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Thanks to technology, whatever you want from your flooring is possible.

• Want an easy to clean, dependable surface area?
• Want strength and durability?
• Want waterproof flooring that won’t buckle under pressure?

Look no further than rigid core flooring.

What is rigid core flooring? Read on to find out why it just maybe what you’re looking for.

What does rigid core flooring mean?

The luxury vinyl tile (LVT) market has grown in strength and numbers these past few years. As homeowners wanted maintenance-free, durable flooring choices, they’ve responded through the products in the LVT market.

Rigid core flooring is a type of luxury vinyl flooring composed of a solid, rigid core for added durability. Rigid core flooring doesn’t require adhesives or glue. It uses a click and lock installation system instead.

Within the rigid core flooring category come two types of products: Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) and Wood Plastic Composite (WPC). While both have similar traits, their differences should be considered carefully before finalizing your decision.

What is SPC?

SPC stands for Stone Plastic Composite, or Stone Polymer Composite. It consists of a core that features limestone, polyvinyl chloride, plasticizers, and stabilizers. When compressed together, they provide a stable, water-resistant material that’s most often found in luxury vinyl planks.

What is WPC?

WPC stands for Wood Plastic Composite, or Wood Polymer Composite. It consists of a core that contains wood or wood-like materials such as wood flour, polyvinyl chloride, plasticizers, and stabilizers.

What are the core differences between SPC and WPC?

While SPC and WPC are similar, SPC consists of more calcium carbonate, otherwise known as limestone. That can provide added strength, making SPC more popular than WPC with some manufacturers.

There is not much difference in the way the two products present as final output. What makes them so popular with homeowners today is they can take on any look, yet give the advantages luxury vinyl brings to the market. Rigid core flooring can resemble wood, stone, ceramic, marble, or other unique materials that give your home pleasing aesthetics. They can be crafted into many sizes and shapes, which allows you to let your personality shine through.

Because SPC uses limestone, it tends to be a bit thinner than WPC. Both are created with multilayer construction, which includes.

Underlayment or base layer – the base layer of many rigid core flooring products is designed to make installation easier and more affordable. Higher quality products will also come with vapor and sound barriers to give you more protection.

Rigid core – this is where the SPC or WPC layer resides to provide the substance of the rigid core. It’s super dense, water-resistant, and offers support to ensure the final planks or tiles hold their shape.

Vinyl layer – this is the layer that determines the physical appearance of the final product. Vinyl prints are designed to look like the most popular flooring products on the market today, including hardwood, stone, and tile.

Wear layer – this protects the vinyl layer from being damaged. It comes with varying thickness layers, so it’s wise to pay attention to how much traffic your flooring can sustain without noticeable damage.

UV coating – some surface areas provide protective coatings to help fight everyday damage such as discoloration.

The SPC core layer consists of limestone, which adds strength to the product. If you have heavy furniture, this added strength can prevent scratches and dents as you use it every day.

An important thing to note is that many rigid core flooring products are touted as waterproof. Keep in mind that waterproof is relative based on the situation. Will a rigid core floor react to a spill? Rigid core flooring’s surface layer can provide complete protection from modern day bathroom and kitchen messes. Will rigid core flooring stand up in a massive flood where the water saturates for hours? That type of damage will impact most building materials.

As long as you have reasonable expectations of what your flooring will provide, rigid core flooring can be a welcome addition to just about any room in your home.

Why people love rigid core flooring

Although we’ve alluded to it throughout this article, there are a number of reasons homeowners turn to rigid core flooring when they design or remodel their homes.

Looks and versatility top the list. What holds people back from hardwood or even stone tile is the upkeep. They look great inside your home … until they don’t. Once they are scratched, cracked, or damaged, it can be a long process to fix the problem. It might even require fully replacing the floor.

Rigid core flooring uses click and lock technology, which gives you flexibility throughout the design and upkeep process. You don’t even have to worry about what you install this product over. It can be installed over just about any subfloor, including existing vinyl, hardwood, laminate, tile, concrete, or plywood. You won’t need special equipment to install it. It’s a perfect choice if you’re considering a do-it-yourself project. Because the underlayment is already attached, it’s an easy process where you click the planks or tiles into place, and you can start using your new floors immediately.

And the looks are short of spectacular. In some cases, it even requires experts to take a second look. Because of how the print layer is created, you may find a wider array of colors and patterns, making it easier than ever to match your decor.

