Cold Weather Impact On Flooring And What To Do To Prevent It

Did you feel the coolness in the air? Already, signs of fall are everywhere.

Yes, it may seem too early to have summer fade into fall. But here in Colorado, it’s never far away. And while many celebrate those first few days of cold, knowing ski season comes along with wintertime, it can also mean significant changes to your home.Cold Weather Impact On Flooring And What To Do To Prevent It

With winter comes snow. And with snow often comes snow melting materials – and some of the biggest problems that can impact hardwood flooring. The only way to combat it is to take preventative measures before problems occur.

When snow occurs, the best way to ward off damage to your hardwood floors is to install mats and rugs near all entrances that lead outside. This will help rub off any snow and snow melting materials as you enter your home.

Even better, take off your shoes and boots the moment you enter. This prevents snow and other materials from being tracked throughout your home.

Snow melting materials can easily scratch the wood. They can also leave an unsightly white residue which can build up quickly. And if water is allowed to puddle anywhere in your home, it can quickly seep in and begin to warp the wood.

During the winter months, wood contracts as the heat goes, up, humidity levels go down, and dryness settles into the wood. That causes gaps to exist throughout your flooring. And these gaps are especially susceptible to problems. If water sinks in, it can cause problems down the road.

There’s no real concern for this expansion and contraction process. Yet you should take care to ensure damage isn’t allowed to occur because of the time of year. If you notice gaps, you can place a humidifier in the room to try and increase humidity in that area. However, this may not be enough to prompt your floors to expand. It may be something you deal with until spring, and the heater is turned off for the season.

The key to understanding how hardwood flooring works and what to expect is to fully educate yourself before you install hardwood flooring into your home.

Have any questions about the process? We’re here to help.

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How To Get Stair Runners Right

If you have wood stairs in your home, you’re probably used to the loud sounds that echo through your home with every step taken. That clomp, clomp, bang, bang noise becomes something that’s hard to put out of your mind, especially if you have a lot of foot traffic inside.How To Get Stair Runners Right

Kids are notorious for flying up and down the stairs, over and over again in hot pursuit of the next adventure in their minds. And sometimes, the occasional “aaaugh” is followed by a bump at the end as they miss a step and slide down to the bottom. Yes, wood stairs can be noisy. And depending on the style, they can be very slippery as well.

Which is why many homeowners turn to stair runners as a solution to provide both peace and quiet and added safety to your stairs. They can be simple and understated, or add their own design and character to your home.

Of course, adding a stair runner to your home can bring up a lot of questions.

  • How wide should they be?
  • What do I do with landing space in between?
  • Where should the runner end?

There are many ways to answer the most common questions. Here are a few ideas to help get you started.

Where should the runner end?

This depends on a variety of things. Do your stairs have an overhang? You can end the runner at the base of the overhang. What floor surface do the stairs come in contact with at both levels? You can use that to help you define how to finish off your design. There really isn’t a right or wrong way to end a stair runner. The important thing is that it provides flow and dimension to your overall design. You can do a few searches online and find many examples – use them to help you decide the best look for your home.

How wide should they be?

As a general rule of thumb, leaving 4 inches of bare wood on either side of the stair runner will give you a pleasing look. This should provide you with enough width to be a comfortable path for walking. Yet you can adjust the look and feel depending on your style and preference, and the overall look you are hoping to achieve.

What do I do with landing space in between?

In many cases, it depends on the size of the landing. And your style and personality comes into play too. Is the landing large enough for furniture? Leaving it wood and laying a rug may be an option. Is there just enough for a turn, to move the stairs into a new direction? How about covering the landing completely with carpet before continuing with the stair runner down the stairs? If you use area rugs either at a landing between two sets of stairs, or at the entry at the base, be sure to use non-slip pads under the rug so they won’t wiggle and move as you walk across. This can also be important if children often run and jump from stairs to landing, giving them the added security of not falling down.

