Flooring Archives - Page 10 of 58

Carpet, Flooring
March 18, 2022

What Is The Most Popular Carpet Right Now?

Take a look around your home. Does your flooring suggest it’s been around a while? Do your carpets look worn, faded, and outdated?

Still, you’re nervous about remodeling. Should you install new carpet? Is carpet still fresh and new? What’s the most popular carpet right now? Is carpet truly something for you?

Here are some statistics that may surprise you.

The carpet industry in the United States accounts for 51% of the total flooring market.

Flooring sales in the United States reached $21.9 billion in 2017, with over 19.7 billion square feet of product sold. Carpet holds the largest share of the overall floor industry, with 41.5% of revenues earned in 2018.

We often get homeowners in our retail location, asking whether carpet is still a viable option inside their homes. Our answer is always overwhelmingly: Yes!

The nitty-gritty of carpeting

Before we get into the good stuff of selecting carpet, it’s worth a few moments to understand what carpet truly is.

Most people start with the looks, styles, and designs available, we tell people to focus instead on the fibers and how the carpet was made.

A saxony carpet is dense and luxurious. It’s similar to shag pile, and flattens a bit over time.

Loop pile is hard-wearing and a good choice for busy rooms. It’s created from heavier and wider cut loops of yarn, giving you a textured look. The loops can snag, and may be difficult for homes with pets.

And then there’s the hardest working carpets in the industry, twist pile carpets. These are one of the most popular carpets found in homes all across Colorado. That’s because it’s created from yarn that has been tightly twisted together. The loops are cut, meaning it won’t easily snag. It creates a firm surface area that won’t collect dirt easily.

Twist pile carpet comes in a variety of styles and colors. You’ll also find plenty of textures and patterns.

When it comes time to clean, twist pile carpet holds its shape. Just run a vacuum over it regularly to help it keep its original condition.

It’s a style that you’ll find readily through many different manufacturers. And with the warranties they offer, you won’t be disappointed in how these flooring choices handle.

What about options? I want a carpet that looks good over time

When selecting carpet, focus on manufacturing first, looks second. It’s our top recommendation when people come into our location.

If you want a carpet that wears well over time, the way a carpet is created will determine just how well it stands up. It’s about the fibers, the backing, and even the padding. You’ll never be disappointed if you invest in high-quality carpet.

Yet we understand that you want style, color, beauty. After all, that’s what people see when they walk into your home.

The good news is you’ll find all of that and more in today’s carpet choices. What people want right now is:

Green carpet

Sustainable, eco-friendly, and green are the in-thing. Why invest in a new floor that ultimately harms the environment? That works in a number of ways. Homeowners want carpet made from a sustainable resource. They want materials that aren’t harmful to the environment. That includes indoor air quality. Why bring something inside your home if it makes your space anything but a safe place to live?

Luckily, you have choices today. We can point you in the right direction to find the greenest carpet materials on the market. You can also look for certifications such as Green Label Plus. This Carpet and Rug Institute’s certification is placed on products that care about indoor air quality. Manufacturers pay attention to materials with very low emissions, and are safe for the environment.

Natural fibers

Wool carpet is climbing in popularity because of the qualities it offers. Harvested from sheep, it’s soft and durable. Its thickness comes from tightly wound natural fibers that have long since stood the test of the elements. It’s soft, thick, plush, and has environmentally-friendly options. While wool can last longer than many other carpet options, it’s important to note that it does take care to maintain it over time.

Underlay

What’s underneath your carpet will have more impact on the durability than what you can see. Yet most homeowners place attention solely on the fibers.

Think of the underlay as the base for your flooring. If you have the right base, your carpet will last for years, and look great while aging.

Underlaying also determines the acoustics of the room. If noise reduction is important to you, ensure a quality underlay that has effective noise control. Underlayment and padding come in a variety of materials, thicknesses, and capabilities. You can get a waterproof backing that will help in potentially moist situations, such as the basement.

Also realize that what lies underneath your carpet will change depending on where you install your carpet. The basement has different needs than an upstairs bedroom. A staircase will require different underlayment than a home office or den.

While the quality of the carpet matters for longevity, equally, quality of the underlayment matters to. If you want your carpet to last, choose the highest quality padding you can afford.

Carpet makes a statement

Is carpet still a viable option for your home? You bet! We think it’s often the best choice for certain rooms in your home.

Only you know your personality and your tastes. Do you prefer to go bold? Or is natural more suitable for your liking?

Not all carpet colors are suitable for every environment. It’s about creating a space that creates a livable situation.

You can’t go wrong with gray or beige. Light natural colors will always be in style. They set the stage for your walls and furniture. They allow you to play with color through accents and decor.

Of course, if you’re big on color, you’ll find more colors available now than at any time in history. No matter what statement you wish to create, you’ll find the right color to suit your tastes.

Is carpet still trending? You’ll never go wrong with carpet. It’s the best flooring choice in a variety of situations.

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

Flooring, Tile Floors
March 14, 2022

Tile Continues To Be One Of The Most Durable Flooring Options

What does the word “tile” bring to mind?

For some, it might symbolize a durable flooring option.

For others, it can be a sign of beauty.

Tile is a versatile flooring choice that works just about anywhere.

Yet what a tile actually is may surprise you.

Wikipedia states a tile is a thin, square or rectangular covering manufactured from hard-wearing materials. It can be made from ceramic or stone, but it can also be created from glass or fabric.

What makes tile multifaceted is the fact it can be easily replaced. If a tile breaks, with care and work, you can replace it and have your entire flooring look great once again.

Whether you’re using tile in a residential application, or are replacing flooring in a commercial setting, you’ll never regret it as your flooring of choice. Why?

In one word: durability. Regardless of where you install it, tile will stand the test of time and look good in the process.

Want to learn even more about tile? We’ll share some of the top reasons why we love tile, and think it makes the perfect application to almost any residential or commercial space.

The most durable tile for your home

People often select tile when they want a combination of color, functionality, and style all wrapped into one.

The best tile you can choose is the one that works for the room. Tile flooring adds value to your home, and it does even more.