What’s more, rigid core flooring is one of the most affordable products on the market today. It won’t require a new subfloor. It doesn’t take adhesive, glue, or grout. With its click and lock technology, it can be in place in a shorter timeframe. It can even be a do-it-yourself project.

Is rigid core flooring right for you?

Everyone has different wants and needs when it comes to selecting new flooring. If you’re looking for:

• A water-resistant product
• A product to sit over problematic subflooring
• An affordable floor that won’t sacrifice good looks
• A product you can install yourself

Rigid core flooring may be the flooring for you.

What questions can we answer for you about rigid core flooring?

The post Rigid Core Flooring May Be Just What You’re Looking For first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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

When you think about selling your home, you look at every room in a different light. What can you do to make it show better? What can you add to increase your home value? Should new flooring be at the top of your list?

While it’s easy to pack up some of your personal items in boxes, or paint the walls to freshen the space up, installing new flooring can be an expensive maintenance item, especially as you’re planning a move. Is it worth it? Is it something you should consider?

According to one survey by the National Association of Realtors, new flooring can make a difference in what a buyer is willing to pay. But the results may surprise you. If a buyer is under the age of 54, one in four said hardwood floors are very important. But as people age, those statistics change. Older homeowners like carpet for warmth and comfort.

What’s most important? Cleanliness. People don’t want to walk in and see a maintenance item from the moment they enter. Dents, scuff marks, wear marks – they are all indicators of flooring that needs to be replaced.

Know your home. Know your area. What do people expect from a neighborhood like yours? Then adjust accordingly.

Hardwood – it’s the easiest path to increasing home value

It’s impossible to ignore that people love hardwood floors. In a survey conducted by the National Wood Flooring Association, just over half of respondents stated they currently have hardwood inside their homes. When asked what kind of flooring they would have in their dream home, two-thirds said they would have wood.

Wood has been a staple in residential homes for centuries. Raw lumber, geometric patterns, painted wood – we’ve come full circle in the flooring we install inside our home.

Today it’s all about natural finishes and smooth designs. Minimalist may be what we ask for, but the finished results can be dramatic and aesthetically pleasing. And more than half of those surveyed are willing to pay for it – $2,080 extra for homes that include hardwood flooring.

As a homeowner, hardwood can be a good investment no matter when you plan to sell. Hardwood is more durable than flooring like carpet because you can refinish it when it starts to wear. Sand it down, fix any problem areas, and refinish it in a fresh new color. Most hardwood floors can be refinished multiple times. It can last for decades when well cared for.

Of course, keep in mind that staying simple is always better if you want an easy sell. When you shop for hardwood, you’ll find an array of different cuts, wood varieties, thicknesses, and finishes. Some will be more appealing to the masses than others.

Hardwood doesn’t quite fit in with your neighborhood or budget … but there are options

Not every home is meant for hardwood. But that doesn’t mean you can’t install a floor that provides what people love about hardwood, and combine it with other advantages.

How about water-resistant flooring? If you have a busy household and are worried about the impact on traditional hardwood floors, take a look at today’s luxury vinyl planks. They look like hardwood, create a surface area that looks like hardwood, yet offer benefits hardwood can’t.

What’s more, luxury vinyl comes in click-and-lock format, which makes it easy to install over many existing floors. Concrete, vinyl, linoleum, even tile can be left in place while moving your new flooring into the space. That can be a big benefit if you’re trying to check off items on your project list, and quickly get your house on the market.

Not sold on vinyl? How about tile? You’ll be impressed with the detail tile can bring to your home. Sold in plank format, they mimic hardwood so closely, you won’t be able to tell unless you get down closer to the floor. Because it’s water-resistant, it makes a great addition to moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Choose the right floors for the situation

While homeowners may love hardwood, the simple truth is hardwood doesn’t make sense in every room in your home. Install it in the bathroom and you’ll quickly regret your decision.

Entryways, kitchens, and basements need a flooring material that makes sense based on the situation.

Entryways deal with moisture, dirt, and debris. Install the wrong flooring and you’ll find yourself worrying every time the door enters.

Kitchens can also be a problem, especially if your family is prone to creating messes. Hardwood doesn’t do well with constant spills and messes. It can stain, fade, warp, and lose its “new” feel quickly in this circumstance.

Basements bring on their own problems. Sub-level moisture problems can cause wood to warp. And if movement is prevalent, warping and buckling may also be a problem.

