Month: February 2023

Peanut butter and jelly. Horse and carriage. Durability and wood flooring?

When most people describe wood flooring, they have a lot of good things to say:

• It’s aesthetically pleasing
• It’s classic
• It’s long-lasting
• It adds value to your home
• It’s environmentally friendly

All are great reasons for pushing wood flooring to the top of your wish list.

But what about durability? What’s the most durable wood flooring available today? What options do you have when finalizing your selection?

Finding durability in wood flooring

First, let’s define what wood flooring is. Many put it into two columns: Solid wood or imitation (fake) wood.

Yet the split goes even deeper than that.

Solid wood is solid – it’s made of a single piece of wood crafted from the core of a tree.

Engineered wood flooring is crafted from a solid hardwood veneer applied on top of a plywood core. It’s wood – the core is crafted from wood byproducts pressed together for strength and durability. The veneer top is solid wood, providing the aesthetics and durability of wood. It’s not fake or imitation – just a different way of presenting wood flooring.

Of course, there are other products that are designed to give you the look of wood flooring, with the durability of another product. Think luxury vinyl planks, laminate, or even tile. They aren’t fake or imitations – they provide aesthetics people want using a different core structure.

You’ve settled on wood flooring. You know it will look great inside your home. Now it’s time to decide on which to buy: solid wood or engineered?

Engineered hardwood flooring may be less susceptible to environmental changes than traditional solid hardwood flooring

This is due to its unique construction. Engineered hardwood comprises multiple layers of wood bonded together under heat and pressure, with a top layer of hardwood veneer. This layered construction gives engineered hardwood several advantages over traditional solid hardwood.

First, the inner layers of engineered hardwood are made up of high-density fiberboard (HDF) or plywood, which are more stable and less prone to expanding and contracting with changes in temperature and humidity. This stability helps prevent warping, buckling, or gaps from forming between the boards.

Engineered hardwood is also more resistant to moisture because of its construction. The top layer of hardwood veneer is finished with a protective coating that helps repel moisture, and the inner layers are naturally less susceptible to water damage than solid wood. This makes engineered hardwood a better choice for areas with high humidity or moisture, such as basements or bathrooms.

But solid wood flooring excels at lifespan

Solid wood flooring is made from a single piece of wood, while engineered wood flooring is made up of several layers. Over time, every scuff, ding, or dent can take its toll on the surface. Within a few years, your floor might start looking a bit dingy.

This is where solid wood flooring excels. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifetime. Solid wood flooring typically has a thicker wear layer than engineered wood flooring, which means that it can withstand more wear and tear before needing to be replaced. When ready, sand the surface down and apply new stains and acrylic. Voila! You have “new” floors!

In contrast, engineered wood flooring has a thinner wear layer, meaning it cannot be sanded and refinished as often as solid wood flooring. High-quality engineered wood can sometimes be refinished a time or two, but less than solid hardwood.

It is important to note that both solid and engineered hardwood are crafted from wood. Neither will perform well with significant flooding or water damage.

If it all comes down to installation, engineered flooring may win

Are you looking for a do-it-yourself project? Do you need flooring installed quickly? That may push which product to choose, with engineered flooring coming out on top.

Engineered wood flooring is typically more economical because it isn’t crafted from  solid core hardwood. It has the flexibility of being crafted from different resources, making it easier for manufacturers to create.

Because of how it’s created, it often comes as click-and-lock flooring. This means it floats above the subfloor, with the edges locking together to create one solid surface.

Solid wood flooring must be nailed, stapled, or glued to the subfloor. That adds to the complexity, meaning the installation process may take longer.

Durability – when it comes down to strength

No matter which wood flooring option you choose, what matters most is its resistance to scratches and ding. When you walk across it with shoes on, will it scuff and leave a mark? When you drop a heavy object, will it show?

That depends on:

• The wood used – species of tree
• The finish – what topcoat is used on the surface

Austrian-born American researcher Gabriel Janka created the Janka Hardness Test to determine the resistance of a sample of wood.