Need a waterproof option? Tile maybe your solution.
Want a flooring that is easy to clean and maintain? Depending on the tile you select, you can easily wipe dirt and grime away.
If you need something hypoallergenic? Tile can be there for you too.
Want a specific color or design? Nothing gives you more options than tile flooring.

That may be the most challenging part about installing a new tile floor. Where do you begin! With so many options available to you, you’ll need time to settle on the right tile floor for you. Popular choices include:

Ceramic tile – made from red, brown, or white clay, these can be your best option in a variety of situations. Put it in the bathroom; it works great for flooring, countertops, and shower walls. Place them in the kitchen; they look as great on the floor as they do on a backsplash. Once hardened and fired, ceramic tile can be durable enough to last for years. The color and pattern choices are endless, which gives you an infinite palette of opportunity as you install it into your home.

Natural stone – nothing says quiet elegance quite like natural stone. Whether you choose granite, limestone, or marble, using a natural stone brings the great outdoors inside. They come in any size and shape, depending on how natural you want to go. If you’re looking for personality and uniqueness, natural stone brings it to the table. You’ll always see individual beauty shining through, because each stone is uniquely its own.

Luxury vinyl tile – many people think they know what tile truly is. They think ceramic or stone … but it’s so much more. Tile has two core characteristics: its familiar square or rectangular shape, and its ease of installation. You’ll find both in today’s luxury vinyl tile. Whether you select the look of hardwood or stone, these hardworking tiles keep on giving. What’s more, they bring in the most popular flooring choices available, and add something more. If you’ve always wanted hardwood but need waterproof too, luxury vinyl tile may be the perfect solution.

The most durable tile for high-traffic situations

Inside your home, some areas naturally see more traffic than others. Think about how many times you walk through the front door into the entryway. Or down the hallway. Or into the kitchen. Wear patterns form quickly on flooring that is anything but durable.

Now think about commercial applications. The definition of high-traffic changes again. While you may have a handful of people walking through your home each day, hundreds, even thousands can journey over specific paths in a commercial setting. That means you have to think carefully about the most durable flooring options to suit your needs. Luckily, tile tops the list.

Quarry tile – this is perfect for heavy-duty applications. Made from hard-fired clay, this gives you functionality and durability, all in a pretty package. With the color and pattern choices available to you, you’ll be able to create and design you’re looking for. Just ensure you use epoxy grout and adhesive specifically designed for high-traffic applications to safeguard your tile and keep it durable throughout its use.

Luxury vinyl tile – if you select a commercial grade luxury vinyl tile, you’ll have a durable flooring that’s attractive enough for even the most upscale space. We’ve seen luxury vinyl tile placed in offices, schools, even medical spaces. These products are also known as resilient flooring for a very good reason. If you want a flooring choice that can handle all you dish out, luxury vinyl tile may be just what you’re looking for.

Carpet tile – did you look at this heading twice? How can carpet be durable? Today’s commercial carpet tiles are some of the most durable flooring choices on the market. These aren’t your typical broadloom carpets. If you want a soft flooring that looks great too, you’ll be surprised at just how well carpet tiles function in a variety of situations. Not just for commercial applications, we see them popping up in residential homes too.

Still have questions about tile and how they can offer you durable flooring options?

We have the answers for you.

While we’ve tried to cover a variety of flooring options available to suit all of your needs, it’s still just an overview of what’s truly possible for your final design.

We’re here and ready to answer all of your questions. Whether you’re buying tile for one room, or have an entire commercial space in need of new flooring, we can help you find a durable flooring option you’re going to love as much in the future as you do on the showroom floor.

Flooring
March 10, 2022

A Guide To Hypoallergenic Flooring

The coughing. The sneezing! It can leave you searching for relief.

And eventually, it can lead you to look at your home as a source. What can you do to make your home a little more friendly towards keeping you feeling your best? A little research may lead you to your flooring – it’s a great place to start.

Hypoallergenic means a product contains few allergy-producing substances known as allergens. They have been proven not to trigger allergic reactions.

Combine it with flooring – hypoallergenic flooring – and you create a base that allows you to have a room you can live in all the while feeling your best.

Some flooring materials are better than others.

Getting to the root of the hypoallergenic movement

Before we start discussing hypoallergenic flooring choices, we thought we’d dive deep into understanding hypoallergenic a bit more, since it’s a relatively new term. You might start noticing “hypoallergenic” on a wide variety of products – flooring, cosmetics, even the paints you use on your walls.

After a series of court cases, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia ruled that FDA’s regulation defining “hypoallergenic” was invalid. This means there is now no regulation specifically defining or governing the use of the term “hypoallergenic” or similar claims. And because of the lengthy procedural steps required to establish a new regulation, that is likely to be the situation for some time to come.

Every individual has varying degrees of sensitivity to allergy-causing products and chemicals. It’s up to you to decide what’s right for your situation.

Still, doing your research can help you discover the best materials on the market today, and use that to make decisions that can impact your health.

What is hypoallergenic flooring?

While there might not be clearly defined rules on what hypoallergenic flooring is, you can still look to manufacturer’s guidelines to help you find the best fit to suit your needs. Because the top lines are working hard to create carefully crafted products, they often work with other organizations to create the best products possible.

Hypoallergenic flooring of any kind will resist moisture and block bacteria, fungi, and other contaminants that may impact your health. They use materials that have a lower chance of causing a reaction, and push away from using things like VOCs and toxic chemicals.

To ensure flooring meets these standards, you can look for certification programs that test materials and issue it to certain manufacturers who are going above and beyond.

A UL Greenguard Certification mark on the package will ensure the product has been scientifically proven to have low chemical emissions. In other words, it tells you that the flooring material has low levels of volatile organic compounds VOCs.

Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX is another certification program that ensures non-hazardous end-products and all of the materials and components in the final product are tested and proven free of harmful levels of toxic substances.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a green building rating system that ensures all building materials are healthy, highly efficient, and offer cost-savings. Many commercial buildings are now working towards their LEED certification, which not only helps create healthier space, but can make the building more desirable too.

Sold on hypoallergenic flooring? Here are some options

Every flooring you’ll find across our showroom is created by manufacturers who are working hard to create a better product. But if you’re specifically looking for the most hypoallergenic flooring choices on the market today, we suggest a few of our favorites.

