floor choices include:

Rubber

Foam

Vinyl

Wood

Carpet

Of course, the final selection is dependent on your desired workout routine. What type of equipment will you be using? What exercises are a part of your routine?

Ultimately, your choice should provide you comfort, wear, and durability.

What’s the right home gym flooring? Ask these questions first.

The easiest way to create a home gym is to find a spot, move furniture and boxes out, and get your new workout equipment in.

It might not take very long to discover the problem. Carpet may hinder your HIIT routine. Hardwood may scratch as you drop weights onto the floor. Without considering your actions first, your flooring can quickly be compromised.

Ask these questions first:

What workouts will be a part of my routine?

Everyone has a different approach to fitness. Some love the elliptical. Some prefer lifting. Some like to change things up and move through various routines. Carefully consider the equipment you’ll need, the exercise you’ll perform, and what your flooring must withstand in the process.

Who will use the gym?

You may have your own routines, but what about the rest of the family? Will you be investing in different equipment to meet everyone’s goals? The best gym flooring works well for everyone in the household, providing comfort, safety, and durability.

Will you use free weights?

Free weights are one of the most impactful pieces of equipment you can own. If you’ll use them in your home gym, be especially aware of your flooring choice as the sudden drop can cause extensive damage. Be aware that you may need to build up the subfloor as well to handle the additional weight.

Is moisture a problem? 

Even small home gyms can be impacted by moisture. Will you crank the heat for a hot yoga session? Are your routines especially rigorous, leaving you sweating throughout the sessions? In small spaces, moisture can be a big problem. If you add a small sauna for after workout sessions, it can be an even bigger problem. Consider how much moisture you’ll bring into the room before you finalize your flooring decision, or you could face a problem down the road.

What about equipment?

Machinery is heavy. It’s bulky. It might need special attachment features to the walls or floor. It can also move around as you use the machines, further damaging the floor. Don’t forget about the lifecycle of the machinery. If you’ll be upgrading or switching out the machines periodically, the wrong flooring can leave divots, further impacting your routines.

Finalize your home gym floor with one of these best flooring choices

Are you leaning towards a specific flooring choice for your home gym? If you have several options in mind, here are a few more ideas to keep in mind.

Rubber is always a good choice in a home gym setting. Walk into just about any commercial gym or fitness studio and you’re likely to see rubber flooring. There are many different types of rubber flooring – tiles, rolls, and mats. It comes in a range of thicknesses to best suit your needs. Tiles are a great DIY choice, allowing you to take control over the installation process. Rolls provide a seamless appearance that is great for wide open spaces. If you want multiple options in your small space, mats can be especially beneficial for customizing the space based on your requirements. If you’re using free weights, thicker is better to help prevent impact on the floors.

Carpet tiles are another popular flooring option that are relatively inexpensive, comfortable to the touch, and are fairly easy to maintain. What’s more, tiles make it easy to change out and replace if damage occurs to part of your space. Select low-pile, commercial-grade carpet that is designed for high traffic and high impact. The touch of softness works well if you’ll be up and down between workouts. You’ll also be able to customize the aesthetics by having a wide variety of color options to choose from.

Luxury vinyl planks are also an option. Be sure to select waterproof rigid core for the best durability. The right vinyl plank can withstand many different activities, including weights, heavy equipment, and more active workout routines such as basketball. Vinyl planks have a natural tendency to prevent mold and mildew growth. They’re naturally scratch and stain resistant, and did we mention waterproof? Depending on your workout routine, luxury vinyl planks are definitely worth a second look.

What’s the best flooring for your home gym?

Still have questions about the right home gym flooring for your home? Stop by today and see our complete selection. We’ll help you find just what you’re looking for.

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Exposing The Most Common Flooring Myths

Thinking of remodeling and adding new flooring to your home? Before you start looking, spend some time debunking the most common flooring myths that homeowners still believe.

Myth: Laminate floors are inferior and look cheap

There once was a time when Pergo dominated the laminate flooring market. It came with its classic clicking, hollow sounds.

No more. Technology has advanced to make laminates so closely related to solid hardwood, it’s often difficult to tell the difference.

Laminate is created from a particle board wood base topped by a realistic image layer, sealed with a wear layer to provide strength and durability. The result is a beautiful flooring option.

