Ben Larrabee, Author at PRO! Flooring

Flooring
August 21, 2021

Are Natural Rugs Good For Wood Floors?

When you install hardwood floors into your home, you’re making an investment into your future. Hardwood floors can last years – decades – making them something that can grow and change with you as you change out your decor.

Want to sell in the future? Not a problem. They continue to be one of the most in-demand flooring materials requested by homebuyers.

But if you have hardwood floors, to make them last, you have to care for them. Adding area rugs, especially to high traffic areas, can give them the protection they need. Plus, area rugs are a great way to bring a pop of color to your room, and add warmth and sophistication depending on which rug you choose.

That’s where you might get stuck. What type of area rug should you get? Are natural rugs good for wood floors? Does it matter?

Area rugs are used to protect the wood floors underneath. Get the wrong rug, and it could damage the wood and leave your floors marred.

What should you do?

Read on for a guide to help you select the right rug for your home.

Types of rugs

When you start shopping for an area rug, you’ll find they come in every shape, size, and material you can imagine.

The first place to start is by measuring your space. Are you looking for an accent in front of the kitchen sink, for example? Or are you looking for a large rug in the dining room, one to accent a dining room table built for a dozen people?

As you start to shop, it’s easy to focus on the size and the color. Those two items will ultimately determine how your finished room will appear. However, don’t ignore materials. The fiber used to create the rug is what adds longevity and functionality into your space.

Natural rug fibers offer something synthetic fibers don’t – they are created using natural materials.

Synthetic fibers may tout durability and state they add flexibility in the way the rug will handle over the years. Yet with synthetic rugs, you do need to watch what the material is made from. If it’s made from rigid plastic backing, it can easily scratch your hardwood floors.

Natural fibers are more flexible. They are made from natural fibers and often are interwoven with natural backing materials to make the entire rug easy to use and care for.

Jute

Jute is a popular choice in the natural rug category. It comes in earthy tones and can be woven into a variety of shapes and patterns. Jute isn’t known for softness, however. It’s maintenance-free, meaning you won’t need much work to keep it clean. But the stiffness of the fiber won’t feel good on your toes as you step out of bed in the morning.

For that reason, you’ll usually find homeowners placing jute rugs in places like hallways or foyers. Just be sure it has a softer, rubber backing, or you use a high-quality rug pad underneath to keep it in place and keep your hardwood floors safe from scratching.

Sisal

Sisal is another natural fiber that looks good and satisfies homeowners’ desires to stay with a natural fiber. Sisal is known to be strong, durable, and affordable. It’s an environmentally friendly material that comes from the Agave Sisalana plant. It comes in rustic tones, and makes a good addition to your home.

Sisal will hold up well to foot traffic. It’s a popular choice in hallways, entryways, and mudrooms. But like Jute, it isn’t soft to the touch, and isn’t something you choose to get down and lay or play on. Pay attention to the backing to ensure it stays safe on your hardwood floors.

Cotton

Cotton is known as a soft material that works for a variety of things, including area rugs. They aren’t known for their durability, but they do make fun additions to a room by being able to add a pop of color. Cotton rugs are usually pliable, can be easily cleaned, and in some cases can be thrown into the washing machine. Just be sure you pay attention to the backing or rug pad, as cotton can also be slippery when laid on hardwood flooring. It’ll be soft to the touch in the bedroom, but you don’t want to slide as you get up out of bed.

Wool

Wool may not be as budget-friendly as the other fibers listed above, but if you want a rug that wears well and will be a part of your home’s decor for years to come, you can’t go wrong with wool. They are a perfect way to bring texture and warmth to any room in your home.

Wool rugs have natural stain resistance, and can be a welcome addition to any place in your home. They’ll feel good underfoot as you hop out of bed in the morning, and handle well in living spaces where they receive a lot of foot traffic.

Silk

At the high end of the marketplace are silk rugs. In many cases, homeowners invest in silk rugs for their beauty rather than durability or practicality. They’ve been around for centuries, and well easily stand the test of time with proper maintenance. It gives any room a luxurious look and feel.

You’ll also find silk is often mixed with other fibers such as wool. That increases the price tag, but can create truly beautiful works of art.

Where to place area rugs

Wherever you have hardwood flooring is the perfect place to bring in an area rug. The reason they are in such high demand is because of their versatility.

You can put them to work – they can help keep your floors looking good if you use them in the kitchen or in an entryway.

You can use them for functionality – in a dining room, underneath the table is a great place to protect your floors from messes.

You can also use them for design – a gorgeous area rug will compliment your decor and high-end furnishings, just choose the perfect natural fibers for you.

It’s easy to get pulled in by color and size. More importantly, pay attention to the fibers used.

Fibers dictate longevity and how well the rug will function overall. Choose wisely, and you’ll bring in a great addition to your home that will last for years to come.

Area Rugs
August 17, 2021

The Difference Between Cheap and Expensive Rugs

Nothing adds flair to a home like accessories do. It’s an easy way to add your personality, bring in a pop of color, yet do so on a budget.

In today’s world, you can find anything with any budget in mind. Order online – they offer free shipping. Shop at your local big box store – do they have a deal for you.

But is it really a deal? If you want a new rug for your home, what constitutes quality? What’s the real difference between cheap and expensive rugs?

If you’re in the market for a new rug, it’s something you want to wear well and last for the foreseeable future. You don’t want it to look bad almost from the moment you bring it into your home. Cutting corners and going with the wrong rug may leave you sorry from the moment you bring it home.

Yet what’s the difference? How do you know a rug is high quality versus a rug that is inferior?

Shape and appearance

The most obvious way to tell the difference is by looking at it. You’ll be able to see the difference. Low quality rugs have irregularities or even flaws in the way they are crafted. The sides may be uneven, causing a square or rectangular rug to appear a bit lopsided. It may curl on the ends. You can even see it in the fibers.

High quality rugs are built to last. They lay flat and evenly on the floor. The edges won’t curl up or appear uneven when it’s laid into place. You can even tell it in the colors – choose a lower quality rug and it isn’t created from high quality fibers. That means it’ll wash out quickly as the sun seeps through your windows.

Quality … or quantity?

