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Flooring, Hardwood Flooring
August 22, 2015

A Guide To Choosing Mahogany Flooring

What comes to mind when you hear the word mahogany? Elegance? Class? Style?

Mahogany is a straight grained, reddish brown wood harvested from three tropical hardwood species indigenous to the Americas.

The Honduran, or big leaf mahogany, has a range from Mexico to the southern Amazon in Brazil, and is the only true mahogany species used in commercial applications today. Illegal logging of this commodity led to it being placed on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species list in 2003, the first time a high value tree was listed.
West Indian or Cuban mahogany is native to southern Florida and the Caribbean, currently being used for commercial applications.
Swietenia Humillis is a small, often twisted mahogany tree found in dry forests in the Pacific Central America, and has limited commercial use.

The features of each of these species include a wonderful, clear, find grain, and will provide minimal shrinkage and swelling in different types of climates and temperatures. Classic mahoganies like these will always make a good investment no matter what their intended use will be.

But like every classic material, there are options available that imitate the look and feel of real mahogany.

African mahogany is a little bit different. It carries many of the same characteristics as its Caribbean counterpart, and looks identical in many ways, yet isn’t considered to be a true mahogany. Processing is a little more difficult, meaning care must be used to create a smooth finish without snagging the wood.

Asia has also entered into the mahogany market. While their mahogany is close in appearance, it is worlds apart when it comes to the workability of the wood. They are a good option for plywood, and work well as engineered flooring, but won’t match true mahogany’s quality when it comes to traditional flooring and furniture production because of its limited durability and its tendency to splinter.

When you’re out looking for flooring, and you’ve narrowed your focus to mahogany, what should you look for?

True mahogany – the Honduran or big leaf mahogany – has been restricted for years because of its over-harvesting, and there are few ways to obtain it on the open market, outside of recycling it from an older home.

The best options for getting the look and feel of real mahogany is to choose plank flooring with well processed African mahogany, or choose engineered mahogany options using high quality African, Caribbean or Asian mahoganies. In most cases these are expertly processed so they will look and feel as good as the original.

Have additional questions? Stop by today and see the many options available to you on our showroom floor.

Flooring, Hardwood Flooring, Tile Floors
August 19, 2015

Wood Look Porcelain Tile vs Wood Floor: How To Use Both

Lets face it; Coloradans love their wood floors. And rightfully so. Colorado is a rugged, outdoors kind of place. A place where we enjoy being outdoors almost every day of the year. From snow skiing and tubing, to water skiing and biking, those 325 days of sunshine each year give us a chance to do what we love best.

But when the sun goes down, we want to come home to a place that’s easy to live in … and offers gorgeous décor. That’s why wood fits the bill every time. Wood floors are easy to maintain, beautiful to look at, and compliment any décor.

Yet wood has its problems.

If you’ve ever had a washing machine overflow, with water soaking into its surrounding area for several hours before you discovered the problem.
If you’ve ever had a toilet overflow, sending a flood of water through every inch of your bathroom floor.
If you’ve ever had a child drop an ice cube, or a Popsicle, or even a glass of water, and not tell you about it.

You understand the problems.

As high tech manufacturing continues to improve, the range of porcelain tile options increases as well. One of the top interior design trends that has resulted from technology advancement is wood look porcelain tile.

These porcelain tiles are carefully crafted with patterns and textures that duplicate the look of just about any wood species in the natural world. If you have a preference for mahogany, oak, birch, beech, the list goes on.

Yet no matter how closely they resemble the look of real wood, they have the durability of porcelain tile. They may have a realistic appearance, yet it’s the moisture proof property most come to love. Which means they are appropriate to use in all kinds of places you may have been hesitant to install hardwood before.

Like laundry rooms, bathrooms, even shower stalls. And yes, they are so beautiful you’ll even consider them in other places throughout your home, like your kitchen.

What’s more, if you’ve always wanted to warm up your home with underfloor radiant heating, this can be your chance. Porcelain tile is the perfect product to install over an underfloor heating system.