The Janka Scale measures pounds of force needed to project a steel ball halfway into a piece of wood. The higher the Janka Scale ranking, the more durable a wood is.

However, this shouldn’t be the only test. The hardest wood might not make an excellent floor. It’s difficult to cut and install, and may be too hard for functionality.

The most popular choices we use today include:

• Oak – rated around 1300
• Hickory – rated around 1800
• Mahogany – rated around 2200
• Maple – rated around 1450

Durability is more than hardness. It also includes water resistance, compression resistance, and overall functionality.

Which wood flooring is the most durable option of them all?

If you’re starting to sway between different styles and products, that’s okay. So many flooring choices are on the market because there isn’t a correct answer.

Start with your personality and desires. What appeals to you more: solid wood or engineered?

What color do you want? What topcoat works best with your lifestyle?

The more questions you ask, the easier it is to narrow your choices down and come up with a perfect solution to suit your needs.

We can help. Stop by and view dozens of options. Bring in your questions, and we’ll help you find the perfect wood flooring for your home.

The post Fall In Love With These Durable Wood Flooring Options appeared first on PRO! Flooring.

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Linoleum was once a popular flooring choice for modern homes. It was a good choice for homeowners who wanted an easy-to-clean, easy-to-care-for option.

Then flooring manufacturers started producing other options that grew in popularity. Carpet. Hardwood. Luxury vinyl.

Yet today, more homeowners are returning to linoleum. Why? Because linoleum is a great choice for building a healthy home.

What is linoleum?

Linoleum is a flooring material crafted from natural materials, including linseed oil, cork dust, wood flour, and jute. It was first developed in the mid-19th century as a durable and relatively inexpensive alternative to other types of flooring, such as hardwood or tile.

Linoleum is created by mixing natural materials and pressing them onto a backing material.

The key ingredients are linseed oil, wood flour, cork dust, and jute. These ingredients are mixed in specific proportions to create a homogenous mixture. Pigments are added to the mixture to give the linoleum its desired color.

The linoleum mixture is then applied to a backing material, which can be made from burlap, jute, or other materials. The mixture is spread evenly across the backing material using rollers or other equipment.

The linoleum and backing material are heated and pressed together to create a strong bond. This process can take several hours and involves applying pressure and heat to the linoleum mixture to create a smooth and even surface.

Once the linoleum is heated and pressed, it is allowed to cool and cure for several days. During this time, the linoleum becomes even stronger and more resilient, making it suitable for use as flooring. It can be cut into tiles or rolls and installed in homes and businesses.

What makes linoleum a healthy choice?

Linoleum is often considered a healthy choice for flooring for several reasons.

It’s created from natural materials – Linoleum is made from natural materials such as linseed oil, cork dust, and wood flour. These materials are renewable and biodegradable, which makes linoleum an eco-friendly choice.

It produces low emissions – Linoleum does not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, unlike other flooring materials such as vinyl. This means that linoleum does not contribute to indoor air pollution and is a healthier choice for people with allergies or respiratory issues.

It’s hypoallergenic – Because linoleum does not emit VOCs and is resistant to mold and bacteria growth, it is a hypoallergenic flooring option that may make a perfect addition to your home.

It’s easy to clean – People often think linoleum is difficult to care for. That may have been the case with linoleum from a generation ago, but no more. Today’s linoleum is easy to clean with just water and a mild cleaning solution, which reduces the need for harsh chemicals.

It’s easy to repair – Flooring takes a beating. Even in everyday living, you scuff it with your shoes, drop a pan while cooking, or pull a chair out and take a seat. In every case is a chance to scratch, ding, or damage your flooring. And when you add up months – years – of abuse, it takes its toll on your flooring. It’s why many homeowners think twice before installing flooring, to ensure it will stand up to daily wear. With linoleum, cuts and minor scratches can be buffed out and resealed without losing pattern or color. It’s worth upgrading to high-quality linoleum to ensure a long life.

It’s durable – Linoleum is a highly durable and long-lasting flooring option, which means that it does not need to be replaced as frequently as other types of flooring. With proper care, linoleum can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years. This reduces waste and the need for new materials.

