Month: May 2020

The Three Biggest Trends In Flooring: Vinyl, Hardwood, and Ceramic Tile

A lot has changed in the first few months of 2020.

We’ve gone from making plans for a new decade to locking down the entire world and staying in place.

We’ve become world-class searchers for toilet paper, disinfectant wipes, and bleach.

We’ve had the time to reevaluate just about everything inside our homes. We’ve cleaned. We’ve reorganized. And we’ve started to make plans to make each room even better in the weeks and months ahead.

It all starts at the bottom. The right flooring not only sets the stage for looks and decor, but it creates durability and maintenance-free living too.

No wonder trends in flooring are changing based on what we’ve been living through these past few weeks.

If you’re thinking of changing out your flooring, what should you be looking at?

Vinyl tops the trend list in new flooring

Even before COVID-19, sales of luxury vinyl were increasing while other products like laminate were falling. Sales of luxury vinyl topped $3.687 billion in 2018, while laminate flooring sales have declined.

The Three Biggest Trends In Flooring: Vinyl, Hardwood, and Ceramic TileWhy? Because laminates aren’t as good at decreasing bacterial growth. The hard, waterproof plastic that tops luxury vinyl will not break down the way laminate does. Vinyl has an antimicrobial built into the finishing process that allows it to put up with any kind of cleaning process you throw at it. Cleaners, disinfectants, even bleach can be used with little impact. Of course, we suggest getting familiar with your product before you buy over the counter cleaners. The manufacturer will give you clear guidelines for the best way to keep your flooring clean.

Ceramic tile is being looked at with fresh eyes

Why do people choose ceramic tile for their homes?

  • Because of its looks.
  • Because of its durability.
  • Because of its longevity.

All are true. But ceramic tile is rarely sold as one of the most antimicrobial flooring products on the marketplace. That might soon change.

The very nature of ceramic tile lends itself to be one of the cleanest flooring products on the market. Its solid surface can stand up to just about anything, including steam or cleaning solutions. It’s hardness also means that bacteria can’t settle in and stay.

What’s more, thanks to today’s technology, additional products can be mixed into both the ceramic and grout products to make it even more resistant to bacteria. That’s going to be a big plus as we move forward, and look to find our houses even more resistant to problems.

What about hardwood?

If you’re like a lot of homeowners here in Colorado, hardwood may still be at the top of your list. And we get it; hardwood makes one of the most beautiful additions to any home.

But what about cleanliness? What about its ability to ward off bacteria and other contaminants? Luckily, hardwood manufacturers are thinking about that too.

For example, one recent hardwood manufacturer recently announced the inclusion of an antimicrobial protection technology into all of its wood floor coatings. That means you can have the look of hardwood running throughout your home, while knowing it’s protecting you and your family from potential health issues at the same time.

Vinyl, tile, hardwood, which should a homeowner choose?

If your mind was set on installing new flooring, and you were looking to today’s trends to select the right one, rest assured you have several choices that can help you tick all the boxes on your checklist. They each have qualities that make them the perfect choice for your home.

So how do you make your final selection? Start asking a few more questions.

Will your new flooring be installed in a high moisture area?

Bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements are subjected to more extremes. Only you know your family’s living patterns. Only you know how well your basement handles under pressure. If water is a problem, and you find yourself cleaning of water messes regularly, go with a fully waterproof choice.

Do you have pets?

Pets provide unique problems for flooring. Luckily today’s trends in flooring can give you both durability as well as classic good looks. Pets can ruin flooring quickly just through daily living. If they’re messy eaters, water damage can quickly become apparent. The occasional accident can stain and strip the surface. And their nails can dig in and cause deep grooves. What does durability mean to you? Only you can decide what you’re willing to live with.

Who will install the flooring?

Some products are perfect for the do-it-yourselfer. Other products are better left to the professionals. But installation will add extra cost to your budget, so it’s important to realize the entire cost before you jump in.

Speaking of budgets, what’s yours?

Your flooring is something you’ll be able to live with for years, possibly decades. It’s important to understand your choices, and possibly up your budget by a bit to jump to the next category of flooring. Learn the differences in product lines. Evaluate what your best choice is, based on your living arrangements. Ask questions. It’s the best way to find the best choice for your home.

What’s most important?

Times change. We’ve learned that well this year. While classic good looks may always be in fashion, we’re also learning how important it is to have a flooring that’s durable and easy to clean. If low maintenance is key, be sure to invest in a flooring that not only is easy to clean, but also gives you the ability to avoid germs and other contaminants too. COVID-19 might now be around forever, but one thing is for sure: we’re more aware than ever of potential problems that can surface overnight.

What’s your flooring choice?

Today’s trends in flooring give you durability, cleanliness, coupled with classic good looks. Whether you want a clean, modern design, or are ready to put tradition back into your home, today’s flooring choices have you covered.

What’s your favorite flooring?

This post appeared first on https://pro-flooring.com

Quick Guide to Osmo Decking Oils

Now is the perfect time to look after your outdoor decking and Osmo Decking Oils are  great products to use.  Wooden decking can really transform a garden or outdoor area, but you will want to look after it each year to protect the wood from the outdoor elements.  The spring or early summer is the perfect time to do this. Read More

Vinyl Plank Flooring Is The Perfect Waterproof Choice

Tip a glass of red wine onto a white carpet, and you’ll see just how fast homeowners can run. They know the clock is ticking for action. And if you don’t treat the stain in the right manner within the first few minutes, you’ll see that stain for life.