Can they be combined perfectly with wooden floors you already have in place? Of course. One of the best ways to see how easy it can be is to stop by and see your options. You’ll be amazed at just how far wood look porcelain tiles have come.

Flooring, Hardwood Flooring
August 19, 2015

The Differences Between Red and White Oak

Oak trees are one of the most widely recognized trees on the planet. There are hundreds of oak species, and grow on almost every continent (minus Antarctica). There are many different types, colors and styles, and are used for production in almost every type of wood product imaginable.

No wonder its one of the most popular flooring choices around.

Yes, if you are considering installing hardwood flooring, oak is definitely worth considering.

Here in Colorado, you’ll find two types of oak: red oak and white oak.

Red oak is one of the most commonly used woods, and has been used as the benchmark for hardwoods when it comes to hardness rating and stability.

White oak is very durable and is resistant to water, which has made it the go to wood choice in the shipbuilding industry.

Red oak is a light colored wood that when aged and sealed, may look closer to a pine color than any other species of oak.

White oak has a darker wood color which darkens to a medium brown or even a light black color over time.

Red oak is a porous material easy to work with. Its wood is pitted with microscopic open tunnels that soak up moisture like a sponge.

White oak has closed tunnels filled with solid plugs called tyloses. This makes white oak durable and extremely water tight.

Red oak makes a perfect choice for indoor flooring and for décor. You’ll find a wide array of red oak flooring options in many different planks, sizes and styles. Red oak is also a commonly used wood for stair treads, moldings and banisters because of its ease in carving.

White oak isn’t as easy to work with when it comes to the details. When it comes to outdoor construction, white oak is always going to be the safest bet. You’ll find white oak on your external door frames and on door jambs.

While red and white oak can be used interchangeably throughout your home, it may come down to coloring, style and preferences. If you’ll be staining the stair treads or banisters, for instance, choosing red oak for both the detailed work and for the flooring would be your best choice for matchability. If you’ll be painting the detail work throughout, the two can be used together.

Which oak is better for you, red or white? Come in today to learn even more about the natural beauty of oak.

Flooring, Hardwood Flooring
August 15, 2015

A Look At Beech Hardwood Flooring

Throughout history, the beech tree has held a special place in the hearts of mankind. Lovers look to beech trees to keep their romance alive forever. If people cut their initials into the bark of a beech tree, the bark grows around the carving, creating a sign of love that goes on forever.

But of course the use of this tree didn’t stop as declarations of love. Because of its popularity, it has been used in everything from textiles, to drums, to railroad ties, to hardwood floors.

Beech trees are highly perishable, which means that their wood fiber will break down quickly if left untreated. This means it can quickly feed back into the earth, feeding insects, moss, fungi, and also create havens for all kinds of woodland creatures like birds and mice.

Because of their easy ability to breakdown, we’ve incorporated beech into a large number of products. Beech is used as a foundation for smoked malts in some beer production. It also provides flavoring in smoked sausages and ham.

The American Beech is found on the east coast, the only native variety found in the States. It’s a fast growing tree, averaging 120 feet in height, which makes it a great choice for lumber. It’s a strong and pliable tree filled with a variety of rich wood coloring. You’ll find beech in natural light and creamy colors, sometimes accented by pink to brown contours that give it its unique look when sanded and installed. It has a straight, fine texture look that accents any décor.

Because of it’s pliability, it’s one of the easiest woods to work with. It’s simple to cut and shape both by hand and machine. It glues and finishes well. It also is a perfect choice for steam bending.

Because it’s fast growing, strong and pliable, it’s becoming a viable crop all over the world. It grows in a variety of soils and conditions, making it easy to maintain. And because of it’s flexibility and it’s ease of manipulation, it makes it a workable choice in a variety of different applications. Whether you are redoing one room or your entire home, beech wood may be the perfect choice for you.

Flooring, Hardwood Flooring
August 12, 2015

Should You Consider Jatoba Flooring?