Linoleum or vinyl – not sure of the difference

Linoleum or vinyl: Homeowners often use the words interchangeably, but there are differences. If you’re looking for a healthy addition to your home, linoleum may be the way to go. Linoleum and vinyl are both popular flooring options, but there are several reasons why linoleum may be a better choice than vinyl.

It starts with the environmental impact – Linoleum is made from natural materials, while vinyl is made from synthetic derived from petrochemicals. Linoleum is biodegradable and does not release harmful chemicals into the environment, while vinyl can take hundreds of years to decompose and may release harmful chemicals into the air during its production and disposal. In both cases, it’s wise to pay attention to the manufacturer and learn more about their production process.

Linoleum is the way to go if you’re buying for health benefits. As mentioned earlier, linoleum is considered hypoallergenic and will not emit harmful VOCs into the air. Vinyl may emit harmful chemicals such as phthalates and dioxins, negatively affecting human health. Pay attention to production before you finalize your decision.

Durability is dependent on what you buy and your lifestyle. Most manufacturers will tell you that vinyl will last 10 to 25 years while linoleum lasts 20 to 40. This is where it pays to evaluate your lifestyle, determine the best choice for your situation, and decide which product is best to suit your needs. Linoleum often does not need to be replaced as frequently as vinyl, which can reduce waste and the need for new materials.

When you compare appearance, the two products are similar. Linoleum is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including some that mimic the look of other flooring materials, such as hardwood and stone. This makes it a versatile choice for a variety of interior design styles.

Is linoleum the right choice for you? 

While linoleum fell out of favor for a period of time in the mid-20th century, it has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years as more people seek out sustainable and eco-friendly products for their homes and businesses.

Are you still excited about linoleum?

Stop by today and see our entire collection. It may be the perfect addition for your remodel.  

The post Why Linoleum May Be The Best Choice For a Healthy Home appeared first on PRO! Flooring.

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Your new hardwood floor is a sight to behold as it presents a certain touch of class and elegance within your home. When it comes to maintaining its beauty, utilizing the proper cleaning method is critical so as not to damage the floor’s integrity. Many homeowners wonder if vacuum cleaners are the ideal tools to keep up the appearance of hardwood. And if so, which style of vacuum works best? Flooring.org provides information as to whether or not vacuum cleaners can be used to maintain hardwood floors.

There are several significant reasons why cleaning hardwood floors with everyday vacuum cleaners is not a good idea. One of the concerns is that basic vacuum cleaners are constructed to clean carpeted surfaces. The plastic wheels that give vacuums their mobility can cause scratches and even make indentations into hardwood flooring. Another reason why ordinary vacuum cleaners should never be used to cleanse hardwood floors is that the bristles on the roller are dense which, like the wheels, put the hardwood at risk of damage caused by scratches and dents. A third culprit is a component called the beater brush. This element of the vacuum cleaner has an unfavorable habit of dispersing dust and debris all over the place. Hence, instead of tidying up the room, more of a mess is created.

When shopping for a vacuum cleaner, look for certain characteristics that will be advantageous to your hardwood flooring. First, lean toward a lightweight vacuum that offers portability and will be able to glide effortlessly across the surface without putting too much pressure on the floor. This will also reduce the propensity of leaving scratches and dents on the hardwood. Next, stay away from vacuums that contain rolling brushes. Since rolling brushes are designed to pull up debris and hair, they dig deep into the fibers of the carpeting. Because of the way the brushes are designed to work, they can cause noticeable scratches in the hardwood that might necessitate pricey refinishing work which could have been avoided in the first place. Last but not least, select a vacuum cleaner that has rubber wheels and additional rubber padding to safeguard your hardwood flooring against scratches.

Flooring.org carries top-notch flooring in an impressive host of finishes and designs for our clients to purchase. We carry quality inventory at reasonable costs that fit within a wide range of budgets. Our esteemed company can be contacted by calling 800-689-9006. Thank you for taking an interest in Flooring.org for your remodeling needs.

