Tile Floors Archives - Page 3 of 9

Tile Floors
July 18, 2020

Choosing A Tile For Outdoor Living You’ll Love Summer and Winter

One of the great reasons to live in Colorado is to enjoy indoor/outdoor living twelve months of the year.

The summers are gorgeous. Why not get the gang together for a barbeque?

The winters are spectacular. Why not gather around the fire pit and enjoy a few rounds of smores and hot chocolate?

That’s why more homeowners are choosing to remodel and expand their living spaces beyond the boundaries of the walls. Instead of pushing out the kitchen, or adding an extra internal room, why not create outdoor living space that’s functional year-round instead?

We’re not talking your parent’s patios here. This is way beyond a slab of cement with a charcoal grill. Instead, this is about creating truly functional space you can use no matter what the weather is like outside. And here in Colorado, that means a wide fluctuation in temperatures, as well as dealing with everything from harsh sunlight to several feet of snow.

How can you do all of that easily?

It starts with your floor. Choose a tile that works well inside and out, and will carry functionality and durability throughout, blurring the space to add continuity and style.

Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Bringing the outside in

One of the best ways to bring two spaces together is by using the same tile in both locations. This isn’t time to fall in love with indoor tile and try and make it work outdoors. Instead, pay attention to what works well outdoors, and bring it in.

Choose a tile that works well no matter what the weather is like outside. Flagstone works well. Flagstone is porous, so you will have to seal it from time to time. Just make sure you choose one based on functionality, and one that will dow well in all kinds of elements. It should hold up well to stains and other damage it might receive from being outdoors.

Mixing and matching

Just because you want to bring your indoor living outside, doesn’t mean you have to use the same flooring materials throughout. Be selective. Just make sure they blend well together.

If you’re using fold-up glass doors, the lines will already be blurred between indoor and outdoor living. Select tile that works well outside, and bring it in several feet to merge with your interior space. Then use a material you enjoy on the inside – like the hardwood you’ve always dreamed about. Transitions are everything. And that’s something we’re experts in – just ask.

Matching grains

Here in Colorado, people love their hardwood. If you’ve had hardwood in your kitchen for years, you might not want to change it. You can’t imagine anything but hardwood. But carrying the look outside isn’t possible. Wood products you use inside – oak, pine, or ash – are simply too soft to use on the outside.

That doesn’t mean you can’t use the same concepts in both locations. Change up the color. Use decking material outside, and mimic the size and plank orientation, so it flows directly into your indoor living space. You might even be able to invest in tile planks, which often do a very good job of mimicking hardwood. You can use it to transition from one location to another. Or use it to blend the looks into something you truly desire.

Stay simple

In many cases, the reason you elect to build glass walls that can open up to the outside is to take in a breathtaking view. Focus on the view by staying simple with your choice of flooring material. As you’re choosing a tile, go with neutral colors that blend rather than stand out. It’s a perfect way to allow the natural beauty of the surrounding area to create just the ambiance you’re looking for.

We love staying light when we go neutral. Choose a soft sand, beige, or tan color. This allows you to mix and match color choices as you desire. Of course, this is also where your own design options can come into play.

How about a darker color – a dark gray that is less likely to show muddy footprints from your four legged friends? Travertine and slate are always great options, both inside and out. Their durability makes them high in demand. Just be conscious of manufacturers’ guidelines. Some require sealants to ensure they are well protected from stains and damage.

Mixing materials

What makes some living spaces so special is their uniqueness. They don’t stay within the mold, they destroy it. And that’s the beauty of redoing your living space today … anything is possible.

What we often recommend to our customers is to dream a bit before they start their design work. It may sound silly – after all, dreaming is what made you want to remodel in the first place. But sometimes people don’t dream big enough before they start shopping. What we’re talking about here is developing a pinboard on Pinterest, or even a vision board where you cut out pictures from magazines and attach them to a posterboard where you can see your ideas on display.

Use these concepts to really see what your design style is like. You’ll start to see trends. You’ll discover what features really excite you, and scream “install me” every time you look at them.

Don’t listen to proper design etiquette. Some of the most unique designs in the world incorporate different materials together. Concrete, wood, steel, tile, glass – it can all add character to your overall design. Choose what suits you best, and rely on a designer to make suggestions to make it work.

Choosing a tile – we’re here to help

What’s your preference? What kind of space are you creating for your indoor/outdoor living? No matter if the temperatures hit record highs or extreme lows, whether it’s the heart of the summer, or the darkest of winters, isn’t it nice to know you have the perfect spot for your family gatherings?

Choosing a tile doesn’t have to be difficult. You just have to rely on someone who can help you make the right choice. We’re here to help.

Flooring, Tile Floors
June 18, 2020

Using Ceramic Tile For Universal Design

There’s a new focus on finding your perfect home and staying in place.

As we age, nesting takes on an entirely different meaning. We no longer plan a home around growing a family. Instead, we want to create a home where we can live indefinitely, throughout all the trials and tribulations of getting older.

Universal design sets up all the principles of aging in place. It’s about ensuring a house is set up appropriately for everyone, no matter what their abilities. It includes things like:

Flexibility in use – providing choices and adaptability
Intuitive use – eliminate complexities
Low physical effort – easy to operate and maintain

Universal design is the process used to design a home to be accessible to everyone. Every space – from kitchens to bath, and living spaces – should be accessible to people of all ages and abilities. And it should be done in such a way that it doesn’t call out differences, but instead has a smooth, easy-to-use style that looks as good as it functions.

Do you have narrow hallways? Widening them means that a person requiring any form of assistance can maneuver them just fine.

Do you have steep staircases? Universal design eliminates staircases, putting in easy ways to move from location to location without the need for climbing stairs.

And here’s the best part: universal design will never go out of style! That’s because there are already over 108 million people over the age of 50, thanks to the large Baby Boomer generation, with another 49 million following in their footsteps from the Gen X generation. These people want flexible living as they age.

While there’s a lot of features to build into a home specifically built under universal design guidelines, it starts at the bottom – the floor. And one of the best flooring choices you can choose is ceramic tile. What’s more, ceramic tiles aren’t just for floors. You’ll find them in use in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room, on backsplashes, walls, and ceilings. Because they’re that efficient, that beautiful, anywhere you want them in your home.

