Month: March 2023

If you’re considering replacing the floors in your home, you should give the idea some more thought this spring. Spring is the best season to give your home a facelift by replacing the current flooring in your home with something more pleasing to the eye.

With the right flooring, you can change the entire look of an area and breathe new life into the places you spend the most time. In our article, the team at Flooring.org has put together a brief guide on the best floors to install during the spring to give your home a facelift into the 21st century.

Replacing your floors will require quite a bit of back and forth between the inside and outside of your home. You will likely need to remove all your furniture, drapery, mats, and other household items during the installation.

Additionally, throughout this installation, you will need to have windows and doors open, and if you choose to install during the summer or winter, this could pose a problem. This is because your HVAC system will need to work harder to warm or cool your home, making your home environment uncomfortable.

Luckily, installing new flooring during the spring makes you less likely to encounter this issue because temperatures are usually milder. So if you’re ready to give your home a facelift this spring, look at the options we recommend below.

Hardwood Flooring

You can choose between two types of hardwood flooring to give your home a makeover this spring. There is solid wood hardwood flooring and engineered wood flooring that consists of a thin veneer of natural wood carefully bonded to plywood.

Both types have pros and cons, but they also come in upwards of fifty species, with the most popular being ash, maple, oak, and walnut. If you’re looking for flooring that adds warmth, dimension, and timeless beauty to your home, you should opt for hardwood flooring.

Those who choose hardwood flooring won’t need to replace their floors again for decades or centuries because they can be sanded and refinished numerous times. Moreover, installing hardwood floors in the spring is the best idea because your floors will have a chance to acclimate without you worrying about them absorbing moisture or cracking.

Real Stone Flooring

If you want a long-term practical flooring option that looks stylish, you should consider installing real stone flooring this spring. Yet, you should note that real stone flooring is usually best suited to bathrooms and kitchens.

There are also numerous options available for those wanting to give their home a facelift. For example, you can choose between marble, slate, limestone, and terracotta stone tiles. Regardless of which style you choose, rest assured they will bring warmth and character to your home.

They can add a touch of simplistic elegance to an otherwise dull space if appropriately done and installed correctly so as not to crack. Stone floors should also last indefinitely if laid correctly and maintained, so this is a positive for those who don’t want to change their flooring every few years.

This means you will need to have your stone floors re-sealed every six months after installation. On the plus side, this type of flooring won’t harbor pet hair or dust mites, so it’s an excellent option for allergy sufferers.

Tiles

Chances are that if you’re not a carpet or hardwood flooring person, you’re a tile person; and there is nothing wrong with this. Tiles are one of the most stylish and durable contemporary types of flooring for bathrooms, hallways, and kitchens, but they can be used throughout a home to give a modern look.

If you are a creative soul who wants to truly put your creativity to work, you should choose tiles, as you can choose between thousands of patterns, finishes, and colors. With the right style, shape, and size of tiles, you can transform your home this spring into a place you want to spend your free time.

Additionally, tiles are uber easy to clean and maintain, and they can withstand things that other flooring types cannot, like standing water, without buckling or becoming overly damaged. Moreover, depending on the type of tile you choose, it can withstand mud, grit, and dirt without scratching for years to decades without needing to be replaced.

These are only a few of the floor types you can choose when you want to give your home a facelift. If you’re planning on replacing your home’s floors this spring, you should speak with one of our flooring experts at Flooring.org.

We can help you pick the floors that best suit your home and the style you want to achieve. After all, replacing your floors is a significant investment, so we know you want to ensure you make the right flooring decision. So if you’re ready to get your flooring facelift underway, give us a call at 800-689-9006!