In general, hard surfaces will work the best at creating hypoallergenic flooring space. That’s because it’s easy to clean, easy to sweep and mop up any messes you make, and it won’t attract dust mites or other pollutants. But keep in mind that all hardwood is not created equal.

Solid hardwood is typically your priciest option, but it will also be your healthiest option. Solid hardwood is hard all the way through, and is a living material that provides natural benefits to your living space. Like a tree in the forest, hardwood can be impacted by moisture and humidity, so it’s important to maintain it well over time.

Engineered hardwood is made from layers of wood or high-density particleboard bonded together with adhesive, and topped with a thin wood veneer. This lowers the cost compared to solid hardwood, and makes it harder and more forgiving in places where solid hardwood might not work, like basements.

Laminate is made from particle board topped with a photograph designed to simulate real wood. It can be highly durable in places where solid hardwood might not hold up. And at a lower cost than solid hardwood or engineered hardwood, it’s a viable option for a lot of homeowners.

With either, it is important to pay attention to the production process, and be careful about ensuring they meet guidelines of green certification boards. Some manufacturers will use toxic chemicals in the production process, with adhesives having things like formaldehyde as a binder, which is a common asthma trigger.

If you love the look of hardwood, but want a twist to your design, there are other options. One of the best alternative options for hardwood flooring is bamboo. It’s an all natural product made from bamboo, which is considered one of the most sustainable flooring materials in use.

Bamboo is a durable material that has been proven to last up to 50 years when well cared for. Like hardwood, it’s important to pay attention to the production, and look for certification programs listed on the packaging. Certain brands can use adhesives with higher levels of VOCs.

Another product that simulates solid hardwood is cork flooring. Cork is made from the bark of a cork oak tree, sustainable because the bark can be harvested multiple times without harming the tree. It has a softer texture than solid hardwood, making it a good flooring choice in homes with small children or elderly. It also has a natural resilience against things like dust mites, making clean up a breeze.

Thinking of hypoallergenic flooring in your next remodel?

Before you make your final selection, stop by and see our entire line. We can help you find the flooring material perfect for your lifestyle. We’ll help you select wisely, so you love your flooring for years to come.

Carpet, Flooring
March 7, 2022

Is Carpet Coming Back In Style?

I’ll never forget restoring an old house we bought many years ago. We walked around shortly after closing, dreaming about how each room would be designed.

“Get rid of the old carpets.”

That was first on our list of to-do’s.

And as we peeled back the carpet, hardwood shined from underneath. Sanded, stained, and polished, it’s been a mainstay in our house ever since.

So why would I be considering carpet once again? Is carpet coming back in style? The answer may surprise you.

The history of carpet

You might think carpet is a relatively new flooring material. Think again.

The very first carpet were rugs made from sheep wool or goat hair. They entered residential locations over 4,000 years ago, when people used them to make their living spaces more comfortable. Many still sat on the floor for a variety of activities, and rugs made the flooring space easier to sit on.

Surprisingly, these early rugs have stood the test of time in appearance and quality. We still use rugs for a lot of the same purposes, although the patterns, colors, and uniformity have improved.

Our modern-day carpets originated back in the 1800s as manufacturing picked up speed, and the power loom was created to weave carpets. This increased production, which meant costs lowered and the product became more in demand.

Today, people still use rugs and carpets to enhance their homes. One study shows that 79 percent of all respondents state they have at least one area rug inside their home.

Is carpet the right choice for your home?

Top reasons people are installing carpet

Chances are you already have a deep-rooted feeling about carpet. Maybe it brings back memories of childhood. Or maybe you picture softness and warmth.

It doesn’t take much time shopping to realize there is an abundance of carpet choices on the market today. This isn’t your mother’s – or grandmother’s – carpet choices. Today’s carpets are better than ever, and offer you benefits that stand out over other flooring.

Need a reason to add carpeting to your home?

Carpet offers warmth and insulation – if you already have a cold room, carpet will add warmth underfoot. The padding underneath adds an additional layer to help fully insulate your home.

Carpet provides sound reduction – this can be especially important in a home with multiple layers and lots of heavy foot traffic. Carpet will muffle every step you take, and will help hold the sound inside the walls of the room it’s installed in.

Carpet provides safety – this can be especially important in a home with elderly or small children. You’ll never slip on carpet, and it provides extra padding if you do.

Carpet provides limitless possibilities – because carpet is in abundance, you will find any color or pattern you’re looking for. It’s a great way to add a pop of color to any space.

Carpet is economical – if you want a low cost flooring option, carpet comes in a full spectrum of pricing options. It’s a great resource to use in rental properties, or in a room where you might be changing the decor frequently.

Still considering carpet? Here are a few modern-day choices you’re going to love

Being in the business, we see the current trends that hit the market every year. Flooring can be a major purchase. That’s why we recommend thinking about your purchase, your goals, and choosing a flooring material you’re ready to live with for the foreseeable future.

While hardwood comes in stains bordering on more natural tones and colors, carpet choices stretch as far as your imagination. Want the brightest red? A vivid green? Plaid, stripes, or animal prints? You’ll find a carpet to suit your desires.

Natural carpet always tops the list, and will never go out of style. What’s fresh and current today is incorporating natural fibers into your carpet choices. Look to fibers like jute, sisal, and seagrass. You’ll create organic aesthetics with a versatility that only natural fibers can bring. Wool is growing in popularity because of its hypoallergenic qualities. If you’re trying to create a cleaner, more natural home space to live in, wool carpet may be the perfect addition to your home.

Of course, staying quiet and subdued isn’t for everyone. Luckily, there’s a carpet choice for you. Boldness is in right now because it adds personality to your living space. Bold prints and colors have been on the rise because of what it has to offer inside a room. Choose your color – red, pink, or blue. Go wild with patterns – how about a paisley print? Somewhat reminiscent of the 70s, you’ll find bold designs that can pack a punch into any room in your home. If you want a bedroom that screams personality, or an office that speaks directly to your mood, this is an easy way to do it.