How do I handle stairs that change width?

Especially with a grand staircase that opens up into a large room, you’ll often find stairs that get wider as they open into the room. Should you continue a stair runner down at the same width? Doing so gives you consistency and continues the visual appearance all the way through. But it isn’t your only option. In some cases, extending the stair runner and taking up more space can soften the look and provide more coverage for safety. The key is having a pattern in mind and continuing it all the way through, from top to bottom.

Have additional questions about how to incorporate a stair runner into your home?

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Trends New Home Buyers Want In Flooring

Want to know what’s happening in the world of flooring? Carpeting is getting softer, wood is taking on a variety of new looks, and vinyl is turning into one of the most luxurious, popular floor products on the market today.Trends New Home Buyers Want In Flooring

What’s driving the popularity of luxury vinyl is the increase in technology that makes just about any look possible on a vinyl floor. With extraordinary photo technology, any material can be mimicked and reproduced, giving you the benefits that come along with vinyl, only with a clean, lush look.  If you haven’t looked at vinyl in awhile, you’ll be surprised at the options. It can be installed in sheet format, though increasingly squares and planks are used as well. Wood in the living room, marble in the bathroom – really anything goes when it comes to today’s vinyl options.

But it doesn’t stop there. We know here in Colorado, people love wood. And with open concept living space, wood can be seen throughout the home. But it’s not just the standard woods anymore. Preferences in hardwoods are leaning toward darker stains. Gray tones are becoming increasingly popular. We also see trends towards larger planks, planks that come in multiple sized pieces, and flooring with exotic woods – hickory, cherry, or walnut.  And it’s not just the same old smooth planks either. A wood floor that has been hand scraped and hand textured can completely change the look and feel of a room. You can even dip into environmentally friendly wood flooring with the use of bamboo.

Then we turn to carpeting. Carpeting has seen its share of problems over the years. Some may say it has longevity problems. Some may say it isn’t environmentally friendly. Yet with today’s technology, those things are changing like never before. Today, every manufacturer is greening up their technology. You’ll find companies that recycle nylon or melt down polyester to make new fibers over and over again. They are creating new fiber lines that use up to three times the number of fibers in a more traditional carpet, meaning its softer and more durable than ever before. And because of the color and pattern choices, if you prefer carpet in some areas of your home, you’re going to love the look you discover when you visit our showroom floor.

Is this the year you replace your flooring for a new, updated look?

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The Myth Of Cork Flooring

Cork flooring is a beautiful, environmentally friendly flooring choice that is increasingly being installed into homes.

But the other day, we were asked if cork floors were an ethical product choice.

There is something satisfying when you hear the familiar pop associated with a great bottle of wine or champagne. But lately, you may have found your favorite brands replacing cork stoppers with twist tops or a plastic stopper. The misconception is that cork trees are dying out and are threatened in nature. Yet nothing is further from the truth.The Myth Of Cork Flooring

Cork is renewable. Because production of wine stoppers has significantly fallen off, there is a shrinking market of forests cultivated for cork product. Cork extraction is one of the most environmentally friendly harvesting processes in the world. Not a single tree is cut down to get to the cork. Harvesting cork does not destroy the tree since it comes from the bark and not the trunk.

The bark is stripped off in late spring, and it quickly forms new layers of cork for protection. The bark of a cork tree is harvested approximately every 9 to 12 years, depending on environmental conditions. A cork tree can be valuable for 170 years or more.

Which means you can install a cork floor and never worry about the ethics behind it.

Cork is anti-microbial and hypo-allergenic. It contains a substance called suberin that repels insects, fights off mites, germs, mold, and mildew, and is also fire resistant. It also makes a beautiful addition to any room. And because it’s soft to the touch, you’re going to love it in places where you stand on a regular basis. Like your kitchen.

Cork comes in a variety of styles, patterns, looks and selections. Want to see what’s available? Stop by today.