Some of it also comes in knowing your personal style. Do you replace rugs with every new season? Or do you want furnishings that stand the test of time? With cheap rugs, you’ll be replacing them regularly. In short periods of time, they’ll show their wear, start to curl at the edges, and become problematic rather than giving your home value.

High quality rugs ensure they’ll last for years. Discoloration won’t take place, it’ll wear well no matter how much your family dishes out, and will be easy to care for. Vacuuming won’t pull at the fibers, and you’ll be able to clean it without destroying the rug.

Craftsmanship

A lot of rugs today are made in the factory. It’s mass production, rolling them out as quickly as they can. You’ll find these in big box stores, wrapped up and available in large quantities to the public. Everything about them was created for fast production, short life, and a way to increase sales.

A high quality rug is built to last by people that care about the product they’re creating. Rug making is a craft. People who make them tend to believe they are creating a work of art as opposed to just another rug.

The skill level of the rug maker, the rug-making process, and how long it takes from beginning to end will ultimately determine how much the rug goes for on the market. For handmade rugs, hand-knotted rugs are at the top of the list for quality. Hand knotting takes the longest for full production over flat-weaving or hand-tufting.

Flat-weaving uses a loom to weave fibers into intricate patterns and details. Hand-tufting is a process somewhere in between, where a craftsman uses a rug tool to push the threads back and forth through the backing to create the finalized product.

A machine-created rug will have a lot less character than higher quality rugs, and won’t bring the personality into your room in the same manner.

Color fading

What makes a rug look old before its time? Fading. You may have purchased the rug because of its bright colors and intricate designs, but will you be as pleased with it when the color fades away?

Fiber color is one of the easiest ways manufacturers use to cut costs. If they use lower quality dyes, they can lower production costs and increase profits. They also justify it in that it creates a more consumable market. If you have to replace your rug every year, it means more chance at vying for your business for them.

This isn’t just about vibrant colors. It impacts white rugs too. If the right color isn’t used, white can turn dingy, yellowing quickly as it adjusts to your home. You’ll quickly wonder where your white rug went.

Durability

We’ve mentioned it before, but it’s worth talking about again. Cheap rugs aren’t built to last. They use synthetic fibers that are cheap to make and inexpensive to use. But they aren’t built to last. They aren’t soft, are coarser to the touch, and have fibers that break down quickly. It’ll show in the appearance in a very short time.

You’ll also notice the edges fray, they curl up and cause tripping hazards. This can be dangerous at best, especially in high traffic areas.

Character and personality

Homeowners often look for ways to bring their own personality into their homes. They want quality, furnishings that last and look good in the process. Imagine putting one-of-a-kind sofas and chairs on top of a mass-produced rug that’s fraying on the sides. The two don’t match.

Cheap rugs may have a temporary purpose. If you’re looking to create a fun space in a hurry, one that’s designed with a specific purpose in mind, a cheap rug may be the way to go.

But if you’re looking for longevity, you want this to be a part of your home’s furnishings for years to come, you won’t find that in a cheap rug.

For a high quality rug, you’re going to have to pay the price. Expensive rugs might seem like a good place to cut back on your home decor, but you’ll be sorry in the short run. High quality wins every time, especially if you’re building a home you can enjoy for years to come.

Carpet, Flooring
August 14, 2021

What’s The Difference Between Rugs and Carpet?

Depending on the community you grew up in, you might use the terms carpet and rug interchangeably.

If you look up the words in the Oxford dictionary, rug is defined: a floor covering of thick woven material or animal skin, typically not extending over the entire floor.

Look up the word carpet, and it’s defined as: a floor or stair covering made from thick woven fabric, typically shaped to fit a particular room.

For many in the flooring and design business, the differences come from moveability. Rugs can be picked up and moved around freely. Carpet is tacked down and is meant to stay in place within a particular room.

The term rug seems to have a Scandinavian origin. The word was first used somewhere around the 15th century, and typically described a small floor covering no longer than six and a half feet. One of their most tell-tale characteristics includes being bound at the edges. It is also free to move around for transportation and maintenance.

The term carpet comes from Latin, being used the first time in English around the 13th century. Its translation means “coarse cloth” or “tablecloth”, where it remained until the 15th century when it moved permanently to being used as a floor covering. Carpets are usually characterized by their size, the fact that they can be stretched into place, and once installed, are fixed in one place.

Which one is best for you?

The pros and cons of rugs

When you think of home design as modern, artistic, with a touch of personality, rugs automatically pop into the picture. That’s because the sky’s the limit when it comes to what is possible with rug design.

Because they are smaller in size, artists can be more creative. Bright colors, vivid patterns, and even different shapes can all play into your decor. Instead of being the base for a room design, rugs can actually be a part of the decor.

Since they are smaller in size, they are easier to clean and maintain. Spilling red wine may still cause a problem, but in general, the smaller size makes it easier to react quickly. If it’s washable, you can throw it into the wash. You can pick it up and bring it to a professional cleaner where they can work on the stain.

This isn’t good just for the occasional party stain. It’s good for deep cleaning too. Rugs sit on the floor, which means they’re more prone to picking up things like dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and other contaminants your family tracks in. Whatever enters usually settles on the floor. That can include dirt, grime, even mildew over time. With a rug, you have the ability to move it around and clean it in the best way suitable for your needs.

Want even more flexibility with your decor? Prefer to change out the look and feel based on seasons or holidays? Rugs make it easy. Move a few pieces of furniture aside, lay down the new rug, and you have an entirely new look and feel inside your home! It can be a fun and inexpensive way to add variety and pizzazz to your home’s decor.

While the benefits of using rugs inside your home are many, there are a few downsides as well.

Because rugs aren’t tacked into place, they are more likely to be a tripping hazard. This is where quality comes into play. It can also be a problem for the elderly, or for people with mobility issues.

You’ll never get the same look you can achieve with wall to wall carpet. If you want softness and warmth, carpet can’t be beaten.

Rugs are also better suited for colors and patterns. Why get a rug with neutral tones … leave that for carpet.

The pros and cons of carpet

The great news with carpet is it looks good in many rooms throughout your home. Want warmth in the bedroom? Look no further than carpet. Want softness in a kid’s playroom? Carpet is the perfect choice.

Homeowners turn to carpet for many reasons. Here are just a few.