Universal design and minimalism go hand in hand

The key to good universal design is: simple is better. Clutter doesn’t work. Rugs and other items you can trip over are nuisances more than helpers. Simplicity is key. That’s why ceramic tile works so well.

It’s beautiful. It’s functional. It’s one of the easiest flooring choices to maintain. And with a minimal amount of effort, it will look good for years – decades – to come.

Some designers will tell you to go big. Select ceramic tiles as large as possible in order to minimize the amount of grout needed in between. It creates a smooth, flowing look. Don’t clutter it with throw rugs – that can be dangerous. And keep furniture high off the floor – it accentuates the clean look of the floor.

Other designers will tell you size doesn’t matter; it’s the continuity of the floor that matters most. Whether you use smaller penny round tiles, or large squares two feet in diameter or more, the key in creating classic good looks is keeping it simple.

Open concept

When you open up the floorplan of your home, it naturally creates universal design. That’s because any barriers that might have impeded traffic flow are eliminated.

Does that mean eliminating wall space? Yes, wherever possible. That also means it will create rooms that naturally work together.

Take a look at your current home space. Average homes today have a kitchen, living room, family room, several bedrooms and bathrooms, hallways to connect the space, and additional rooms such as laundry rooms, home offices, or dens on the side.

Now take a look at the flooring in each of these spaces. Many homes are a hodgepodge of flooring choices.

Hardwood in the main living spaces
Vinyl in bathrooms
Carpet in bedrooms
Tile in bathrooms

How do each of these flooring choices connect? That can be a problem in two manners.

1. It can cause a tripping hazard.

2. It can create an imbalance in aesthetics.

Remember how you reworked clutter for a more minimalist look on countertops and with decor? The same holds true with flooring choices.

When you can see flooring change every few feet, from space to space, it clutters up the aesthetics. It adds chaos to the design.

Maybe now is the time to change out the different flooring choices you’ve made, and create a solid visual line from the front of your home to the back.

Some of our favorite ceramic tile choices include:

Wood Look Tile – this is growing in popularity because of its classic good looks. If you love hardwood flooring, but want the convenience of ceramic tile, look no further than wood look tile. It’s created using a design technology that at first glance, it’s easy to mistake this faux flooring for the real thing. It comes in planks, and can be many different colors, from light to dark.

Stone – want the look of stone tile in something that’s more flexible to install and maintain? Stone look ceramic tile may be the perfect choice. It’s a great way to create a smooth, uniform look, where natural tiles’ various shapes might not do.

Porcelain Tile – while not exactly a decor choice, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention porcelain tile in this article. Why? Because it’s a great choice to lay inside and outside of your home. Porcelain tile takes ceramic tile to the next level because of its high tensile strength. It’s resistant to moisture, and comes in a wide variety of design options. What’s more, you can move your floorplan beyond your inside walls, and use it in outdoor living space too. People love the versatility when moving their kitchen space outdoors.

And if you weren’t sold on ceramic tile before, let’s talk about radiant heating. Ceramic tile is one of the best flooring choices if you desire to lay in radiant heating. Imagine warm floors on a cold winter morning. It’s possible with ceramic tiles.

Is universal design right for you?

If you’re part of the minimalist movement, if you’re planning for the future and incorporating universal design into your remodeling plans, start at the bottom. Choosing ceramic tile to run all through your home is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

Tile Floors
June 14, 2020

Can I Use That Gorgeous Tile In My Kitchen and Outdoor Patio?

Before 2020, people made travel plans every year to see the sights and sounds of the world.

Then stay-in-place happened, and we suddenly have taken a second look at our homes.

How can we create even more usable living space; space we can share with our families and the ones we love?

Just a few years ago, the American Institute of Architects stated that outdoor living spaces had become the most popular special function room among homeowners. A Better Homes and Gardens study found homeowners considered outdoor living spaces a vital family-time venue.

Think that’s changed in the past few months? We’re betting outdoor living spaces are going to grow even more as the top remodeling project homeowners desire.

This isn’t throwing up an awning and adding a barbecue grill. This entails careful planning to make this space as livable as possible all throughout the year. It gives you options spring, summer, and fall, and maybe even a few opportunities in the dead of winter.

Of course, that means you’ll have to plan carefully to ensure every aspect of your outdoor living space stands up to all Colorado can dish out. Can it withstand the heat of the summer, while maintaining its good looks even on the coldest day of the year?

It starts from the bottom up. You have to choose the right flooring to ensure your outdoor living space looks as good as it wears, no matter what the outside conditions. We feel it also means selecting tile for the kitchen and outdoor patio to ensure one cohesive look.

What is the best flooring for an outdoor patio?

Traditional outdoor patios were usually made of one of two things: wood or concrete. You might have had one or the other growing up.

If a home existed on relatively flat space, there was a good chance a patio was made simply by pouring a concrete slab off the kitchen or dining space.

For more sophisticated tastes, or if elevation challenges demanded it, decks made from wood were installed to add more space just off the home.

As time went on, pavers and other stepping stones were used to improve the looks while giving flexibility in installation.

But these are no longer the top of everyone’s wish lists when they upgrade their space.

Tiles are an excellent choice for outdoor areas because they’re durable, easy to maintain, and more stable and permanent than pavers or stepping stones. Some of the best choices include:

Natural stone – this is a blanket term for tiles made from quarried materials such as slate, granite, limestone, and travertine. These materials have been popular for centuries because they’re as beautiful as they are functional. While many homeowners love the look they create inside the home, more are finding out just how gorgeous they can be when you carry the look outside too. Just be sure to avoid polished stone, and choose tumbled or honed natural stone tiles with built in slip resistance.

Granite – is the hardest of natural stone, so you’ll find them to be very durable no matter what the elements throw your way. Granite is often recommended here in Colorado because it can withstand our hot summers and cold winters beautifully. They are available in an array of colors, which gives you the ability to create any look you desire.

Slate – is softer than granite, but still is suitable for wear in an outside living space. What we love most about slate is that no two tiles are ever the same. You’ll find varying colors and textures, which gives every space a unique look. The earthy hues can create a warm and inviting look inside, then provide a vibrant backdrop as you carry the look outside your home.