Looking for new floors? Have you decided wood flooring is the best investment for your home? How about looking at Jatoba flooring?

Jatoba flooring, also known as Brazilian cherry flooring, is a popular choice in exotic hardwood floors. Jatoba doesn’t actually come from a tree; instead, it comes from a 130 foot legume. Like other legumes – think peanuts and beans and peas – jatoba produces seed pods that have been a staple food in communities for centuries throughout Central America, southern Mexico, northers South America and the Caribbean.

Jatoba is different than the cherry wood trees you’ll find throughout the gardens of North America. Jatoba is known as Brazilian cherry wood because of the deep red color produced in the wood. Jatoba is significantly harder and more durable than its American cherry wood counterpart, and will also have a darker, deeper and richer color.

Why jatoba? In addition to its rich color, it also is a more stable wood (even compared with the ever-popular red oak) and has a hardness rating far beyond its red oak counterpart. If you’re looking for longevity, jatoba is a good choice.

The reason the jatoba grows so high and is so durable is because of the resin it produces. Tree resin, also known as amber, is a sap that hardens as strong as stone. Jatoba is one of the world’s most pure sources of yellow amber, that has a clear golden color that makes it usable in a variety of ways. This resin is fast producing, meaning the wood from this legume transforms from bean to hardwood in only a few years … also making it a sustainable building material for those interested in moving to a green option.

Jatoba’s color stands out above all, but it is important to remember that its deep red tones and smooth grain will have a lot of color variation throughout. Looking at a few planks will not capture the true look and feel you’ll have when the entire floor is laid and put into place.

A jatoba floor continues to change over time. Unless you stain the planks, it can take as long as two years for the final color to deepen and finalize. And if you add rugs or make other changes to the floor soon after installation, you can expect even more color variations around the additions.

Think jatoba might be the perfect choice for your home? With its stunning natural appearance and beautiful one of a kind appearance, you’ll love the look for years to come.

Flooring
August 8, 2015

What Laminate Floor Warranties Cover

Laminate flooring is one of the most durable products on the market; no wonder it’s used so much in homes throughout the Denver Metro area.

When it comes to installing such a durable product in your home, it’s only natural to assume that you will have many years of enjoyment. Not only should it look great, but it should be easy to maintain and hold up over time as well. But what if the laminate flooring you choose doesn’t go as predicted? What if problems arise almost immediately?

That’s where a solid laminate floor warranty comes into play.

Laminate floor warranties come in a variety of formats, with a variety of lengths in place. What you should look for are guarantees to ensure:

It will not have manufacturer defects
It will not warp, buckle or crack under correct use
It will not wear through to the decorative design surface
It will not fade

It is important to follow the manufacturers installation and maintenance guidelines to ensure nothing stands between you and the warranty. Don’t get caught ignoring the fine print, because even the smallest of things can nullify your warranty from the moment you install it. Which means if you damage your flooring at any time, you will not be covered and will have to correct or replace the problem on your own.

Some examples of problems that may nullify the warranty include:

Materials damaged in transit to your home
Materials not installed according to manufacturer’s guidelines
Poor workmanship
Not allowing the floor to acclimate before installation
Not installing on an even, clean, properly maintained surface
Not using proper underlay
Not using proper expansion spacers to allow for the floor to contract and expand

You can also nullify the warranty by not properly maintaining your laminate flooring once it’s installed:

Using bleach or abrasive cleaners
Using wax or polish
Damage caused by pet urine
Water damage from standing water or excessive water from mopping
Using the wrong cleaning product

If you need to make a claim, it’s important that you keep all documentation and follow the instructions to help back your claim. Keep your receipt, warranty information, contractor’s invoice, even photographic proof will help you get the information you need into the hands that can start the process immediately.

Start by thoroughly understanding your warranty before you make your final selection. Follow the rules, and enjoy your laminate flooring for many years to come.

Flooring, Hardwood Flooring
August 5, 2015

What Wood Flooring Warranties Cover … And What They Don’t

You’ve decided you want to install wood flooring throughout your home. The search has begun for the right flooring that will ensure longevity and style for many years to come.

