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Hardwood flooring is available in both a plank style or parquet block. The main difference is the size of the planks or blocks. Hardwood planks are long and thin planks of flooring, whereas parquet blocks are much smaller and uniform in size.  If you are trying to decide between the two, have a look at our information below.  Hopefully this will help you to make the right decision. Read More

Homeowners are spending more time at home than ever before. And when you spend hours shuffling from room to room, you start to notice the little details you’re missing.

Maybe it’s time to add new decor, something that makes your rooms feel homier.

Or maybe it’s time to get rid of the synthetic look, and select something more natural instead. Natural area rugs are growing in popularity for a good reason. It’s a great way to bring style and sustainability back into your modern home.

Both sisal and jute are eco friendly, sustainable, and biodegradable. We’ve seen them added into homes and bring on a country, minimalist, or even modern look, one that has homeowners raving about it for years.

There’s just something about bringing natural fibers into your home. And both sisal and jute rugs can do the job quite nicely.

Yet before adding a sisal or jute rug into your home, it’s important to understand the differences. They may have a similar appearance, but they are distinctly different in durability, softness, and texture.

What is sisal?

Have you ever toured the tequila farms in Mexico? Sisal is created from the agave leaves used in tequila production. The leaves are spun into a yarn-like material, and then weaved into fibers, rope, and twine. If you have a natural scratching post for your cat, in many cases, it’s made from sisal.

Sisal isn’t soft, but has a more coarse texture. It’s one of the strongest fibers you’ll find in nature, which is why they’re perfect for the busiest place in your home. Use sisal in entryways, hallways, and stair steps, and you’ll have a long-lasting effect.

Sisal fibers are woven together, bound by a cotton canvas that helps continue sustainability. You’ll usually find it sticking close to nature, with colors ranging from cream, wheat, beige, and greys. Sisal does hold pigment better than jute, so that the occasional color may be mixed in.

Because of the rough texture, they are not well-suited for areas where you spend a lot of time. If young kids play or crawl around on sisal, it can be rough on hands and knees.

They also tend to absorb moisture, so you should avoid areas where they will be in constant contact with moisture.

And you should never place them directly on hardwood, or any other surface that is easily scratched. Even with an underlay, sisal is rough enough that it will eventually wear through the pad, and possibly damage the floor as you walk on it.

Yet in the right place, they are simply stunning. Every single sisal rug is unique in its own way. You’ll find traditional textures and patterns such as herringbone, basketweave, and zigzag patterns. Select the right color for your home based on your needs. Lighter colors will show dirt easier. A mix of dark and light color patterns will wear better over time.

What is jute?

Like sisal, jute is made of natural fibers derived from Jute plants. Jute is grown mainly in Bangladesh and India from a tall, spindly plant that is also used to produce burlap. It comes with a natural light brown hue that can be dyed. But because of the color and texture, the hues will take on a more muted, earthy tone.

If you’re debating between sisal and jute for living spaces, you might move towards jute because it’s softer to the touch. Because jute comes from a plant stalk rather than leaves, it’s more flexible, softer, and has a cozier feel. You can walk barefoot across it and not feel a thing. That makes it a better choice in a busy household, for adults, kids, and your furry friends.

Because of both its texture and feel, it works well in all kinds of living spaces, including bedrooms, dining rooms, and family rooms. You won’t have to worry about jute scratching hardwood floors. And because of the natural earth tone, it can be a beautiful contrast against darker hardwood.

What we love the most about jute is it’s imperfect look. You’ll never find two rugs that look exactly the same, and it will give you a down to earth feel. Whether you create a rustic cabin in the woods, or prefer a beach house vibe, a jute rug may just be the perfect choice.

Is sisal or jute the right choice for your home?

Sisal and jute are both created from different parts of the plant. They are also harvested differently, resulting in different degrees of softness.

Sisal is derived from a stiff plant, its fibers are going to be significantly rougher and more durable than its counterpart, jute.

If you’re looking for softness, jute will meet your expectations. That’s why you’ll find it used quite commonly in decor materials for your home. It has a way of creating a cozy feel that homeowners love. Plus it has a soft texture, and equally creates a warm and comfy look and feel.

If you want rugged beauty in your living space, you’ll never go wrong with sisal.

If you prefer coziness and ease when you walk upon it, look more towards jute.

Of course, you can use both in different areas of your home, and love the results from both. Both are a great way to bring natural good looks to any room in your home.

It’s impossible to say which material is best. Because they are distinctly different, and it’s up to your preferences and needs that can push you towards one or the other.