Select the type of flooring that makes sense for the room in question. Then work to ensure that each room in your home blends together.

Flow is important

If you do choose to replace flooring to increase your home value, pay particular attention to the flow you create throughout the house. See your home through the eyes of a potential buyer. What would they want?

Buyers don’t like the patchwork approach to updating. Instead, they want a visibly clean surface as they move from room to room.

That’s where our associates can help. We can help select suitable floors for a smooth transition from room to room. It might mean keeping existing hardwood in place, installing new, and finishing it together for a color that matches well.

Be especially mindful in open living spaces. You don’t want to walk into an entryway and see a mishmash of textures and colors as far as the eye can see.

Are you moving soon?

Congratulations. Adding new flooring is a great way to increase your home’s value. Upgrading to present a cohesive environment to prospective buyers can give you what you need as you move forward to a new home.

What questions do you have about upgrading your flooring?

The post Will Upgrading Your Flooring Increase Your Home Value? first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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

With your beautiful new carpet installation, you may be wondering will carpet seams go away.  Unfortunately, you can’t eliminate seams altogether, but The Carpet Guys have good news on how to minimize them. Read on to find out how.

Why are Seams Noticeable?

When a carpet is first installed by a professional installation team like The Carpet Guys, it is the most taught it will be.  Installers will stretch the carpet to help eliminate future wrinkling. Also, the high pile carpet still has tightly twisted fibers. This is when carpet seams are the most noticeable. Fortunately, in small rooms, seams may not be necessary.  Carpet rolls come in rolls of 12 or 15 feet.  So, a room that is 11 feet 6 inches or smaller won’t need a seam. Anything larger than that in length and width of the room will need seams. There are ways to help those seams go away.

Seam Placement

The first way a good flooring installer will take care of the seam in your carpet is to put it in a low-traffic area or under furniture that will not be moved.  Often, they will place a seam in the back of the room for this purpose. Seams in doorways or closets can be handled by using transition pieces so you can’t see the seam. They will also use strong seam tape and a good iron to seal the pieces together with heat.

Style of Carpet

The style of carpet being installed will also have an effect.  Berber and patterned carpets are the hardest to seam.  Berber’s loops and low pile make it very difficult to hide.  With proper installation, patterned carpet can be made to line up at seam placement. The best flooring to choose to hide a seam is a shag or twist style plush.

Proper Care and Maintenance for Seams

When a good installer has completed the job, they will vacuum the carpet. This is not only to clean their area but to also help tightly twisted fibers “sprout” which will hide the carpet seam.  With each weekly vacuum, the fibers will open and cover the seam with a fuller plushness. As the flooring endures wear and tear, it may be necessary to have the carpet re-stretched to eliminate peaking.  This happens as the 2 pieces stretch and start to overlap. Moisture can also cause peaking.  Make sure to maintain proper humidity levels in your home.  If your carpet needs re-stretching, The Carpet Guys have a lifetime installation warranty.  We can make sure your flooring stays beautiful for years to come.

If you’re looking for the proper seam repair, call The Carpet Guys at 855-4-MY-GUYS (855-469-4897) or go to our scheduling page and set up a Free In-Home Estimate. We will make sure that seams are placed in the proper location and kept from peaking!

The post Will Carpet Seams Go Away? appeared first on The Carpet Guys.

Preparing your room before fitting a wooden floor is an essential part of the installation process.  You will need to make sure that the room is dry, free of any other trades and that the subfloor is properly prepared.  If you do not follow these steps then your wooden flooring may become damaged and will need replacing or repairing. Read More

When most people remodel their homes, flooring is the base of new design. Depending on where you’re installing it, new flooring tops your list because it adds aesthetics to your space, and it’s the one thing you hope not to be replacing shortly after. Done right, flooring can last for a decade or more, depending on what material you select.

Still, there’s a lot to learn about any flooring choice you may be deciding on. Vinyl planks – what is your instant thought? Before we get into the details of what makes vinyl planks a good choice, it’s a good idea to dive deeper into what vinyl planks are.

Vinyl as flooring

Like many products, vinyl didn’t come around until the industrial age. Vinyl was discovered in the 1800s, but it wasn’t until 1933 that vinyl flooring made its first debut. The concept was shelved until after the war, but once progress moved us forward into the 1950s and 60s, vinyl became a popular choice in a lot of settings.