The same holds true with a variety of flooring products. Spill a pitcher of apple juice, for example, and you’ll see a homeowner scramble just as fast, depending on what flooring is in place. Hardwood? Definitely. If it seeps into the wood, it can easily warp and crack. Tile? It depends on how porous the tile is, and what color grout is in place.

Flooring, no matter what you have installed, takes its fair share of abuse.

But what if there was a flooring choice that could withstand a higher level of abuse, and look good in the process? Such a flooring choice doesn’t exist. Or does it?

Maybe it’s time for another look at vinyl plank flooring.

What is vinyl plank flooring? 

Vinyl plank flooring is designed to resemble hardwood flooring, and it does so in a good way. It comes in strips – planks – and can be modified for different sizes. You can find this product in a number of styles, each mimicking different types of wood. If you like traditional oak, you can find it in vinyl plank. If you have your eye on something a little more exotic, you’ll find that too in vinyl plank flooring.

Vinyl plank flooring is waterproof

Vinyl Plank Flooring Is The Perfect Waterproof ChoiceIf you’re looking for a resilient flooring choice, one that is waterproof in many different situations, look no further than vinyl plank flooring. They’ve grown in popularity in recent years because technology now makes it possible to find styles that mimic other popular flooring choices, including stone, tile, hardwood, marble, and even concrete flooring. It gives you the appearance you desire, being as trendy as you want, without sacrificing durability and ease of maintenance in the process.

When vinyl plank flooring is exposed to water, it will not lose any of its structural integrity. That makes them the perfect choice for any room in your home.

Are they great for the kitchen? Yes.

Will they work in bathrooms? They’re the perfect choice for bathrooms.

How about laundry rooms? Yep, they’ll work there too.

In fact, they are becoming so popular, you’ll find vinyl plank flooring in every room in the home. They’re the perfect solution for combining good looks with durability, especially when care and cleaning are at the top of everyone’s mindset.

What makes it waterproof is it’s four layers of construction.

The backing layer – what gives a flooring its waterproof qualities starts at the base. The backing layer is made from an underlayment of cork or foam. This serves two purposes. One, it means you won’t have to purchase additional underlayment in order to install it over the subfloor. Two, it provides softness and noise reduction to your floor.

If you’ve ever walked on a floor without underlayment, you realize just how noisy engineered flooring can be. It has a hollow sound that echos throughout your room. With vinyl plank flooring, the base is already in place. You won’t need to invest in additional backing before installation.

The waterproof layer – for a vinyl floor, this is the most important layer to give it a waterproof quality. The waterproof layer is high density and won’t contract or swell no matter what is dropped on it. Most waterproof layers today are resilient, thick, and dense. The core may have been manufactured with a foaming agent that makes it equally as comfortable underfoot as it is durable.

The print layer – thanks to technology, the print layer is more realistic than ever. The manufacturer photographs each product with clarity and full-color to ensure you have a final look that’s as gorgeous as the real thing. It looks so realistic, even discerning guests will swear it’s the real thing.

The wear layer – the wear layer is one of the most important parts, ensuring durability and a long life. Think of it as protection from anything you can dish out. Dents, scratches, spills, scuffs, movement – it’s designed to stand against possible problems, and continue looking good for years to come.

Why buy waterproof vinyl plank flooring

If you’re already sold on why you should put waterproof vinyl plank flooring into your home, congratulations. We couldn’t agree more! We think it’s one of the best choices you can make for your home.

But if you’re still debating on whether it’s the right choice for you, here are a few additional reasons to fall in love with it.

  • It’s 100 percent waterproof. In case we haven’t mentioned it enough, we thought we’d add it in here one more time. Just be sure you talk to our flooring contractor to ensure you purchase vinyl planks made by the right manufacturer. Not all are resilient, so you’ll have to do a little homework to find the product that suits your needs.
  • It’s a perfect choice for subfloors that are anything but perfect. You might already be aware of a few problems that exist in your home. A flooring that’s not level.
  • Technology is changing everything. That includes the realism of vinyl plank flooring too. No matter what styles or design you’re thinking of for your flooring, you’ll find it in the luxury vinyl market. The top-end flooring manufacturers are now able to create realistic prints that mimic real products better than ever before. It’s so realistic, you’ll have to get down on the floor to tell the difference.
  • Tile is one of the most durable flooring materials available for your home. It’s also one of the hardest. While that might work in some places – it’s great in the shower – it can grow wearisome in places where you spend a lot of time. The softness underfoot of vinyl plank flooring is greatly appreciated in places like the kitchen where you stand for hours on end.
  • You’ll also be impressed with how little maintenance it takes to keep it looking its best. An occasional vacuum and damp cloth will let the quality shine through every time.

What are you waiting for? Vinyl plank flooring is an addition you’re going to love, no matter what room you install it in.

Get started today.

This post appeared first on https://pro-flooring.com

3 Reasons Why Hardwood Floors Will Always Be A Great Choice

When people decide to remodel their floors, they often approach it with longevity in mind. One customer said it best:

I want these floors to last forever. That’s why only hardwood floors will do.

But let’s talk about that for a moment. Is there such a thing as forever floors anymore?