Sisal rugs are durable and stiff, the perfect choice for high traffic spaces. If you want to install them onto stair steps, it can be the perfect way to make your home a little safer.

Jute rugs add a certain finesse to any living space. We love how the soft look yet bold designs give a sense of richness and depth wherever it’s laid into place.

Plus, both offer you a way to remove synthetics from your home once and for all. Both are eco-friendly, safe, healthy options you can use on your quest for greening up your home.

What’s the right choice for you: sisal or jute?

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

Call the Carpet Guy’s today for $375 off* vinyl flooring- 30 square yards or more!

The Benefits of Vinyl Flooring

Why vinyl you ask? It is an exceptionally durable option that stands up well to heavy foot traffic. It also does not require immediate attention to spills or wet foot traffic as it is waterproof! There is also a reduction of noise with vinyl. Which is important when it comes to kids and pet traffic. Vinyl is comfortable under your feet and easy to maintain!

Scratch resistant! We all love those words! Our homes are our sanctuaries and we want to be able to live in them without worry! Having the benefit of vinyl being scratch resistant is an amazing benefit. For instance, vinyl flooring is ideal for any basement, kitchen, bathroom, or pet room! In conclusion, it is a great option for pets who still are prone to have accidents.  

Why do people choose The Carpet Guy’s? The Carpet Guys is a Better Business Bureau accredited company with an A+ rating. Similarly, we are the only flooring company in southeast Michigan that holds the distinction of sitting on the Angie’s List Honor Roll.

We take pride in being there for all your flooring needs. Our company has maintains a exceptional reputation in Metro-Detroit as your leader in flooring and carpet installation since 2010! 

Contact The Carpet Guy’s today and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have about our flooring! Similiarly, you can use this link to schedule a FREE in-home vinyl estimate! Let us help you find the perfect style for your home!

• Free In-Home Estimates
• Free Design Consultation
• Appointments Available 7-Days a Week and Evenings
• Lifetime Installation Warranty
• Interest-Free Financing Options †
• Free Furniture Moving
• Professional Installation and Expert Service
• Quality Brand Name Products
• And so much more!

$375 Off Vinyl Flooring*

*30 sq yd or more. Includes basic installation, does not include extras. Valid only at the initial consultation. Offers may not combine any other discounts or special promotions. Cannot be applied to current or past orders. Some restrictions apply. See sales consultant for details. Sale ends 09/30/2020.

† Offer is for new applicants only and cannot be combined with other promotional discounts or special offers. Special financing subject to credit approval. Not all applicants will qualify. Minimum purchase and monthly payments required. Some restrictions apply. See sales consultant for details. Sale ends 09/30/2020.

The post September Vinyl Flooring Sale! appeared first on The Carpet Guys.

Fix and flips have become a popular pastime for many, thanks to the shows you can currently find on TV. The concept is simple enough. Find a great deal on real estate that may be a little rough around the edges. Purchase it at a very low cost. Then put some muscle into fixing the place up, and sell it for a nice profit.

Of course, once you buy it and start making decisions, you can see your profit margin slipping away. Every problem needs a fix, and the fix is often more expensive than you planned for.

So you try and cut corners where you can.

But cutting corners on important things may reduce your profit even more. Buyers want certain things in a new house, and if you don’t provide it or go for “cheap” instead of quality, it will impact the bottom line.

And the flooring is one of the prime examples where this process comes to light.

When you see a bargain in flooring, you might be tempted to install it. Will it really matter?

What is the best flooring for flipping a house? The answer might surprise you.

What is the best flooring for flipping a house?

We wish there was a simple answer to this question. But like every question out there, the answer for this one is: it depends. Before you settle on a particular type of flooring, ask yourself a series of questions.

What neighborhood is the house in? Your goal is to sell the house to a potential buyer who wants to live comfortably inside this new neighborhood. They want to fit in. They have the desires of other people currently living in this community. You wouldn’t want a Mercedes in a community that thrives on pickup trucks. Likewise, exotic hardwood wouldn’t appeal to a homeowner in certain neighborhoods.

What are your pricing goals? How much did you buy the house for? How much do you hope to sell it for? That’s your sticking point for the work you’ll put in it. If you blow the budget on flooring, it means other upgrades in the house will be lacking. Look at the overall project to determine how much you can put into each room and material.

What is your budget? Before you ever purchase your first tool or appliance, it’s important to determine how many individual projects you’ll be completing throughout the home. Assess how much of your budget you wish to spend on each room, each material or application. It’ll help you make wise choices as you make your selections.