Limestone – is softer yet, and is porous by nature. You’ll have to seal these tiles to avoid problems due to everyday living and the Colorado weather. They show wear easily, so they aren’t recommended for high traffic areas. Because they are more prone to cracking during extreme cold, they generally aren’t looked to as an option if they will be exposed to the elements.

Travertine – like limestone, travertine needs proper sealing to add protection against spills and stains. It also can be easily damaged in extreme weather, and isn’t the best choice if not protected against the elements.

Porcelain tiles – while many think of these as bathroom tiles, manufacturers are now giving them many different looks, patterns, and textures. Think of how well they stand up to moisture in the bathroom environment; that’s what makes them equally as durable in settings outside your home. They not only stand up to moisture, but they also handle well in the cold. Since they are non-porous, they take little effort for maintenance. And because they come in so many varieties, they are moving up in popularity as a way to continue your inside look outside.

What do I have to think about if selecting tiles for inside and outside living?

Today’s houses are spectacular at combining functionality with beautiful design. Throw back the windows and doors and increase the living space for all of your family and friends.

We have some additional tips for you if you are trying to match tile in the kitchen and outdoor living space as a part of your remodel.

Consider outside space first – that may seem counterintuitive, as your kitchen space will be used twelve months of the year. But there are more demands on durability when it comes to tiles being placed outside.

You don’t have to match – complementary colors always work well. If you select darker tiles inside, you can lighten up your outside space by selecting a shade or two brighter. Blending is what’s most important in creating a continuous canvas from inside to out.

Tile isn’t just for the floors – but then you knew that, right? Create excitement with backsplashes, and continue the drama as you move along windows or even on workstations and islands.

Play with colors and finishes – blending is more important than matching. Using several different sizes, shapes, or patterns can create visual intrigue as you move from place to place.

Play with grout too – your color palette doesn’t end with the tile. You can change your look and feel by lightening or darkening the grout.

We have one final recommendation for you.

Before you come in and shop tile for your kitchen and outdoor living space, spend some time online gathering ideas. We recommend Pinterest to all of our customers, because creating a pinboard helps you settle in on a look. Pin your different ideas.

Then give us a call. We can help you select the perfect tile for your home.

Tile Floors, Vinyl Floors
April 24, 2020

Why Vinyl Tile May Be Better Than Ceramic Tile

There are certain environments throughout your home where moisture and spills are more likely to occur. Like your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room.

It would never make sense to install carpet; can you imagine water seeping into the fibers and padding if your washing machine overflows? Now imagine cleanup if the flooring was water-resistant. It might be a pain, but you wouldn’t worry about the long-term implications.

That is why more homeowners are giving vinyl tile and ceramic tile another look.

But there’s a third thing to think about here in 2020 that will impact the way you live from now on: the coronavirus.

Cleanliness is more important than ever. Having the ability to clean and disinfect is at the top of every homeowner’s wish-lists for new flooring.

Does that make vinyl tile better than ceramic tile?

Let’s take a look.

Vinyl tile or ceramic tile – what’s the difference?

People, in general, have very distinct views of both vinyl tile or ceramic tile. They may remember growing up with one or the other, and have opinions about the look and feel of both.

If you haven’t looked at either lately, it’s time for a second look. Through technology, vinyl tile is now designed to mimic some of the most favorite products on the market. But the materials used in production are substantially different, and that can be a plus for you.

Vinyl tile is essentially made from the same thing as the more traditional vinyl sheet. It’s created using four layers:

A backing layer usually made from felt or fiberglass
A core layer made from PVC plastic
A print layer to add the design to your flooring product
A wear layer to give it its strength and durability

The difference between tile and sheet is the cut; vinyl tile is simply cut into squares to make it easier to handle and move. And because they’re easier to maneuver, manufacturers have been very creative with the design. You’ll find all sorts of patterns and colors. They even make composite tiles, which adds a sense of realism to more traditional plastic-only by including pulverized stone dust to the mix.

If you’re looking for a step up, you can move to the luxury vinyl tile line, which is much thicker and has tiles that join together through click-together technology. Luxury vinyl tile is found in both plank and tile format, and can take on the look of hardwood, ceramic or stone tile.

Ceramic tile is made up of natural clay mixed with other materials, fired and hardened with a surface glaze to give them their unique appearance. While ceramic tile tends to be a more generic term for the tiles you install in your home, it also includes things like porcelain tile, which hardens at higher temperatures, making them harder and more durable. They have their place in American homes, but keep in mind they do produce one of the hardest surface areas you can install.

Ceramic tile is often used in many ways – why not use it on the walls, countertops, and backsplashes to create a unique look? You would never do that with vinyl tile.

Do each have their place? Of course.

Is there a right choice? It all depends on you, your goals and your desires.

But if you are looking for beauty at an affordable cost, and want something that’s durable and easy to clean no matter how much you clean it, vinyl tile is worth a second look.

Why vinyl tile is growing in popularity

Market trends show that flooring is in demand now more than ever. That’s because people want a low maintenance, cost effective material that’s easy to install. Current statistics show it’s a 25 billion dollar industry, with growth predicted more than 7 percent per year through 2025.

What makes vinyl tile better than ceramic tile in many situations?

Cost

Vinyl tile is one of the most budget-friendly flooring choices you can make. In many cases, vinyl tile will be your only purchase. Compare that to ceramic tile where you’ll have to invest in adhesive, grout, and all the tools that go along with it. Depending on what vinyl tile product you select, you can expect to pay as much as 40 percent less than other popular types of flooring.

Durable

According to an article on Realtor.com, vinyl tile can last up to 20 years if well cared for. That makes it an excellent choice where water-resistance is needed. Plus, the soft cushiony texture is perfect if you have pets or kids, where playing and getting down on the ground is mandatory in your daily life. Ceramic tile’s hard surface means it’s harder no matter what hits it. If you drop a man, ceramic tile can chip or crack. It has a much better chance of bouncing back on a vinyl tile.