If you head back in time to when Baby Boomers were creating their first homes, the concept of forever had more meaning. They anticipated getting a job and working there 30 or 40 years, before retiring and settling in for the rest of their lives. They bought a house that gave them great access to an easy commute, and decorated it with the hopes it would last them “forever.”

How did that work out?

Baby boomers were the first generation to come to terms with multiple jobs, multiple careers. It is no longer a lifetime commitment. And because of that, we’re losing our concept of “forever homes” too.

We change homes on average every seven years to:

  • Move to another job in another part of the city
  • Move to another state for a job promotion
  • Upgrade houses as our family grows
  • Downsize as we face empty nest
  • Change our goals
  • Change our desires

3 Reasons Why Hardwood Floors Will Always Be A Great ChoiceWe’re now a nation filled with change. And we like it that way.

So while people often come in looking for a “forever floor”, what they really want is one that is durable and holds up well to their family’s lifestyle for the foreseeable future.

Until they change their minds.

Why hardwood floors are at the top of “forever”

Have you ever walked into a historic home on a tour? Colonial America is filled with models that can whisk you back in time. And in most cases, you’ll find gleaming wood floors accentuated with an ornamental woven rug to add color and detail to the room.

Hardwood has always been popular because of its natural beauty. It’s also been one of the easiest resources to utilize as towns and cities grew up.

Of course, our definition of hardwood floors has changed quite a bit over the years. Today we have many options, even if we want to stick with the classic good looks of hardwood floors.

If you want to step it up a bit, and stretch beyond the classic oak or maple floors, think exotic. How about Brazilian Cherry? Or Australian Cypress with its rustic good looks. Or how about Ipe (also known as Brzilian Walnut); it’s one of the hardest woods available for your floors? All have the potential of giving you a unique approach to hardwood floors.

Sometimes traditional hardwood floors aren’t the perfect match for your home or lifestyle. That’s why engineered hardwood was created. It gives you the classic good looks combined with more durability. That makes it the perfect choice in places where hardwood traditionally doesn’t work – like a basement.

Thanks to today’s technology, hardwood floors have another twist; luxury vinyl planks give you access to waterproof flooring that looks very much like the real thing. The planks are so realistic, it’s sometimes difficult to tell it isn’t real unless you get down on the floor. This makes it the perfect choice when you need something more durable than traditional hardwood can offer.

People value hardwood floors in our homes

Why are so many other products being made to resemble hardwood floors? Because we value them. They are at the top of our wishlists, throughout our homes and even our office space.

Prior to 2020, home buyers placed high value on hardwood floors. Real estate agents across American would tell you that hardwood floors top every buyer’s lists of things they would like to have.

As we move out of staying in place, we’ll find people want a cleaner, more organized way of life in everything they do. They’ll want the durability that comes with hardwood floors like never before.

That makes hardwood floors one of the best investments you can make, right now.

It’s all about maintenance and durability

Have we talked enough about how durable and easy to maintain hardwood flooring is? That’s probably why you’re considering them for your own home. No matter which hardwood floor you choose to install, all it takes is an occasional swipe of a microfiber brush, a damp mop, or a swish of a vacuum to keep it looking its best.

Depending on which material you choose, that’s all you’ll have to do to keep it looking its best.

What’s more, with traditional hardwood, you also have the ability to sand it down and restore it when it starts to wear down. You can change the color with a new stain. You can restore luster and make it shine. That gives a traditional hardwood floor years – decades – of life.

Of course, traditional hardwood isn’t always the best choice for every room in your home. If you’re worried about water problems, hardwood may be more of a problem than a desire. That’s where today’s technology takes over once again.

You can continue the look of hardwood, while adding durability and resilience at the same time. Engineered wood gives you the same look and feel with a touch coating that stands up well under pressure.

And if you want maximum water resistance, look at today’s luxury vinyl planks. They can give you any look you desire, even offer more options than you’ll find with traditional wood.

What’s the best way to select the perfect flooring for your needs?

We have a great way to get started. The first thing you should do is to start designing your look through pictures.

If you love technology, start a pinboard on Pinterest. Fill it with pictures that represent your ideal home. Pay attention to the colors you select. Do you love it light – white even? Or do you prefer the classic looks of dark wood? You’ll see trends and patterns forming right away.

If you’re a more traditionalist, you can do the same with home improvement magazines. Mark your favorite looks, and find the trends that appeal to you most.

Then bring your ideas into our showroom, and let us show you many different options to suit your family’s needs and desires.

The perfect flooring choice is waiting for you. Let us help you find it today.

This post appeared first on https://pro-flooring.com

When You’re Installing New Flooring and You Have Pets

Humans love their pets. In fact, 90 percent of us consider our pets to be a part of our family.

We bring pets into our lives for a variety of reasons. For companionship. For friendship. Approximately 66 percent of dog and cat owners buy holiday gifts for other people’s pets.

Of course, there are health benefits associated with pet ownership too. Loneliness goes down. Stress can be reduced. Bringing a cat into your life has been shown to lower the chance of a stroke by 30 percent.

No matter what the reason is you’ve brought pets into your life, once they’re in your home, things change. You’ll have to clean your home more to remove dander and pet hair. You’ll have more accidents, sometimes unnoticed for days.

And all of that can be tough on your floors. What’s a homeowner to do?

What to consider before selecting new flooring when living with pets

You may love that cream colored carpet you’ve had your eye on for a long time. It would look great in the bedroom. But how will it look after your pets have played on it for even one day?