Stick with flooring principles – they’ll win buyers every time

It’s easy for a “fix and flipper” to focus so much on profit, they forget that in the end, this is a home a family will love and want to come home to. Think logically with your choices, settling in on things you would want for your own family.

In the end, when it comes to selecting flooring, homeowners have a few principles they stick to across the line.

1. Consistency is most important. You don’t want a hodgepodge look. You should never have more than three styles of flooring in a home, and transitions matter most when creating flow.

2. Select hard surfaces over carpet wherever possible.

3. Carpet is for bedrooms only. You can install it in the basement if you’re adhering to a budget. But in all other cases, keep carpet at a minimum.

Let’s start with your main living spaces. As you walk in from the front door, cohesiveness is important. Start here with the flooring material you want to install, and use it on the main level as much as possible. Use the same flooring, the same color, the same pattern.

You will see a better ROI by making everything the same.

Next, think hard surfaces. Hardwood is preferred by most homeowners. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find the hardwood look in other products. Look at luxury vinyl planks. Consider laminate. There are amazing products in the marketplace today that can create a beautiful look at a reduced cost.

The smaller the home, the more you should consider using the hard surfaces throughout. If you do want to fall back on carpeting because of costs, add it to the bedrooms only.

A few flooring options for flipping a house

With all of these ideas in place, it’s time to select the right flooring for the home you’ll be putting on the market soon.

Hardwood

Hands down, hardwood is always a good choice. In every neighborhood, every price range, it’s the flooring people want.

Luckily, there are many ways to install it. You can stick with the standard materials, such as oak, and have the planks laid into place. You can choose finished or unfinished, having it stained after installation.

Hardwood is what people want, because it offers years – decades – of enjoyment. Homeowners know they can refinish it in the future and still have lasting effects.

Carpet

We’ve mentioned it several times, while carpet is economical, that doesn’t mean you should install it throughout the home. Presentation is everything when it comes to maximizing your profits. If you want to get all you can from the home, leave carpet in the bedroom.

Engineered hardwood

If you’re looking for a more economical hardwood, consider engineered hardwood. It gives the same look and feel of hardwood because it is real wood.

Engineered hardwood planks are created in layers to increase durability and moisture resistance. That makes it a great choice for laying throughout the home because it works well in basements and kitchens.

Plus, the potential homebuyers will love the look.

Luxury vinyl planks

There’s another entry in the marketplace that is catching decorators’ eye. Luxury vinyl planks are resilient, waterproof, and the perfect addition in many situations.

Because technology has increased so much in recent years, it’s often difficult telling this product apart from the real thing. But because it handles better in all situations, it’s a great choice for putting into bathrooms, laundry rooms, and below grade rooms like basements.

Plus it gives a crisp, modern look any homebuyer will love.

Are you fixing and flipping a home?

Then make the right choice for your situation.

What’s the best flooring for your fix and flip remodel?

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

For many of us, flooring can be one of those larger expenses on the renovation list and keeping up with the latest trends and styles can add to the pressure of making sure we keep our house up to date and looking the part. 

 

To help you get the most bang for your buck, we’ve accumulated some of the latest flooring styles and how to achieve them when working with a budget. 

Flooring Styles

Patterns

 

Geometric, stripes, aztec; whatever you’re into, there’s a style to suit you. 

 

Bring those abstract patterns and designs to the foundations of your rooms, creating a stand-out feature in your home. 

 

This trend is becoming more and more popular, with a particular rise in the use in kitchens and bathrooms, and can be achieved at very friendly price points. 

 

Laminate is a great option when it comes to this design. It is now available in a host of styles and designs, including tile designs. On top of being a great practical addition to any home being highly durable and hard wearing as well as being easy to maintain.

 

Another flooring type suited to budgeting and this style is vinyl. Vinyl rolls offer a multitude of designs so there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy. Whether it’s the antique tile effect, or the quirky mosaic. You can guarantee the diverse options delivered by vinyl will peak your interest. 

 

Not only is vinyl on the lower end of the scale when it comes to cost, it has an abundance of benefits including: home-wide suitability, durability and easy maintenance, so you really are getting more for your money. 

Price 

 

Laminate flooring is priced at around £8.74/m², so these benefits and amazing designs can be fulfilled at a reasonable price!

 

Where price is concerned, vinyl ranges start from around £8.99 /m², making it one of the cheaper flooring options on the market. It’s unique designs can allow you to achieve those high end looks, without shelling out. 

 

Rustic

 

Yes! You heard correctly, rustic is the new, well… New. 