First up, carpet is a good floor covering when you have small imperfections with your subfloor. Have a subfloor that isn’t quite level? Looking to hide imperfections? Carpet maybe your choice. That’s because it’s secured to the floor with glue, cement, or tacking, with thick padding located underneath. This padding is designed to increase longevity, provide softness, and provide support as you walk across. Slight changes in the subfloor won’t be noticed with this flexible material.

Carpet also has an ability to tie the look and feel of your rooms together. It can create unity throughout your home as one solid color flows from room to room. And because homeowners tend to stick with more neutral colors, it can be a good base for whatever personality you want to instill into the space. Whatever your color theme, whatever your personal color palette, today’s carpet manufacturers have designed something you’re sure to fall in love with.

Carpeting also provides warmth to your home. If you’ve ever stepped on cold tile on a winter morning, you’ll appreciate being able to dig your toes into the warmth of carpet fibers. It also has the ability to hold warmth closer to feet level, meaning you’ll be more comfortable overall.

Want noise reduction? Carpet provides that too. That can be especially important in multilevel homes where you spend a lot of time on all levels. Hard surfaces can cause echoing, meaning the noise can filter to all levels. With small children who sleep at various hours, or adults that work night hours, this can impact your daily behavior.

Carpet isn’t without a few cons. One of the biggest issues is the ability to clean it. You can’t pick it up and throw it into the washer. That means when spills occur, acting quickly will be your best course of action. Carpet on the floors may alter your behavior. You’ll have to vacuum and clean it more often. It may even cause you to restrict certain activities from taking place – outside parties instead of inside gatherings.

If you want natural products, and have a concern for eco-friendly choices, you’ll have to pay attention to the fibers you select for your carpet. Off-gassing can be a concern with synthetic materials. Work with a flooring dealer if you’re looking for a safe, natural carpet.

Thinking of changing up your flooring? Will you add a new rug, or is new carpet more your style? Either way, both give you creative ways to add color, style, and personality to your home. In the end, whichever you choose, you’ll love the results.

Carpet
August 10, 2021

Pros and Cons of Wool Carpet

Whether you’re building a new house, or remodeling one you’ve lived in for years, the best place to start is from the ground up.

Flooring is the starting point for most interior projects. Without a good base, your room won’t function as you had hoped. Without the proper flooring in place, you may be disappointed with the results.

For many homeowners, carpet is the most logical choice. While people across the Front Range prefer hardwood for living spaces, carpet is still one of the leading flooring choices for other rooms throughout the home. Carpet still accounts for over 48 percent of the flooring market, making it a great choice for your needs.

If you’ve decided to purchase carpet, the first choice you’ll make is type. A quick search brings up many options: acrylic, nylon, polyester, wool. If wool carpet has shot to the top of your list, congratulations. It’s a great choice for people looking for green options, wanting a natural flooring choice, and are truly looking to invest in luxury carpet.

If you’re ready to dive a little deeper and learn more about wool carpet, let’s look at the reasons to keep this natural material at the top of your list.

What are the advantages of wool carpet?

Durability

Before you consider wool as an option, think about all the things you demand from carpet. Chances are durability tops the list.

Once installed, we want it to last for a long time, and to look good in the process. The last thing we want is buyer’s remorse almost from the moment we install it.

Wool carpet is manufactured from short lengths of wool taken from sheep. Think of all wool goes through – it protects sheep from the heat of summer and the coldest days of winter. It’s hardy no matter what conditions sheep face out in the fields. When converted to fiber, those same factors continue forward as they are turned into fiber.

Because wool fiber has a naturally coiled structure, it maintains well over time. Synthetic fibers try to imitate it, but they can only duplicate it for so long. That’s one of the biggest reasons wool carpet can last for decades if properly cared for, while synthetic carpet has a much shorter lifespan.

Wool carpet also handles better under pressure. Have lots of heavy furniture that will sit on top? See lots of foot traffic throughout your home? Wool carpet bounces back time after time. It springs back continually, and retains its original qualities much longer.

Cleanability

One of the biggest things homeowners worry about when it comes to carpet is how easy it is to maintain. If it attracts dirt, is easily stained, and is difficult to keep clean, carpet can become an eyesore quickly.

If you’ve ever had those thoughts, push them aside if you invest in wool carpet. Sure, it will require regular maintenance. Vacuuming periodically will ensure it always looks good and stays clean. An occasional steam clean (according to manufacturer’s guidelines) will pull the deep dirt up, and ensure your carpet continually looks good.

Homeowners enjoy the lasting results of wool carpet because it holds its color well. It also fades less than with other carpet materials such as nylon. That means if it occasionally gets hit with the Colorado sunshine, you’ll have less chance of the color fading over time. That makes sense when you think about the chemical makeup of wool. It’s a protein-based molecular structure that readily accepts color and holds it well. You’ll find wool carpets in a wider range of colors and patterns, giving them the highest level of aesthetic appeal you’ll find on the market.

Environmentally friendly

The reason more homeowners turn to wool carpet than any other is because of its natural qualities. Wool is an effective insulator – sheep do well in all kinds of weather. Wool’s insulating properties will be noticeable no matter where it’s installed. In winter, it’ll hold heat closer to the floor, making you feel warmer. It also naturally absorbs water vapor from the air, which helps with moderate indoor humidity, which naturally occurs in the summer as you run your air conditioner.

Here in Colorado, that also gives you an added benefit of wool’s moisture absorption properties – it reduces static electricity. If you’re tired of feeling those static shocks in this dry climate, wool carpet may be the perfect choice for your home.

It’s also biodegradable and recyclable. That means when it’s reached the end of its lifecycle, it won’t end up as long in the landfill like other carpeting choices.

Flame-resistant

In case you need even more advantages for making wool carpeting your choice, consider it’s also naturally flame-resistant. It has a higher ignition point than other materials, which is the temperature where it combusts and burns. That makes it less of a risk factor than synthetic options. If matches, cigarettes, sparks, wood-burning, or other factors are a part of your home, this pushes wool carpet to the top of the list. You’ll often find wool carpet in commercial applications like airports and casinos because of this feature.

What are the disadvantages of wool carpet?

Sold on wool carpet? Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s important to understand the few disadvantages it has.

Cost

The biggest issue for some homeowners is cost. Wool carpet is priced according to the source of wool. Overall, that puts it at the higher end of the spectrum. It typically costs twice as much as synthetic carpet such as nylon and polyester.