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Wine Cellar Flooring Ideas

Wine cellars are increasingly added to homes across the Denver metro area. In most cases, wine cellars are built down in the basement or lower level of the home, built to utilize a cool, humid environment that is needed for storing and aging wines.Wine Cellar Flooring Ideas

In many cases, wine cellars are built on a concrete slab that will need to be sealed and a vapor barrier applied before installation. This is especially important if the wine cellar will have refrigeration installed to maintain temperature consistency and humidity.

Your flooring choice should also be able to stand up over the years and be able to take the weight of the contents of your cellar. A sommelier will tell you that 500 bottles weigh approximately a ton. It’s especially important if it sits above other living space.

Wood
You can use wood if it isn’t installed directly onto concrete. Sealed hardwood is an industry mainstay in wine cellar construction; it makes a beautiful addition to your home as well. With wood planking, the possibility of design is unlimited. Many choose to use wood borders and other designs to create a unique experience. Different woods can be layered together to form intricate patterns. Consider breaking up a design with scrolling designs or even intricate cut patterns. How about adding a wood medallion? With more wine cellars in production, there are many options to make yours unique.

Cork
Wine and cork go together. And in the case of flooring, cork can be an ideal choice for a wine cellar. Cork is a natural, durable and sustainable materials that are gentle on the feet and has excellent thermal and acoustic properties. Cork also is treated with a moisture protection system, which helps it be resistant to mold and mildew.

Tile
Tile is often one of the best choices for a wine cellar. You can choose from natural stone or ceramic tile. You can choose from every color of the rainbow. You can have a solid floor or create unique patterns and designs. Want to play off the winery theme? Choose painted tiles with wine motifs – grapes, cherubs, fruit, floral or even vineyard motifs. And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, there’s always opportunity to customize your design.

With so many possibilities available to you, the best place to start is by learning what your options are. Stop by today and see the many different flooring choices available, and discover which is the perfect choice for your new wine cellar.

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5 Reasons You May Be Ready For Wood Look Tile

Nothing beats the look of hardwood floors. Still, there may be times when the thought of installing hardwood flooring into your home leaves you more than unsure. Do you really want to worry about how your dog’s 5 Reasons You May Be Ready For Wood Look Tileclaws will dig into the wood? Or how a dropped toy from your toddler’s hands will dent the texture forever?

While hardwood flooring is a beautiful addition to any home, it’s not the perfect choice for every family.

Advances in the flooring industry, however, can give you the look of hardwoods with a more durable product. Why not choose a wood look tile instead?

Wood look tile has many benefits over its hardwood plank counterpart.

1. Durability
Wood flooring is difficult to maintain, especially in high traffic areas. It scratches, dents, warps, cracks and chips from regular day to day use. It needs to be cleaned regularly and refinished and resealed every few years, depending on your traffic level.

Wood look tiles give you the look of hardwood and the durability of tile. It’s easy to maintain and easy to clean. You won’t have to worry about a dropped plate or your dog’s nails doing damage. And if damage does occur, it’s easy to replace a single tile without having to rip up the entire floor.

2. Install it anywhere
Love the look of wood but debating how well it will perform in the bathroom or kitchen? Wood can be a difficult product in high humidity and high moisture areas. But with wood look tile, you can install them anywhere and have them be a beautiful addition to your home’s aesthetic value. And with so many colors and choices available, you can match any pattern or theme you desire for your home’s décor.

3. Customization
Because tile comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, customization is easy to do with any flooring in your home. Use wider planks, different colors, and vary the pattern. With tile, you never have to worry about warping that comes easier with wider plans, tile will help you maintain uniformity no matter how you incorporate it into your final design.

4. Comfort and warmth
Always wanted a heated floor in your bathroom? With radiant heating under your tiles, you can have the cozy flooring you’ve always dreamed about. Not only will the look be modern and stylish, but you’ll enjoy having a comfortable place to get ready in the morning with just a flip of the switch.