 

Rustic interiors bring a unique and authentic beauty, utilising natural earthy tones and textures to your space. Some like to say rustic is a ‘rough around the edges’ look. We like to say it’s natural charm. 

Now we know you’re probably thinking that an authentic solid wood flooring is a great option to get this kind of outcome. And it would be.  

 

But remember, we’re shopping on a budget! So let’s look at more attractively-priced options to obtain a rustic vibe in your home. 

 

One option you could opt for is laminate. Laminate comes in an array of colours and styles, with some of those styles making a perfect fit for your rustic dream. 

When it comes to rustic, bringing the outdoors in, is what will achieve you the best results. Look for those knots and grains that show the natural effects of the outdoors to gain a more genuine feel.

 

Price

 

Moving onto price, laminate is a great option for working with budgets whilst getting more for your money. 

 

Starting at around £8.74/m², offering homewide suitability (subject to AC rating), available in a range of colours and styles and is great in terms of durability, laminate flooring means you get a tonne of great benefits for a smaller price. 

 

Grey

 

Surely you’ve seen grey become a long standing trend that doesn’t seem to be shifting any time soon? Grey walls, grey doors, and not to forget grey floors. 

Where grey floors are concerned, the options are of the many. As this trend relies on simply sticking to a colour scheme, this gives you an easier job where choice is concerned. But whilst narrowing down a colour is easy, we need to focus on which of these options will bring the desired grey look without having to crack open the piggy bank.

One option with a more attractive price is laminate. Grey laminate is becoming a popular option, not only being desired because of a trend but it’s functionality too. 

 

Laminate is durable, so perfect for those high traffic areas, households with children and pets. Not only is this flooring great value for money, but everyone is happy!

 

Price

 

As previously mentioned for another flooring style, laminate starts at around £8.74/m², so where budgets needed to be reigned in, this flooring makes it easier to do so. 

 

Comfort

 

After some added comfort in your home? Why not introduce the more traditional neutral tones into your rooms. You know the ones we’re talking about. The beiges. The browns. The creams. Carpet is a great, and cost effective way to do so. 

 

These traditional, lighter tones create a neutral ground for you to change decor around them through time periods. One thing that always seems to stick are these types of carpets. They add comfort, give that blank canvas aspect because just about everything goes with them, and they look great!

Another option to consider if comfort is your desired outcome, is laying a wood flooring that can be installed as a floating floor with a thick underlay. 

 

EvoCore is a flooring options that will give exceptional warmth in your home, and coupled with a thick underlay, this will trap heat, as well as adding comfort underfoot. 

 

Price 

 

Starting from as little as £5.99/m², you can bring comfort, and this long term trend to your home.

 

Alternatively, EvoCore has multiple ranges starting from £34.99/m², with a range of styles, colours, and designs to suit. There is something for everyone!

 

Stone and Tile 

 

The final trend we’ll look at is stone and tile. This trend is another long term trend that saw a phasing out, and is seeing a comeback. 

 

This trend is a desired look in kitchens, bathrooms and hallways, and we have the perfect flooring to suit. EvoCore.  

 

 

In particular the EvoCore 360 range and the EvoCore Premium range, with the offering of tile designs to fit! 

 

Considering kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways are popular areas for this flooring style, EvoCore makes both a perfect style and practicality choice. 

 

These are all high traffic areas of the home, and need the flooring to support it. 

 

EvoCore 360 offers an array of benefits to suit these needs. From the desired tile design, with the ability to mix and match colours and styles thanks to a 360 omni-click system, to being waterproof, suitable for any room of the home, and highly durable. To name a few. 

The EvoCore Premium range, available in tiled design, is another option when looking to achieve a stone or tile look. 

 

• Waterproof
• Petproof
• Childproof
• Scratch resistant
• Built-in underlay
• Quick and ebay installation 

 

There are just some of the benefits of EvoCore Premium, and why you should choose it as the foundations of your home. 

 

Price 

 

EvoCore 360 tile ranges start from £38.99/m², and Premium starts from £44.99/m². 

 

The EvoCore tile ranges work as an alternative for ceramic tile, and whilst these prices are around a similar cost, the EvoCore ranges bring a whole lot more to the table for the price you pay.

 

Ceramic tile is installed with grout between each tile which can be hard to clean, whereas EvoCore is easy to maintain. Additionally, replacing damaged tiles can be difficult due to the way they are installed. EvoCore on the other hand is highly durable and easy to replace. 

 

With these benefits in mind, with EvoCore you’re getting more for your money!