Cleaning

While wool carpets have a lot of advantages for clean up, it is important to note that the messier the spill, the more it can sink into wool carpet. Oily or greasy spills can quickly penetrate the fibers, and once there, be there permanently. It’s important to jump on all spills immediately to ensure they don’t set and be there for life.

Shedding

Wool fiber tends to shed over time. Wool is woven into yarn that ultimately creates carpet pile. These short strands lie on top of the carpet, and can be easy to catch as your kids play, pets run across it, or you move heavy items back and forth. That can cause piling, which can accumulate quickly if you don’t pick it up. Luckily, a lint roller will easily remove them, but it can cause you additional work.

Is wool carpet a good investment? Yes. We consider wool carpet to be the top of the line luxury carpet you can bring into your home.

How long will a wool carpet last? When well cared for, wool carpet can last for decades.

Are those reasons enough for you to push wool carpet to the top of your list?

Flooring
August 7, 2021

With So Many Options, Is Laminate Still a Good Choice?

These days, if you decide you want to install wood flooring in your home, you have a lot of options. You’ll find row after row of traditional hardwood in all sorts of sizes, colors, and styles.

You’ll also find something more. Luxury vinyl tile now comes in planks you can drop into place, click together, and have a do it yourself floor in a matter of hours. Take a look at porcelain tile – yep, it’s also mimicking hardwood flooring.

It’s everywhere.

It can also leave you confused.

When you initially started shopping, you were sold on the benefits of laminate flooring. Is it still something to consider? Is laminate a good choice for today’s home?

What is laminate flooring

What made laminate a popular flooring choice in the past still holds true today. Laminate flooring looks like hardwood, but offers you many other benefits, including easy maintenance and an affordable cost.

Laminate flooring looks like hardwood planks. But instead of being crafted from solid wood, laminate is created in several layers and fused together for durability.

Wear layer – this top layer provides strong protection against all your family can dish out including stains, scratches, and fading.
Design layer – this can either be a thin veneer or a high-resolution photograph that mimics the hardwood styles you love.
Inner core layer – this provides stability, durability, sound absorption, and moisture resistance. It’s made from a high-density wood fiberboard.
Bottom layer – the backing layer, it offers protection against moisture, damage, and warping.

In general, you’ll find laminate flooring comes in two separate types.

Engineered wood – laminate is often referred to as engineered wood because of the multiple layers pressed together to create one board. The core layers can be as many as twelve layers of fiberboard pressed together for strength. The veneer, or top layer, is a very thin piece of natural wood that gives it its classic good looks. The term engineered comes from creating a plank with the looks of traditional hardwood, yet pressed together with many other benefits that can give you durability and longevity without the high price. Depending on how thick the top layer determines how many times you can sand and refinish the floor.

Plastic laminate – unlike engineered wood, plastic laminate is completely created in the lab, with the design layer being a photograph to mimic the look of natural wood. The other layers closely resemble those used in creating engineered laminate.

Thanks to technology, laminate looks closer to the real thing than ever before. But it does so at a fraction of the price. It’s tougher, easier to maintain, and resists things like scratches and dents. That makes it a good choice for busy families with pets and kids. Its lower cost also means you won’t worry as much about the action that occurs throughout your home.

What to consider when choosing laminate

When a lot of people think of laminate, they remember stories from years before when it had a hollow sound. Technological advances have made high-quality laminate even better than it was before. Of course, that means you’ll have to wade through the products to find the best laminate your money can buy.

There are several things to consider when selecting high-quality laminate.

Purpose

Especially here in Colorado, hardwood tops the list of flooring choices for homeowners. But if you’ve owned hardwood before, or are leery because of what you’ve been reading about hardwood’s upkeep, laminate might be a better choice for you. Because of its multi-layer design, it gives you the look of hardwood with better wear factors. That means it’s a good choice for all the rooms in your home. If you haven’t had good luck with hardwood in your basement, for example, (and hardwood is rarely recommended for basement settings), you’re going to love the look of laminate flooring.

Location

What makes hardwood difficult to maintain in places like the kitchen or basement gives laminate a distinct advantage. When selecting laminate, be sure to read all manufacturer’s guidelines based on the location you’ll be installing it in. Often, it requires a certain underlayment to give it added durability and strength.

You can also look for laminate products exclusively made for high traffic areas. Look for the terms “high pressure” and “direct pressure” laminate. Direct pressure laminate is created from four layers used together with anywhere from 300 to 600 pounds of pressure. High pressure adds a fifth layer of craft paper treated with a resin that increases the strength. This makes it even more durable in high traffic situations, and makes it suitable even for commercial applications.

Thickness

You’ll find laminate comes in a variety of thicknesses, usually between 7mm and 12mm thick. If you select thicker laminate, it does a better job covering uneven areas in your floor, and creates a texture and feel of real hardwood. Thicker is also better for sound absorbing qualities. Word of caution: some manufacturers state the thickness of their flooring by including the underlayment, while others do not. Keep this in mind when comparing two floorings.

AC rating

Laminate flooring also comes with an AC rating (Abrasion Criteria) to help you determine the durability of the product. AC ratings are from 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest. You’ll find most residential laminate applications come with an AC rating of 3 or 4. A 3 would make it suitable for busy areas of your home, including the kitchen, while a 4 rating will add extra stability, making it more sustainable for places like bathrooms and the basement. A rating of 1 or 2 should be used in light traffic areas such as bedrooms.

Installation

While hardwood can be fussier with the installation process, you’ll find laminate is easier to install. Have a do it yourself attitude? You can easily install laminate, especially if you pick a floating floor with click-and-lock technology that makes snapping planks into place a breeze. Remember, laminate does need an underlayment unless the flooring comes preinstalled with an underlayment layer in place. You will need a saw for edgework and ensuring all planks fit comfortably into place.

Are you ready for laminate flooring installed in your home? Depending on your needs, it can still be the perfect choice for every room in your home.

Tile Floors
August 4, 2021

Don’t Buy Ceramic Tile Before Considering This

Deciding what flooring to install inside your home can be a challenging task. But if you’ve settled on ceramic tile, the decisions have only begun.