Because of technological advancements, they look and act more realistically than ever before. The image quality gives a realistic look and feel, while the scratch-resistant surface area makes it suitable for homes with busy lifestyles. Plus, its low cost gives it an added bonus to families concerned with sticking to a budget.

Myth: Hardwood flooring is too expensive

Exposing The Most Common Flooring MythsWhat’s the most expensive flooring on the market today? Don’t fall for the myth that hardwood tops the list.

In reality, hardwood flooring is a perfect solution for any homeowner on any budget. There’s an option perfect to suit your needs.

When you visit a flooring showroom floor, you’ll find hardwood is one of the most popular options, and as such, many different manufacturers are competing at many different levels.

The key is knowing your budget ahead of time, then considering your options carefully. Many homeowners like the fact that hardwood can be refinished multiple times, giving them more remodeling options in the future.

Myth: Carpet won’t work for anyone with allergies

Do you believe the myth that carpet harbors dust bunnies, dirt, and other debris? If you are prone to allergies, you may be shying away from installing carpet.

Carpet remains one of the top flooring options for good reason. It’s soft. It reduces noise. It makes a space feel warmer.

Manufacturers know this, and work hard at creating better products. They make carpet with better fiber technology to capture allergens and hold them in to keep them from getting into the air inside your home. Simply vacuum the carpet with a vacuum with HEPA filters in place, and your carpeted room can often be just as clean as other flooring options you may be considering.

Myth: Engineered hardwood is inferior to solid hardwood

Nothing is better than solid hardwood flooring. Or is there?

Engineered hardwood actually provides several advantages over traditional solid hardwood.

First, engineered hardwood works in places where solid hardwood won’t. Want to install hardwood in your basement? Give engineered hardwood another look. That’s because it’s designed with moisture-resistant qualities making it a better choice in basement situations.

Next, engineered hardwood can offer you more choices than solid hardwood. Because it’s built in layers, it can offer strength and durability that traditional hardwood can’t compete with. Pay attention to brands to find the right choices to suit your needs.

Also, engineered flooring offers you the aesthetics of solid hardwood in a more sustainable option. That’s because solid hardwood is created from the core of a tree, while engineered flooring uses a top layer of real veneer wood. That means more hardwood planks from fewer tree resources.

Myth: Vinyl flooring is obsolete 

When many people hear “vinyl”, they think of their grandmother’s vinyl floors. You have a vision of cheap flooring in obnoxious colors that simply won’t work in your home.

That’s not today’s vinyl. Instead, vinyl today is designed to give you the very best look with other benefits you can’t refuse.

Luxury vinyl planks are dominating the market as they mimic solid hardwood. Yet these planks have the added benefits of being durable, and in some cases, waterproof. That means you can have your hardwood in areas where it wasn’t possible before – bathrooms, laundry rooms, and your basement remodel.

Of course, it’s not just hardwood – luxury vinyl can mimic just about any look you desire. Want marble floors? Consider luxury vinyl tile.

You also get the added benefit of finding colors that are harder to reproduce in nature. And if you do, it’s almost always at a cost. Luxury vinyl gives you a wide array of colors and patterns, all at affordable pricing.

Even if you wish to stay with traditional vinyl choices, either in sheet or tile format, you’ll be amazed at the colors and patterns, and how well they appeal to your design senses.

And you won’t be able to resist the affordability.

Myth: Carpet is outdated

Who installs carpet anymore? If you believe this myth, it’ll surprise you to learn that carpet is everywhere.

While we would never suggest putting carpet in the bathrooms or kitchen, it still makes a wonderful choice where comfort and warmth are important.

Bedrooms are perfect places for carpet. Nothing feels better than wiggling your toes into the fibers on a cold winter morning.

How about a media room? The insulation from carpet works well to help insulate the room.

All you have to do is take one look at the wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles to put your mind at ease that carpet is still in style.

What’s most important when adding carpet is to ensure you buy padding to give it proper support, and transition it well to other flooring choices in your home.

Myth: Solid hardwood is hard to maintain 

Nope. It’s simply not true.

Solid hardwood is designed to provide one of the best flooring choices suitable for almost any home.