Patterns are even bigger than before. Thanks to modern technology, carpet no longer is about uniformity, one color, pattern, or style. Instead, you’ll find bolder designs that can set the stage for your room design. We’re wild about flower patterns, geometric shapes, and colors that river their way through the entire design.

Spend some time looking through online resources – Pinterest can be your best friend when it comes to finding new design ideas. You might be surprised at the ideas you come up with, and the concepts you pin to your board.

Don’t be afraid to stretch a little and create a space different from what you expected. Sometimes the best way to personalize your space is to go bold with your choices.

Carpet is the best place to start when bringing color into a room. It sets the tone and anchors the aesthetics into place.

Use it to set the stage for the rest of the items in your room. Go bold. Stay soft. Or get wild and crazy … the choice is yours!

Is carpet in style right now? You bet! With today’s carpet choices, you can create any design you can dream of.

So start dreaming today!

Flooring
February 25, 2022

Why Green Flooring Can Help You With Sustainable Living

More than ever, sustainable living starts at home. Why not start at the bottom … installing green flooring sets the stage for every eco-friendly item you bring into your living space.

According to a report by the New Climate Economy, we could save as much as $26 trillion by 2030 if we move to more sustainable living.

As a population, we are only starting to realize the impact we can make even through small changes. A study by Southern Cross University found that 93 percent of all those surveyed indicated a general concern for the environment. With wildfires, plastic pollution, climate change, and more at the forefront of everyone’s minds, we all want to do what we can to make a difference.

Sometimes the best place to start is at home.

What is sustainable living?

According to Wikipedia, sustainable living is a lifestyle that attempts to reduce an individual’s or society’s use of the Earth’s natural resources, and one’s personal resources. It’s also known as net-zero living.

In practice, it’s about reducing their carbon footprint. It includes altering home design and transportation methods, energy consumption, and everyday living consumption.

How does this differ from green living?

Green living is a lifestyle choice. It’s about making conscious choices that preserve and conserve the Earth’s natural recourse and habitats. They are done so with an environmentally ethical, eco-friendly outcome in mind.

Green refers to environmental movements in general, while sustainability has clear-cut guidelines to put into practice. You strive for sustainability after you start bringing green living practices into your life.

How does green flooring play into all of this?

Choosing to increase green living means becoming more aware of the products and materials you bring into your home.

According to the US Green Building Council, as you’re building or remodeling a home, going green allow you to:

Increase energy savings
Increase water efficiency
Reduce CO2 emissions
Improve indoor environmental quality
Select resources based on their impact

When selecting green flooring, it means paying attention to:

How the flooring is manufactured
Where the resources come from
What production looks like
How the manufacturer approaches eco-friendly processes
The impact of the flooring once it’s brought into your home

Bamboo flooring is an excellent example of green flooring. It’s environmentally friendly because of how fast it grows. A bamboo grove can yield 20 times more timber than trees in the same location. It will also release 35 percent more oxygen in the process. And all of that can occur without the use of fertilizers and pesticides.

What to look for in green flooring choices

Before you start looking for the right flooring choice for your home, it’s important to define exactly what to look for in an eco-friendly option.

First, start with the manufacturing process used to create the flooring before it ever winds up on the retailers’ shelves. You’re looking for an option that offers natural and renewable resources.

This can be subjective, depending on your goals and desires. Bamboo is eco-friendly in that a single bamboo tree can be harvested in three to five years. Compare that to a standard tree used in hardwood flooring production, requiring 40 to 60 years before harvesting.

That doesn’t make one ultimately better than the other. It still requires research on your part to determine ethical practices all around. Trees used for hardwood flooring can be sustainable if the manufacturer cares about the process. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a certification program that ensures wood is harvested legally and sustainably. It certifies the wood comes from responsibly-managed forests. That gives you knowledge of knowing you’re selecting a manufacturer that cares about the process, and gives you a product that will stand the test of time.

Next, pay attention to the life cycle of the flooring you’re installing. Even if you install a floor made from natural materials, if it needs replacing every few years, or requires unhealthy practices for installation or removal, it can fall off the sustainable list.

In the case of hardwood flooring, for example, while it can take upwards of 60 years for the resource to be harvested, once it’s installed in your home, it can last for decades. With proper care, your hardwood can be a great flooring addition for many years. You can refinish it and give it new life when it starts wearing down. Even if you remove it, hardwood can often be recommissioned and used in other ways. It’s a product that keeps on giving.

Hardwood also has the advantage of being biodegradable. If it winds up in the landfill, hardwood breaks down naturally over time. Of course, this is dependent on chemicals used on the surface. But in its natural form, hardwood is a great green flooring option.

Finally, pay attention to the toxic chemicals in your flooring. This includes the entire life cycle. Consider toxins used in production, chemicals in adhesives or finishes, as well as harmful byproducts used in production or removal.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are harmful both to the air quality and your health. The Department of Health lists VOCs as a large group of chemicals found in many products we use to build and maintain our homes. Common examples include benzene, ethylene glycol, formaldehyde, methylene chloride, tetrachloroethylene, toluene, xylene, and 1,3-butadiene.

While VOCs are found in things like carpet, vinyl flooring, composite wood products, paint, varnish, caulk, and adhesives, they are also found in everyday items like cleaning products, cosmetics, and gasoline. Once you learn more about VOCs, you can pay attention to everything you bring into your life, making better choices to protect both the air quality and the health of everyone in our communities.

Is green flooring the right choice for you?

Is green flooring in your future? Are you trying to make smarter choices with the products and materials you bring into your home?

A great place to start is by coming in and walking through our product lines. We can point you to some of the greenest, most sustainable flooring choices on the market.

How can we help you select your next flooring?

Flooring, Hardwood Flooring
February 21, 2022

Decided To Install Hardwood? Here’s How You Pick The Right Color

Honey maple or golden oak? Red chestnut or red mahogany?

When you’ve finally decided to install hardwood flooring throughout your home, one of the most difficult parts of the process is honing in on the right color. It can be agonizing moving between several closely related colors. One has a little more red, the other is a bit more yellow. Which will be the easiest to live with for years to come?