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

Carpets are an essential part of any home decor, providing warmth, comfort, and beauty to any room. However, carpets can also harbor allergens, dirt, and bacteria, which can affect the indoor air quality and the health of your family. Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning can help to keep your carpets looking good, but it is essential to have them professionally cleaned on a regular basis. In this article, we will discuss why you should have your carpets professionally cleaned and how often they should be professionally cleaned.

Why you should have your carpets professionally cleaned

There are several reasons why you should have your carpets professionally cleaned. Here are some of the main reasons:

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Carpets act like a filter, trapping airborne pollutants, such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. Over time, these pollutants can accumulate in the carpet fibers, making the air in your home less healthy to breathe. Professional carpet cleaning can help to remove these pollutants, improving the indoor air quality in your home.

Removes Stains and Odors

Carpets can be subject to stains from spills and accidents, and these stains can be tough to remove with DIY methods. A Personal Touch professional carpet cleaners have specialized, truck-mounted steam cleaning systems that can effectively remove even the toughest stains, such as red wine, coffee, and pet urine. Professional carpet cleaning can also disinfect, deodorize and eliminate signs of pet damage that may be trapped in the carpet fibers.

Extends the Life of Your Carpet

Carpets are an expensive investment, and you want to ensure that they last as long as possible. Regular professional cleaning can help to extend the life of your carpet by removing dirt and debris that can cause wear and tear on the fibers. Additionally, professional carpet cleaning services can also help to prevent mold and mildew growth, which can damage the carpet and the underlying padding.

Saves Time and Effort

Cleaning carpets can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task, especially if you have a large home or multiple carpets to clean. Professional carpet cleaning can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on other tasks or activities and spend more time with your family.

How often should you have your carpets professionally cleaned?

The frequency of professional carpet cleaning will depend on several factors, including the amount of foot traffic in your home, the presence of pets and children, and the overall condition of your carpets. Here are some general guidelines for how often you should have your carpets professionally cleaned:

Low Traffic Areas: If you have carpets in low traffic areas, such as bedrooms or guest rooms, you can have them professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months.

Medium Traffic Areas: Carpets in medium traffic areas, such as living rooms and dining rooms, should be professionally cleaned every 6 to 12 months.

High Traffic Areas: Carpets in high traffic areas, such as hallways and entryways, should be professionally cleaned every 3 to 6 months.

Homes with Pets and Children: If you have pets and children in your home, you should have your carpets professionally cleaned more frequently, as they are more likely to attract dirt, stains, odors and germs. For these homes, professional carpet cleaning should be done every 3 to 6 months, regardless of the traffic level.

Professional carpet cleaning is an essential part of maintaining a healthy and beautiful home. By following these recommendations, you can ensure that your carpets remain clean and fresh for years to come.

Call us today at 720.344.2870 or use our online contact form for any questions you may have or to receive your FREE quote.

Remember at A Personal Touch, we don’t cut corners, we clean them!

The post How Often Should You Have Carpets Professionally Cleaned appeared first on A Personal Touch.

Flooring is the one feature that has the biggest impact on the overall feel of a room, yet it’s also one of the most overlooked when it comes to design and finishing.

We all love to shop for gourmet kitchen appliances, or find the perfect color palette for the walls. But how do you shop for flooring? It’s every bit as visual as the color on your walls. And considering it’s a sizable investment, it’s worth a second look to ensure you choose the right flooring for your home. You won’t be changing your flooring every few months, so it’s worth the time to ensure you fall in love with it before you install it.

Where do you begin?

Start with a few tips to choose the right flooring

Imagine walking through your front door, and falling in love with it every time. That’s why paying attention to the design is so important. It’s the difference between feeling elated or having apprehension whenever you look at your final design.

Part of its personality – you have to go with where your heart leads. The other part centers around selecting the right flooring for your needs.

Space – consider the room’s shape and size. How much traffic moves through the room? How much light enters through the windows? This is where a few searches online can help. Find rooms that closely resemble your own, and see what flooring type you prefer.