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

When it comes to flooring options, water-resistant laminate flooring is one of the most popular choices for its affordability and durability. What is Water-Resistant Laminate Flooring? Not all laminates are created equal. If you’re looking for a flooring option that can withstand moisture and water spills, water-resistant laminate flooring is the way to go. Water-resistant… Read More

The post Water-Resistant Laminate Flooring: The Best Choice for High-Moisture Areas first appeared on Discount Flooring Depot Blog. This post appeared first on https://www.discountflooringdepot.co.uk

Thinking of adding new flooring to a room in your home? Homeowners do it for a variety of reasons:

• They want to refresh worn-out flooring
• They want to redecorate a room
• They want to install “dream” flooring
• They are upgrading a room in their home
• They want to create a more valuable home and get it ready for sale

What’s your reason?

In many cases, adding resale value is a second thought. You want hardwood, knowing it will increase your resale value. You upgrade your tile, making a spa-like retreat, knowing it will increase your resale value too.

Buyers today want to move into a turnkey place. They look for curb appeal when they drive up. They don’t want a place they’ll have maintenance projects from the moment they move in.

Instead, they tick off boxes as they walk around, knowing your remodeling and aesthetic choices suit them too.

Upgrading your flooring requires all that and more.

So what’s your dream? Are you interested in installing tiles in your home?

Installing tile – what does it mean?

Ask a hundred people what “tile” means in flooring, and you’ll likely get 100 different answers. That’s because tile has changed significantly over the years.

Ceramic – These are the most traditional tiles, the ones most people consider. Ceramic tiles are made from clay and crafted through heating and cooling. They are one of the most economical tiles, and come in a wide variety of colors, sizes, textures, and shapes.

Porcelain – When you’re ready to upgrade, many homeowners move from ceramic tiles to porcelain. Porcelain tiles are denser and less porous, making them harder and more waterproof. This makes them durable enough for any room in your home, inside or out.

Slate – Slate tiles are taken directly from the earth and can be used indoors or out. They are slip-resistant even when they get wet or greasy. They have a more natural appearance, which attracts many homeowners to this choice. While they come in many colors, they typically stick with more natural hues. They are a great choice in high-traffic areas, and add warmth and a touch of sophistication no matter where you install them.

Marble/granite/onyx/quartz – While slate is an ever-popular stone for flooring, you have a wide array of choices, such as marble, granite, onyx, or quartz. These make beautiful additions to any home, and often crossover between residential and commercial because of durability and longevity.

Terrazzo – A composite of several materials, including marble, quartz, glass, granite, and stone. These materials are cured, ground, and polished to create a surface people have loved for generations.

Faux Wood – Want the looks of hardwood with the durability and functionality of tile? Thanks to today’s technology, you can get it with faux wood tiles. These continue to rise in popularity because of their beauty and aesthetics. If you choose radiant heating, this may be a perfect choice.

Luxury Vinyl – Did you do a double take at luxury vinyl? Most people do. Yet all you have to do is look at a few samples, and you’ll discover how functional they are. Manufacturers have created one of the most durable products on the market. And because they shape them as planks or tiles, the resemblance to more natural products is astounding. But they add even more waterproof features that often can’t compare with the “real” thing.

See a tile for you? Let’s get to installing tiles in these two rooms

If you head south, it’s not unusual to find tile in almost every room in the home. Here in Colorado, we tend to be more specific about where we choose to install tile.

But you’ll never go wrong if you install tile in:

Kitchen

What’s the first thing most people gravitate to when they enter a home? The kitchen. Considered the hub of the home, it’s a place that receives high-traffic and high use every single day of the year.

Which is why durability is critical when selecting flooring. Many homeowners want hardwood, yet know in their hearts that it might not be the best choice.

Installing tile in this situation often makes the most sense.

Using ceramic or porcelain tiles adds beauty and functionality. Because of the vast array of colors and patterns, you can customize it to your heart’s desire. They work well with radiant heating. And if you want inside-outside options, porcelain might work for you.

Stone will never go out of style and adds rich aesthetics that’s hard to beat. You won’t have to worry about scratches or dents, though chipping may be an issue depending on which stone you select.