Installation

Are you looking for an easy DIY project? With most flooring choices, doing it yourself is often cost-prohibited because of the number of tools you need. If you want to install tile yourself, nothing is easier than vinyl tile. Start by pulling up the current flooring and ensure the subfloor is in good shape. With ceramic tile, the subfloor is less forgiving. If you tile over uneven spaces, there’s a greater risk your ceramic tile will pop off during normal living. Because vinyl tile is flexible, it settles in even with minor imperfections on the subfloor. And with luxury vinyl planks, they click into place without adhering to the subfloor. Their flexibility allows them to settle in and stand up over time.

And did we talk about the mess? If you’ve ever installed ceramic tile yourself, you know all of the stages you have to go through. Ensure the subfloor is level. Mix and apply the adhesive. Cut the tiles … and risk having broken tiles pile up. The dust. The grout! That’s why many people leave ceramic tile placement to the professionals.

Because vinyl tile is so easy to install, you can often have the project complete in one day, depending on the size of your room.

Flexibility

Are you the type of person who loves to keep up with the trends? Are you an HGTV addict? Is remodeling a part of your lifestyle? Then vinyl tile may be the perfect choice for you. Once ceramic tile is laid, it’s difficult to pull up and get your subfloor back into condition for the next flooring to be laid into place. With vinyl tile – especially luxury vinyl planks – with click and lock technology, you pick them up and ready the subfloor for your next flooring choice. That also makes them easy to repair if you damage one of them.

So what’s your flooring choice? Do you agree, vinyl tile is better than ceramic tile for what you’re looking for in a flooring choice?

Give us a call and learn about our complete line of vinyl tile.

Tile Floors
April 21, 2020

Why Tile? Check Out These Bathroom Remodeling Tips To Fall In Love With It

Remember when we wished for more time at home? Thanks to staying in place, our wish has been granted.

If you’ve been using this time to plan out a bathroom remodel, we want to give you a few reasons to consider tile.

Why tile?

Chances are you have tile somewhere in your home. Tile is one of the most popular materials used in construction, and has been for centuries.

If you head back in time, you would find glazed tiles used in all kinds of settings. Because many were handcrafted, they were used for decoration and to add style and pizzazz in aristocratic real estate.

Today, we use tile everywhere. You’ll find it inside and outside. You’ll find it on floors, walls, backsplashes, and countertops. It comes in small mosaics or as large as several feet wide.

But no matter how it’s used, it’s one of the most durable and beautiful materials you can use in almost any setting.

People choose tile for a variety of reasons. If you want something unique, you can create it with tile. If you want a material that will stand up to all your family can dish out, tile is a great choice. Looking for a DIY material? Once again, all arrows point to tile. It truly is one of the most versatile materials you can work with.

How do you get started?

With any remodeling project, the best place to start is with an idea. So you want to remodel your bathroom – what picture comes to mind even before you start looking?

For most homeowners, when they decide to take on a project, they have certain things in mind. Maybe your bathroom is straight out of the 90s – an upgrade is desperately needed.

That’s your starting point. Now it’s time to come up with your ideas.

We always recommend watching home improvement shows, or visiting Pinterest and creating a pinboard with your favorite ideas. Keep in mind that you can’t create a luxurious spa retreat if you only have the space of a tiny bathroom. Be reasonable with your ideas. If you plan on knocking down walls, by all means, dream. But if you have certain specifications that impact your final selection, keep those in mind while you dream.

Where do you want tile?

Very quickly, you’ll discover that tile can be placed anywhere. On the floor. On the wall. On the vanity. Backsplashes. Shower stalls. On the ceiling.

We’re seeing tile used in many different ways today. You can use it as an accent, or as the main attraction. Why not mix them both – interweave small glass tiles with larger stones to create an opulent spa shower.

If you’re doing this yourself, measuring will be the key to your success. Consider the logistics of how your bathroom is laid out, and where you’ll be installing the tile in the end. Will you lift up the toilet and tile underneath? Will you be replacing the vanity and require tile to extend from corner to corner? Will you have to piece a design together around a window?

You’ll also want to keep in mind you’ll probably need extras. If you have to cut pieces to fit into corners, or with a hole to fit your plumbing, you might have breakage. Having extra on hand will ensure the color remains true throughout the project. And if you have even more, you can set some aside in case you stain or break one in the future.

Bring samples into your space

One of the biggest mistakes people make is basing their final selections off of what they see in the store. What looks good in a large open space with harsh lighting will never show you how it will appear when you tuck it into your bathroom.

Narrow your choices down to a few selections. Then bring them home and live with them for a bit. See them in the morning, in natural sunlight, and late at night. One will naturally move forward on your “yes” list, while the others migrate back into the pile.

Trust your instincts. If you don’t like it as a sample, you probably won’t enjoy it for the long term. If your gut says “this is it”, you’re probably right.

Go for the extras

Spa showers are the rage right now. People are remodeling to create space for a walk-in, spa-like shower experience. And we get it – they’re beautiful and functional at the same time.

Yet it’s easy to focus on the price tag and ignore some of the extras that can make your shower even better. That’s where customization comes into play.

If you work with a contractor, chances are they’ll talk with you about storage. Have bottles on the floor always bothered you with your current shower stall? Then why not consider a shower niche?

This is an indention in the wall designed for storage. It provides you with space to keep bottles, soap, brushes, and razors all within easy reach.

It’s worth the effort.

Rely on others

While we’ll always tell you to trust your gut, it’s also important to seek help along the way.

Whether you rely on one of our flooring experts to walk you through your DIY project, or you’re hiring a contractor to do the entire project for you, it’s a good idea to ask questions along the way.

Each of the people you come in contact with has experience in tiling projects. They know what works, what looks good, and what their clients like for years to come.

If they make a recommendation, it’s for a reason. Listen. Then take action.

A contractor’s job is to ensure you’re happy with the result. They won’t push you into specific colors, shapes, or sizes, without reason. They make suggestions because they know what looks good and works well together. Their job is to make you happy – and they do that by making the best suggestions they can with your situation and constraints.

Are you considering a remodeling project? Why not consider tile.

Hardwood Flooring, Tile Floors
February 4, 2020

Hardwood or Tile: What’s The Best Choice For Your Kitchen?

Take a look around your home right now. It’s probably a place you’ve loved for years.