 

Top Tips for Flooring Styles on a Budget

 

Throughout this article we’ve given some handy tips on how to shop smart when it comes to flooring. But let’s go over them in more detail to ensure you’re armed with as many tips and knowledge possible to keep your budget down and your savings up!

 

Sales and Promotions

 

Sales and promotions are when stores offer products are reduced prices for a period of time, making products more accessible to more people. 

These types of offers are not limited to any specific industry meaning you have a great chance of coming across events such as these when looking for your flooring. 

 

There are typical sales you can look out for, often seasonal or bank holiday sales. These are times you can expect to see reductions in prices. However, some stores run general events that you can keep an eye out for to get the most for your money when purchasing your flooring. 

 

Sales can usually be accessed in stores and online. Look out for “Sales” and “Special Offer” buttons on websites, usually found in the navigation bars.

 

Remnants and Roll Ends

 

The genesis of vinyl and carpet is from a roll. They’re then cut to size depending on the needs of a customer. As the roll gets closer to the end, the roll size is reduced to a size in which there is no sense in continuing to cut as is usually near enough standard room size. 

 

These roll ends are usually sold at a cheaper price as they come in a standard size and are usually enough to cover either one room or enough to cover one room with some excess. 

 

So to save a few pounds, especially in those smaller rooms of the home, look for remnants when purchasing carpet and vinyls.

 

Price matching

 

In some cases, stores can sell the same product. It happens. However, when shopping around, some stores will offer you a price match option if you buy the flooring from them. And in even better cases, some stores will offer you a price match plus the offering of some more discount. I.e. Here at Direct Wood Flooring, we pride ourselves in selling unique flooring, though should the same flooring be sold elsewhere, our price match offering is price match plus 10%.

 

This is something you should look out for should take advantage of when shopping on a budget and doing your research! When looking around for the best flooring for the best prices, make note of places that sell the same flooring and see what their price match policy is. 

 

Finance

 

Finance options are another way to budget. However, this is something you should only consider if you are in the financial position to do so. If you are renovating your home and think at that given time a larger chunk of money would be better spent elsewhere, there are stores that will allow you to spread the cost with a finance agreement. 

 

Underlay 

 

Another cost saving option is underlay. You may be thinking that this is another thing you’re going to have to pay for, and it is. However, you’ll be pleased to know that whilst underlay is an added expense now, it could potentially save you more money in the long run. 

 

Underlay protects the longevity of your flooring, prolonging the lifespan, meaning less chance of having to replace your flooring prematurely from unsupported foundations. 

 

Another money saving factor of underlay is that it is great for heating insulation. This means those heating bills can be reduced as you won’t need the heating on for as long, or not at all. 

 

Underlay also offers a host of other practical and personal benefits such as: added comfort and helps with noise reduction.

 

Save. Save. And Save.

 

Now you’ve had some of the best tips and tricks in the book when it comes to flooring styles, so it’s time to action them and put your budgeting smarts to use. 

 

Should you have any questions regarding any of the flooring styles, or tips above, contact one of our flooring experts now, and they’ll be happy to assist.

The post 5 Flooring Styles that Look the Part Without Breaking the Bank appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

It’s exciting redecorating your home. You can take a room that has fizzled out, and turn it into a place you love.

But what works on your main level living space isn’t always the greatest advice for your basement. Basements can be darker, dingier, and leave you feeling like you’re walking into a cavern.

Here’s the secret: it starts with your basement flooring. As you’re redecorating your basement and turning it into a space you’ll love, make sure you select the right flooring.

Understanding light

Basements are different because of the way they are lit. They exist underground, and have few or no windows. Even if windows exist, they are usually smaller than other windows throughout your home. And yet when it comes to decorating, most homes are lit the same way as other rooms.

No wonder they’re so dark!

It is possible to add more windows, or even enlarge the ones you have. Keep in mind it isn’t as easy as replacing other windows throughout your home. But if you’re renovating your forever home, it might be worth the cost.

With windows in place, ensure that they aren’t covered and are fully used to give off natural light to the space throughout the day. Make them light, bright and airy by keeping the glass as clean as can be. If you do add curtains or blinds, be sure you can pull them away from the window during the day. Amplify this natural light as much as you can because it will improve the way your basement looks and functions.

Of course, you can always bring in additional lighting sources too. Think multidimensional lighting as you add in sources. Layers will fill every space with appropriate light. Start with recessed lighting as it gives off a broader range of light. Lights in the ceiling add more light to the room, and because they aren’t taking up space, they can add more room to play with other decor.