Vinyl flooring was a popular choice because of its affordability and durability. The more popular it became, the more manufacturers increased styling and production, taking vinyl into all kinds of directions.

Vinyl planks debuted in the 1970s bringing wood grain and different colors to homeowners and businesses alike. It was the first way homeowners had to bring wood-look flooring into places not conducive to traditional wood. Basements, bathrooms, and kitchens have too many moisture and below-grade problems for traditional hardwood to be a good choice. Vinyl planks changed that, and gave homeowners a chance to have the flooring they loved anywhere in the home.

As technology moved forward, and manufacturers got better at what they did, a new level of vinyl planks entered the market in the 1980s. Over time, a new level of vinyl planks known as luxury vinyl planks, or LVP, was born.

LVP utilizes the floating plank technology found in laminate flooring for ease of installation. They offer a wood-plastic composite (WPC) or stone plastic composite (SPC) core for strength and durability. Depending on the technology used, you’ll find today’s LVP is either water-resistant or waterproof, a characteristic more homeowners are falling in love with.

While hardwood can’t hold up in high-moisture spaces like bathrooms or laundry rooms, or stand the test of time in below-grade living spaces like a basement, you won’t have that problem with luxury vinyl planks. That makes LVP a great choice in modern homes where kids, pets, and busy families are always making messes.

Major Differences between standard vinyl and luxury vinyl planks

Standard vinyl is either sold in sheets or tiles, and is a flexible product that consists of a thin backing layer of felt or fiberglass, with a solid vinyl bonded to the front. This vinyl layer has a printed design and a protective coating to keep it functional and aesthetically pleasing. Most standard vinyl planks have a wear layer of 10 to 15 mil, which equates to 10/1000 to 15/1000 of an inch.

Luxury vinyl planks are a different product, matching the same characteristics as PVC. The wear layer ranges from 2 to 8 mm in thickness, or 8/100 to 3/10 on an inch thick. This thickness gives it a rigid nature which adds to its strength and durability.

It’s also created with up to eight layers of material, which makes the wear layer thicker and able to withstand more pressure. That makes this new level of vinyl plank flooring last as long as 25 years with care and maintenance.

https://pro-flooring.com/how-long-does-vinyl-plank-flooring-last/

Shhh. It’s a secret. 5 reasons we love luxury vinyl planks

If you do any Googling at all, you may already have an interest in luxury vinyl planks. We’ve talked about the benefits right here in this article.

Homeowners are falling in love with LVP for many reasons, but the top tend to be:

• It’s waterproof
• It has a realistic look that is even fooling professionals
• It’s durable
• It’s economical
• It’s easy to maintain

We would highly recommend luxury vinyl planks for even one of the reasons above. Today’s product is truly a great flooring choice.

But if you’re still on the fence, we have five reasons that aren’t quite as well known. Reasons we feel should be talked about more as you’re settling in on making luxury vinyl planks your flooring of choice. Here are a few other things to keep in mind if you’re considering luxury vinyl planks.

https://pro-flooring.com/7-questions-to-ask-before-buying-lvp-for-your-home/

1. LVP comes in different textures

Texture is what makes LVP even more realistic. But you may not realize there are different textures if you look at only one product, or study the internet looking at options.

LVP manufacturers work hard to create realistic textures. You’ll find products have varying degrees of grain-like texture to add to the realness. These uneven marks can make it slightly more difficult to clean, but can also disguise dirt better.

2. LVP may require new baseboards too

What do you currently have on your floors? Carpet? Vinyl? Because LVP is a thicker, more rigid product, it often needs new baseboards during installation. That can add into the cost and time it takes for installation. But that will only make your room shine even more!

3. LVP color is key to maintenance

Most designers tell you to pick the color of your new flooring based on personality and taste. We think you should also base it on lifestyle. Have you ever paid attention to the dirt on your floor? Does your family have light hair or dark? How about your pets? What activities do you participate in regularly? What ends up on the floor more often than not? Dark spills on light floors will show. Light spills on dark floors will show. If you want dirt to blend in, choose the flooring that best suits your family’s needs.

4. LVP comes in different plank patterns

A plank is not just a plank. Manufacturers realize that if every plank were the same, it would create uniformity throughout your room. They mirror hardwood and create different patterns when printing the final product. How many patterns are different based on the manufacturer. Higher numbers are better. This gives you an opportunity to mix and match the pattern throughout your floor without being repetitive enough to notice it.