5. Cost
What holds many back from installing hardwood flooring? Cost. Wood floors can be expensive depending on the type of wood you select. Add in installation and maintenance costs, and you can quickly leave your dreams of a hardwood floor behind.

Tile isn’t as labor intensive as hardwood, and maintenance costs are less by comparison. Meaning tile is the perfect choice for budget-friendly families that want a unique look to every room in your home.

Have additional questions about wood look tile? Just ask..

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4 Myths About Wood Look Tiles

Love the look of hardwood flooring but don’t want the maintenance that comes along with it? Choose wood look tiles instead.

Yet even after you decide wood look tile may be the perfect choice fo you, you may have some reservations about how it will perform over time. Here are a few things you shouldn’t be worried about.4 Myths About Wood Look Tiles

Myth #1 Grout makes wood look tiles appear fake
Hardwood planks rub against each other. Tile usually has grout lines running between. Won’t it look fake once it’s installed?

Look for wood tiles that have rectified edges, which means the edges have been mechanically finished, so they are precise and consistent. With consistency, you can place the plank tile closer together and have less grout between. Meaning you’ll barely notice the grout once it’s installed.

Myth #2 Tile is cold
Especially in a four-season location like Denver, we prefer hardwood over tile because of its warmth. Yet tile doesn’t have to be cold. Wood look porcelain tile is very well suited to install over radiant subfloor heating. This can provide warmth no matter how chilly the outside temperatures turn.

Myth #3 Wood tile looks fake
How can tile look as good as hardwood? With today’s technology, almost identical. With each change of technology, new wood look products improve. You’ll find realistic textures and visual appearances so realistic you can’t tell the difference without getting down on your hands and knees and feeling the difference.

Myth #4 Tiles can shift and warp
Any tile in excess of 15 inches can present a challenge once installed. However, if installed correctly, it won’t be a problem. Plank tiles are available in a variety of sizes, 6 to 8 inches wide, 24 to 42 inches in length. Tiles should be staggered like real hardwood flooring patterns for maximum support. If you hire a certified technician to install your new wood look tiles, you’ll have years of enjoyment from this one of a kind look.

Convinced wood look tile is in your future?

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3 Critical Issues When Selecting Flooring

Whenever you purchase new flooring, there are several critical issues to consider. It may start with selecting color and design, but you’ll quickly find many other considerations that are equally as important.3 Critical Issues When Selecting Flooring

Select the right floor and you’ll be happy for years. Select incorrectly and you’ll be disappointed almost from the getgo. High traffic areas in your home need different flooring choices than low traffic areas, such as the bedrooms. Low traffic commercial locations – small business offices – require different characteristics than high traffic commercial locations – a school.

Yet regardless of which flooring material you ultimately choose, it’s important to always select the highest quality possible. Low priced products may seem like a bargain until you have stability issues soon after installation.

Choose the correct flooring for the location
Above all, flooring must fit the function. While pattern and style, color and design are important to create the look you’re going for, it’s equally important to choose characteristics that match performance.

Install it properly and according to manufacturer’s guidelines
Flooring must be installed properly by contractors or individuals who are experienced and knowledgeable about the flooring material they are working with. This isn’t a place to skimp. Fixing errors immediately after installation can be costly procedures, and in some cases can nullify your warranty altogether.

Properly maintain it
Once flooring is installed, it’s important to service and care for it according to guidelines. Every floor material has specific procedures for maintenance, from wet cleaning to sweeping, to applying finishes. If you follow the plan, your floor will have less damage potential, and remain under warranty for the extended amount of time.

Flooring isn’t a quick decision purchase; instead, it’s an investment that can last for years. If you choose wisely, you’ll be happy with your purchase and provide full life expectancy, and have the best-looking floors possible.

Have additional questions? Just call.