When You’re Installing New Flooring and You Have PetsEvery homeowner has a list of things they’d love to have in their homes, but in their gut, they know it can never be. It may be the ideal choice in your heart, but your brain knows it’s a disaster waiting to happen.

First and foremost, go with your gut. Your gut usually holds strong and keeps your practical side in check. It warns you when you have a choice to make and one of them is all wrong.

Beyond your gut, there are a few other things to think about that can influence your new flooring choices.

Staining – Pets bring messes to life in your home. They may spill food and water while they eat. They drag in all kinds of things from the outside. Those muddy paw prints … And sometimes even house-trained pets have accidents. Select flooring material that is stain-resistant, whenever possible.

Durability – Dogs and cats – the two most popular pets in the country – have sharp nails that can do a lot of damage to a floor. Pets love to play and run, which can scratch hardwood and tear up carpet. Focus on flooring that has high resistance to wear damage from common pet activities.

Comfort and safety – Some floors are more slippery than others, that holds true for humans and their pets. Especially as pets age, hard floors can be hard on their joints, and not as comfortable when they lie down and sleep. Especially in areas where they love to run and play, be sure they have flooring that helps with traction, and is comfortable to their feet.

With all of that in mind, what are our top choices in new flooring for pet owners?

Vinyl flooring

If you haven’t looked at vinyl flooring lately, we suggest you come in for a closer look. Vinyl flooring today is nothing like you remember from your childhood. In fact, luxury vinyl planks often look so real, you have to get down close to see they aren’t the real thing.

Vinyl flooring is also one of our top recommendations for homeowners who want new flooring and have pets. That’s because it’s an economical flooring choice that is low maintenance as well. One of the most common problems when you own pets is scratching damage. Vinyl is resilient to scratching, even when nails are grown out, and pets are active.

There are other reasons to give vinyl flooring a second look. Vinyl flooring is resilient flooring. That means it can sustain the small problems your pet dishes out. If they are a sloppy drinker, water going everywhere, vinyl is your choice. And for the occasional accident, urine won’t soak into the flooring if wiped away quickly. It is important to catch liquid spills quickly, as even with vinyl, standing liquid can present a problem if it soaks through the top layer. It can cause both mildew and mold over time.

Vinyl also brings a comfort factor to the room. It has a slight cushiony feel when standing or walking. That also makes it more comfortable for your pet to lie on.

Vinyl is a great choice for many rooms, including the kitchen and bathrooms.

Laminate

Here in Colorado, we love our hardwood floors. Yet they often don’t make sense in busy households, especially if you have more than one pet.

Laminate flooring may be a better choice. It’s one we frequently recommend to homeowners with pets.

While it might look like hardwood, it’s stronger. That gives it the ability to resist nail scratches and hold up better under the occasional messes. Its protective layer is designed to be stronger than many flooring choices out there. Today’s technology makes the pattern layer look so real, it can fool almost anyone who enters. And the core and bottom layers build up strength and durability, making it the perfect choice for just about any room in your home.

Laminate is easy to clean, and rarely stains. Just be aware of messes, and clean them up right away. Moisture can seep through into spaces between the planks if it sits too long. Once it gets into the core or subfloor, mildew and mold can form. You’ll have to replace the plank and possibly the subfloor if that happens, so it’s a good idea to keep messes in check.

A few other tips

We can’t stress enough that when you have a pet in the home, clean-up is your best course of action. The longer any mess sits on your floor, the greater chance it has of doing permanent damage. That includes water from their bowls, urine from the occasional accident, and any other mess they track in from outdoors.

Keep your pets well groomed. That will eliminate loose hair, and prevent it from accumulating in the corners of your room. Short nails also tend to cause less damage.

If you have a flooring choice more susceptible to damage from pets, and you’re considering new flooring, we suggest you move to a more pet-friendly choice. Carpet, bamboo, and other soft flooring choices will never hold up well to all your pets can dish out. You’ll be glad you made the switch to a more durable flooring choice.

Thinking of installing new flooring? What are the top choices you’re considering to keep your pets healthy and happy?

This post appeared first on https://pro-flooring.com

The Best Pet-Friendly Flooring Options

If you have a pet and you live in a home with hardwood flooring, you already know how pets can damage your floors. However, it is possible to have both pets and hardwood flooring in your home, without having to worry about your floors getting damaged. These are the best pet-friendly flooring options:

Bamboo is a popular pet-friendly flooring option. This is because bamboo is naturally durable, making it stain and scratch-resistant. Bamboo has a high Janka flooring rating, which is a rating that determines the hardness of wood. This hard, strong flooring option can survive your pet’s claws. Additionally, bamboo is an antimicrobial material that can keep your home free of mold and other allergens, which is healthy for both you and your pet.

Dog on Hardwood

The second pet-friendly hardwood choice is laminate hardwood flooring. Laminate adds a tough top layer to hardwood flooring, making it fairly scratch-resistant against pet claws. Laminate is also stain-resistant, making it easy to clean.

Vinyl sheet flooring is a perfect pick for people who want easy to clean and durable flooring in their homes. When installed correctly, vinyl sheets are resilient against scratches. Your pet’s nails won’t damage vinyl sheet flooring too much, and any spills your pet may cause can be easy to clean.

Engineered hardwood is another example of a flooring option that can have a high Janka flooring rating. A wood species with a rating of 1,250 or over is best for a pet-friendly household. Some examples of high ranking engineered hardwood include white oak and Brazilian cherry.