There are hundreds of varieties to give you a chance to let your personality shine. How about:

  • Red oak
  • White oak
  • Maple
  • Bamboo
  • Walnut
  • Cherry

You’ll find the possibilities are endless once you start taking a look.

Stop believing the most common flooring myths circulating online. When in fact, it’s up to you to decide the best flooring choice to suit your needs.

With so many options, you’ll find the perfect flooring to love for many years to come.

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6 Reasons Hardwood Flooring Will Help Sell Your Home

What do home buyers want today?

A study produced by the National Association of Realtors, found that 54 percent of home buyers are willing to pay more for hardwood flooring.

Whether you’re considering a remodel, or are getting your home ready for selling, hardwood flooring may be the perfect addition to your home. Here is some food for thought on why hardwood flooring will help sell your home.

Hardwood flooring adds value to your home

Let’s start with the most obvious. Besides being attractive and making a good first impression when potential home buyers walk through the front door, it also boosts how much money they’re willing to put down. Realtors report home prices can increase by as much as 5 percent of the asking price if they have hardwood in the main living quarters.

If you’re considering a remodel, it’s good to keep in mind that the average return on investment (ROI) for installing hardwood ranges between 70 to 80 percent.

Use this as you plan out your remodel. Will you be investing in hardwood flooring for immediate resale? Or will you be enjoying your new flooring for a few years before putting it up for sale? That may alter what type of hardwood you put in.

With today’s technology, there are many ways to get the look of hardwood.

  • Solid hardwood is always a wise choice. Its classic beauty can last for decades if well cared for.
  • Engineered hardwood gives you classic looks at a more affordable price.
  • Laminate provides more functionality and stands up better where traditional hardwood may have a problem.
  • Luxury vinyl planks mimic the best of solid hardwood, yet can offer waterproof options that are perfect for moist and humid areas.
  • Tile planks are growing in popularity for giving you the functionality of tile with the looks of hardwood.

Hardwood flooring is aesthetically pleasing

Hardwood flooring is the one material that remains relevant and continues to look good throughout the years.

Maybe it’s because of its flexibility. It works effectively with almost any design theme, and in any situation. Prefer a clean, modern look with minimalistic lines? Hardwood flooring works perfectly. Want country chic? Hardwood gives you just what you’re looking for. Prefer rustic, reminiscent of an old skiing lodge? Yep, hardwood works there too.

6 Reasons Hardwood Flooring Will Help Sell Your HomeIt may also be from hardwood’s ability to look even better with age. Because you can sand it down and refinish it time and again, some of the very things that give it an original look make it even better over time. You can feel the history just by walking into the room.

Of course, if natural beauty is your thing, you can’t go wrong with hardwood flooring. It’s worked in homes for thousands of years – who can argue with what works? There’s something about knowing how your hardwood flooring is sourced that can give you an added bonus of knowing you’re adding sustainability and classic materials to your home as you complete your remodel.

Hardwood flooring offers durability that lasts for years

Durability stems from providing a surface that’s long-lasting and easy to care for.

Hardwood flooring provides all of that and more. In fact, they’re so durable, they’ve lasted for centuries in some cases, and still look good.

Solid hardwood planks provide strength to a residential setting. If you focus on quality, they offer a high-quality surface area. With the right sealant, your regular household activities won’t impact the surface. You’ll sweep away dust and debris with a quick swipe of a broom. Spills will also be wiped away easily, leaving nothing but the quality shining through every single day.

And when the years go by and the shine disappears, the planks still have life in them. Just sand them down and refinish them. You can change the color, or keep it the same. Then repeat it again somewhere down the road.

What other flooring can give you all of that?

Hardwood flooring stands the test of time

Every generation has its style and fads. Think shag carpet. The colors orange, gold, and avocado green. How about Pergo?

Each style and fad is reminiscent of a certain period in time.

Hardwood, however, stands the test of time. You’ll find it in residential homes through every generation. You’ll find it used in homes in ancient civilizations.

That’s because nothing is better than using building materials right from the source. It’s one thing that will never go out of style.

Hardwood flooring offers a clean, allergy-friendly surface

Want a surface area that won’t hold dust, dirt, or other contaminants? Look no further than hardwood flooring.