But just when you thought selecting the right color was confusing, you found out different manufacturers come with different warranties, and the numbers can be overwhelming.

Is a 90 day warranty good enough? Then what about that 100 year warranty … really? Can someone truly offer a hundred years of protection? And what does that truly mean?

Yes, sometimes things do seem too good to be true.

A product’s warranty exists as much for the protection of the manufacturer as for the homeowner buying the product. In the case of wood flooring, the warranty protects you, the homeowner, from buying a flawed product. If the finish, for example, was improperly mixed at the factory before it was applied to the wood, the impact will be noticeable almost immediately as it is installed in your home and put to use on a daily basis. However, the warranty won’t protect you from normal wear and tear that you, your family, visitors and pets inflict to it once it is laid.

So does that make a 90 day warranty as good as that 100 year warranty? When it comes to hardwood flooring warranties, keep it simple and you’ll be covered every time.

Start by choosing a quality, reputable manufacturer with history behind it. Avoid no-name flooring, or a brand name that simply seems too good to be true. In order to have a floor that wears well and looks great for years, you have to start with a great product. Reputable companies understand that and make sure every feature they use in production is quality through and through. You can also ask a salesperson for guidance to understand differences between top brands.

Look for a good manufacturers defects warranty, as this is where most problems occur. Most defects occur in a relatively short period of time, so anything beyond a few years isn’t necessary to flush out potential problems.

Look for a good wear through warranty. If a hardwood floor has a quality finish, it will last for years of wear and tear from daily use. On average, floors will need to be sanded and recoated every ten to twelve years or so, so wear through warranties of more than that time frame will not offer extra protection, as once this process occurs the warranty is null and void.

Realize you are dealing with a natural product that changes and morphs all the time. It can warp and buckle, which would all be covered under warranty.

Yet if it’s not properly installed according to manufacturers guidelines, and its not maintained in a satisfactory way, the warranty may not be covered at all.

When making your final decision, read your warranty carefully and understand the limits and expectation. The more you know up front, the less surprises will occur down the road.

Flooring, Hardwood Flooring
August 2, 2015

Is Your Bamboo Flooring Really Green?

Want to choose a floor that is green? Looking for an environmentally friendly alternative when replacing your floors? Then you may have found the concept of bamboo flooring appealing.

Bamboo is renewable resource; it is a grass that can grow very quickly. While it may take an oak tree 120 years to grow to maturity, bamboo can be harvested in three. Bamboo is also recognized as a green material under LEED, and will regenerate without the need for replanting, requires minimal fertilization or pesticides.

The problem lies with bamboo’s management.

Bamboo is primarily a resource that comes from China. And depending on the manufacturer, bamboo expansion has come at the expense of existing natural forested land. It’s become a common practice to cut down existing trees to make room for bamboo. And even in some cases where bamboo is expanded up to forests, due to the aggressive nature of bamboo, it can quickly take over large areas.

Forest lands tend to be hilly and mountainous with steep slopes. As they are sheared down to make way for bamboo, erosion takes place until it becomes fully established, further degrading the surrounding areas.

Because management practices focus in on quick turnaround and massive growth, extensive fertilization, manual and chemical weeding, as well as periodic tilling of the land have also decreased the undergrowth surrounding the area, and increased erosion over large areas of land.

Does all of this mean you shouldn’t consider bamboo as a flooring option?

No. What it does mean is that you should be aware of where your bamboo flooring is manufactured. If you see a too-good-to-be-true deal on bamboo flooring, it probably is.

Make sure bamboo is certified to the standards of the Forest Stewardship Council so that it meets certain requirements for social responsibility.

You can also look for manufacturers outside of China. While the majority of bamboo still comes from China, other manufacturers are starting up in other Asian countries and are adhering to stricter guidelines.

If you have any questions, be sure to ask your flooring dealer before you make your final decision.

Flooring, Tile Floors
July 29, 2015

Tile Grout: Should You Replace or Repair?