If hardness is a factor, take a look at luxury vinyl. People love these because of their unique features:

• Mold, mildew, and bacteria resistant
• Stain and scratch resistant
• Flame resistant
• Waterproof

In a kitchen, consumers usually want two things: aesthetics and functionality. Spend a few minutes defining that for yourself. You’ll quickly gravitate to one product. That’s when you know you’ve found your solution.

Bathrooms

Along with the kitchen, bathrooms are best served when you select and install tile for the floors. With bathroom design, you may even choose to add more tile than just the flooring. How about the walls? Shower stalls? Tub design? Countertops?

If you scroll through a design magazine or flip through pinboards on Pinterest, you’ll quickly find tile adds depth and beauty in a way no other flooring choice can.

It’s perfect for Colorado homes!

Porcelain tile often comes out on top when finalizing your decision because it’s denser, less porous, which means it’s better suited for moisture. Just be sure it’s built for bathrooms and moisture and won’t become slippery when wet.

Porcelain comes in two types: glazed and unglazed. Glazed has a hard finish which acts as a glossy finish. They typically come in more color combinations and have added strength because of the finish. Unglazed or through-bodied adds more texture and is often preferred for flooring, walls, and countertops.

But this is your choice. Your rooms. Your home.

What do you prefer?

Two rooms – your choice – install tile today

If you’ve found yourself saying “yes” to one of the above, you know tile is in your future. It’s a great choice wherever you install it.

When it comes to home improvement projects, there are many choices to be made. But we know you’ll never go wrong if you select tile for your kitchen and bathroom.

How can we help you finalize your decision?

The post The Two Rooms You Should Be Installing Tile In appeared first on PRO! Flooring.

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

We understand that measuring a room for flooring can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of measuring your room for flooring, so you can get accurate measurements and choose the perfect flooring… Read More

The post One Simple Trick to Ensure You Order the Right Amount of Flooring for Your Space first appeared on Discount Flooring Depot Blog. This post appeared first on https://www.discountflooringdepot.co.uk

Rippled carpet is a common issue that many homeowners face. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, it can actually be quite hazardous. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the hazards of rippled carpet and why you should have it repaired and restretched.

Ripples are a Trip Hazard

The first hazard of rippled carpet is tripping. When carpet becomes rippled, it creates a raised area that can easily catch your foot as you walk over it. This can cause you to trip and fall, which can result in serious injuries. Young children and the elderly are especially at risk of tripping on rippled carpet, as they may have trouble seeing or avoiding the raised area.

Carpet Ripples, Mold and Pests

Another hazard of rippled carpet is the potential for mold growth. When carpet becomes rippled, it creates a gap between the carpet and the subfloor. This gap can trap moisture, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. Mold can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and other health problems, so it’s important to address rippled carpet as soon as possible to prevent mold growth.

In addition to mold growth, rippled carpet can also attract pests. The gap between the carpet and the subfloor can provide a cozy home for pests like rodents, insects, and even dust mites. These pests can cause health issues and damage to your home, so it’s important to have rippled carpet repaired and restretched to eliminate this potential hazard.

Carpet Damage

Rippled carpet can also cause damage to the carpet itself. Over time, the constant stress of being rippled can cause the carpet fibers to become frayed and worn. This can make your carpet look old and worn out, even if it’s relatively new. By having your rippled carpet repaired and restretched, you can extend the life of your carpet and keep it looking great for years to come.

Carpet Ripples are an Eyesore

Finally, rippled carpet can be a major eyesore. It can make your home look unkempt and unprofessional, which can be a major problem if you’re trying to sell your home or impress guests. By having your rippled carpet repaired and restretched, you can improve the appearance of your home and make it a more inviting space.

Rippled carpet may seem like a minor issue, but it can actually be quite hazardous. From tripping hazards to mold growth and pest infestations, there are many reasons why you should have your rippled carpet repaired and restretched as soon as possible. By addressing this issue promptly, you can protect your health, your home, and your investment in your carpet. So if you’re dealing with rippled carpet, don’t wait – contact A Personal Touch for your carpet repair and stretching service today!