Style – are you a little bit country? Do you love modern minimalism? Or maybe you love sleek sophistication.  Different flooring types create a different base for what you’re trying to create. But don’t ignore what’s best for your lifestyle. White carpet with a houseful of pets and kids is a road to disaster.

Type – choosing a flooring is always a blend of personality and lifestyle. You have to install what you love. You also have to install what makes sense. Exotic hardwood may be beautiful, but it will be a disaster in a child’s bathroom, where the tub overflows regularly. Maybe luxury vinyl planks would make a better choice. There are many ways to get the final look you desire. This is where talking with a flooring expert can provide solid advice.

Budget – the good news today is that you can access whatever flooring type you desire within your budget. Just be flexible with your goals to ensure you get the highest quality you can afford. With today’s technology, manufacturers work hard to give you the best choices possible at every price point.

Installation – want to save money? Consider a do-it-yourself flooring option. If this is the case, realize there may be a learning curve to ensure you install it correctly. A successful job gives you the longest life possible. If you opt for a professional install, be sure to select a trusted resource to ensure it’s installed correctly the first time. This also guarantees your warranty will be valid for the life of the product.

Maintenance – what does maintenance look like to you? Daily vacuuming? Weekly scrubbing? Occasional refinishing? Each flooring type has its own unique needs. It’s best to research each type thoroughly before you select it, especially if you’ve never had it before. If you aren’t prepared for the upkeep, it may be a shock once it’s installed. It’s the easiest road to buyer’s remorse.

Choosing flooring materials that meet your needs

Of course, there are many different flooring materials available today. Chances are you have an idea of what will best suit your wants and desires.

Doing a little research can help you get comfortable with different flooring materials. There are many ways to achieve the results you’re looking for.

Hardwood – very few flooring materials have stood the test of time, like hardwood. That’s because it’s a natural product that stands up well over time. And when it’s time for a change, you can sand it down and refinish it for a new and updated look. Keep in mind that hardwood is one of the most expensive flooring choices you can install. It can be dented and scratched, and may not work well if you have a busy household with lots of activity. It also doesn’t work in high humidity situations, or any area where moisture is an issue. Skip the hardwood if you’re refinishing your basement.

Laminate – laminate gives you the look and feel of hardwood, but with a hard topcoat that adds more functionality to the surface. It’s also more affordable, and with its click-and-lock installation system, even a do-it-yourselfer will have good luck. Many homeowners select laminate for their basement build-outs because of its flexibility as well as its good looks.

Luxury vinyl planks – while sheet vinyl is still an incredible option for budget-savvy homeowners, many are turning to luxury vinyl planks because of its upgraded looks. It can be installed anywhere with its water-resistant features. Some manufacturers have even made waterproof planks. If you have a busy household where stills are a part of life, luxury vinyl planks may give you the protection you’re looking for.

Carpet – carpet continues to be both comfortable and cost-effective. If you are looking for warmth and noise control, you’ll never go wrong with carpet. While it might not be perfect for your highest-traffic areas, it’s often the first choice for bedrooms and playrooms. You’ll love it in your media room, where sound is an issue. Have a work-from-home office? Carpet gives you a unique style.

Tile – one of the most versatile flooring options is tile. Whether you settle on ceramic or porcelain, you’ll be able to create any look you desire. Tile makes  waterproof flooring that’s perfect in the bathroom. Porcelain tile is extremely durable and resistant to scratches and dents. You can find it at every price point, making it a reliable flooring for any homeowner.

Which flooring is right for your home? 

While many homeowners start their search by price, it’s equally important to look for the flooring that best suits your needs. Maybe it’s worth a little extra today, knowing you won’t have to replace it for years.

Choosing the right flooring for each room in your home is a little bit personality and a little bit functionality. What best suits your needs?

There isn’t a perfect choice – that’s why many flooring materials are available.

Instead, it’s about making the right choice for you.

How can we help you choose the right flooring for your home? 

The post How to Choose the Right Flooring for Your Home’s Style and Needs appeared first on PRO! Flooring.