5. LVP is best left to the professionals

LVP is often touted as a flooring easy enough for a DIYer to install. And while that’s true, to ensure it’s installed correctly the first time, we highly recommend having a professional install it. They do it for a living, and know all the little secrets that go along with installation.

If you want a flooring that will last and last, hiring it done is your best bet.

Are luxury vinyl planks the right flooring choice for you?

The post 5 Secrets Nobody Is Talking About With Vinyl Planks first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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

After a Carpet Guys installation, it’s important to stay on top of the best carpet cleaning.  New carpet has warranties provided by the mill that produced your flooring and to maintain that warranty, you must show proof of regular cleaning by a professional.  The Carpet Guys will share some great recommendations for in-home carpet cleaning.

Weekly Maintenance

As soon as our installers finish your installation, they vacuum the carpet. This is not just to leave your home clean and pick up stray, cut fibers.  We also vacuum to pull the fibers to attention and help them sprout. We recommend vacuuming a few times that first week after installation to open the fibers for a softer, cleaner-looking flooring. Then, make sure to clean up any spills immediately and vacuum once a week. This will keep your carpet looking new longer.

Professional Carpet Cleaning

The manufacturer that made your carpet also provides a warranty for the flooring they produce.  Should anything go wrong with your carpet, they may replace it. But only if you have maintained the proper care according to their website or The Carpet and Rug Institution.  For more information on the American-made carpet manufacturers that The Carpet Guys work with and their warranty requirements, check out this blog “Did You Know Flooring Comes with a Warranty?”

Carpet Cleaning Southeast Michigan

If you’re looking for carpet cleaning in Troy or carpet cleaning in Madison Heights, The Carpet Guys recommend using Chet’s Cleaning. When the commercial says, “four out of five dentists use Crest,” this flooring installation company uses Chet’s Cleaning as our own in-house flooring.  They are professional and able to get stains out of our flooring. We have them come to the office every year or 18 months to maintain our own flooring warranties. Come visit our showroom at 977 E. 14 Mile Road in Troy and see how clean our floors are!

Between The Carpet Guys installation guarantee, our professional installers, and Chet’s Cleaning service, your flooring will look amazing for many years! Please call us at 855-4-MY-GUYS (855-469-4897) or go to our website to schedule your FREE in-home estimate and we can send one of our complimentary Design Consultants to your home.  Or come to our showroom and see all the new things happening at The Carpet Guys.

The post Best Carpet Cleaning appeared first on The Carpet Guys.

Trying to create a comfortable living space? Looking for materials and furnishing that allow you to snuggle down and relax? New carpet may be the perfect addition to your home.

If you’re hesitant on whether new carpet is right for you, or you’re worried if you’ll enjoy it for years to come, read on. Carpet provides a host of reasons why it’s still one of the best flooring materials on the market. Whether creating a place to sit, work, or play, carpet may be the perfect choice.

4 questions you might be asking about new carpet

If you’re thinking about installing new carpet in your home, you might have a few questions on the tip of your mind. While carpet often gets a bad wrap, it’s still a popular choice for homes all across the Front Range. We often have people ask:

Is carpet good for your health?

People often assume that carpet fibers hold in the bad stuff you don’t want in your home. Yet research shows that a well-maintained carpet can actually reduce airborne allergens, which can help create healthier indoor air quality. Carpet traps dust, dirt, allergens, and other pollutants in the fibers. By cleaning regularly, you can pull those contaminants out and away from your living space. Vacuum regularly, and schedule professional carpet cleanings according to your carpet’s manufacturer’s guidelines. This will also help keep your carpet in good condition and under warranty too.

Is carpet still popular?

Worried your house won’t sell if you decide to put it on the market in the future? Pay attention to where you install carpet. Colorado homeowners still love a soft, warm carpet in places like the bedroom, home office, or den. Carpet often makes a good addition to basement living space. It can also be a good addition to any place you need noise reduction, such as a media room.

Is carpet easy to clean?

Today’s carpets are the latest in technology, and now provide years of wear, while looking good in the process. You’ll find carpet that resists stains, doesn’t mat, and stands up to everything your kids, pets, and family can dish out. Check to see what warranty is in place; many have stain-resistant and fiber protection. Pay attention to how often you’ll have to professionally clean your new carpet to ensure the warranty stays in effect.