Before you get to color, start with material first

Hardwood is hardwood … right? If you’ve been shopping for any length of time, you know there are big differences between different materials.

If you walk through a forest, or even take in the landscape as you travel to various regions of the world, you know different trees take on unique characteristics. An elm or ash tree looks vastly different from a pine.

Their outward appearance dictates how they will act as flooring material. The Janka Hardness Scale is designed to help you understand the qualities of individual wood. A wood’s hardness is evaluated by the amount of force needed to drive a .444 inch steel ball into the wood at half the ball’s diameter. It’s measured in pounds-force, and gives you an idea of just how hard specific materials are. While strand-woven bamboo is at the upper end of the scale in the 4,000s, a Douglas fir is at the lower end around 700.

Red oak is considered the mainstay in the industry. Because of its abundance, it is used widely as building material, including hardwood flooring planks. It carries a rating of 1290, meaning it pairs hardness with durability, making it a workhorse in the average family home.

Harder materials aren’t always better. The harder the floor, the less give it has to everyday activities. If you drop a glass, or your toddler falls, hardness may not be the best addition to your home. Harder materials are also more difficult to cut, drive nails into, or piece together for finishing work. Installation costs will be higher with more rigid materials. It’s a careful balance of personality, aesthetics, and functionality.

Color, color everywhere

As you’re finalizing your color choice, it goes without saying that your flooring color should match the aesthetics of your home. Cabinet color, appliance color, wall paint, furniture patterns – a mishmash of color will leave a room feeling chaotic at best. Your new hardwood should also blend well with other existing flooring materials inside your home.

Complementing existing colors may be necessary to create visual appeal. But you don’t always want exact matches in order to create harmony inside a room. Too much of one color can leave a room feeling flat. Instead, opt for complementary rather than identical.

In most cases, small rooms do better with lighter colors. Light colored wood floors will open up a room, leaving it feeling fresh and airy.

Exotic woods have become a trend in recent years. This includes hardwood like Brazilian Cherry or mahogany. There’s no mistaking these dark woods add sophistication and elegance to any room. But they may not be for every home. They are perfect for the kitchen, bathrooms, or even living spaces where quiet sophistication is what you choose to display.

We’ve also seen an uptick in patterned hardwood. This can be worked into your home in several ways. Parquet flooring is rising in popularity because of the intricate patterns it can add to a room. Or consider mixing different types of materials to get a unique hardwood pattern that’s all your own.

Let’s get into specifics

We’ve noticed homeowners are choosing bolder, richer colors. While standard oak finishes have become staple in homes all across America, right here in the Front Range, people are playing off our love of the great outdoors. Why not have fun with the color choices you make?

Instead of sticking with a standard color with little variance, homeowners are getting into mixed hardwood species, or using reclaimed wood blends for a unique look. Wild patterns and bold textures can make your flooring stand out, not just blend in with the surroundings.

If boldness isn’t quite up to your tastes, maybe you prefer hardwood with a natural appeal. We’re seeing an influx of gray tones mix into hardwood flooring choices. Flooring with smoky undertones adds both drama and character that can be appealing in some homes. This gives a rustic, edgy look that can lighten up any space.

Want even lighter? Bleached or whitewashed floors are also making a comeback. For contemporary, modern spaces, you can’t go wrong with the smooth, pleasing look that belaced or whitewashed flooring brings to a room. We love it because it puts the focus on natural wood grain, without making the floor look busy. It’s a great way to let the vibrancy of your home shine through.

And while many homeowners become fixed on color, you do have other ways to make your color choice shine through. Why not play with the size of the planks you install too? Plank size puts the natural grain and variance of the wood choice on display. We love wider planks because you notice the rich texture of the wood rather than the spacing between the boards. If you’re looking for a smooth, contemporary finish to bring into your space, this may be the perfect way to do it.

Final thoughts on hardwood color choices

If you stick with a standard color, standard material, it’ll never go out of style.

But if you want to bump up your selection, add more personality to your home, and move to something a bit more edgy, that might leave you stuck on what to do.

Trendy styles and colors will help sell a home in the short turn. If you’re thinking of selling, and are remodeling to get the most bang for your buck, select what current designers are showcasing. Right now, that includes super dark flooring colors, planks with undertones of gray, or natural-looking floorboards that look like you pulled them directly from nature.

Classic looks will never go out of style. If you’re having trouble deciding, worried about how you’ll feel in a few years, we often recommend erring on the side of classic. You’ll never be sorry when you stick with tones that have been around for years.

And if you’re really worried about which selection to make, go with your gut instinct first.

Whether you love light or dark, want earthy tones, or love bright colors, chances are you find yourself walking up to similar color patterns again and again. There’s a reason for that.

That’s your personality shining through.

Trust your gut. Select a hardwood color choice that resonates with you.

That’s the color that’ll look good in your home. One you’ll love for many years to come.

Flooring, Hardwood Flooring
February 18, 2022

Laminate or Hardwood – Which Is Right For Your Remodel?

Thinking of remodeling your home? Want to upgrade your living space for better workability? For many, it starts with the question: Laminate or hardwood, which is better suited for my needs?

Selecting the right flooring material is one of the most important questions you’ll ask yourself in any remodeling project. Flooring sets the stage for your entire design. Get it wrong, and you’ll regret your decision for years to come.

A study by Houzz, an online redecorating resource, found that 75 percent of homeowners planning on remodeling listed flooring as one of the top projects they planned to take on.

Where should you begin?

Laminate or hardwood – an overview

When most homeowners start thinking of remodeling, their minds often turn to hardwood flooring. But in today’s world, even the concept of hardwood is blurring.

Many different flooring options are taking on the appearance of hardwood. You can install luxury vinyl tiles, or even porcelain tiles that take on the appearance of hardwood. Want the “real thing” with more flexibility? Laminate remains ever-popular.

For some, only “real” hardwood will do.

Solid hardwood flooring consists of solid hardwood from top to bottom. The boards average ¾ inch thick, with grooved edges that interlock for a smooth surface area. Most solid wood floors are blind-nailed into place. They can be installed prefinished – select your stain before you install – or site-finished, meaning the floorboards are sanded, stained, and sealed once they are laid into place.