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

The post The Problem with Carpet Ripples appeared first on A Personal Touch.

When it comes to choosing the right flooring for your home or business, there are many options available. From hardwood to tile to carpet, the choices can be overwhelming. However, one option that is gaining popularity is waterproof laminate flooring. In this article, we will explore the benefits of waterproof laminate flooring and why it… Read More

The post Waterproof Laminate: The Best Choice for Your Flooring Needs first appeared on Discount Flooring Depot Blog. This post appeared first on https://www.discountflooringdepot.co.uk

Laminate flooring has come a long way in recent years. No longer just a budget-friendly alternative to hardwood or tile, laminate floors have become a popular choice for homeowners seeking a durable, low-maintenance flooring option that also offers a high-end look and feel. Among the various styles and colors available, grey laminate flooring has emerged… Read More

The post Don’t Miss Out on the Trendiest Flooring Option: Grey Laminate! first appeared on Discount Flooring Depot Blog. This post appeared first on https://www.discountflooringdepot.co.uk

Linoleum vs vinyl. The two words are often used interchangeably. But they aren’t the same at all.

Which is better for your home? Let’s dive into the details and learn more about both.

What is linoleum, and how is it made? 

Linoleum is a type of flooring material used for over a century. It is made from natural and renewable materials, which makes it an environmentally friendly option. Linoleum is known for its durability and resilience, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas in homes and commercial buildings.

Linoleum is made primarily from linseed oil, which comes from flaxseed. Other ingredients include pine resin, wood flour, cork dust, and mineral pigments. These materials are mixed together to form a thick paste that is spread out onto a backing material.

This backing material can be made from a variety of products, including jute, cotton, or polyester. The linoleum paste is spread out onto the backing material using large rollers and adjusted to various heights, depending on the desired outcome.

After the linoleum paste has been applied to the backing material, it is allowed to dry. The drying process can take several days, depending on the thickness of the linoleum. Once the linoleum is dry, it is cut into sheets or tiles.

Linoleum can come in a variety of colors and patterns, depending on the mineral pigments added during the manufacturing process. These pigments can be mixed together to create unique color combinations.

People love it because of its green qualities. It’s also easy to clean and maintain. It is resistant to water and stains, which makes it a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Linoleum is also resistant to scratches and scuffs, meaning it will look good for many years with proper care.

What is vinyl flooring, and how is it made? 

Vinyl flooring is a synthetic material that has become popular in recent years. It is known for its durability, easy maintenance, and affordability. Vinyl flooring can come in a variety of styles and patterns, including those that mimic the look of natural materials like hardwood and stone.

Vinyl flooring is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin, a synthetic material produced from petroleum. Other materials used include plasticizers, stabilizers, and pigments. These materials are mixed together to form a vinyl compound.

The vinyl compound is then heated and spread out onto a backing material, which can be made from a variety of materials, including felt or fiberglass. The vinyl compound is spread out in a thin layer and allowed to cool and solidify. Once the vinyl has hardened, it is embossed with a texture to give it the appearance of natural materials like wood or stone.

It’s then cut into tiles or sheets. Vinyl flooring can come in various sizes and thicknesses, making it a versatile option for a variety of spaces.

One of the benefits of vinyl flooring is that it is easy to clean and maintain. It is resistant to water and stains, which makes it a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms. In some cases, it can be waterproof. That’s why it’s grown in popularity over the past decade.

It is also resistant to scratches and scuffs, meaning it will look good for many years with proper care.

Which is more environmentally friendly, linoleum or vinyl?

By reading the two descriptions of linoleum vs vinyl, it seems obvious which is the most environmentally friendly of the two.

But there are other things to consider.

Both linoleum and vinyl flooring can be environmentally friendly options when produced and used responsibly.