Is carpet good for pets?

Carpet is one of the best flooring choices for homes with pets. Unlike hardwood and vinyl, you won’t have to worry about claws scratching or ripping the material. It provides traction as they walk, run, and play. And as they age, it provides a welcome cushion when they lay down to sleep. Select a color that hides the potential dirt they might track in, and clear it regularly.

4 things to consider before purchasing new carpet

When selecting new carpet, you’ll have to stretch beyond picking out the right style and color. We often tell our customers to consider the following before making a final selection:

Pay attention to the texture

People often select carpet with only the style and color in mind. It also pays to consider texture to ensure it stands up to all your family can dish out. Will you be installing new carpet in a bedroom with little foot traffic? Or is it going in a hallway where you have track patterns from people moving around your home? Different textures can stand up to different types of abuse. We can help you find the right texture to suit your needs.

Carpet quality matters

Before making a final selection, it benefits you to pay attention to the manufacturer. Will you be investing in the highest quality carpet you can afford? Keep in mind that it’s not just the carpet that matters; padding and underlayment are equally important. Padding offers support for the fibers and carpet backing. A low quality pad won’t provide the proper support. If you’re debating where to cut corners, we often suggest to take a step down in carpet cost and move to a higher quality pad to ensure your carpet maintains a long wear life.

Where you purchase carpet matters

We all know you can shop and find deals online. Even coupon shopping to get multiple rooms of carpet for one low fee may sound good in the beginning, but most customers rarely feel like they got a good deal by the end of the transaction. By working with a reputable company, you’ll get an honest price, and will never feel cheated or misled at any stage of the process. They will be open about the costs from beginning to end.

Look for reviews

We often suggest doing your research before making any decision. We understand you’re a savvy shopper who understands this is an expensive purchase. Look up the manufacturers you’re debating on. Look at reviews for our flooring store. We want to ensure you’ll be happy with your product as well as doing business with us.

4 myths you might believe that are holding you back from installing new carpet

You might have gathered we’re still big fans of carpet. But in case you still have your doubts, we thought we’d cover a few of the most common myths homeowners believe about carpet too.

Carpet wears out quickly 

Define quickly. If you care for your carpet, it can easily look good for a decade or more. Depending on the room it’s installed in, it can look good for even longer. Just be aware it will take more care than other flooring choices. Regular vacuuming and cleaning are a part of the process.

Carpet exacerbates allergies and asthma

Scientific studies have proven that carpet fibers can actually pull dirt and allergens away from the airflow, and help people with respiratory issues breathe a little easier. Just be prepared to vacuum regularly, and be sure to invest in a high-quality vacuum with a HEPA filter for maximum cleaning.

Carpet isn’t green and can emit chemicals

There are many natural carpet options that have zero or low VOCs. You can find many selections that are Green Label Plus certified. Because carpet has been around for centuries, it can be one of the most natural materials you bring into your home.

Carpet is bad for the environment

Carpet often uses sustainable materials, and can be recycled. Pay attention to the materials used in production – some can even be recycled from other products, and be one of the greenest flooring materials you bring into your home.

Is new carpet the right flooring for you?

The post 4 Things To Think About Before Investing In New Carpet first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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

Is your bathroom or kitchen a science experiment? When you take a bath or shower can you see blooms of orange around your shower pan or constellations of dark, fuzzy spots on the ceiling? Has your kitchen or another room in your home started to smell musty?

Visible signs and tangible smells are good indicators that you have a mold or mildew issue in your home.

What’s the difference between mold and mildew?

The terms “mold” and “mildew” are often linked together much like “love” and “marriage” (and “horse” and “carriage”). But, which one is which?

According to the Environmental Protection Association (EPA),

“Mildew refers to certain kinds of mold or fungus.  The term mildew is often used generically to refer to mold growth, usually with a flat growth habit.

Molds include all species of microscopic fungi that grow in the form of multicellular filaments, called hyphae.  Molds can thrive on any organic matter, including clothing, leather, paper, and the ceilings, walls and floors of homes with moisture management problems. Mildew often lives on shower walls, windowsills, and other places where moisture levels are high. There are many species of molds. In unaired places, such as basements, they can produce a strong musty odor.”

No matter what kind of mold or mildew you have, the results can be unsightly. Mold and mildew can also cause health problems in at-risk individuals such as people with asthma.

Disappointed with at-home grout cleaning?