“I love the tile in my master bathroom. We installed it several years ago, it’s been easy to care for, and it’s a great color that goes with everything. The problem is with the grout. We chose a lighter grout to compliment it, and no matter how hard I scrub on it, it still looks dirty and stained. Should I replace it or repair it? What’s my best course of action to enjoy my tile for many more years?”

Grout is a mixture of water and cement, with the addition of sand, finely ground gravel, and color. It comes eihter in a powder form, or ready as a premix. It’s used to fill in the gaps between the tiles, and can be used wherever you choose to install your tiles: on the floors, walls, backsplashes or countertops.

Grout provides a number of functions:

Levels out height differences between the tiles to make a smooth surface
Creates a barrier between the rows of tiles to prevent moisture, food, dirt or debris from accumulating
Bonds the tiles together to create a harder, stronger surface

While discolored or dirty grout may be unattractive, if it’s in good shape the appearance can be changed. Start with a good scrubbing with water and a cleaner. Rinse and allow to dry. If it still has stains you can purchase a grout pen that will allow you to spread a layer of “paint” on top of the grout, giving it a uniform look. Two coats may be necessary for badly stained grout.

If the grout goes beyond appearance, and shows signs of wear through cracking, crumbling, or is missing, you’ll need to remove it and either repair it in sections, or replace it altogether. Broken or cracked grout will not provide a barrier against moisture, and will allow water to seep behind the tile. This will eventually result in loosened tiling, and can cause mold to develop behind the tile.

When the tile was installed, did you keep extra grout? If so, repairing can be a simple process of replacing it with existing grout. If not, you can bring in your grout to attempt to match it with a current color on hand. If you can’t find the perfect shade, it is possible to adjust the grout color slightly by adding more water for a lighter shade, less for a slightly darker shade.

In some cases it may be better for replacement. To remove all the grout from the area and check to ensure the tiles are properly laid and maintained, hiring a tiling contractor can provide you with the best results.

Have additional questions about your grout?

Area Rugs, Flooring
July 25, 2015

Top Styles of Area Rugs

Here in Denver, one of the top flooring choices is hardwood, and with good reason. It’s stylish. It’s warm. It’s easy to maintain. And it looks great all year through.

If you have hardwood floors throughout your home, you probably agree.

Yet there may be certain areas of your home where hardwoods “bug” you a little more than they do in other places. Like in the entryway when people enter your home. Or in the kitchen where you stand to do the dishes each night. Or in the dining room where you gather for formal dinners.

You love your hardwoods, but to have something softer, something that protects your hardwoods and makes the easier to maintain would be good too. That’s where area rugs come in to play. An area rug is a stylish way to add a splash of color, offer your hardwoods a little protection, and give you the softness and comfort level you’re going to love.

But with so many styles to choose from, what do you do?

Natural Texture

Natural texture rugs are designed to keep things as simple as possible. Choose a natural fiber – how about jute – and choose a natural color to compliment your décor. Natural texture rugs mimic a handwoven look and feel that will warm any room in your home.

Shag

For a thicker rug with a warm look and feel, incorporate a shag area rug into your décor. Shag rugs are the perfect choice for a living room or bedroom where you want to bring in warmth to the environment while adding a splash of color or design to the room.

European

Think color. Think patterns. Think wow! European area rugs are some of our most popular rugs because of the variety. They are tightly woven and can withstand any abuse your family can dish out. They make great placements in high traffic areas, such as your entryway or a hallway.

Oriental

Looking for old world style? A traditional oriental rug can add elegance to your space. When you want to create a bold statement, choosing an oriental rug is a way to do it.

Contemporary

Want something plain and neutral? Or how about wild and colorful? With today’s technology, anything is possible. You’ll find rugs of every shape and size, in colors and patterns perfect to compliment your décor.

If you are in the market for a new area rug for your home, measure your space and stop by. We can show you a variety of options – some you may have thought about and some to open up your mind to what is truly possible. With this many choices, you can have a new look and feel to your old space tonight!