Ceramic tile is a popular choice for today’s homes. It’s durable, easy to clean and maintain, and can give any room a fresh new look. Plus, you’ll find endless opportunities when you start making your final decisions. The designs, styles, shapes, textures, and colors available can match any decor.

What is ceramic tile?

Ceramic tile is one of those concepts we’ve all heard of, yet when you try to define it, you might be puzzled.

Ceramics are traditionally made from clay. You might be familiar with it when shopping for dishes, pots, or other earthenware. It’s created by baking or firing clay in a kiln. (As a side note, ceramic tiles are fired at 1400 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to porcelain tile, which is created at 2300 degrees.)

Today’s ceramics are made from a formula of water, sand, and clay. When combined with grout, which is placed between the tiles when they are laid into place, it can create a hard surface that provides years of enjoyment.

You’ll find ceramic tile comes in two major categories: quarry tile, which uses natural clay or shale pulled from the earth, and a handcrafted tile made by compacting clay dust.

Ceramic tile also comes in different grades:

Grade 1 – usually placed on walls

Grade 2 – used for residential flooring

Grade 3 – used for light to moderate foot traffic

Grade 4 – for commercial use

Grade 5 – for heavy foot traffic

Of course, you can mix and match, depending on your desires. Installing a commercial grade tile in your home may provide better results, especially if you have an active household. When in doubt, talk to one of our sales associates who can help you finalize your decision.

What does ceramic tile look like?

Because ceramic tile can take on any look, and is available in many different formats, it’s often one of the best choices for your home. Having trouble agreeing on what flooring to install in your home? Often, homeowners can agree that ceramic tile is the perfect way to blend everyone’s needs and desires.

That’s because ceramic tile manufacturers can create almost any look when developing the finalized product. Circles, squares, hexagons – you’ll find many shapes. While the majority is square or rectangular, if you have something special in mind, we can help you find it.

In some places, like the bathroom – you may choose to create elaborate designs with small mosaic tile. For use in main area living spaces, why not try one of the latest design trends and use large tiles. Ceramic tiles come in standard 6, 8, or 10 inch squares, or try large sizes like 12×24, 24×24, or even 12×48 inch tiles. Each creates a unique look in your area, depending on your wishes.

What about ceramic tile types?

Not every ceramic tile is meant for use as flooring. Pay attention to the type to determine how well it will wear. Typically you’ll find ceramic tile labeled as:

Glazed – glazed tiles are coated with a protective finish to protect the design underneath. They can be shiny and glossy, or come with a matte finish perfectly paired for natural stone designs. Glossy may be chic and perfect for wall designs, while a matte finish may work better in larger spaces and for flooring.

Wall tiles – this is where you’ll find perfect choices for showers, backsplashes, and other accents throughout your home. You’ll find your most variety in wall tiles because they can add personality anywhere you desire a pop of color. They are more fragile than other tiles, and can’t handle daily wear on the floor.

Floor tiles – these are specifically designed for use on the floor. Usually with a matte finish, they provide anti-slip qualities that make them function well over time.

It’s important to note the composition of the finish. This will tell you how well the tile will handle in different situations, which can be especially important in kitchens, baths, and other areas where moisture might be a problem.

Tile density will give you an idea of the strength – how well it handles under pressure.

Moisture absorption refers to the amount of moisture the tile can absorb. A dense tile repels rather than absorbs moisture. This indirect relationship determines what tile is best in each situation in your home.

Non-Vitreous – these are tiles that absorb 7 percent of more moisture. They handle well in indoor situations
Semi-Vitreous – they absorb from 3 to 7 percent moisture. They are for indoor use only.
Vitreous – they absorb less than 3 percent. They are frost-resistant, but cannot handle extreme conditions, which may cause them to crack.
Impervious – they have less than .5 percent moisture absorption, and can be used outside.

What’s underneath the tile

When you select your flooring, it’s good to keep in mind that all flooring sits on top of a subfloor, and will only do as well as the subfloor was designed.

Very rarely are subfloors “perfect.” It’s hard to make them level, or create a perfect place for flooring to reside. Depending on what is underneath ceramic tile can cause a hollow sound. This does not impact the integrity of the tile. But it can impact the sound quality, especially in larger rooms.

Because tile is often considered a “cold” flooring, here in the Rocky Mountains it’s a perfect choice to combine with radiant heating. It conducts heat well, warms up quickly, and is a perfect way to heat your home from the ground up. Many homeowners wouldn’t have anything else in their bathrooms because of ease of use. If you’ve been thinking of expanding these qualities to other rooms in your home, this may be the perfect reason to do so. You’ll love the results.

Is ceramic tile the perfect choice for your home?

Now maybe the right choice to make the change, and bring ceramic tiles into your home. They look good in any room, can add ambiance and classic good looks in a wide array of sizes, colors, and shapes.

Is ceramic tile right for you?

Flooring
July 28, 2021

Understanding Rigid Core Flooring

Are you on the hunt for new flooring for your home? Most homeowners start out with a list of features they’re looking for. Your’s may look like this.

You want:

A beautiful floor
One that wears well with all your family can dish out
One that’s easy to care for
Adds value to your home
And won’t look shabby just a few weeks after being installed

You’re not sold on hardwood. Carpet is off the list. But what else is there?

Maybe it’s time to learn more about rigid core flooring.

What is rigid core flooring?

Rigid core flooring is an engineered vinyl floor that has enhanced construction for durability and stability. A rigid core will be a solid plank with less pliability, and provides more strength when installed underfoot. It’s an improved version of the traditional vinyl flooring you may have grown up with.

Think of it as marrying vinyl and wood flooring together to give you a dynamic flooring product you’ll be proud to display in your home.

When you start shopping for rigid core, you’ll find manufacturers carry several different rigid core vinyls. The difference is in the construction.

WPC – wood plastic composite

If you’re still in love with hardwood, yet want something that will stand up better to wear and tear, WPS rigid core flooring may be the solution. WPC vinyl uses wood pulp, plasticizers, and a foaming agent to create a waterproof core built for strength and stability.

WPC is fabricated into a multitude of looks and designs, making it design friendly based on your needs. It has an easy click into place installation that is perfect for the DIY market.

WPC is also one of the most budget-friendly vinyl floorings on the market. If you’re thinking of sheet vinyl to save on costs, take a look at WPC – the options may be just what you’re looking for.