From there, layer the lighting in other places, such as a lamp on an end table, and spotlights on artwork and shelving.

The more light the better.

Stick with light colored basement flooring

Before you start shopping for new basement flooring, consider all your basement goes through in a year.

Is it damp? Do you have trouble with moisture from time to time?

Keeping your flooring in good condition throughout the year should be your first thought. You don’t want to have to worry about mold or mildew after a few months.

As you narrow in on your choices, focus on light colored flooring. You may love your dark hardwood in the main living space, but the dark color can make your basement look smaller. Light flooring opens up basement areas. Also, try to use the same flooring throughout the basement, as that will also open up the space.

If you love your hardwood and want to stick with it, if possible. We suggest you move towards one of the other popular floorings such as engineered wood, luxury vinyl planks, or wood look tile. But whatever you decide, go with a lighter shade. Select a natural wood look, whitewashed, or even a light gray.

Light is always better.

A lot of homeowners move towards carpet because it adds warmth to an already cooler basement. If your basement includes a movie theater, a bedroom, or a game room where you love to come together as a family late into the evening, carpet may be a good choice. Again, make sure you stick with lighter shades of beige or gray to keep the space open and inviting.

If warmth is one of your top concerns, you can also look towards radiant heating. It sits underneath tile or luxury vinyl planks, making the floors warm to the touch, and adding warmth to the space from the bottom up.

Other tricks to try to brighten your basement up

Have you noticed how we’ve suggested sticking with light colored decor so far in this article? We’re going to continue with that suggestion here. Skip the dark wood furniture, and the black or navy sofas and chairs. Consider white, cream, or light gray instead. You might even use glass coffee or end tables to help reflect the light.

Mirrors are also a great way to make the space look larger. Find unique ways of incorporating them in every room. Creating a mirrored wall will open up a home gym. Adding a large mirror in a game room will enlarge the space. As you shop around you’ll find mirrors in all kinds of formats. Focus on the frame, and you can easily replace artwork with a mirror and have it stand out in your space.

It goes without saying that when you select paint for the walls, stick to light colors. You don’t have to go with pure white to open up the room. With so many shades of white, you’ll find the perfect one for your decor. You can even use two different tones, select a whiter white for doors and molding to make the whole thing pop.

Now let’s go back to the floors. Even if you decide to cover the floors with engineered wood, luxury vinyl tile, or wood look tile, you can make the room cozy by laying down a rug. Once again, focus on the color and the pattern, ensuring it’s weaved with light colored fibers. With so many choices today, you can find a variety of area rugs that can handle the activities of any basement space. Focus on patterns to help camouflage dirt. Or play with color to add a bit of pizazz to the space.

Above all, have fun with the process and love everything you put into your basement’s decor. Ultimately, this is about making a space you and your family will use from day to day.

Do a few searches online. You’ll find motivation everywhere in the home remodeling websites, online magazines, and even on Pinterest.

It’s easy to dream about the perfect living space when you start at the base. Lighten up your basement flooring, and use that as a way to breathe new life into the rooms you’ll use most.

How can we help you make the right flooring selection?

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

A lot of homeowners across the Front Range have been bitten by the home remodeling bug this year. And why not? We’re spending more time at home than ever before.

Maybe you’re redoing an extra bedroom into a home office. Maybe you’re reconfiguring your open concept floor plan to have individual work stations. Maybe it’s time to refinish the basement to add more space.

While all of that remodeling can spur your inner interior decorator, and kick your designing personality into high gear, finding the best products to use can be a tricky experience.

You might be tempted to spend a weekend shopping at your favorite big box store, but is it really the best place to buy?

Take flooring, for example. They have rows of great looking products. The carpet is a great color. The luxury vinyl planks are just what you’ve been looking for. And the price! It was good before, but now that they are having their “holiday blowout”, the price is out of this world.

Why look anywhere else? Why would you ever shop a flooring retailer with prices like these?

Like anything, you get what you pay for.

Expertise

When you visit with an independent flooring retailer, you’ll talk with someone who has a wealth of knowledge ready and waiting for you. Flooring is all they do, and they do it well. They know all of the products on the marketplace, how easy they are to install, and how they wear over time. Because many independent flooring retailers have been in business for years, they also understand trends, and what flooring will stand the test of time. You can benefit from all of this expertise and more, and be able to get all of your questions answered easily. Try that with part-time help at a big box store, whose only goal is to make it to the weekend.

Personalized service

While an associate at a big box store might have worked a particular department for a bit, they still were hired as an employee for the store, not as a flooring expert. Their goal is to sell you on a product in stock, and get you out of the store. They deal in quantity, not in quality.