Now that you know which flooring choices are most suitable for your pet-friendly home, you’re ready to shop with Flooring.org. Check out our inventory to find high-quality and durable flooring options that are suitable for homes with pets. For further details about our inventory, you can reach our team at 800-689-9006 today!

This post appeared first on http://www.flooring.org

Vinyl Sheet May Still Be The Right Flooring For You

What mental image is conjured up when someone mentions vinyl sheet flooring?

For a lot of people, they remember the yellowing, peeling flooring in their mother’s or grandmother’s kitchen. With very few choices, they installed the latest look. And because of budgeting, kept it in place for years.

What is vinyl sheet?

Vinyl sheet is a flooring product that is often used in rooms where water-resistance, durability, and maintenance-free living is needed. Think kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Of course, it can be used anywhere, but those are often the most popular rooms.

Vinyl sheet comes in roll format, usually between 6 and 12 feet wide. Because of its width, it reduces the number of seams you’ll have once it’s fully installed in your room. That means there’s less risk for water to penetrate through to the subfloor. And with today’s technology, vinyl sheet can take on just about any look you demand.

Where should I install vinyl sheet inside my home? 

The reason vinyl sheet is so versatile is because it can be installed just about anywhere you choose. It’s the perfect choice below-grade, in basements or ground-level living spaces where moisture and water may be an issue. It’s a great choice for main level living areas where high traffic is always a concern. It’s also great for upper level living in moisture-prone areas like the bathrooms and laundry rooms. But because of the demands stairs present, vinyl sheet isn’t recommended for installation.

Are there other names for vinyl sheet?

Vinyl Sheet May Still Be The Right Flooring For YouIf you do your research and start looking at vinyl flooring options, you’ll likely find the same product goes by several different names. While vinyl sheet is something you’ll always find, you can also look for:

Luxury vinyl sheet – as you dive into your research, you’ll also see it sometimes referred to as LVS. Luxury vinyl is always a step up from the more traditional vinyl sheet product. It’s usually thicker, and has a deeper embedded pattern and design. If you’re looking for a natural design in vinyl sheet material, look no further than LVS. You’ll see realistic wood grains, natural stone patterns, and incredibly crisp prints that make this product look almost as good as the real thing.

Resilient flooring – the definition of resilience is: the ability to spring back into shape, recover quickly from difficulties. And that clearly defines vinyl flooring. This multi-layer product builds in toughness with a bit of give, making it forgivable if you drop something onto the floor. It stands up well to moisture. It offers stain-proof technology to hold up to many things your family can dish out. And if you take good care of it, it can continue to offer these qualities for years.

What are the benefits of vinyl sheet floors?

For a lot of homeowners, they are sold on vinyl sheet floors when learning about their durability and water-resistance, But that isn’t the only qualities that make these worth a second look.

Realistic patterns – with today’s technology, you can expect vinyl sheets to mimic just about any look you desire. While this is by no means a comprehensive list, you’ll find vinyl sheet mimicking:

  • Traditional hardwood
  • Weathered wood
  • Exotic hardwood
  • Distressed hardwood
  • Wood plank
  • Slate
  • Sandstone
  • Marble
  • Granite
  • Checkerboard pattern
  • Decorative patterns

If you can dream it, you can find it in vinyl sheet flooring.

Easy maintenance – vinyl sheet is even easier to care for than vinyl tile. Because it’s sheet format, you’ll have very few seams, which means wiping it clean will be a snap.

Durable – have we mentioned vinyl sheet’s durability? It can take all your family can dish out. And if you’re comparing it to other similar products like linoleum, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much more durable vinyl sheet really is.

Waterproof – one of the greatest things vinyl sheet brings to the market is the fact that it’s water-resistant. That means you can clean it with a mop and not have to worry about penetration. You don’t have to jump at spills, worrying how fast it will start to seep in. And for the small emergencies like an overflowing sink, or a dropped pan of water, you won’t need to be concerned about your flooring making it through. Keep in mind that nothing can handle standing water for days at a time. But for everyday household emergencies, vinyl sheet holds up just fine.

Easy to install, easy to replace – while vinyl sheet is more difficult to install than vinyl tile, you can still change up your decor in a day. And because it’s budget friendly, you won’t break the bank when you’re ready for a change.

How do you care for vinyl sheet flooring? 

The good news is vinyl sheet flooring is one of the easiest to clean and maintain.

Wipe up spills – as with all flooring, timing is everything. When you see a spill, clean it up as quickly as you can. While vinyl does provide a protective coating to help ward off damage from standing water, it isn’t designed to withstand a flood. If it’s submerged in water for extended time periods, it can and will be damaged. However, very few floorings make it as easy to clean as vinyl sheet. Simply wipe away most spills with a clean cloth – it’s that easy.

Weekly deeper cleanings – while you should always wipe away spills immediately, every week or so, you should do a more in-depth cleaning across the floor. Use a dry duster to pick up dirt and debris. A vacuum works too; just be sure it’s set to hard flooring. Use a natural cleaner to avoid damaging the finish. Water and vinegar are often all you need to keep your floors sparkling clean. You can also create a paste of baking soda to help you remove tough stains. Check with manufacturer’s guidelines before using any chemical products, as some cleaners can null and void the warranty.

Other tips – to improve and protect the surface of your vinyl sheet flooring, be sure to use a doormat at every entrance to catch dirt before it enters. This is a good tip, no matter what flooring choice you’ve installed.