Linoleum is made from natural and renewable materials, such as linseed oil, pine resin, and wood flour. These materials can be sustainably sourced and are biodegradable. This means linoleum flooring can be recycled or disposed of in an environmentally responsible way. Additionally, linoleum has a long lifespan and is easy to maintain, so it doesn’t need to be replaced as frequently as other flooring materials. This reduces waste over time.

Vinyl flooring, on the other hand, is made from synthetic materials like PVC resin. While PVC is a synthetic material produced from petroleum, technological advances have made it possible to produce vinyl flooring with recycled content. You can find brands made from items like recycled water bottles. It’s a way of caring for the environment while creating better living environments.

Manufacturers continue to make advances in the way they produce vinyl. Current vinyl flooring choices are built to last a long time, which reduces the need for replacement and waste over time.

When selecting environmentally friendly linoleum or vinyl flooring, it’s important to look for products certified by independent organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which verifies that the materials used to produce the flooring are sustainably sourced.

Additionally, selecting flooring products that are low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and free of harmful chemicals can help to reduce the impact on indoor air quality and the environment.

Ultimately, linoleum and vinyl flooring can be environmentally friendly when produced and used responsibly.

Which is right for you, linoleum or vinyl?

There isn’t a “best” choice. Both linoleum and vinyl have their pros and cons. Both linoleum and vinyl offer great flooring choices for your home. It comes down to deciding which best suits your lifestyle.

We suggest you look at:

Material – Choose materials that are natural, renewable, and sustainable. Look for certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure the materials are responsibly sourced.

Production – Consider the production process of the flooring materials. Look for products that use less energy and water, and generate fewer emissions during production.

Durability – Choose durable flooring that will last a long time, reducing the need for replacement and waste over time.

Maintenance – Consider the maintenance requirements of the flooring. Choose easy-to-clean and maintain flooring, reducing the need for harsh chemicals and water-intensive cleaning methods.

Health and safety – Look for flooring that is low-VOC and free of harmful chemicals. These can impact indoor air quality and contribute to health issues over time.

End-of-life disposal – Consider the end-of-life disposal of the flooring. Look for products that can be recycled or disposed of in an environmentally responsible way.

Cost – Finally, consider the flooring cost, including installation and maintenance. While environmentally friendly flooring may be more expensive upfront, it can offer cost savings over time through reduced maintenance and longer lifespan.

Which flooring is right for you?

The post Linoleum vs. Vinyl: The Environmentally Friendly Flooring Battle appeared first on PRO! Flooring.

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

Think you understand vacuuming? Think you know how vacuuming impacts your flooring? Think again.

For most of us, we plug it in and run it over the carpet from time to time, assuming that’s all it takes.

Would it surprise you to learn there’s much more to it than that?

The importance of vacuuming

Why do you vacuum? Most would say it’s to pick up dirt and keep the floors clean. That’s only partially right.

Vacuuming is also one of the best ways to take care of the carpet and protect your overall investment. Think of it in the same manner as changing the oil in your car. You do it to provide a strong base for your overall investment. Vacuuming does a similar thing.

Regular vacuuming removes the dirt and debris that can settle into the fiber and damage the structure and integrity. If the fiber wears down before its time, it decreases longevity.

Ultimately, longevity also impacts sustainability. Imagine carpeting with a lifespan of ten years that is suddenly reduced to five because of poor care. That equates to double the amount of carpet that would become waste products. In 2019, just 5 percent of carpet was collected and recycled before it hit the landfill. That’s thousands of tons of post-consumer carpet wasting away in landfills.

Realize that not all vacuums are the same. Nor are all vacuums used correctly, which can impact the care of your carpet. Some carpets need more vacuuming than others. Daily vacuuming will keep your carpet well-maintained for carpet in high-traffic areas or busy households with pets. In lighter traffic areas or places seldom used, once or twice a week for maintenance can keep it in top condition. The correct settings on your vacuum will ensure you’re picking up what you should.

How to vacuum properly

It seems almost too simplistic – can you really vacuum incorrectly? In short, the answer is: yes.