Yet if you look even closer, you’ll hone in on the problem spots, the areas you would change if you could.

Studies show the kitchen is always at the top of that list. According to a Houzz survey, 43 percent of respondents remodeled the kitchen because they no longer could stand the old. An additional 40 percent said they would if they could, it’s on the top of their wish lists, and they’ll do it as soon as budget allows.

But to get the kitchen just right, it takes a pretty significant investment. Remodeling Magazine stated the average person budgets between $5,000 and $50,000 for a kitchen remodel, whereas the actual costs average somewhere around $64,000. Of course, what you spend is entirely up to you and where your desires lie. Some people dream of a complete remodel, from flooring to countertops to cabinets and updated decor.

No matter what your idea of a kitchen remodel is, one way to get the biggest bang for your buck is to start at the bottom – replace your kitchen floors, and you’ll see a marked improvement in the way your kitchen looks.

What should you buy? Is hardwood or tile the best choice for kitchen flooring?

Let’s look at both to help you determine the best choice for your home.

Why choose hardwood kitchen floors

It’s hard to argue that hardwood offers a timeless classic look you’ll love for years to come. Here in Colorado, there’s something rustic about hardwood flooring. We use it everywhere, from residential to commercial applications, from small houses to ski chalets deep in the Rocky Mountains.

And even when you decide to install hardwood floors in your kitchen, your decision making doesn’t stop there. Colorado has relatively dry weather year round. That makes it important to choose a hardwood that handles well in dry conditions. Choices can include:

Bamboo
Red oak
White oak
Hickory
Walnut
Brazilian cherry
Maple
Ash

They’re all beautiful. They all make great choices throughout your home. They all can be versatile additions to your overall decor. It depends on how dark or light you wish to go, and how much maintenance work is acceptable for your lifestyle.

https://pro-flooring.com/does-hardwood-plank-width-matter/

If you’re thinking about selling your home at some point in the future, you can never go wrong installing hardwood in the kitchen. Not only will it look great and handle well for you, but it’ll also be a welcome sight for potential buyers who come through your doors. Statistics show hardwood flooring has a 70 to 80 percent return on investment. People love them, you can’t go wrong with that.

Some people design a kitchen for its looks, while others concern themselves more with functionality. If you fall in the latter category, you’ll love the durability of hardwood. It stands up well under pressure, it cleans up easily when you stay on top of messes as they happen. But more than anything, they handle well when you stand in your kitchen cooking up a storm. That’s because hardwood is actually a softer flooring choice. It’s a more resilient surface, and gives way under pressure. You’ll notice it more – or should we say less – on the pressure of your legs and back.

Let’s back up for a moment and think big picture. What flooring choices have you made throughout the rest of your home? Do you have hardwood stretching from the front door to the back? Do you use hardwood on the stairs? Does it extend into your living spaces, the family room, the home office, and the den? Then, by all means, extend hardwood into one of the most popular rooms in your home – your kitchen. Having the same surface running throughout will give you the perfect blend for your decor. Rather than having it look a bit choppy, stopping abruptly at the threshold of your kitchen, continue it on for a seamless transition.

Remember, your kitchen flooring choice is all about you, your personality, your lifestyle, and what you truly desire.

Why choose tile kitchen floors

Let’s consider tile for your kitchen floors for a moment. There’s something timeless and classic about the look, isn’t there? Tile is perfect for all climates, all spaces, and can create any kind of mood in your kitchen space.

People select tile for a number of reasons. We’ll start with durability. Kitchens can be messy places. They are most likely to have a lot of spills and accidents. Because tile floors are water-resistant, they make cleaning a snap. Which would you rather have when you drop a jar of pickles – tile or hardwood? With hardwood, you might be smelling remnants of pickles for weeks to come.

Even though you’ll have a variety of choices, if you select hardwood, you’re still limited by color and width of the planks. But with tile, when designers tell you there’s unlimited possibility, they truly aren’t kidding. If you can think it, you can design it with tile. Colors, patterns, sizes, textures, possibilities – it really is an endless supply of options. You don’t have to select one size, shape, or color, and go with that. Instead, you can add your own personality into it, add borders of different colors, and mix it with patterns and even shapes. Your kitchen tile floors can truly be an expression of your personality, they can be artwork in their own way.

Maybe you want the look of hardwood, with the ease of cleanup that goes with tile. No worries; there’s a tile for that. Yes, today’s tile floors can even mimic the look of hardwood. It gives you the ability to go with an exotic look that wouldn’t handle well under the pressure of being in a kitchen.

There’s also another reason we like tile for kitchen floors: radiant heating. One of the biggest reasons Coloradoans doubt tile is because it’s often thought to be a cold flooring choice. But if you add radiant heating underneath, it can actually be a smart way to heat your home. It can keep your feet warm while you make pancakes for the family on the weekends. It can help warm up the most popular room in your home while you’re sharing a glass of wine in the evenings.

And tile floors are a lot easier to replace. They don’t need acclimation to your home the way hardwood does. They can be replaced individually if you have a problem without needing extensive repair.

Is it better to have hardwood or tile in the kitchen?

So what’s it going to be? They both have advantages, and both have their weaknesses. Ultimately, it’s about what you prefer. Do you want hardwood for your kitchen floors? Or is tile the better solution for your kitchen remodel? Either way, stop by and let us help you select the right flooring choice for your home.

Tile Floors
December 25, 2019

Using Porcelain Tiles On Shower Walls

If you’re looking to remodel your bathroom, you’ve probably looked at porcelain tile. It’s among the most popular products used in bathroom remodels today.

Porcelain tile is durable and versatile; you can find it in many different colors, styles, sizes, and patterns. It gives a homeowner a wide variety of choices when configuring their final design. What’s not to love about porcelain tile.

But lately, homeowners haven’t been stopping with the floors. If porcelain tile looks as good as it does on the floor, why not move it up onto the walls? If it makes a great flooring choice because of its water resistance, surely it would make a great choice on shower walls too?

Is porcelain tile great for shower walls? It’s actually one of the best choices. Here’s why.

Moisture and water-resistant

Let’s start with the most obvious. Anything on your shower walls is going to get a lot of exposure to water. It will also deal with a lot of steam. That means you’ll need a covering that can handle all of that and stay looking great too.