Its natural qualities also mean it doesn’t bring in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It’s created and manufactured from solid hardwood.

If you suffer from allergies, hardwood won’t harbor dust mites and other pollutants the way other flooring choices may.

It also makes cleaning a breeze. A simple swipe of a broom carries potential problems away.

Hardwood flooring can be refinished multiple times without having to replace the floors

If you are living in your forever home, your idea of a “dream home” may change from time to time.

You’re looking for light and airy today. You prefer dark and dramatic tomorrow.

With hardwood, that’s okay.

When you’re ready for a change, skip buying and installing new flooring. Instead, you can sand it down and refinish it to give you the fresh appearance you’re looking for. Sanding it down takes it back to a smooth surface area. New stain and sealant give it its new appearance.

And you’ll fall in love all over again.

Are you ready to make your house more sellable? 

Then it’s time to install hardwood.

While traditional hardwood is always a good choice, it’s not your only choice. Let your preferences and lifestyle lead the way to finding the perfect hardwood flooring to make your house a home.

And create a house that will be a future buyer’s dream come true too.

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Flooring Accessories – Things To Ask Before You Invest In New Flooring

You’re ready for new floors. You have an idea in mind.

But flooring isn’t just about picking out the material. It requires a whole collection of accessories to finish the process.

  • Granite
  • Marble
  • Hardwood
  • Linoleum
  • Laminate
  • Carpet
  • Vinyl
  • Stone

Each material requires its own extras to complete the project. Transitions, trims, vents, underlayments – it’s all required and needs a decision before you finalize your purchase.

The more you know before you start shopping, the better prepared you can be to finalize your decisions.

Transitions

When planning a remodeling project, the main focus falls to what material you select. It’s fun to choose what you’ll install, and select the perfect color.

It’ll quickly become apparent that your new floor will have to sit adjacent to another floor, and it’ll have to blend together. This junction plays a vital role in visual appeal and overall durability. The standard way to transition from one floor to another is by using a transition strip. Here’s how you identify what works best.

Flooring Accessories - Things To Ask Before You Invest In New FlooringWhat purpose will it serve? Transition strips can perform several different functions. The most obvious is to cover the joint where two separate flooring materials are joined together. Transitions can also help secure the flooring material into place, helping to protect it from wear and tear. It should be large enough and secured into place to prevent foot traffic from knocking it loose. Transitions can be similar to one flooring material, blending in nicely. Or make it visible to signal a change in height or texture of the flooring.

What flooring are you transitioning? Specific flooring materials need different transitions. Not all transitions will work in every situation. Are you moving from hard to soft flooring? Is there a difference in height? The material and height of the connecting surfaces will help you determine the best transition piece. A good installer will make recommendations and help you select the right piece for your home.

What transition strip do you need? A reducer helps transition from thicker flooring to thinner material, such as hardwood to sheet vinyl. A T-Mold helps transition hard surfaces of the same height. Carpet strips help transition from carpet to any other type of flooring. End molding provides a final edge instead of transitioning it to another material. Stairnose transitions from the edge of the stair tread to the flooring material. Tile strips provide transition between tile and any other type of flooring. Installers can get creative and make any transition durable and look great.

Trim and molding

Trim and molding are an essential part of any flooring project. They are flooring edge pieces that transition your flooring material to stairs, another floor, or walls. They are the finishing touches to complete your flooring renovation.

They come in many forms and materials, such as wood, rubber, vinyl, fiberboard, and more. Trim is a term used to describe edging material used around doors, windows, between different floors, and on walls and ceilings. Molding is a grander version of trim. Baseboard molding, for example, would be a decorative trim meant to stand out and create a custom look.

Like transitions, molding is chosen based on a variety of things:

  • Location
  • Floor type
  • Size
  • Style

Baseboards are considered to be the finishing touches. It fulfills two purposes: they serve as a transition from floor to wall, and cover any gaps between the floor and the wall. It gives a room a finished look, and can add to the overall architectural component.

Vents and registers

Vents and registers are standard and essential elements of any flooring remodel. Depending on your HVAC system, you may have several vents in the flooring. This requires you to incorporate them into your finalized flooring project to give your floors a flush fit, and ensure it isn’t a tripping hazard.