Be sure to close blinds to avoid direct sunlight from hitting your vinyl floors. Too much sun can cause fading over time.

Avoid placing heavy furniture directly onto the surface of your vinyl flooring. Instead, use flooring supports and protectors to prevent pressurized points from digging into the floor.

Use runways and other protectors when moving furniture into place. Vinyl sheet will scratch, especially if you drag heavy objects across.

Is vinyl sheet flooring the right choice for you?

There are so many reasons to love vinyl sheet, and use it to make any room in your home a little brighter.

What questions can we answer for you about vinyl sheet flooring?

This post appeared first on https://pro-flooring.com

Will Luxury Vinyl Floors Be The New Trend After The Coronavirus?

Luxury vinyl floors have been growing in popularity for some time.

According to the latest market report, the luxury vinyl flooring (LVT) market is expected to grow by 12.8 percent over the next few years.

That’s because LVT brings a lot of benefits to the flooring market. Luxury vinyl tile gives you the ability to have the most elegant flooring choices on the market today, while doing so in a much more user-friendly and economical way.

Many homeowners love the look of exotic wood, or hard to use products like stone or marble. Yet after reading about the horror stories of living with it, they often choose something further down on their wishlists. How could you ever install a soft exotic wood if you have pets and kids around? You can almost see the dents and scratches forming before you ever place the first plank in place.

Luxury vinyl tile can give you the look, while keeping maintenance a breeze. That’s the benefit of LVT.

The future in a pandemic world

Will Luxury Vinyl Floors Be The New Trend After The Coronavirus?Right now, in the world of living with the coronavirus, we’re all learning new rules. Concepts we never understood before – social distancing, toilet paper shortages, and staying in place – have all changed our lives forever.

While we still have no idea what our future will look like, how we’ll start living again, and when (and if) a cure will ever be found, we do know we face a world with new precautions.

  • Hand washing is a must.
  • Cleaning surfaces takes on a whole new meaning.
  • And if you’re sick, stay home.

That leads to the condition of our homes. Will we demand our homes to be germ-free?

That’s impossible. But we can move to better surfaces that make it easier to clean and keep clean. At least in the foreseeable future, all trends point to easy to clean surfaces.

The future belongs to resilient flooring

What makes a surface clean? Being able to scrub it is mandatory. Being able to use a variety of cleaning products is a must.

And that’s where resilient flooring excels.

Over the past ten years, resilient flooring has skyrocketed in demand.

As a category in the flooring industry, resilient flooring has risen 185 percent over the past ten years. Resilient flooring now accounts for 21.4 percent of the total flooring marketplace, meaning one in five flooring purchases falls into this category.

Think that will change with this pandemic?

We do too.

Here’s why.

People love hardwood. But hardwood has its problems. If you want the look of hardwood with a surface area that’s easier to clean, luxury vinyl tile is your answer.

Laminate, hardwood, carpet, and more is not ideal for avoiding bacterial growth.

Luxury vinyl flooring is. The material has an antimicrobial quality built right into the finishing process. That means you can use many different types of cleaning products directly on the surface, and it won’t damage the finish.

That means your family stays safer, especially in trying times.

Are luxury vinyl floors for you?

We think luxury vinyl flooring is going to be the top flooring choice for many years to come. And with everything that’s happened so far in 2020, we think the predicted potential is going to be greater than expected.

If you’re contemplating which flooring to install in your remodel, and luxury vinyl floors are on your list, this is why it’s worth deeper consideration.

Price – Luxury vinyl tile is priced right; it’s an option for everyone, no matter what your budget dictates for your remodeling plans. Like every product, you’ll find price points all over the board. Thicker LVT will be at the higher end of the pricing scale, which also means you’ll increase quality and longevity. With care, you can expect this product to look good and wear well for years.

Durability – LVT is manufactured from some of the most robust materials in the industry. It’s built strong enough to handle some commercial applications, so you know it’s tough enough to withstand all your family can dish out. And because it’s also waterproof, you can install it in places you might not consider for other flooring options, like bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.

Maintenance – While we don’t suggest getting down on your hands and knees with a scouring pad to clean LVT, you will be surprised at how well it stands up to all kinds of cleaning methods. Wipe away spills with water. You can even scrub harder for grease and grime. The protective layer stands up to scratches, stains, scuffs, chips, dents, and more.

Insulation – Have you ever experienced “echo” with some flooring choices? Not with luxury vinyl. LVT is built in layers, and comes with a backing product that helps eliminate noise. Especially with thicker products, you’ll notice it absorbs the sound rather than amplifies it. And because that backing insulates against sound, you’ll also find it works equally well for warmth. That cushion does a good job of holding in the heat, and if you want to couple it with radiant heating underneath, you’ll find a new way to keep your space warm.

Installation – If you’ve ever dealt with hardwood before, you know you can’t buy it and install it on the same day. It takes a period of time to acclimate it to your living conditions. There’s subfloor work. There’s finishing work. It’s not unheard of for it to take several weeks from purchase to finalization. LVT is available in two formats: click or stick down. Click and lock is so easy, many DIYers prefer it, and can click each tile into place and have their project finished in a weekend. What’s more, because click technology is easy to lay into place without nails or glue, it also makes it easier to replace in the event of damage, Be sure to keep extra tiles on hand for the just in case.