Not so with a flooring retailer. They pride themselves on gaining customers that will stick with them for life. They want you to select the right flooring for your needs, and be happy with the outcome for years to come. If you’re happy, you’ll be back when you need new carpet for the bedrooms, or are ready to renovate your basement. You’ll also remember them when you’re talking with friends.

A flooring retailer knows how to dig deep, ask the right questions, and help you finalize your purchase so it’s the right flooring for your needs.

Shop local

Let’s face it, the big box stores are in every major city, and focus on buying large quantities at bargain basement prices so they can continue to ramp up profits from year to year. They want you to shop again and again, no matter what city you’re in.

But when you visit an independent flooring retailer, chances are you’re visiting with locals. Like us, many independent flooring retailers have lived in the community for years, have a home nearby, have raised a family in the local neighborhood. You’re supporting friends who walk the same streets as you, and care as much about the community as you do.

If supporting the local community is on your list of to-do’s, pay attention to where you shop.

High quality products

Do you know how well the products at the big box store are made? It’s a hit-or-miss when it comes to quality.

Big box stores buy in mass quantity. They are looking for manufacturers that can fulfill their orders by the masses. And that means they often pick up products that are inferior at best. They can’t take time to wait for higher quality – they care about getting things on the shelves.

Sometimes, that means inferior glue on luxury vinyl tiles, or less than stellar wood used on laminate flooring. Of course, you may not notice it on the samples in the store, or even as you finish up your DIY project. But you will notice it over time, as the glues come unglued, and the laminate flooring starts to warp.

Large selection

The thing about big box stores is they select just enough products to keep their aisles and shelves full and ready for you to shop. Each department only has so much space. So the buyers ensure they find the best deals to fill it well.

But what if the gray-washed luxury vinyl planks aren’t quite the color you were hoping for? What if the carpet tiles aren’t quite the pattern you want? Don’t give up, check with an independent flooring retailer instead.

When you shop someone who exclusively deals with flooring, they will be able to find exactly what you are looking for.

Availability

A big box store works big box hours. When an associate’s shift ends, they go home. While you can ask questions to any associate who happens to be working that day, you’ll have to start over asking your questions and filling in the details. The customer service you receive will vary from person to person.

And only during store hours, of course.

Not so with a flooring retailer. We care about our business, and so we make ourselves available to you. Plus, when you call or visit with us, rest assured every person you talk with will have a wealth of knowledge about the product you’ve purchased, and will be ready to answer every question you have.

Independent flooring retailers have a 24/7 commitment to ensure they keep every customer and prospect they come in contact with happy and well informed.

Think a box box store can keep up with that?

Are you ready for your next DIY project?

Then maybe it’s time to give an independent flooring retailer a call. Whether you have your mind made up on a particular product or color, or are just starting the exploration process, we’re here to help. We can help you find the best DIY flooring for your needs.

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

Pipe covers are great for covering over expansion gaps.  They fit around pipework that is coming through your wooden floor. They are easy to fit and removeable to allow you to clean underneath.  Here is a bit more information about what a pipe cover is and when you would need to use it. Read More

If you are looking to make a change to your flooring, you may want to consider buying a hardwood floor. Hardwood floors are amazing, and many people love them, because they are versatile, and they can pair with nearly any decor. Your house might be green and contemporary, farmhouse or primitive, or industrial-factory style, but hardwood floors will match any of them. Hardwood floors are great for people with a lot of allergies, and they are easy to clean. There are two types of hardwood floors: traditional hardwood or engineered hardwood. Which one is right for you? Here are some tips for choosing which floor is best for you.

What’s the Difference?

Traditional hardwood floors consist of a plank of solid wood. The hardwood planks can be made of several different kinds of wood, but traditionally, they are made from pine. Engineered hardwood floors are made of a combination of plywood on the bottom, several thin layers of hardwood, and a layer of hardwood on the top.

The Pros and Cons

First, you need to think about your lifestyle. If you have dogs or kids–traditional hardwood may not be the best solution for your flooring needs. Traditional hardwood is also not a good idea if you are looking at flooring options for a kitchen, bathroom, mudroom or laundry room, because all of those rooms may have a lot of moisture. However, traditional hardwood can last for decades, because it is easy to sand down and refinish. Also, traditional hardwood is more expensive, but it retains its value beautifully.

Engineered hardwood is more durable, and is perfect for dogs, kids, and areas where moisture might be a problem. It is easier to install than hardwood, and it is less expensive. However, engineered hardwood usually cannot be sanded and refinished. Also, engineered hardwood is not as durable as traditional hardwood flooring.