SPC – stone plastic composite

Think of SPC as a step up from WPC. It’s engineered luxury vinyl that combines limestone and stabilizers to create an extremely durable flooring option. It offers a 100 percent waterproof option, and combines it with a sturdy core that holds up well to scratches, dents, and other daily wear marks.

SPC has a sturdier core, which gives it an advantage if your home undergoes a lot of changes during the year. Do you have a damp, cold basement in the winter months, followed by a hot humid location in the summer? SPC stands up to it all and looks great in the process.

SPC also has a dense core and thickness, meaning it offers comfort if you stand on your feet all day. Pay attention to the core, and you’ll find one with an upgraded comfort factor that will give you noise control at the same time.

Hybrid – this has been produced with laminate and vinyl features

Manufacturers are constantly moving new products to market. As they develop new materials that are stronger, more durable, and look better than previous flooring products, they introduce them as a new option for your home decorating needs.

One of the latest technologies is a hybrid vinyl flooring. It gives you what you love about laminate, married with the best attributes of vinyl.

You’ll find hybrid rigid core often has a commercial grade wear layer that is scratch resistant and can stand up to high traffic situations.

The design layer is the same realistic layer you’ll get with laminate, and can be upgraded to both classic and exotic looks. Love scraped hardwood? Not a problem with hybrid rigid core.

It also comes with a waterproof core, giving you flexibility in where it’s installed.

Is rigid core vinyl flooring good?

It’s vinyl. Still having trouble with that concept? A lot of homeowners start out that way when they first start researching rigid core flooring.

And we get it. If you grew up with traditional vinyl flooring, it’s hard to move past that traditional sheet vinyl mentality.

Rigid core vinyl flooring is nothing like its predecessor. It’s emerged as one of the leading flooring choices in residential and commercial applications. In fact, today’s rigid core can mimic wood, stone, and other flooring products so closely, even experts have to take another look to see that it’s not “real.”

You get the look you desire, without having to sacrifice on ease of use. Who wants a beautiful floor when you have to spend time each day keeping it that way?

Rigid core flooring gives you the benefits of both. And it does it very well.

If you’re looking for traditional flooring – hardwood or stone, classic looks that stand the test of time – you won’t be disappointed. You’ll find many representations from a variety of manufacturers.

Maybe you want to change things up – how about exotic hardwood? You’ll have choices here too. How about an African acacia, or a Brazilian tigerwood? The variations in the wood will leave you breathless. And what’s even better is you won’t have to chop down a tree to achieve it. Hardwood is harvested from resources that can take decades to produce. But because rigid core is created using manufacturing processes, it doesn’t put environmental concerns at risk.

If you love a more rustic look, you’ll find that too. Hand-scraped, reclaimed, or brushed looks are easy to find when you look at rigid core.

It even goes a step beyond and offers you the look of stone – without the weight or the cost. In fact, you can find just about any look you desire. The latest concrete look can be achieved easily using standard plank style installation.

Want to learn more about rigid core flooring?

The best place to start is by stopping by and taking a look at the rigid core flooring we offer. We can show you the difference between the different materials, help you narrow down your selections, and even allow you to take a few samples home to determine which is right for your needs.

Want to do it yourself? Or do you prefer to let a contractor handle the job? We can help with that too, no matter which method of installation suits your needs.

We can also share with you our extensive knowledge about different manufacturers and product lines – something you won’t find at the big box stores. We’ll help you find the right flooring for your needs, and ensure you’re happy with your purchase long after it’s initially installed.

What are you waiting for? Get started with rigid core flooring today.

Flooring
July 24, 2021

When You Really Want Eco-Friendly Flooring For Your Basement

Basements can be a challenge for installing new flooring. You want the latest trends. You want something modern and stylish. But it’s the basement; you know not every flooring will work well.

Style isn’t everything. You care about the product too. Is it safe? Is it considered a green product? Is there such a thing as eco-friendly flooring that works well in the basement?

If you’ve done any kind of research on eco-friendly flooring products, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Carpet’s always an option, and you can easily find natural fibers the fit well into the green category. But if you’ve done any research on the adhesives used to hold carpet in place, you know they can be anything but eco-friendly.

And then there are laminates. They give you the look you’re craving, many tout to be made exclusively from recycled materials. But if you dig a little further, you’ll find articles that state laminate is high in off-gassing, which isn’t something you choose to bring into your home.

What are you to do?

Let’s talk about the structure of your basement floor

Before you start considering different flooring materials, it’s important to understand the structure of your basement.

Living here in Colorado means your basement undergoes a variety of conditions. It can be cold and dry in the winter, followed by moisture issues in the summer as we move into warm air and lots of water seeping into the ground around you. The ground is almost like a sponge, taking in everything from outside conditions. If you live in an older home, the foundation wasn’t poured and installed up to today’s requirements, so it might not do a great job of preventing moisture from seeping through.

Before you consider which flooring material is right for you, ensure you have the foundation to install the flooring first. Work with a contractor to ensure the floor is level, clean, dry, and humidity levels remain relatively constant no matter what the weather is like outside.

What flooring do you currently have down?

Many homes here in the Denver Metro area have concrete basements. That means you’ll be using concrete as your base.

One current trend is to use a concrete floor as your flooring choice. It’s an eco-friendly option, and is a natural flooring surface that wears well over time.

This isn’t the concrete you currently see in parts of your basement. It’s not natural, untreated concrete in dull, drab gray. You can find concrete tiles that come in beautiful colors and stains. Or use a color treatment on the concrete you already have in place. Just be sure to watch the chemicals and stains you select to ensure they’re eco-friendly too.

Yet concrete isn’t for everybody. It may be a current trend, but is it something you truly want?

There are other options.

Ceramic tile

Ceramic tile is made mostly from clay and sediment. They are fired into all sorts of shapes and sizes, and come in a rainbow of colors and patterns. If you can dream it, you can find it with ceramic tile.

Clay is soft before being fired. Manufacturers add a variety of products into the process to ensure they can stand the pressures of daily use. Look specifically for flooring tiles that handle well in basement conditions. They should be waterproof and stand up well in moist and humid conditions. Many use ceramic tile in bathroom designs, which is a testament to how well they can do under intense moisture situations.

Natural stone

Love the look of tile, but want something even more natural? How about natural stone.