Porcelain tile is made from clay with specific properties that add to its moisture resistance. Because of this, they have a water absorption rate of 0.5 percent or less. That makes them highly effective in areas that regularly get wet. It means standing water won’t penetrate the tile, and steam won’t affect the quality over time. It can also improve air quality, as it won’t absorb unwanted air particles back into the space.

Durability

Not only can porcelain tile withstand the daily abuse of water and moisture, but it is also one of the strongest tiles to stand up to everyday wear and tear.

With ceramic tile, the color and pattern are surface only. When they chip or crack, the color chips away and you’re left with an eyesore that stands out from the tile.

WIth porcelain, the color or pattern is created all the way through. The color penetrates from front to back, so a chip will only reveal the same color underneath. While you’ll still want to keep extra tiles on hand for replacement of severe wear, it’s nice to know that one small chip won’t destroy the aesthetics of your design.

Maintenance

Because porcelain tile is water-resistant, it won’t attract build-up, mold, mildew, and other particles over time in the same way as other tiles. It’s easy to maintain.

With floors, sweep or vacuum loose dirt and dust. Dry mop as needed. Use a mild cleaning solution to keep it looking its best.

With shower walls, use a soft cloth to wipe down the tiles regularly. Use a mild cleaning solution to keep them clean and looking their best.

You can also check with one of our sales associates for the best products to use. And be sure to read manufacturer’s guidelines as they make suggestions to keep your porcelain tiles under warranty.

Appearance

You can’t ignore the look of porcelain tiles when they are installed on shower walls. They look amazing! That’s why designers are turning to porcelain tiles more and more. They come in many colors and patterns, a wide variety of sizes and shapes. You’ll find them glazed or unglazed, with the ability to create and look you desire.

With today’s technology, you can also find them taking on the appearance of many other product lines. Love the look of real wood? Porcelain tile mimics the look. Want marble or granite without the work of having it installed? You can find porcelain tiles that mimic that too.

Although porcelain tile can cost more than other tile options, it can be a great investment in your remodel, and give you years of enjoyment. That makes it a wise purchase to make when considering your options for a remodel project.

What about the installation process of porcelain tile?

Porcelain tile isn’t mined, or created from stone or wood. Instead, porcelain tiles are made from compressed ceramic dust.

During the manufacturing process of porcelain tile, it is compressed in such a way as to remove microscopic air pockets within the material, making it heavier than it’s ceramic cousin. If you were to pick up a porcelain tile the same size as a ceramic tile, you’ll feel the difference in weight. That’s because porcelain tiles are denser because of this process.

This weight is what gives it its strength. It also makes it heavier to hang on shower walls, and to drop as you’re placing it into its final position. That means it can be trickier to place porcelain tiles on the wall if you’re planning on making this a DIY project. You’ll need an aggressive adhesive to prevent tile slippage as you put your design into place. You’ll also need different tools. While ceramic tile can be cut with standard tile tools, you’ll need a wet diamond saw for cutting porcelain tile without breaking.

For DIYers, it’s important to note that when you do make cuts, these edges should be placed along wall corners or ceilings, not by tub or sink edges. This makes it more susceptible to water damage.

Of course, the grout you choose plays an equally important in how durable your shower wall remains over time. There are several different options; our sales associates are happy to speak with you about the differences.

Cement has been a popular choice because it is the least costly of all methods. But cement is porous, meaning it will have to be sealed regularly to prevent water damage. That’s why for shower installs, most designers turn to an epoxy grout. It’s durable and doesn’t need to be sealed, providing better protection on the shower. It’s also both stain and chemical resistant, meaning it can stand up to all the products you use as a part of your daily routine.

If you’re trying to keep your house green and create an eco-friendly living space, there are options for you too. Many of the newest grout products offer the durability of epoxy grout, yet do so in a non-toxic manner. They come in a wide variety of colors, making it the perfect product to match any decor.

What’s your choice for porcelain tile for your shower walls?

Are you sold on creating a new bathroom space that uses porcelain tiles on the shower walls? You’ve made a good choice.

Now comes the fun part; finalizing your selection. Stop by today and see the selection we have for you. You’re going to find the perfect look for your home, and love the look for years to come.

Flooring, Tile Floors
December 20, 2019

Are Porcelain Tiles Good For Bathroom Floors?

Thinking of remodeling your bathroom? It’s fun looking at photographs of all the things you can do. What colors should you use? How about upgrading the tub? Or maybe adding a steam shower?

The possibilities are endless.

At some point, you’ll head down to the bottom – the floor. What’s the best flooring for a bathroom remodel? You’ll quickly find you can’t ignore tile. By far, tile is one of the most popular choices you can make. But even within the subcategory of tile, you’ll have a lot of decisions to make.

Which is better for bathrooms, ceramic or porcelain tile?

As you start looking at your options, you’ll quickly discover that tile falls into two categories: ceramic and porcelain. Porcelain tile is the more popular choice for bathroom floors for a variety of reasons. It’s made of a denser material, is harder, and a less porous option. That makes it more water resistant and stain resistant than ceramic tiles. And in a bathroom, those are both great things to have.

Porcelain tile is also the perfect choice for installing over radiant heating. And here in Colorado, tile and radiant heating naturally go together. Because tile can be on the cold side of things, that’s the first hurdle many home remodelers have. Homeowners want a floor that won’t be cold on their as they get out of bed on frosty winter mornings.

Even more, porcelain is unmatched in its beauty. It can mimic any design you desire. Do you want natural stone without the care involved in keeping natural stone looking good? Do you want the look of hardwood floors without the upkeep? Porcelain tile is the solution for you. Depending on your budget, you’ll find it can take on just about any look you desire.

Porcelain tile typically comes in two basic types:

Through-bodied – where texture and color run all the way through the tile. This makes each tile strong and durable as it can hide scratches and chips better.

Glazed – where the entire tile is glazed with a wear layer that gives it a strong, dense surface. It also gives you the widest range of styles, colors, and patterns.

Do porcelain tiles chip easily?

Your bathroom floors take a lot of abuse. Think back what they’ve gone through just in the last few days.