Longevity – The last thing any of us want to do is to replace flooring every few years. With LVT flooring, with the right care and maintenance, you can easily expect it to last 25 to 30 years. Check with the manufacturer of the product you are considering and see what their warranties entail.

Design – While we probably don’t have to say it, you’ve seen it yourself, LVT offers some of the most beautiful choices on the market today. Luxury vinyl technology can mimic almost and design trend out there. And if you’re looking for better matches, different colors or patterns, you’ll find it in the LVT market. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, we can work with you there. Why stick with one product – mix several together for highlights that add to your living space.

We know times are changing. If you’re considering a remodel this year, and want to ensure cleaning and disinfecting is easier than ever, we suggest you give the luxury vinyl flooring products another look.

We think you’ll love what you see.

This post appeared first on https://pro-flooring.com

What Office Flooring Will Look Like After The Coronavirus

Are you working from home right now?

According to a recent study by MIT, it showed as of April 2020, 34 percent of people that previously worked in office settings are now working from home.

Of course, some jobs are impossible to do from home. It also showed that approximately 37 percent are still commuting to their daily jobs.

No matter which side you fall on, one thing is for certain: jobs of the future are changing forever.

What does that mean for your office environment? Only time will tell.

But we can make predictions about where we’re going from here. Companies are already jumping at future designs, take a look at the 6 Feet Office.

What Office Flooring Will Look Like After The CoronavirusBusinesses are going to increase the air filtration systems. They’ll redesign floor layouts to be sure people can always maintain the six feet apart rule. Surfaces will be rethought to make things cleaner and more hygienic.

And that includes the flooring.

Our prediction for office flooring as we move back to offices

The right commercial office flooring today must be a blend of aesthetics and functionality. Of course, budget is always a consideration. But now more than ever, it’s important to keep tenants and employees safe and secure.

Cleanliness will be everything as we file back into commercial spaces. That requires a flooring material that stands up well to regular cleaning, and continues to look good throughout the process.

While that might eliminate some choices from your consideration, it also doesn’t mean there’s a right choice for every situation.

Start by asking yourself a few questions?

  • How many people enter the commercial property every day?
  • Who works there? Who visits?
  • Are certain areas more high traffic than others?
  • What look are you trying to convey?
  • How is the office cleaned?
  • What functions occur within the complex?

A dentist’s office has different requirements than an insurance broker. A retail space has different needs than a co-working space.

Remember, living and working with new rules and policies is new to everybody. The more you talk about it, the more you learn about your options, the better you can design the space you’re living with to please everyone.

Break down your needs by areas and floors

If you’ve replaced your office flooring before, you know there isn’t a “one size fits all” option. Instead, take into consideration what different places throughout your office need, and choose your office flooring accordingly.

We typically break down commercial space into four distinct areas:

Lobby and reception space

Whether people enter from outside the building, or enter into your office space by riding up in an elevator, durability and first impressions are everything. When people enter, they usually look at the decor and base ideas around aesthetics. Now, they’ll also be evaluating how much thought and care is being presented to keep people safe. Say no to busyness, and say hello to simplification.

Wood finishes create a bold expression when a visitor walks in. Luxury vinyl tile may also be a great way to create a pleasing environment, while having a flooring material that’s easily cleaned and sanitized. It’s one of the only flooring choices that’s waterproof too.

Open office spaces

While offices will still have kitchens and break rooms, they will be used differently. No more gathering and accumulating. Lots of space will have to be available for people to sit down.

That also means focus will have to be on creating a space that’s easily cleaned. No more storing boxes and stacking food or water bottles for future use.

Luxury vinyl tile is a waterproof option that allows you to create and look and feel, and gives you durability and functionality too. Linoleum is also water-resistant, and gives you a natural option. Tile can also work well and give you options for creating a beautiful yet functional workspace.

Conference rooms

Everyone gathering around the conference table is going to change. Large meetings will become a thing of the past as we leave space in between, and use virtual technology more than ever before.

Where conference rooms were once viewed as a showcase for a company’s product or service lines, less focus will be placed on space. Because you have less foot traffic, you also have more options to meet your cleaning and durability requirements. Wood is always in fashion. Luxury vinyl tile can continue your look throughout your office space. Stone is a good way to add elegance to any office space.

What we recommend for your office space

Now that you’ve evaluated your needs, and are starting to define what flooring products would work well in your office space, let’s look at a few of our favorites.

Wood

Wood has been a favorite in both residential and commercial applications for decades. While that will continue to be popular in the future, we see people turning to other wood products beyond hardwood.

Have you looked at engineered hardwood? It’s an environmentally friendly option to hardwood flooring, and depending on the processing, it can be easier to clean, more durable for office spaces, and give you more water resistance in the process.

Luxury vinyl tile

Want the wood look without the fuss of real hardwood? More people are turning to luxury vinyl tile than ever before. That’s because it’s one of the most durable, waterproof flooring options on the market. And thanks to technology, you can get it in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles, including mimicking hardwood plank. It makes it the perfect choice for creating an environment where cleanliness is key.

Tile

If you’ve ever looked at tile, you know the options are almost endless. Ceramic, porcelain, stone – you can install colors, sizes, and styles to create any look you’re going for. It’s a perfect choice for heavy traffic, and it’s one of the most durable flooring choices on the market. Whether you use it in only in your high traffic areas, or carry it all the way through your office space, you’ll love both the performance and the look.