So, yes, the dirty little secret is out. Many of us have showers that don’t get properly ventilated and kitchen backsplashes that need lots of help.

What to do? It’s hard to invite someone into your home to witness that mess, right?

You may have tried to fix it yourself. Who hasn’t scoured the internet for ways to eliminate mold from drywall, tile or grout? You may have tried bleach to eliminate mold. Perhaps you’ve mixed vinegar and soda or employed borax with great hope? The problem is, scrubbing your shower with an old toothbrush can be gross. It also doesn’t work all that well or the results don’t last.   

It can be difficult to ask for help. Rest-assured that we’ve seen it all at A Personal Touch. We can clean your tile and grout in Denver with our proven process for a great price.

1. We’ll apply commercial-grade grout and tile cleaner to your bathroom or kitchen tile areas.
2. Our trained technicians will carefully scrub your tile and grout free of soap scum, water stains, mold and mildew.
3. We’ll apply a top-notch sealant that will keep your grout from accumulating grime in the future. Professionally sealing your tile will make your tile easier to maintain.

Want to beautify and safeguard your home?

The best way to keep your bathrooms and kitchen areas looking and smelling their best is with regular tile maintenance. A Personal Touch can help remove set-in stains, persistent odors, grime, scum and mildew. We also restore marble and granite countertops. We recommend professional tile and grout cleaning once or twice per year depending on where your tile is located.

Book a consultation with A Personal Touch today at 720-344-2870. We are happy to discuss your questions about tile or grout cleaning. Rather reach out online? Fill out our contact form for a free quote today.

Source

Basic Facts about Mold and Dampness | CDC

The post Banish mold and mildew with regular tile and grout cleaning appeared first on A Personal Touch.

Berber carpet is one of those terms that may be a part of your vocabulary, yet you really aren’t sure what it means. Berber carpet is synonymous with a popular flooring choice for both residential and commercial because of its durability and classic good looks.

Its history dates back to ancient times. Berber carpet comes from northwestern Africa, from people known as the Berber tribe. Our Berber carpets of today didn’t actually start out as flooring. Instead, the Berber tribe made cloaks of wool with the same characteristics as today’s carpets, with the recognized loops in tight formation.

And that’s where Berber carpet stands today. Berber carpet is also known as loop style carpeting because of the way the fibers are woven together with short, thick loops in a tight design.

Popular in the 80s and 90s, it was typically used in low maintenance, high traffic areas because it held up well.

How today’s Berber carpet differs from past materials 

The first Berber carpet originally came from Africa. It was made from wool and had flecks of color that resembled dirt. Because this came from a natural resource, color variances were accepted as a part of the product.

That look was often mimicked as it transferred to modern manufacturing.

The first machine woven Berber carpet was created from olefin. Olefin is a petroleum by-product that is difficult to keep clean because of the oils within the fibers. Those oils actually pulled dirt down and trapped it into the fibers.

Eventually, the most durable Berber carpet was made from nylon. It’s much easier to clean, and stands up in high traffic situations. While the original Berber designs came in varying shades of cream and beige, you’ll find a wide array of colors and designs with modern Berber. Styles vary greatly to match any preference in home decor.

Why you should consider Berber carpet for your next remodel 

Today’s modern Berber carpet styles provide a host of color backgrounds with darker flecks weaved in. This gives you an advantage of having carpet that stands the test of time, and hides dirt well.

Whether you grew up with Berber carpet, or are looking for a great addition to your high traffic areas, Berber carpet is a welcome addition to any home for several reasons:

Durability – Berber carpet is often moved to the front of the wish list when durability tops the list of expectations. The loop piles are woven closely together, making it difficult to snap or pull with most activities. It continues to look good no matter what’s involved in your daily routine. That’s what gives Berber carpet an advantage in family rooms, basements, and even home offices. You won’t have to worry about it leaving marks after you walk out.

Stain-resistance – From coffee and tea, to wine and juice, accidents happen, especially in busy areas. Berber carpet’s tight weave leaves the spill on the surface longer, giving you a chance to quickly clean it and have it disappear for good. It also leaves dirt sitting on top of the surface rather than falling down into the fibers, making vacuuming a snap. It is important to note that as with any carpet, you get what you pay for. Higher quality products will be better at resisting stains and looking great over time.