Water spilling over from the tub
Moisture and humidity from that long shower you took on the coldest morning of the year
A dropped hair dryer
The mess when your makeup spilled

That’s a lot of different potential problems your floors will face. And flooring can be quickly damaged if you don’t select the right flooring for your room.

Porcelain is denser than ceramic, which means it has a lower absorption rate. This is what gives it water and moisture resistance, including the ability to withstand frost. That’s why it’s a great indoor/outdoor option.

That denseness also makes it less likely to chip. This is where you should also pay attention to something called a PEI rating. This will tell you just how resistant the surface of the tile is to scratching and chipping. A tile with a PEI rating will chip and scratch easier, meaning it’s better for applications where it won’t get much abuse, such as the walls. A PEI rating of 3 is good for all residential applications. Commercial or industrial often move to a PEI rating of 4 or 5.

Are porcelain tiles slippery?

When it comes to selecting a flooring product that has slip-resistant qualities, porcelain tile leads the pack. That’s why you’ll find porcelain tile in both residential and commercial, indoor and outdoor applications.

It is important to note that not every porcelain tile is perfect for wet spaces. It also depends on the surface structure and the glaze used in production. Porcelain tile does have slip-resistant qualities. But to ensure you make the right choice for your bathroom, ask which of your favorites would be best. We’re happy to help you make the right decision for your home.

Are porcelain tiles healthier than other flooring choices?

Bathrooms need to be a hygienic place. From spills to accidents, odors, and the chance for biological growth, your bathroom sees it all throughout the day. Yet porcelain tiles stand up well to the pressure.

They are easy to clean. You’ll be able to wipe off spills and accidents quickly.

They are hygienic, meaning the non-porous surface won’t trap allergens.

They also won’t allow mildew or mold and bacteria to grow.

If you want ease, porcelain tile is a great choice to make.

762

Porcelain tiles are highly versatile and will give you the look you want!

If you think all tiles are the same, you haven’t looked at today’s tile. Especially with porcelain tile, they are designed to mimic just about any look you desire.

You’ll find them in every size, shape, and color. Want tiny tile to lay in mosaic format? Love the look of subway tile? Want a different shape – how about hexagon? Or maybe you want the look of exotic hardwood without the headache that comes along with installing exotic hardwood in the bathroom. Porcelain tile’s got you covered there too.

Plus, it doesn’t stop with selecting one look or feel. You can combine several different porcelain tiles to find a pattern that’s uniquely your own.

To find your ideal look, we recommend going online and finding design sites to look at. Sign up for Pinterest and you can create a pinboard that highlights the look and feel you desire. Then bring it in and share. It’ll give us a starting point to help point you in the right direction of the product lines that will be perfect to create the look you’re going for.

Are you ready to install porcelain tile in your bathroom?

When you’re ready to get started on your remodeling project, the best place to start is by stopping by and seeing our complete line. We can give you all the information you’ll need to make a decision on the tiles best suited for your needs.

Choosing porcelain tiles for your bathroom is the best decision you can make in your remodel. You’re going to love the look for years to come.

Flooring, Tile Floors
December 14, 2019

5 Tips When Choosing The Perfect Tile For Your Bathroom

Will you be taking on a home renovation project this year? Are you looking to freshen up the bathroom and making it look brand new?

We always recommend to start from the bottom up. You’ll be surprised at how a simple project like tiling your floors can change everything. Of course, you don’t have to end there. Tile is the right material for a wide variety of areas in your bathroom. You can use it for:

Shower stalls
Walls
Backsplashes
Countertops

Tile isn’t just for flooring anymore. It’s one of the most versatile materials you’ll find in the homebuilding industry.

But how do you know where to start? If you’ve ever walked into a showroom filled with tile, you know how overwhelming it can be. With hundreds of choices in every color, pattern, shape, and size you can imagine, how do you know what will look right in your home? Where do you begin? Luckily, we’ve been helping homeowners just like you for years. Here’s the basic plan we always share with our customers.

Start with your budget

Did we mention that tile comes in all sorts of shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns? And with all of those options, the price adjusts accordingly. Tile can be one of the most economical choices you can make for your bathroom project. But if you want something to “wow” your guests and visitors, you can find one-of-a-kind tiles that will do just that. Of course, you’ll pay for it …

With all of this in mind, know that your first step in your remodeling project is to establish a budget for your tile. Ceramic tile is one of the most affordable. Step up to porcelain, and you’ll increase your durability. What’s the difference? Ceramic tile has the look and feel designed on the surface. With porcelain tile, the color and design run all the way through. Porcelain is also a water-resistant option, which makes it a perfect choice for every surface in your bathroom.

Choose a theme

With an almost endless supply of tiles on the marketplace, you can quickly get overwhelmed with possibility. That’s why we suggest you create a plan before you even start looking. Of course, plans are meant to be broken. And you might find something completely different than what you came in looking for. But having a plan when you walk through the door helps you narrow down your options. It gives you a starting point.

Chances are you have a color or style already in mind. Do you prefer bright or subdued? Modern or country? Dark or light? Even with just these few ideas in mind, you can start narrowing your focus and selecting things right for your taste.

We also recommend heading over to Pinterest and starting a pinboard. Then have fun searching for the best home websites online. When you see a bathroom design you like, pin it to your pinboard. You’ll start seeing trends almost immediately. Bring it in and share it with us. We’ll be able to point you in the right direction.

Consider tile size

Tile is anything but standard anymore. You can choose mosaic tile barely an inch in diameter. Go with a classic subway tile that runs 4×16 in size. Or go big and bold – select a tile two-feet or more in width.

There isn’t a wrong size when it comes to choosing a tile for your bathroom. Of course, you’ll find a wealth of information online about sizing tile properly for a bathroom. We’ve even written about it here.

But the good news is when choosing tile for a bathroom, you’re going to love it more if you let your personality shine through. If you want to stick to tradition, stay with a more standard size. To create a timeless look, select subway tile. If you want the latest trend, there are many choices for you.

Think big picture

The tile blends with the cabinets and the decor to create a bathroom you’ll love for years. That’s what our flooring consultants are here to do. When you come in, bring your ideas. We’ll throw in a few of our own. Before long, you’ll have a wide range of ideas to select from.