Laminate is increasing in popularity.

Laminate flooring is manufactured with multiple layers for strength and durability. It starts with several layers of wood byproducts as a core. A printed design layer is placed on top to resemble wood and other materials. A protection layer finishes it off, offering scratch-resistance and durability to prevent it from common household mishaps. These boards often have click in place edges that allow them to snap together and hold in place. That means they’re easier to install than hardwood, no nailing or gluing required.

Which is right for you?

Laminate or hardwood – pros and cons

While both laminate and hardwood can give you a floor you’ll love for years to come, they each have distinct advantages and disadvantages when installed inside your home.

Appearance

It’s hard to deny that solid hardwood gives you a look that’s impossible to replicate. The strong lines, grains, and finishes create a rich quality that can give your home aesthetics and appeal. Style and color can be found to match anything you desire. From standard materials like oak to exotic choices like Brazilian cherry, you’ll have numerous options when designing your rooms.

Because laminate is created using life-like imagery, it can take on a wide variety of appearances you might not find in nature. Looking for something lighter or darker than you’ve seen in hardwood? You might find it with laminate. What people usually find with laminate is a more standard approach to patterns. If uniformity is important to you, you’ll find common threads throughout laminate materials. It lacks some of the originality you’ll discover when laying a floor made with natural hardwood.

Longevity

When maintained properly, hardwood floors can last for decades. Hardwood has the distinct ability to be able to be sanded down and refinished when the surface scratches, dents, or even stains. That makes it an investment that keeps on giving for many years to come. Keep in mind that hardwood is susceptible to warping and damage when it comes in contact with moisture. Hardwood isn’t a product that should be installed in places like bathrooms or basements. When moisture is ever-present, hardwood isn’t the best choice.

Many people think laminate can be a better choice where hardwood is questionable. That isn’t necessarily the case. Laminate takes on many of the same qualities as hardwood. The core is susceptible to damage in moist conditions. It has the added issue of having a top image surface instead of real hardwood, which means it can’t be sanded down and refinished. Laminate must be replaced if it’s damaged, warped, or scratched. But thanks to its cost, it makes a welcome addition to many homes who are looking for appearance in the short term.

Green, eco-friendly design

Want a green, eco-friendly material to improve sustainability inside your home? There are many ways to make solid hardwood more sustainable. Reclaimed hardwood is growing in popularity. This is repurposing existing wood previously used in building. Many forests are now sustainably resourced and farmed as a crop. That means for every tree that is harvested, new trees are planted and maintained. Just look for seals like Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure your hardwood is sourced using sustainable guidelines.

Many assume laminate wins in the sustainability race because it isn’t sourced from forests. This isn’t necessarily the case. Laminate is created using composite processes of mixing wood products with resins and glues. This can increase VOCs and create off-gassing. This is where it pays to do your research. Ensure you select high quality manufacturers who develop products without questionable material. We can help you find the right product to suit your needs.

Installation

Installing hardwood isn’t a process that happens overnight. It’s also not a good choice for installers who wish to have a DIY project. Solid hardwood takes time to install. It must acclimate to your surroundings for a few days before it’s installed. Nailing or gluing means it takes experience to understand the process. If you don’t have expertise in finishing work, the surface area may not look like a quality finish. Prefinished planks aren’t as fussy as site finished, but it still takes expert guidance to lay each plank into place.

Laminate is very easy to install – it’s the perfect choice for a do-it-yourselfer. Laminate comes in click and lock technology, which means the surface area floats over the subfloor. It’s more forgiving if you make mistakes, and can even be taken up and reinstalled if you have a problem. That also means laminate can be used below-grade in basements if you don’t have a high moisture issue. If you want a floor installed quickly, laminate may be your choice.

Laminate or hardwood – what’s your choice?

There is never a right choice for every homeowner. It depends on your needs, your style, and what you’re looking for.

If you have questions about laminate, hardwood, or what’s the best choice to suit your needs, we can help you finalize your decision, and pick the perfect flooring for your home remodeling project.

Flooring
February 14, 2022

Whitewash Flooring – Choosing The Right Level of White

For some homeowners, white is the ultimate color in home decor. White cabinets. White walls. White furniture. White floor.

That’s just one of the reasons why whitewash flooring is growing in popularity.

According to Pantone, the leading authority on color, white is the expression of “quiet calm.:

“White is a symbol of calming influence in a frenetic society that is rediscovering the value of measured consideration and quiet reflection.”

In our fast-paced, chaotic world, sometimes it’s nice to come home to peace and serenity. Loud colors can be too bright. Patterns can add more chaos to an already busy life. But white offers peace and tranquility, a place to sit back and relax.

No wonder whitewash flooring is making a comeback.

What is whitewashing?

Whitewashing has been around for a long time. Originally, whitewashing was a way to protect wood from moisture, mold, and mildew. Homeowners would whitewash the wood around the homestead to give it protection from the elements throughout the year.

It’s similar to painting wood. Instead of paint, whitewashing is a combination of lime and water. Lime is antibacterial, antimicrobial, and resists mold and mildew. Once mixed, it can be applied directly to wood, producing a chalky white liquid that smooths on.

You’re likely to see whitewash flooring in colonial homes, or homes on the seaboard. The whitewashed look is also a mainstay in Scandinavian design.

What makes whitewash so popular is the light, bright appearance it gives to any room. If you’re trying to open up space and make it appear larger than it actually is, whitewash is a great look.

Are whitewashed floors popular?

You may remember Tom Sawyer whitewashing the fence in the beloved book by the same name. Whitewashing was ever-present during that time period because of its protection to homestead design features. It preserved wood and made it last longer, giving homeowners freedom and flexibility to spend time on other things than floor maintenance.

But over time, we as a society began inventing new flooring materials, and implementing new processes that made flooring more durable and easier to maintain. Why add whitewashing to your to-do list when a floor could remain in good condition for years without the process?

But there’s still something about the whitewash look that brings back classic charm.

If you want a traditional design, whitewashing may be your best choice.
If you want light, minimalist looks, whitewashing may give you what you desire.
If you prefer shabby chic, whitewashing may enhance your design by incorporating your own personality into your home.