What’s the perfect office flooring for your commercial space as we move forward and back into work?

With so many options, it might be a little confusing to finalize your decision. Give us a call, and we’ll help. We’re learning right along with you, and discovering the best flooring products as we move forward. And we’re happy to share our new findings with you.

This post appeared first on https://pro-flooring.com

Where Do You Start When Preparing For A Kitchen Floor Remodel?

What’s the busiest room in your home? We’re betting you said the kitchen. It’s where you gather at the end of the day to cook a home-cooked meal. It’s where the kids do their homework. It’s where you share a glass of wine with friends and family.

One of the hardest working fixtures is your kitchen floor.

Remember that jar of pickles you dropped? Yep, there’s still a trace of sticky residue.

Remember the pan you dropped from the stove? The dent is still there; you feel it when you step on it.

If you want to make a dramatic change to your kitchen, but don’t have the budget for a complete remodel, one of your best choices would be to focus on your kitchen floor.

What any kitchen floor choice should have

As a homeowner, your primary request might be to have an aesthetically-pleasing environment. You have your heart set on a particular flooring choice. In the kitchen, looks are important. But there are several other things you should consider.

Where Do You Start When Preparing For A Kitchen Floor Remodel?Durability – Let’s go back to that jar of pickles. Think it won’t happen again? Because the kitchen is the busiest room in your home, it’s also the room where accidents frequently happen too. Focus on a flooring that can withstand all you can dish out. And realize a family with small children will need to focus on lifestyle changes as your kids move into their tweens and teens, bringing home friends, working through science experiments, and increasing the amount of traffic in your home all the time. Your future lifestyle should dictate your choices as much as the present.

Maintenance – How often do you currently clean your flooring? Think that’ll change? The busier your kitchen is, the more you’ll pull out the broom or mop to keep it clean. It extends beyond general cleaning too. If you make the wrong flooring choice, you might be dealing with dents, cracks, tears, yellowing, stains, or other unsightly messes. What’s your plan for damage control? In some cases, the only way to fix the problem might be to rip out the flooring and start all over.

Moisture – From an overflowing sink to a dropped pot of water, spills will happen from time to time. How will your flooring stand up to each of them? While no flooring can withstand a flood or standing water, some flooring choices are considered resilient and can stand up to moisture problems more than others. The right selection will ensure your kitchen floor stands up to whatever you dish out.

The good news is today’s flooring manufacturers offer a wide selection of materials that offer each of these characteristics and more. Keep an open mind when shopping for a new kitchen floor. Your final selection might just surprise you.

Here are just a few of our favorite choices.

Porcelain Tile

Why we like it: It’s beautiful, durable, waterproof, stain-resistant, and lasts for years.

If you want durability, porcelain tile has to be one of your top considerations. Though it looks a lot like ceramic tile, porcelain tile is fired at higher temperatures, which means it’s stronger and will hold up better to all your family can dish out. Plus, the options you’ll find today give you almost unlimited possibilities when it comes to creating a polished look.

Porcelain tile comes in six inch squares, all the way up to eighteen inch planks that resemble hardwood. Depending on your final selection, it can add substantial weight, so it’s a good idea to consider your layout and determine if your subfloor can take the extra weight before finalizing on this selection. It also makes a great choice if you’re considering adding radiant heating underneath. That can make the holiday baking season extra nice when your feet stay nice and warm.

Engineered Vinyl Plank

Why we like it: It’s waterproof, it’s easy enough to install for a DIYer, and it can resemble even the most popular flooring choices including hardwood plank.

One of the up and coming flooring choices include engineered vinyl plank. These resemble hardwood planks, only they offer an upside – they are completely waterproof. You’ll find the top layers include a luxury vinyl that can mimic just about any surface area. It can even stretch beyond, offering even more exotic color choices.

You snap it into place using a click and lock system. That makes it easier to install, and is more forgiving depending on the flooring you already have in place. And because it has a cushion backing, it’s softer underneath than you would get with traditional hardwood or tile. That can be a big bonus if you spend a lot of time in the kitchen.

Stone tile

Why we like it: It’s a natural kitchen flooring choice, one that adds one of a kind beauty to any design.

If you’re looking for luxury, you have to give stone tile a second look. It’s a natural material that gives you flexibility in your decor while giving you durability and easy maintenance at the same time.

This isn’t a DIY task unless you’re familiar with laying floors. Stone tile takes a special underlayment, and it’s important to be exact with the process as any unevenness in the subfloor can make the stone tiles pop off.

What makes these so beautiful is they are one of a kind. Quarried from natural stone, you’ll never find two stones looking exactly alike. This gives any kitchen an aesthetically pleasing feel, while making it stand up to all your family can dish out.

The good news is there are so many different stone varieties to choose from.

Travertine – its smooth, non-slip qualities make it the perfect choice for a kitchen

Marble – it’s one of the hardest materials, and can be polished to a high sheen

Slate – it’s a great choice because it’s slip-resistant and very durable

Granite – it’s hardness makes it a great choice for high traffic areas

So many options …

These are just a few of the options available to you when selecting a new kitchen floor.

What’s the right choice for your home? The best way to find out is to give us a call.

Stop by our retail location and consider your options. You’ll be surprised at all the kitchen flooring choices available to you.

Your perfect kitchen floor is waiting for you. What are you waiting for?

This post appeared first on https://pro-flooring.com

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