Natural stone refers to a variety of different materials, including:

Granite
Marble
Limestone
Travertine
Slate
Sandstone

Because they’re quarried, they are some of the most eco-friendly materials you can install into your home. Just be sure you pay attention to how they are manufactured. Many natural stone tiles start out porous and absorbent, making them risky for installing in a basement. If you use a stone sealer and install a water barrier layer underneath the stone, they can be good additions to a home.

Floating floors

Instead of talking about a specific material, let’s talk about installation. Floating floors are unique in how they are installed because they aren’t permanently attached to the subfloor. Instead, they click together and hold in place. This makes it easy enough for a do-it-yourselfer to install.

Not all floating floors are suitable for all a basement can dish out. But there are many options for you, depending on what you’re looking for. Options include:

Carpet tiles
Cork flooring
Bamboo flooring
Laminate
Engineered hardwood
Sheet vinyl
Luxury vinyl tiles and planks

Likewise, not every floating floor can be considered eco-friendly. If this sounds like a good option for you, it’s important to do your research. Many flooring manufacturers understand homeowners want the best of both worlds, and offer an array of products to suit their needs. Clearly define your goals and wishes, and come in prepared to see a variety of options. Then you can choose what works best for you.

The good news is with many of these floating floor options, they can be waterproof or highly water-resistant. The key is ensuring the product is properly sealed. Pay attention to manufacturer’s claims and what their warranties state.

How do you know if a product really is eco-friendly?

With so many labels and promises on products these days, it can be difficult to know what to believe. Does the word “natural” mean anything? What about green label? Or even the term “eco-friendly?” Is it all true?

Unfortunately not. Manufacturers know consumers shop with certain words in mind. They use them freely, even if there isn’t backup to support it. And because laws don’t exist for all processes involved in labeling things with these misleading words, it’s up to the consumer to determine what’s best for their needs.

The UL, a global safety science leader creating principles surrounding company compliance for quality and sustainability, has come up with an entertaining article entitled Sins of Greenwashing, which points out directly what’s happening within the industry.

If you truly want an eco-friendly flooring option for your basement, the best place to start is by coming into our showroom.

We can help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Whether you’re in the market to do it yourself, or want us to handle the job from beginning to end, we’re here to help you find the perfect flooring to suit your needs.

Hardwood Flooring
July 21, 2021

Finding and Living With Eco-Friendly Hardwood Floors

When it comes to the definition of eco-friendly, the Global Ecolabelling Network says it well:

Eco is an abbreviation for ecology, the system of relationships between living things, and with their environment. Friendly implies beneficial, or at least not harmful. It should follow that the term eco-friendly, when added to services or products, indicates positive, or at least not harmful, effects on living things.

And there is a good reason for homeowners to be concerned. The EPA has shown indoor pollutants can be two to three times more toxic than outdoor levels. Because we spend up to 90 percent of our time indoors, that can be of great concern. And toxic chemicals exist in many of the things you use every day. Did you know:

Asbestos can hide out in old roof or flooring tiles
Benzyl benzoate is a common insecticide
DEHP is commonly found in PVC pipe
Formaldehyde is in pesticides, building materials, textiles, cosmetics, and more
Parabens are in abundance in personal care products
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are in a variety of products used throughout your home

VOCs are especially concerning because of the many places they exist. They impact your health in many ways, causing eye, nose, and throat irritation in the short term, to cancer, kidney damage, and nervous system problems in the long term.

In the past, flooring often was filled with harmful VOCs. Pollutants from new carpet installation, for example, could fill the air with hundreds of VOCs. That new carpet smell isn’t just telling you it’s new; it could be dangerous for your health.

But times are changing. The more aware we become about harmful chemicals and less healthy eco-friendly flooring choices, the more conscious we become with both manufacturing and installation practices.

Maybe you want hardwood – it’s the number one flooring choice here in the Rocky Mountains. But part of you is questioning: is hardwood eco-friendly? Is it a sustainable, environmentally friendly option when it comes to installing in your home? Read on.

The first thing you should know about eco-friendly hardwood

If you’re looking for eco-friendly flooring, keep in mind it’s not all about the actual product you bring into your home. It starts at origination, how sustainable the wood source is from the beginning.

In 2008, the US banned timber shipped in from illegal sources. Of course, that doesn’t stop unscrupulous marketers from trying to sell illegal wares. That puts some of the burden on you to ensure you know where your final product is sourced from. Reputable flooring dealers only work with manufacturers with sustainable business practices. Ask questions before you buy; high quality flooring dealers will be happy to share with you the differences.

You should also look for manufacturers with proper certification. Sustainable wood should carry the seal of the US Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The FSC ensures forests are regrown, biodiversity is preserved, and resource quality is well protected. Sustainability certification relies on 57 separate criteria to ensure the forest is managed according to FSC standards.

What are eco-friendly hardwood flooring options?

Taking all of the above into consideration, here are the most environmentally friendly hardwood choices you can bring into your home and use as wood flooring.

Bamboo

If we had to pick one hardwood flooring product to top the eco-friendly list, it would have to be bamboo. And what makes that even more impressive is bamboo isn’t a hardwood at all.

Instead, bamboo is a regenerating grass that takes only three to five years to harvest. Compare that with up to twenty years needed for most other softwoods used in floor production.

When you harvest bamboo, the roots are self-generating, meaning they start growing once again. You can get multiple crops from the same plant. Try that with any softwood or hardwood producing tree. That gives bamboo an additional edge in renewable technology.

And just like different species of trees will give you different types of wood, bamboo is versatile with hundreds of different choices. It’s not a “one size fits all” product line. You’ll find a variety of colors, styles, patterns, and textures to suit every personality.

Cork

Cork is sourced from the cork oak tree. Instead of cutting down the tree and using it as a resource, cork comes from the bark. Harvesters remove the bark of the cork tree, leaving the tree in place. The bark will regenerate about every three years, without harming the tree itself.

That makes cork a great eco-friendly addition to your home. It’s made from organic and renewable materials that are biodegradable, and recyclable. If you’re paying attention to lifespan, that throws the weight in favor of cork because of its sustainable qualities from beginning to end.

It also has properties that don’t come with other types of hardwood.