Luckily, whitewashing flooring of today isn’t anything like it was one hundred years ago. You can choose to paint your existing hardwood flooring to achieve the look. Or you can install whitewash prefinished flooring for a classic look without the fuss.

The problem with DIY whitewashing techniques

If you do a quick search online, you can find a wide variety of sites showing you ways to achieve a whitewashed look using do-it-yourself strategies. There are a variety of resources you can find that will show you ways to complete the look with a bit of elbow grease on a small budget.

The problem with a lot of these strategies is they don’t work, and they may cause permanent damage to your hardwood floors.

A lot of sites recommend painting your floors to achieve your desired results. In theory, it sounds like a good idea. How many home projects have you completed with a bucket of paint? But there are many reasons why this is a bad idea.

Paint covers up the wood, which separates the wood from the top coat you’ll ultimately apply. Whereas stain penetrates the wood, paint creates a protective covering. Without the proper sealants, it’ll be easy for your painted floors to chip and peel, meaning you’ll be repairing your flooring more frequently.

Paint also has the right consistency to run and move anywhere it can. Instead of sitting on the top surface, it’ll seep between the cracks and move to the sides and underneath the planks. When you decide to refinish your floors again in the future, you won’t be able to sand this trace paint away. You’ll be able to see the white paint no matter what you do. This means the only way you’ll ever eradicate it is to rip them out and install new hardwood flooring.

Best options for whitewashing floors

If you already have hardwood flooring in place, and are interested in achieving a whitewashed look, your best course of action is to select a white stain. You can also use a white tinted sealer, which gives you added protection for your floors.

If you’re looking at remodeling your home and want to install new whitewashed floors, there are a number of ways you can do this.

If traditional hardwood is a priority, work with your flooring consultant to purchase a light hardwood that will work well with a white stain. Keep in mind that different materials will provide different results. Do you prefer red tints or yellow? Are you looking for as light as possible, or do you want other tones shining through? White oak, pine, or elm all start with classic light hues that will only be further enhanced by a whitewashing look. But don’t discount darker materials – even walnut can lighten up dark undertones to provide a unique look.

Other flooring materials can also give you the classic whitewashed look.

Today’s luxury vinyl planks come in many different colors and hues. Plus they add durability and waterproof qualities that make it a perfect choice where traditional hardwood may be more problematic. Want it in your basement, bathrooms, or renovated home office? Luxury vinyl planks may be just what you’re looking for.

Laminate can also give you the appearance of hardwood with more durable qualities. Think of this as an easy way to get the look you love, while adding durability to your home design too.

Are you ready for whitewash floors?

Whitewash flooring may be the perfect addition to your home. Easy to achieve, easy to live with, easy to clean, you’re going to love the look.

Are whitewash floors the right choice for you?

Flooring, Hardwood Flooring
February 3, 2022

Reclaimed Wood or Sustainable Wood – What’s The Difference?

Are you shopping for new flooring? Are you looking for green materials?

Are you confused by some of the terminologies in today’s flooring industry?

We get it. We see words like “reclaimed wood”, “sustainable wood”, even green flooring used in ways that leave us scratching our heads.

When what you want is flooring with a lower carbon footprint, materials that don’t harm the earth, and have it look great in your house too, what should you do?

Let’s look at the industry as a whole, and what these words mean and how they’re used in the marketplace today.

How sustainable flooring became a marketing trend

When homeowners first started installing flooring in their homes, they looked to natural materials to make their floors warmer, more comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing. Over time, manufacturers looked for ways to improve production, get flooring products faster into the marketplace, and materials that were easy to produce and use for consumption.

That pushed a variety of materials out there, not all of them healthy for the environment. Or for people.

As we recognized that, the concept of sustainable living grew.

Sustainable flooring is produced from sustainable materials. It also uses a sustainable life cycle. This includes harvesting, production, use, and disposal.

As awareness grew, various organizations stepped in to assure practices were truly sustainable and offered benefits to society as a whole.

The USGBC (US Green Building Council) was established to transform how buildings were designed, constructed, and operated. Their goal is to ensure buildings and communities use environmentally and socially responsible materials that improve the quality of life.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the rating system used by the USGBC during all levels of project production. It utilizes a variety of tools and point-based systems to help every team member throughout the life cycle make wise choices about the materials they use.

BEES (Building for Environmental and Economic Sustainability) software measures the environmental performance of building products at all stages of life. It’s a way to help people select cost-effective, environmentally-friendly building products for a project.

The FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) sets standards for responsible forest management. This helps bring lumber to market now while preserving solid, healthy forests for a viable future.

Green Seal is a universal symbol of health and environmental leadership. It’s a way of recognizing those companies that use a safer, more sustainable way of delivering products and services to the market.

These are just a few of the many organizations that are doing their part to ensure a healthier world. Pay attention to where your flooring material comes from to learn more about the best practices used by individual manufacturers.

What is sustainable wood?

When you’re looking for hardwood flooring, sustainable means wood that comes from sustainable management practices.

It starts with forest management. Is the wood harvested in a healthy way to ensure the forest has sustainability for generations to come? That’s where markings from organizations like the FSC can help you recognize the ethical behavior of a particular manufacturer. Going with a reputable source will ensure the company sticks within certain guidelines. In the online world, trusting a “generic” source for cost only could get you less-than-stellar results with questionable business practices.

VOC (volatile organic compounds) are emitted as gasses from certain solids or liquids. They include a variety of chemicals, some of which can be harmful to human health. When flooring materials such as wood are created in unethical manners, they often use the cheapest materials and production processes to get the product to market. This means those harmful chemicals can live in your flooring, releasing gasses inside your home. By paying attention to the manufacturer and what organizations they belong to, you can reduce the potential harmful production methods a company uses to create a product or material.

How is sustainable wood different from reclaimed wood?

Reclaimed wood is also sometimes referred to as antique wood. It’s a high-quality wood taken from a variety of resources, ready to be reused. The wood is usually taken from existing structures that are in the process of being demolished or removed. Instead of being disposed of in landfills, the wood is upcycled and reused to create new building materials.