There are two essential elements to picking a suitable vent: function and aesthetics. Vents must allow your HVAC system to function as designed. They should work well with your flooring and allow airflow into the room. Vents should also be aesthetically pleasing. With many different types, it’s easy to find one that fits well and works with your room’s decor.

Underlayment

Underlayment sits just under your visible flooring choice and provides a smooth, flat surface area for your flooring to be installed. It can be made from different materials, and should be chosen depending on what flooring you’re installing. It comes as plywood, padding, hardboard, and cement board, to name but a few.

Underlayment isn’t the same as the subfloor. A subfloor is a part of a home’s framework and structure. Underlayment serves mainly as a flat surface area to make it easier to install your new flooring.

In some cases, it can also serve as additional insulation to help reduce noise as people walk across, or to soften the feeling of the floor underneath. It can also provide a moisture barrier, depending on what flooring you’re installing.

When installing hard surfaces like tile, underlayment provides a good surface area to adhere to the tile. It allows grout, adhesive, and tile to expand and contract if installed incorrectly. Be sure to select a quality underlayment for full protection.

It can also provide structural stability. Especially in older homes where the subfloor may not have the strength of modern-day building materials, the right underlayment can provide structural support.

Maintenance

From the moment you install your new flooring, you’ll want the proper tools to maintain it. If you’ve never had hardwood before, you’ll want something to dust away the daily dirt and debris. Installing carpet may require a vacuum to give you flexibility and ease while keeping it clean. Installing new linoleum? It requires occasional waxing to ensure it retains its good looks.

Before you rush out to your favorite big box store, check with your flooring manufacturer to ensure the products you use match what they suggest for warranty validation. Many of the top cleaners you’ll find on the shelves aren’t suitable for floors and can strip them of their good looks.

Have further questions? Just ask. We’re here to guide your flooring project every step of the way.

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Should You Invest In Extra Flooring?

When you install new flooring, the inevitable will happen. You’ll drop a heavy pan and put a dent in the wood. You’ll move furniture and scrape the surface of your vinyl floors. You’ll drop red wine on your light carpet.

You’ll either be grateful you invested in extra flooring. Or you’ll cringe inside knowing you’re one step closer to replacing your flooring.

To save yourself the feeling of dread, as you’re finalizing your decision on what flooring to install, plan ahead and purchase extra flooring to have on hand for when you need it.

Buying extra flooring is a smart decision

Rarely is a room perfectly square. You’ll almost always have little areas that need flooring too. Like the coat closet near the front entrance. And where the floor curves slightly near the front window. Walk around your room and notice these nooks and crannies.

That means when you invest in new tiles or luxury vinyl planks, you’ll have to cut a few to create a harmonious look. You’ll need extra hardwood for the bottom of the closet.

Now let’s talk about installation methods. Rarely do installers move perfectly from start to finish without a mishap. Again, rooms are seldom perfectly sized. Even if you’re using a roll of carpet or vinyl, your room will invariably need seams to complete the project. That requires skill to cut and align it so the seam blends in.

Patterns and textures play a role in it too. You may need to cut your planks or tiles to get colors and shapes to match up. You’ll have more waste with intricate patterns.

It’s also wise to consider future needs. Extra flooring material will give you a chance to fix and replace damaged areas. Dented hardwood, stained carpet, or ripped or scuffed vinyl will be easy to fix when you have extra material.

How much extra flooring is enough?

As a general rule of thumb, flooring experts recommend:

  • Up to 15 percent extra for ceramic tiles
  • Up to 10 percent extra for vinyl planks
  • Up to 20 percent extra for solid hardwood
  • Up to 15 feet for wall-to-wall carpet

Should You Invest In Extra Flooring?Of course, this is only an estimate. Your situation will determine the exact amount you should buy. A well-versed flooring expert can help you assess your needs. Consider the space you’re installing the flooring, your lifestyle, and the material. In almost every circumstance, homeowners are always grateful to have a little extra rather than running short.

Wastage is normal

With many home improvement materials, you’ll buy just enough to complete the project. Not so with flooring.

While an experienced installer will be efficient when laying your new flooring, there are always obstacles during the process. Wastage is normal.

It comes from the unanticipated problems that happen during installation.