It’s soundproof. Want to put it in a music room? It’s a good choice. Have people who work all hours of the day? This can add quietness where you need it most.
It’s a great insulator. Remember the coldest day of the year? Cork naturally feels warmer underfoot.
It’s comfortable to walk and stand on. And that can be a big deal if you deal with back pain.

What’s more, cork produces stunning results in flooring. And with today’s technological advances, you don’t have to worry about it scratching, denting, or wearing down quickly. Cork can create a beautiful ambiance for years to come.

Oak flooring

While some homeowners look for reclaimed or repurposed hardwood, and use that as flooring for their homes, we would be remiss not to mention oak. Oak has long been the most popular type of wood flooring. That means there are an abundance of resources creating oak planks, and many of them putting a lot of resources into ensuring it’s a sustainable, eco-friendly product.

If you’re installing your dream floors, oak flooring can be a good choice. If you look carefully at the manufacturing process, care for your flooring well, it can last for decades. Pay attention to how the manufacturer manages their forests, and only select products with the FSC label. And if and when you’re ready for new flooring, be aware of what happens to the product when you pull it out. Can it be repurposed rather than ending up in the landfill?

When you’re ready for eco-friendly hardwood flooring …

Be aware you have choices.

Don’t rely on “sales” online, or your local big box store giving you a good deal. They buy in bulk, and it’s rarely a “good deal.”

Instead, take the time to study your options. Learn all you can about the product you’re installing into your home. It’s the only way you’ll be 100 percent satisfied with your purchase.

Carpet
July 18, 2021

Don’t Buy Carpet For Your Living Space Without Considering This

It sounds too good to be true.

All you have to do is buy the carpet, and the company will install it absolutely free. You’ll never find a better offer, they say.

Of course, once you start reading the fine print, you start seeing where they make their money.

The price they quote for carpet in the ad is the cheapest carpet made. If you “upgrade” after signing on the dotted line, you’ll pay an exorbitant price.
What they consider to be room size and what average rooms really are equate differently.
Extras start adding up quickly. You’ll pay for every “problem” found. And these problems will start adding up in price.

Nothing is ever free. You’ll always pay for it somewhere. Which is why it’s better to do your homework early, and ensure you’re working with a reputable company, which offers high-quality prices, and installs it in such a way for you to enjoy it throughout its lifespan.

What everyone wants from carpet

Quick: What’s the most important benefit you’re looking for as you select new carpet? If you’re like most people, two factors come to mind.

Durability
Beauty

Why install a flooring into your home if it doesn’t stand the test of time? It’s important to have flooring easy to maintain and keeps up with your busy lifestyle.

It’s equally important to love the carpet you install. If you hate it from day one, aren’t happy with the look and feel, compromised in any way to put functionality over beauty, you’ll never really like the way it looks in your home.

In general, we walk up to specific carpet samples because they fit our personalities. We like the color. The pattern works with the decor. It seems soft and luxurious. Looks pull you in, but it’s the durability that will push the selection over the top.

What makes a carpet durable?

Just like beauty is in the eye of the beholder, durability can often be described in a similar fashion. What’s durable to an empty nester living in an urban dwelling may not be considered durable to a family of six with two cats and a dog.

Durability is determined by starting with a few questions.

Where am I going to install the carpet?
What is the area used for?
Who uses the space regularly?
What look am I trying to achieve?

Share your answers with the sales associates you’re working with. The more they know about your demands, the more they can help you choose carpeting with a balance between durability and beauty. To help you select the right carpet that will have you loving your carpet from day one.

There are many ways to find durability.

Start by looking at the manufacturer. In some products, no-name brands aren’t a big deal. With carpet, that isn’t necessarily so. The reason certain manufacturers are well-known is that they’ve been in the industry for years. They care about the products they create, are on the cutting edge of technology, and are always looking for ways to improve their product lines.

A carpet’s durability is measured in several ways: face weight, tuft twist, and density rating. We usually suggest looking for carpet somewhere in the 34 to 40 ounce face weight range, with a tuft twist of 5 or more. The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends installing a carpet with at least a 3,600 density rating, with 5,000 or higher in high traffic areas.

I’m ready to shop. Now what?

One of the biggest reasons people fall out of love with their flooring choice is because they don’t do enough homework first. This isn’t something you’ll be able to replace easily if you hate it. For most homeowners, once a new carpet is installed, it’s something they’ll live with for years to come. That alone is reason to slow down and ask a few more questions before you start to shop.

Where will I be installing new carpet? This may seem like a moot point – you’re shopping with a room in mind for a reason – but it is something to consider before you shop. Are you looking for one room – a bedroom – or an entire home? If you’re selecting one room, it allows you to get more specific with your options. When you include several rooms, it’s important to shop with the most active room in mind. If a carpet can stand up in your family room, it’ll look good in your bedroom for years to come.

How much are you willing to spend? It’s easy to walk into a showroom and fall in love with a luxurious carpet. But when you see the price, it can impact your decision making skills, and increase the potential of buyer’s remorse. Set your budget early. Leave a little room for adjustments. And don’t forget about padding and labor costs. If you leave room in your budget for incidentals, you’ll be satisfied with your final selection before it’s ever installed.

What about longevity? People shop for a rental home differently than they do a family home. Will you be moving in a year? Or are you trying to find a carpet that will last for years to come? Knowing your choice early can help point you in the right direction of which carpet to choose.

What about fiber? Carpet is made from several different types of fiber. Depending on which you choose will impact wear, maintenance, and longevity. Options include:

Nylon – the most resilient carpet fiber, but it must be treated with a stain protector from time to time to keep it functioning well.

Polyester – this fiber is stain-resistant and soft to the touch. Plush carpet often falls in this category. However, it’s harder to maintain and won’t last as long as other options.

Olefin – an inexpensive option that resists staining, fading, and mildew. It’s a good choice for high traffic areas.

Wool – if you’re looking for a natural option, wool is an excellent choice.

What about style and color? With everything else in mind, now it’s time to pick colors, patterns, and styles that suit your personality and needs. Bring in color charts, paint samples, and pillows. When you’re down to a few selections, bring them home and see how they look in the room. Live with them for a few days and see them in different lights.

Choosing the right carpet shouldn’t be a difficult process. If you start with a bit of knowledge before you make your final decision, you’ll enjoy the process and love the results.

How can we help you select the right carpet for your needs?

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