Because the original resource is important, you should also pay attention to where the reclaimed wood comes from. FSC has guidelines on reclaimed wood use too. Reclaimed wood can come from a variety of resources, but many come from old buildings that are beyond repair, primarily barn and rural structures before the 1930s.

Hardwood, in general, can last for decades. Even when not properly cared for, as is the case in old abandoned structures, it still has a sound design that, with a bit of care, can bring it back to life.

Reclaimed wood will almost always have an old, rustic look to it. Because it uses wood taken from places with older production processes, you’ll see different characteristics in the wood supply. That can be a welcome addition to many building projects, both commercial and residential.

Reclaimed wood is sustainable. But sustainable will not always be reclaimed.

What’s right for you – sustainable or reclaimed wood?

You’ll find sustainable wood choices in a variety of flooring options. Thanks to technology, many are easy to work with, easy to install, and make great additions to any building project you may be working on. They provide a smaller carbon footprint than other resources, meaning you’ll know you’re getting a product that can help you achieve whatever goals you’re looking for.

Reclaimed wood has many of the same benefits as sustainable wood. Since the wood is taken from older projects, you can also get character and personality you might not find in other building products. It can truly create a visually appealing look and feel to wherever you install it.

No matter what material you choose – sustainable wood or reclaimed wood – be sure you trust the resource where you buy it. That way, you’re ensured to get a high-quality product that will work well in your space for years to come.

Flooring
January 21, 2022

What’s The Best Room Order For Replacing Flooring?

Nothing can be more exciting than remodeling. You’ve lived with your current furnishings for years. You’ve been dreaming about your new rooms for years!

Yet remodeling can be the start of overwhelm too. Where do you begin? What should you start with? Is there a room order for replacing flooring? Do you start with the floors … or paint the walls first? So many questions …

Luckily, we have answers.

Top to bottom, where do you start?

You have a new room in mind. Remodeling can be as easy as installing new flooring, to a complete renovation of the entire room, top to bottom. Want new cabinets and countertops in the kitchen? Want new colors and decor? Your flooring will set the stage for all to come.

The first part of any project is to remove the old from the worksite. If you’re taking out old cabinets and countertops, that’s the best place to start.

But as you’re adding new materials back in, it’s often best to start with the floors. That’s because floor removal can be dirty work. Pulling out old hardwood, ripping up vinyl, or removing old carpet can pull up dirt, dust, contaminants, and more. It can damage baseboards, scrape up new paint, and leave debris in the path.

Depending on what flooring you’re installing, it can also be a messy process. Installing hardwood may mean sanding down the boards and placing a protective coat in place. It’s better to do this first than to add the finishing touches, only to redo it again.

Bottom up is often the best place to start.

What room should you start in?

You’re ready for a change in a big way. A new kitchen. New living space. Even a new bedroom.

But it all can seem a bit overwhelming. Where do you start?

The best room order for home remodeling is first to start with the high-traffic areas. This ensures you finish the most popular areas of the home first before tackling projects in areas used less often. Once these areas are completed, it’s time to move to the bedrooms and bathrooms next.

It’s equally important to think about flow. How does your floorplan lay out as you walk in the front door?

Designers often recommend no more than three flooring materials within a home. Too many changes can disrupt the flow, and make it too hard to transition.

What does that mean for you? Start with your main living space. Do you imagine hardwood throughout? Do you want something easier to maintain?

Because main living spaces are most subjected to wear and tear, this is a time for you to think and plan for what your household needs most. Are you an empty nester who likes to throw parties? Do you have a growing family filled with kids and pets? Let that help you decide on which material is the best.

Main floor living

Living room. Dining room. Family room. Kitchen. These areas see the bulk of your time together as a family.

That means the flooring should stand up to all your family can dish out. Consider your daily routines and activities.

Of course, main floor living spaces often include even more. Mud rooms. Laundry rooms. Media rooms. Home offices. While a door may separate each room, flow is still important to create a conducive living space.

Hardwood often comes out as the clear winner in these spaces. But even the concept of hardwood has changed a lot over the years.

Traditional hardwood is always a great choice for residential living. Not sure about the upkeep and maintenance requirements? There are other ways to get the same look, only giving you additional benefits for ease of use.

How about engineered hardwood? While engineered hardwood is at its core hard wood, it offers a special protective veneer that gives it added strength and durability.

How about laminate. While it’s made from composite materials, its strength sets it apart. This isn’t the laminate of yesteryear. You’ll love the look. And if you’re worried about durability, this may be the perfect compromise.

Looking for something waterproof? Give luxury vinyl planks a try. These products are growing in popularity because of their function and good looks. Even experts have to take a second look to determine it’s not natural hardwood.

There is even an opportunity to lay tile on your floors and still have the look of traditional hardwood. It can be a perfect addition over radiant heating as a way to liven up your bathrooms or laundry space.

Secondary spaces – bedrooms and basement

When you step into your bedroom late at night, you want a different vibe than what you have in your living space. Softness. Peaceful. A quiet retreat. What feels natural in the kitchen or family room wouldn’t work as well in the bedroom.

That’s why carpet still reigns in the bedrooms. There’s just something about getting out of bed and wiggling your toes in natural fibers. On a cold winter morning, nothing feels quite as good.

This is your space. It’s a chance for you to let your creativity shine. Want to go a little bolder? A bright color may be just what you’re looking for. A bright blue, green, or red may accent your personality perfectly.

Basements present a specific challenge in that they are subjected to below-grade living. Is water a problem? Has your home settled in the past? Hardwood may buckle and warp. Carpet can easily be saturated.

Below grade makes flooring choices like laminate or luxury vinyl planks perfect. They stand up better to moisture, and are better at preventing things like mold and mildew.

Of course, it’s wise to pay attention to the subfloor too. Adding in moisture barriers can help your flooring stay better, longer.

What’s the best flooring to suit your needs?

Start with the highest traffic areas if you’re ready to remodel your home. It’ll give you a sense of accomplishment as you see the final touches fall into place.

Flooring is a personal choice. What you choose should be based on your needs.

If you have any questions about finalizing your choices, give us a call today.