Let’s start with the type of vacuum you’re using. First, consider your home or area you’ll be vacuuming. Consider the type of carpet and how dirty they can get in a week. Canisters are better for vacuuming up messes from hard surface areas. They’re also used in difficult places such as moving up and down stairs. For rugs and carpeting in main living spaces, uprights are a better choice. Ensure the beater bar is functioning for loosening dirt and moving it to the surface for easier pick-up.

You should also pay attention to settings. Basic vacuums may have one or two options, but more sophisticated vacuums can offer you different cleaning solutions. If you use the wrong setting repeatedly, you can overwork your carpet, which can cause your carpet to wear out sooner. Pay attention to what settings you have and what you use for each floor in each room. Consult the owner’s manual if you’re unsure. Using the bare floor setting on carpet, for instance, can put too much pressure on the fibers without pulling up embedded dirt.

Check the height settings before each vacuum. This affects how it cleans and wears down the fibers. If it’s set too low, it could damage your carpet, especially with repeated use. It can also damage the vacuum, meaning it loses cleaning functionality over time. If you aren’t sure about height, there’s an easy way to tell. Start with the highest setting, gradually lowering it until you feel it pulling as you vacuum. That’s the sign it’s picking up dirt and doing its job.

As you vacuum, remember to go slowly. This isn’t a race. Push the vacuum several feet ahead of you, then pull back slowly to pick up loosened dirt and debris. Repeat the process several times to overlap areas and ensure every part of the carpet is covered. When you’re done working in one direction, repeat at a 90-degree angle for maximum cleaning efficiency.

You should also check the beater bar regularly. Engage and disengage it depending on if you’re working with hard or carpeted surfaces. This tool works hard to push debris up to the surface of your carpet. It can also become clogged or matted with hair and other debris. Clean it regularly to ensure it’s always in good working condition.

Other things to consider when vacuuming

Think you’re a vacuum expert yet? There are a few more things to consider.

When vacuuming an area rug, take a peek underneath the rug too. While it may sit securely on the floor, never moving, always in place, fine dirt and debris can slip underneath. Depending on where it sits, occasionally pull the area rug back and vacuum underneath. You should also flip the area rug over and use the upholstery attachment to deep clean the back of the area rug.

If your vacuum uses changeable filters, be sure to buy a HEPA filter. HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. It traps as much dirt, dust, dander, pollutants, and bacteria as possible. With a HEPA filter in play, you’ll know particulates actually make it into the filter trap, and not back onto your carpet.

You should also give your vacuum a little TLC from time to time. If you don’t pay attention while vacuuming, you can slam it into walls, knock parts loose, and damage various components. Don’t try to pick up large particles, as they can rattle around inside and cause damage. Avoid water at all costs. You should also empty the canister or replace the bag frequently.

How often do you vacuum your carpet?

Carpet is an expensive investment. With care and maintenance, you can expect it to last for years, and look good in the process.

It starts with having a good vacuum and using it regularly.

If you haven’t thought much about the way you vacuum before, spend a few minutes today getting to know it a little better. It’s one of the easiest ways to make the most of your investment.

How can we help you select high-quality carpet you’ll enjoy for years to come?

The post A Deeper Understanding of How Vacuuming Impacts Your Flooring appeared first on PRO! Flooring.

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

Choosing flooring can be more complex than you first think.

Take tile, for example. If you start shopping around for tile, you’ll quickly realize there are unlimited possibilities. There are so many choices to be made, including:

• What size tile to install
• Ceramic or porcelain
• Or maybe you prefer natural stone
• Should you lay it over radiant heating
• What color should you choose
• Should you mix the tile sizes
• Should you create intricate patterns

And just when you settle in on which tile to install, another choice is thrust upon you. Now it’s time to settle on what grout to use between the tiles.

What is grout?

Grout is one of those items you see, but never spend much time thinking about. If you walk into a room and fall in love with the tile, it’s because of its size, color, and pattern of the tile.