Cost – You’ll find Berber carpet made from a variety of fibers, including olefin, polyester, nylon, and wool. Wool continues to be one of the more expensive options because of its natural qualities. Move into other fibers, and Berber carpets become even more economical. In addition to the carpet itself, you’ll also have to rely on professional installers to ensure the carpet is installed correctly. Yet for longevity, Berber is often one of the better carpet choices for giving you years of enjoyment.

Things to be aware of before installing Berber carpet

There is never a product that is all things to all people. Berber carpet has a few drawbacks that may hold some people back from installing it into their homes.

Rough texture – If you’re dreaming of a soft carpet to wiggle your toes into, Berber carpet isn’t it. Berber carpet is built for durability, and its tight weave provides a more solid texture. Depending on the fibers, it can even feel a bit rough underneath your feet. If you want the softest feel, check out Berber carpets made from wool or wool blends, or even nylon. Manufacturers constantly work to provide the most durable product with the most requested features, and you’ll find one that suits your needs.

Cleaning issues – Vacuuming can leave your carpets looking their best. But with Berber carpet, you do have to be careful in the tools you use to clean it. Some vacuums come with powerful beater bars that may pull or snag the loop material. If this happens, you’ll have snags and pulls in the fibers that can unravel and start to show wear. Check with the vacuum owners manual for recommendations. It may benefit you to turn the beater bar off while vacuuming your Berber carpet.

Pets – In the same way the beater bar can snag the fibers, pets’ nails can be equally harsh on the tightly woven material. Cats especially can be hard on Berber if they begin using it as a scratching pad, pulling at the loops every time they stretch.

Is Berber carpet the right choice for you?

Berber carpet is a personal choice. It’s all about meeting your needs.

If you prefer a tight weave that handles well under high traffic situations, Berber carpet may be the right choice for you.

The easiest way to finalize your decision is to come in and look at your options. With thousands of options in styles, colors, patterns, fibers, and textures, we’ll help you find what you’re looking for. Take a few samples home, and fall in love with what’s best for you.

Top brands offer Berber carpet that will look great in whatever room you’re remodeling.

You’ll love what Berber carpet does for your home.

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When you’re remodeling your home for your family, you have to think about more than just looks. You want flooring that is also functional, durable, and designed with your family’s needs in mind. Here are some flooring options that are ideal for families with kids:

You can’t go wrong with hardwood. Hardwood flooring is timeless and classic, and for good reason. This flooring option is durable enough to withstand frequent traffic. It’s also a breeze to clean. Hardwood does not trap in dirt, debris, and allergens, which makes it easier for you to keep your home clean and comfortable. When shopping from the wide variety of hardwood flooring on the market, consider oak. Oak is hard, durable, and has a strong grain that can hide dents and scratches with ease. If you want an even harder hardwood with more lively grain, Australian cypress and Brazilian cherry are great picks too.

Bamboo flooring is commonly grouped with hardwood. Even though they have their similarities, they also have differences. Bamboo flooring is one of the most durable and hardest flooring options on the market. To add, it’s stain-resistant. This makes it a great pick for young children who are prone to spills. Bamboo flooring is also a great pick because it’s an environmentally friendly option.

Are you on a budget? Pick laminate flooring for your home. Laminate flooring mimics the look of hardwood but costs less money. Laminate is made from compressed pieces of veneer, which have the image of a wood species pressed on top. Even though laminate looks like wood, it doesn’t need to be maintained the same way. You can easily vacuum or mop your floors to keep them clean and pristine, no waxing necessary.

Cork flooring is an alternative flooring choice that is excellent for homes with children. Cork is soft beneath your feet, similar to carpet. This can help your kids feel comfortable when playing on the floor. Cork is also antimicrobial, which means it repels mold growth. When sealed correctly, cork flooring is almost impossible to stain. Cork is even antistatic, so it repels dust and dirt. If your children have allergies, consider cork flooring.

If you’ve been to a daycare, you’re probably familiar with rubber flooring. If you’re building a playroom in your home, think about adding rubber flooring to the space. Rubber is an excellent option because it’s strong and can last for decades. Rubber also offers padding for children, just in case they take a fall. Rubber is even noise-resistant by up to 18 decibels. If you’re concerned about keeping things clean, just use warm water and a mop to maintain the cleanliness of rubber flooring.

To shop for flooring for your family, visit Flooring.org. We offer a wide variety of top-quality options that can meet the needs of your children. To speak to someone directly, please give us a call at 800-689-9006!

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