If you already have a color scheme in mind, bring in paint chips, towels, or even countertop selections to help you match and compliment. You’ll see how different tones bring out different looks.

But don’t rely on what you see in the store. When you finalize it down to a few selections, bring samples home. Live with them in your space for a few days. See the at night with the lights on. View them during the day with natural light splashing around. You might be surprised at what choice you gravitate to when you see them in your own home.

Don’t stop with the floors

If you’ve spent any time visiting home improvement sites and saving your favorites to a pinboard, you know you can use tile just about anywhere. From the floor to the shower, to walls and behind sinks, tile can be used just about everywhere.

Especially in bathrooms where moisture and humidity can be hard on surface areas. If you select the right tile, just wipe it clean. And if it’s installed correctly, it will protect you from water damage as the years go by.

Bathroom tile can be subtle, blending in with the surroundings. It can bring clean lines and give a spa-like vibe. Move into rich tones, and it can take center stage. Instead of being only functional, it can be more of an artistic expression.

What’s your preference?

If you’re remodeling your bathroom this year, let your creativity run wild. Tile is one of our favorite flooring choices for good reason: there’s so much you can do with tile!

No matter if you have ideas in mind, or have no idea where to begin, your best course of action for choosing tile for your bathroom is to stop by and see our selection. We can give you ideas to think about, provide you with tools to start the planning process. And when you’re ready to complete your project, we’ll help ensure everything is done from beginning to end.

How can we help you choose the right tile for your bathroom?

Flooring, Tile Floors
December 10, 2019

How To Hire The Right Tile Contractor

When you’re ready to take on a remodeling project in your home, it’s easy to get lost in design. After all, that’s the fun part. Picking out colors, styles, patterns, and materials are things you can touch and feel.

But once your new flooring is installed, that’s where the problems begin if you cut corners in the wrong places. Cutting corners can mean different things. It can mean buying inferior products. It can mean selecting something based on price alone. It can mean turning your tiling project into a do-it-yourself project, even when you know you don’t have the skill.

In fact, according to one recent survey, after surveying over 2,000 Americans that have attempted DIY projects, floor tile installation was the most regretted project of all.

Why? Because it can be much more complicated than it seems. You need the right skills and tools, something most homeowners just don’t have. And that can lead to big problems.

If a tile is misplaced, for instance, it can throw the entire project off. It has a ripple effect on the rest of the project. In many cases, the only way to fix an error is to rip up the entire flooring and start all over again.

Want it done the right way the first time? Hire a tile contractor to ensure the flooring is installed the right way. While it’s a good idea even with a simple project, where tile is lined up in a relatively square room, it’s an even better decision to hire as the job becomes more complicated. Looking for an intricate pattern? Want special edging? Have a living space that is anything but square? Hire a tile contractor and know it’s installed correctly.

So how do you find a good tiling contractor? How do you know they’ll do a good job? Consider these five things as you make your final selection.

Start with experience

No matter how big or small your remodeling project is, cost matters. You only have so much funding budgeted for your project. The more you can save in certain areas, the more you can spend on others.

Resist the urge to cut on the most critical projects, like flooring. Your flooring is the base for your entire room design. Imagine carpet that wears quickly, or hardwood that buckles or warps. Instead of being proud to show off your room, you’ll have to spend time and money correcting the problem to make it livable again.

Don’t hire the handyman who tells you he’s tiled a floor several years before. Don’t rely on your next door neighbor who’s trying to earn a few extra bucks. You’ll never save money when you have to repair problems almost as soon as the flooring has been laid.

Ask about experience. Ask to see referrals. Focus on finding someone who’s laid tile in rooms similar to your own. If you want an intricate design, for example, ensure they can show you photographs that show off their artistic abilities.

Talk with professionals

When people are already in the business, they know other people who have skills and talents in doing what you want them to do. Don’t be afraid to ask contractors, architects, designers, and even our own sales staff for recommendations. We have experience working with professionals, and know who is the most qualified for the job you’ll be hiring for. We’ll give you the people we trust enough to recommend on a regular basis.

Also, ensure you look for the right contractor for the job. Tile laid in residential is different than commercial environments. And while laying tile is somewhat similar, commercial tile will need more wearability overall. Commercial tile installation is a growing field because of the demand.

Ensure contractor is properly licensed

If everything goes right with the job, licensing and warranties might not matter. But without them, you could face many problems in the future. Always ask about certification, incensing, and if they have current insurance. A reputable contractor will always be happy to share the information. One who is less than reliable will give you reasons why it’s not important.

Also, look for membership to professional organizations such as the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA). This tells you that the contractor is in business for the long haul, and cares about the image he displays to his prospects and customers.

You can also ask about training. Have they trained through organizations like the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF)? Organizations like this provide their own certification programs to ensure students have the proper training and are equipped with the latest techniques using today’s technology. It’s the best way you have to ensure you’ll receive service that will last.

Ask questions

The hiring process should never be one sided – don’t let a contractor do all the talking. By asking questions, you can start to determine just how knowledgeable a contractor really is. Key questions should include:

How do you determine how much tile the project needs?
How long will the project take?
Who will be working on the project?
Are they all properly trained?
Have you ever worked on projects like this before?

Be specific. Remember, no question is ever too dumb. You don’t have new flooring installed every day. It benefits you to fully understand the project long before the contractor steps foot into your home. Ask your questions, then ask some more. It’s the only way you’ll ensure you get the right flooring you’ll enjoy for many years to come.

Ask to see pictures

Many people will tell you to ask for recommendations. And while it is a good idea to talk with people that have used a contractor’s services before, there could be a world of difference between their project and your own.

When you ask to see pictures of final projects, you can determine skill level and how well they perform. Don’t look at it for the big picture, ask to see details too. Look for tiles evenly spaced, and finishing work to complete the look. Pay attention to how tiles are cut all the way around the room. A good tile contractor knows how to handle every situation. They know how to make a room look good, and how to finish a job for an elegant look.

When in doubt, go with your gut. Don’t trust just anyone; look for someone who will do a good job for you. Your flooring can last years – decades if done right. When you hire the right tile contractor, you’ll be ensured you’ll get the very best service, and the job will be done the right way the first time.