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The Advantages Of Installing Unfinished Hardwood Flooring

With so many options when installing hardwood flooring, why should you select unfinished hardwood flooring?

Prefinished flooring is the perfect option for homeowners who need a quick turnaround with the installation process. Or for homeowners that want an easy, click into place system for creating the look they desire.The Advantages Of Installing Unfinished Hardwood Flooring

But there are certain benefits to installing unfinished hardwood flooring.

You can customize your unfinished floor

One of the biggest advantages is the flexibility. With raw wood, it’s like working with a clean slate. You can choose how your flooring will look, colors and patterns, and design in any way you choose.

In contrast, prefinished flooring comes from the manufacturer with stain and finish already applied. There is no changing it. If you have an idea in mind, it’s difficult to create it without destroying the underlying benefits of having a prefinished system in place.

It can give you unlimited options, and it also makes it easier to coordinate and match up to existing floors.

Less risk

With unfinished flooring, there’s no risk of conflict when matching up old and new finishes. You can apply virtually any finish without having to worry how it will look with existing flooring. You can also experiment with colors and finishes to achieve the results you desire. It’s easier to blend and test out colors to find the perfect look.

Create your own look

If you’ve always loved the look and beauty of natural grain, there’s no better way to let it show it off than with unfinished flooring. You can site sand it to create beveled edges that give it a unique, hand finished and rustic look. You can finish it with very little stain, allowing the natural wood to shine through.

Of course, unfinished flooring does take more time to install, more time to complete the job. But if you have the time necessary to create a unique look for your home, it may be the perfect choice for you. We stock a variety of prefinished and unfinished hardwood flooring to meet every need. Call us today to find the perfect flooring choice for you.

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Fisheyes In Hardwood Flooring? Here’s Why

You love your hardwood flooring. But what about those unsightly fisheyes you see periodically throughout the room? What causes them? Can you get rid of them?Fisheyes In Hardwood Flooring? Here’s Why

Fisheyes are light depressions in the hardwood finish. They have smooth, rounded edges with a concave center. They are the result of some sort of contamination, usually created during the recoating process.

They are several common causes for fisheyes.

The biggest cause of fisheye is when solvents from a previous coat of finish haven’t fully evaporated before a new coat is applied. Liquid solvents must have ample time to evaporate and disappear from the hardwood before a new coat is applied. The solvent’s interaction with a newly applied coat of finish creates tension on the surface, which a new coat of finish cannot penetrate. What is left is a process known as “wetting out”, and is what produces a fisheye.

Because fisheyes form during refinishing process, they can sometimes be caused by years worth of damage. Over the years, a homeowner may use oil soaps, citrus based cleaners, wax or silicone based products that build up, penetrate into the depths of the finish, and contaminate the flooring for when the next layer of finish is applied. To prevent chemicals from seeping into the hardwood floors, make sure to follow instruction on the product packaging. Always go with guidelines established by the manufacturer of your hardwood floor. Using more of a product will not make it cleaner or provide more protection.

If you’ve owned your home long enough to be the original installers of hardwood flooring, you understand the care its received over the years. Yet in most cases, that’s rarely the case. Because you can’t be sure how a previous owner cared for the wood, it’s important to test and go slow when refinishing a hardwood floor. Sanding down to the bare wood and applying completely new finish allows for a contractor to overcome potential problems that can cause fisheye.

If you are recoating a current finishing process, it’s important to move slowly starting in an inconspicuous place. If you notice marks appearing in the finish, stop working and determine the source before fixing and moving on.

Whenever you finish a floor, be sure to leave ample time between coats. Proper air circulation ensures that each coat dries before the next coat is laid into place. Be sure to read the finish manufacturer’s drying instructions, paying close attention to suggestions made about the best conditions to ensure you are leaving enough time between coats.

If you have any questions about your current flooring, or how to gain the perfect look with any upgrades you have in mind, give us a call today.

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