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Are you in need of a refresh this season? Now that the holidays are over and the New Year is here, you may be interested in switching up your space. Investing in new flooring is a great way to help your home feel like new, while also increasing its value. Use wood flooring to change your space this season.

The first thing you need to do when refreshing your floors this season is decide your budget. Determine how much money you’re capable of spending this New Year on new floors. Once you’ve determined your budget, you can shop for flooring within your price range. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of installation if you plan on leaving this job up to the professionals.

There are countless types of hardwood flooring you can choose from, no matter your budget. You can opt for natural bamboo flooring for something warm, light, and nature-inspired, or you can pick a dark oak for something more moody and classic. You can even choose gray wood flooring if you want something nontraditional and different.

As you shop for hardwood flooring, consider the elements in your home. You may want your hardwood flooring to match your crown molding, or perhaps you’re seeking flooring that corresponds with your design style. You want your home to have a cohesive look, so keep these things in mind as you shop.

Hardwood flooring has many benefits. For one, replacing carpet with hardwood flooring can reduce the number of allergens in your home. Carpet holds in dirt, dust, debris, and allergens, even when cleaned. Hardwood is notably easier to clean and it does not hold on to dirt and debris as carpet does.

Hardwood flooring also boosts the value of a home. As opposed to other types of flooring, hardwood can last for generations. A home with hardwood flooring is more valuable because future buyers won’t have to worry about replacing dirty, stained, or outdated flooring. Rather, they can feel right at home with the high-quality, durable, and classic hardwood you install in your space.

To discover the perfect hardwood flooring for your home this season, shop with Flooring.org. We have a wide selection of herringbone flooring, pre-finished flooring, unfinished flooring, and more. Be sure to browse our website for affordable and high-quality options, or give us a call at 1-800-689-9006 with any questions.

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

The importance of a clean and hygienic home cannot be overemphasized. A clean home not only gives a feeling of comfort and well-being, but it also helps to prevent the spread of germs and illness. Carpets play a crucial role in determining the overall health of your household. However, they can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, dust mites, and other allergens, which can pose a serious threat to the health of the inhabitants. This is where regular professional carpet cleaning comes into play. By removing dirt, grime, and harmful substances from your carpets, you can keep your family healthy and reduce the risk of illness.

Dust Mites in Carpets

One of the main reasons why carpets need to be cleaned regularly is to remove dust mites. Dust mites are tiny creatures that thrive in carpets and upholstery and can cause a range of health problems, including allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. Dust mites feed on the dead skin cells that we shed and can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Professional carpet cleaning, by removing dust mites and their allergens from the carpet fibers, can help to keep your home healthier and reduce the risk of allergies and respiratory problems.

Reduce Germs and Allergies

Another reason why carpet cleaning is so important is that it helps to prevent the spread of germs. Carpets are exposed to all sorts of dirt, grime, and bacteria from foot traffic and spills. Especially if you allow shoes in your house! This means that carpets can easily become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Carpet cleaning, by removing these harmful substances, helps to reduce the spread of germs and keep your family healthy.

Allergens are another major concern when it comes to carpets. Carpets can trap allergens like pet dander, mold spores, and pollen, leading to allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. Professional carpet cleaning removes the allergens and provides relief to those who suffer with allergies.

Improves Indoor Air Quality

Improving indoor air quality is another important reason why carpets need to be professionally cleaned regularly. Carpets can trap and hold onto dirt, dust, and other pollutants, affecting indoor air quality. Professional carpet cleaning removes these pollutants, improving the air quality in your home and reducing the risk of respiratory problems. This is particularly important for people who suffer from asthma and other respiratory problems, as indoor air pollution can trigger symptoms and make their condition worse.

Regular professional carpet cleaning is essential for maintaining good health and preventing the spread of germs and illness. By scheduling a professional carpet cleaning service with A Personal Touch Carpet Cleaning, you can take the first step towards creating a healthier home for you and your family. Have your carpets professionally cleaned by one of our IICRC trained professionals to create a safer and healthier environment for your family. A clean home is a happy home, so call for a quote or schedule your service today.

Remember at A Personal Touch, we don’t cut corners, we clean them! 

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