Think of grout as a complement to the tile. It adds to the overall look without taking anything away. Unless you don’t use grout in the right way.

Imagine dingy, moldy grout that screams anything but clean. Yep, you’d notice the grout then.

Or imagine grout completely off in color, almost obnoxiously standing away from the tile design. Yep, you’d notice the grout then too.

That makes grout choice almost as crucial as tile choice – just in a different way.

Grout is the stuff between the tiles. It’s made from cement, limestone, color pigment, and sometimes sand or other fillers, depending on the composition and color of the final product. Once mixed with water, it’s applied between the tiles and left to harden and dry.

Grout plays an important role. Aesthetically, grout is added to complement the tile and provide a pleasing appearance. Functionally, grout helps seal the tile to the floor, creating a smooth surface that’s easy to clean and maintain. Overall, it adds strength to the material to give your flooring a long lifespan.

What type of grout should you use?

In most cases, you’ll rely on the installer you choose to use the best grout for the job. But it might be worth a few minutes to understand the differences to help you be more educated about what works best for you.

Grout type plays a huge role in how well your tile will function in the long term. Different grouts are created for different uses, so it’s wise to use the one best suited for your situation.

Epoxy grout is one of the most durable products available. It’s resistant to stains, water damage, and will hold up well against harsh cleaners. Epoxy grout is a great choice where water, food, and messes are in abundance. This is commonly used on kitchen countertops and backsplashes because of its endurance. It is one of the most expensive grouts. However, it doesn’t need to be followed with a sealer.

Cement-based grout comes in two types: sanded and non-sanded. These grouts are easier to use and are the top choice for DIYers.

Sanded grout has sand added to the mix. It creates a bond that makes it more resistant to cracking and shrinking. Sand also makes it more slip-resistant in areas where moisture is an issue. Sanded grout also takes longer to dry than epoxy grout, meaning you’ll have more wiggle room for adjusting the tile as it’s being laid into place.

Non-sanded grout is used on smaller grout joints because it’s more prone to crack under pressure. It’s easier to work with on vertical walls, and is stickier to allow it to be placed into position without moving out of place.

What about sealing?

People love tile because of its strength and endurance. Tile is naturally water-resistant, making it a good choice for installing in difficult areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens.

Grout adds to longevity; but can also be a place of weakness if not installed correctly. Use the wrong grout or misapply it, and you’ll be faced with ongoing problems.

Unless you use epoxy grout, you’ll have to seal it. Grout sealers are designed to add extra protection to the overall design of the tile. It typically comes in two forms: spray-on or applicator. Spray-on is easy to use – just spray it on. You may have more clean-up work after as you remove it from the tiles. Applicator sealants are applied with a roller directly over the grout. Once dried, it’s easier to remove residue from the tile. Overall, both will protect if they penetrate the grout for full coverage. Tip: If you use a sealer designed by the same company as the grout, they will work together to create the toughest surface possible. They may also offer you better protection to ensure warranties last.

What about color?

This is probably one of the most stressful parts of picking out grout. Should you match? Should you contrast? Should you compliment? It can be tricky picking when you can’t see it in place for the overall design.

Let’s start with matching. If you want your tile to be the center of attention, matching grout color may be your best action. Get the tone as close as possible to the tile you’ve chosen. This will stop the eye from moving and getting distracted by the pattern the grout creates.

Or maybe you prefer contrasting grout. This is used to highlight the layout and shape of the tile being laid into place. Think light tile and dark grout. Together they will create complimentary designs that play up the best features of both.

Neutral grout is always a safe bet. The pattern will be more noticeable than if you match the grout, but not as severe as contrasting grout. Have more questions? Let one of our flooring experts help you out.

Your next tile project

Tile is a great addition to any room in your home. With almost unlimited possibilities, you’re sure to find a design that works with your room.

Got questions? We’ve got answers. Stop by today and see our full line of tiles.

The possibilities are endless …

The post What to Know About Grout Before You Settle on a Tile appeared first on PRO! Flooring.

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