  • There might be a flow in the fibers of the carpet
  • There may be tiles that aren’t a perfect match
  • The grain in wood planks may need shifting and moving
  • The pattern in the vinyl must match up

Unexpected things happen too:

  • A tile drops to the floor and shatters
  • A tile snaps when trying to cut it
  • The surface of the vinyl rips while laying it into place
  • You discover a box of hardwood with a defect

Hardwood has one of the greatest numbers of rejects due to defects. Staining is an inexact science, and depends on the color mix as well as how the hardwood takes to the color. Color change is often noticeable when you place two planks side by side.

What if you run out of flooring material?

While we highly recommend investing in extra flooring material as a part of your original purchase, there may be a time when you run out before you finish your project. There are a few things you can do:

  • Save all flooring material until the end of the project. This gives you scrap pieces to play with as you finish your project. You may find the perfect piece to lay into a corner or closet.
  • Keep the original detail of your flooring at hand. This includes the manufacture date, lot number, color, and model number. You can work with your flooring retailer to see if they have additional material in their storeroom. They can check with the manufacturer or other retailers to see if they can find the same lot.
  • If you can’t find your specific lot number, you can always try and match it up with another lot. In some cases, the colors and patterns may be close enough that it blends well without standing out.
  • If the new material stands out enough to be noticeable, you may have to rethink your flooring and purchase new material. Consider mixing and matching with your existing material to blend it. Or you may have to start over from scratch.

The specifics – what you should know

How much extra flooring material should you buy? It depends.

While we’ve given you a variety of tips to consider, it ultimately depends on the flooring material you’re buying and the project you’re completing.

Carpet usually is sold in 12 foot rolls. That means if you have a 15 foot room, you’ll need a seam somewhere in the room. The grain of the carpet must run the same way or you’ll notice it in the appearance. A knowledgeable carpet installer can make suggestions to ensure a long life, and it doesn’t hinder the way you move throughout the room.

Sheet vinyl is similar to carpet, only it comes in 6 foot rolls. Sheet vinyl has the added need of matching grains, patterns, colors, and textures. It’s important to create a seamless look, and place the seams in places that receive less traffic. A flush seam creates a flawless look.

Tile is often used in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens, so it has a variety of obstacles to go around. You’ll need extra for cutting to place around sinks and toilets, and to wedge underneath vanities. Consider buying extra for breakage during installation.

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What You Need To Know About Broadloom Carpet

Think carpet is waning in popularity? Think again. It currently makes up almost half of the flooring space, and it’s growing.

Is there an advantage to having carpet in some rooms of your home? Of course. It helps warm up a bedroom. It’s soft underfoot in a playroom. And it adds noise control in a media room. Carpet may be the perfect addition to your next remodel.

What is broadloom carpet?

Carpet is sold in two formats: broadloom (wall-to-wall) or tiles. The term “broadloom” comes from the process of a carpet woven on a loom, made big enough to fit inside a room. It’s sold on rolls usually 12 feet wide, but they can also be 13 feet 6 inches, or 15 feet in width.

Historically, people would hand weave carpets on a loom. A loom is a device to aid in weaving carpet, holding fibers in place on one side while fibers going the opposite direction are woven in. As manufacturing took over, they created a broader loom – broadloom – to handle carpet production on a much bigger scale.

Because broadloom is a larger size, more options are available. You’ll find rugs in a variety of shapes and sizes. And you’ll find wall-to-wall carpet in a variety of styles and patterns. Looms today are operated using technology, with precise movements that create some of the most durable, long-lasting carpets available.

What are broadloom textures?

Broadloom carpet is manufactured and sold in large rolls. What it looks like depends on the fiber texture you choose.

Loop – loop carpet is often referred to as Berber. The fibers consist of short loops woven into the carpet backing. Once in place, the loops remain uncut, adding strength for high-traffic situations. You’ll find loop fibers in commercial-grade carpets because of their ability to hide dirt well.

Cut pile – cut pile is most commonly used in residential settings. Cutting fibers make the surface smooth to the touch, giving it a softer feel people like in bedrooms, family rooms, or anywhere where they sit down and play. Its soft texture will leave footprints behind, which makes it less than ideal in high-traffic situations.

Handyman cutting a new carpet with a carpet cutter.

Frieze – while Frieze carpet is a subcategory of cut pile, it adds a twist to the fiber to make it more durable. Many homeowners choose Frieze because it keeps softness while adding durability.

Cut and loop – a cut and loop broadloom carpet combines the features of both cut and loop fibers. As the carpet is manufactured, some fibers remain looped while others are cut. This creates a distinct surface pattern that adds variety and texture to your home. Keep in mind that this texture will need to be matched if you’ll need a larger format carpet.

Installing broadloom carpet

Broadloom is almost always sold to install as wall-to-wall carpet. In residential situations, it sits on top of padding to give it more flexibility and lifespan. In commercial applications, it may be glued into place for added strength.

Broadloom is designed in specific widths. If your room is bigger or smaller than the carpet width, it will need to be fitted into place. Smaller rooms will be trimmed to fit. You’ll have leftover carpet remnants you can keep for emergencies. Larger rooms will have to be seamed together. You may have to purchase extra carpet to ensure the pattern remains throughout the room.

If you want to carpet a small space, you can ask about remnant carpet. Dealers often have extra pieces from the end of the roll that are smaller than the average room.

The benefits of broadloom carpet 

Technological advances have made today’s broadloom carpet some of the best on the market. While the benefits are many, here are a few things to keep in mind as you shop for new carpet.

Stain-resistance – what holds many homeowners back from wanting to install carpet is the possibility of staining it from the moment it’s laid into place. Red wine on a light carpet will be an eye-sore, and be noticeable from the moment it occurs. Today’s technology means the fibers are pretreated with stain-resistance products that won’t soak up liquids when spilled onto the floor. Acting quickly will pull problems away from the fibers before they have a chance to set in. If stain-resistance is a top concern, be sure to bring it up when shopping for carpet.

Eco-friendly – worried about what carpet is doing to the environment? Carpet wears out faster than other types of flooring, making it necessary to replace it more frequently. Manufacturers recognize that, and are doing what they can to produce more sustainable products. Many carpets today are made from recycled plastic bottles or fishing nets, giving you a way to make your home a little greener and reduce your carbon footprint.

Padding – while carpets are built to be softer, stronger, and more durable than ever before, don’t forget it’s the padding that can make your broadloom carpet last even longer. Some carpets take out the step of buying additional padding by having it already attached. Padding cushions the footsteps, gives the fibers extra support, and ensures the fibers can handle all you dish out.

Waterproof – is waterproof a thing? You’ll be pleasantly surprised that waterproof carpet is an option for busy households. These fibers are specially treated to make it easy to blot away any moisture that appears on the surface. The waterproof backing ensures moisture doesn’t soak through the padding and onto the subfloor. This gives you added protection against mold and mildew.

Is broadloom carpet right for you?

Still trying to decide if broadloom carpet is the right choice for you? With so many technological advances, it’s a flooring choice you’ll be proud to bring into your home.

It provides a seamless look for most rooms. Need something bigger than the average roll? Experienced carpet installers do an amazing job of creating a seamless environment.

It also gives you softness you can’t find in any other flooring. That makes it the perfect choice for bedrooms or media rooms. It helps insulate it from cold, and stops sound from traveling throughout the room.

Are you convinced broadloom carpet is the right choice for you? Stop by today and see our complete selection.

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3 Flooring Options That Work Well With Modern Home Design

What does your dream home look like?

One simple question. Yet it floods your mind with ideas.

For many, they see a modern home design with clean lines, natural materials, and neutral color palettes that make you enter and say: ahhh. It takes advantage of natural light, letting it stream in and wash over the room nicely. It’s all about an open concept with as few walls as possible, letting furniture lead the way to each space.

Are you starting to see your dream home come alive? If you’re in the planning stages of a home remodel, taking modern home design as your queue, the best to start is by considering your flooring options. It’s what gives you structure to build and plan the rest of your home.

What is modern style? 

When you start doing your research on style, it’s easy to get confused. Modern, contemporary, mid-century – what’s the difference?

Modern style refers to a designated time period. It began early in the 20th century, influencing modern design and architecture for decades. The original style was influential around the turn of the century as we moved into the industrialization period. Mid-century changed looks and patterns, referring to the 40s to 60s. Contemporary refers to modern day. It doesn’t refer to any specific era because it’s constantly evolving, always changing.

3 Flooring Options That Work Well With Modern Home DesignModern home style is built around a specific era. It includes Art Deco, modernism, and minimalism. Contemporary is influenced by everything around us. It may take a few modern elements, and sprinkle them with today’s lifestyle. Contemporary doesn’t mind adding copper or chrome, adding stainless steel, and mixing natural furnishings with a pop of color.

Do today’s homeowners mix a little of both into something they truly love? Of course.

What many homeowners prefer is to start with flooring options, use a modern approach, then mix and match their furnishings to create a look they love.

3 modern flooring options you’ll love

Ask a designer what flooring options encompass a modern design, and you’ll likely hear three types: hardwood, tile, and carpet.

Hardwood

Hardwood is often the flooring of choice because of its natural aesthetics and earthy color palette. When you shop for hardwood, you’ll find an array of options all built around what modern style calls for. You can mix hardwood flooring with virtually any furnishings you choose and create a home and a lifestyle that works well in all circumstances.

Modern hardwood doesn’t mean standard shades. What gives it a modern appearance is its sleek lines and classic good looks. Want to go light – try whitewash. Prefer dark – how about mahogany? How you define your modern style home is entirely up to you. Still, one of the most common hardwood looks is a light, natural wood floor, from light oak to a warm honey wood, where you can see the natural grain that shows off its classic good looks.

While we say hardwood here, a lot has changed in the flooring industry. Do you love hardwood’s classic looks, but know it will never work with your lifestyle? There are still many options for you to choose from that wear differently from traditional hardwood.

Engineered hardwood adds strength and durability by using a hardwood veneer on top of a durable core.

Laminate provides an economical option that gives you the look and feel of traditional hardwood at a budget-friendly price.

Luxury vinyl planks mimic traditional hardwood in a believable way, yet offer waterproof qualities that make sense for some homeowners.

How about porcelain tile planks designed to mimic hardwood, yet give the functionality of stone? It’s growing in popularity for those who want indoor/outdoor living. It works well with radiant heating too.

Tile

Because modern style incorporates natural materials into its aesthetics, tile tops the list for many modern home designs. Tile creates clean, beautiful lines that work well in any situation.

https://pro-flooring.com/using-the-perfect-tile-for-every-room-in-your-home/

What’s more, you’ll find an almost unlimited supply of tile options. Have something specific in mind? You can create it with tile.

Natural stone is a good place to start. You’ll find natural stone tile flooring is simple and minimalist, leaving an open color palette for the rest of your decor.

While most choose to go with a smooth tile look, you’ll be able to choose from many types, including slate, marble, limestone, travertine, granite, and sandstone. Each has its own characteristics and durability features – shop around to find the best solution to suit your needs.

If you’re thinking of small, square tiles, you’ll be surprised at what’s available. Today’s manufacturers offer a world of options for you to choose from. How about tile planks that resemble hardwood? It gives you the look of traditional hardwood with the effortless maintenance of tile.

Or maybe you’re ready to go big and bold. Large format tiles offer more tile, less grout. With thin grout lines between large tiles, it gives a seamless look that emphasizes natural beauty.

Carpet

Before you settle on one of the previous two choices, don’t forget about carpet as you finalize your selection. Carpet is still one of the most popular flooring choices because of its looks, comfort, and warmth.

To stick with modern floor design, think of natural materials, simple color palettes, and low pile.

In modern design, you’ll find low-pile carpet that creates seamless transitions from room to room.

Stick with natural colors – earth-toned carpet that’s beige, gray, or brown. It provides a neutral baseline for which you can liven up the room with your furnishings and decor.

If you choose to stick with hardwood and tile, area rugs can soften up the look, and provide warmth to a room. Modern area rugs move towards natural materials such as wool or jute. Leave the color in other decor – stick with natural beiges or grays, with light patterns and textures that help take the stress away.

What’s the right modern style flooring option for you?

With so many choices to consider, sticking close to your style is your first step. Think clean. Think minimalist. Think natural and beautiful.

What’s the right flooring option for you? Only you can decide. No matter which you choose, you’ll love the look. 

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