If you need help making a choice between traditional hardwood and engineered hardwood, we can help. When you’re ready to buy a hardwood floor, we hope you’ll give us a call at 800-689-9006 or you can email us at [email protected].

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

Imagine dropping an entire bucket of water and not having to worry. Picture the kids leaving the faucet running, splashing water all over your floors … and you simply throw down a towel to wipe it up, and walk away.

Sound too good to be true? Think again.

Waterproof floors are a thing, and you can have them installed throughout your home. What’s more, this isn’t the vinyl product your parents had in their homes. This is high quality flooring that looks as great as it wears. You’re really going to love these floors.

What are they? Before we get into the details, it’s important that you understand what to look for.

You’ll likely see waterproof floors for sale in several different ways:

LVT – luxury vinyl tile – this product looks like real hardwood or stone flooring, but offers many more benefits. It can be less expensive, is easier to install and maintain, and comes in many styles and colors, giving you options for every room in your home.

LVP – luxury vinyl plank – you’ll sometimes see vinyl hardwood planks referred to as LVP rather than LVT, but both offer you the same good looks with easy to maintain living. LVP closely mimics the look of genuine hardwood flooring, and can give you many options including embossed or hand scraped wood. LVP often gives you even more options than you’ll find in the genuine hardwood flooring market.

WPC – wood plastic composite – WPC vinyl plank or tile flooring are known for being 100 percent waterproof. It’s traditional luxury vinyl flooring that’s been given an added waterproof core that makes it perfect for any room in your home. It also works well in commercial applications too.

SPC – stone plastic composite – SPC has a rigid core that is virtually indestructible. It’s known for being 100 percent waterproof, and uses engineered technology to replicate both hardwood and stone tiles. Vinyl may have some give, has a flexible core. WPC does a pretty good job of firming it up and making it stand up well under pressure. SPC’s core is rigid – think concrete – and will stand up to whatever pressure you give it.

MLF – multilayer flooring – this is a generic term for all multilayer flooring lines, including WPC, SPC, and rigid core flooring or performance vinyl.

Rigid core – rigid core refers to a floating floor that uses click in place technology. The beauty of rigid core is it can be installed over many existing hard flooring surfaces, meaning you can have your remodel completed faster, without the mess that comes with ripping out old flooring.

Armed with this knowledge, you can now shop for waterproof flooring and be a little savvier with your questions. But before you go, let’s explore waterproof floors in a little more detail, because there is so much to love about these products.

They’re waterproof

Yes, they’re waterproof. That’s why you’re reading this article. But we wanted to take a moment to actually explain what that means.

If you drop a bucket of water on the floor, wipe it up. Your flooring won’t sustain any damage. If you’re kids drop their drinks, if they splash water out of the tub, if they bring in a “surprise” from the outside, you’re safe. Your flooring will stand up well to all kinds of activities.

However, it is still flooring, which means if something penetrates underneath, it can cause damage. If your house floods with several feet of water for a few days, it may not survive.

They’re great for DIYers

Not only are waterproof floors easy to maintain, but they’re perfect for homeowners that want a side project. With their click locking systems, it’s a snap to lay the planks into your space. Start in one corner of your room, snap them all into place, and you can be moving furniture back into place by the evening. No waiting for stain or varnish to dry, or your floors to settle into place.

They can be installed over existing flooring

This adds to the ease factor, and is an added bonus to DIYers. Depending on the flooring you already have down, you may not have to remove it before you click waterproof flooring into place. That’s because the rigid core isn’t sensitive to whatever imperfections exist within the subfloor. However, you should still evaluate the current condition of your flooring. If you suspect damage of any kind, including mold or mildew, it’s wise to repair the damage before you install any type of flooring over it.

They are more realistic than ever

When the first multilayer flooring products were released onto the market, they weren’t even close to the real thing. If you remember vinyl products installed in your parents’ homes, you know.

But with today’s products, technology has taken them a long way. The realistic graphics are so good, even experts have to get closer for a second look. In many cases, they are indistinguishable from the natural products they emulate. That adds to the elegance of your decor, and allows you to be creative with everything you bring in to your home.

They offer noise reduction and warmth 

One of the things people remember about the original line of waterproof flooring is the noise. It echoed as you walked over it. With the newest technology, they provide better sound absorption qualities than many of the flooring choices they mimic. And thanks to technology, they offer better warmth factors too.

What’s more, waterproof flooring is the perfect choice to install over radiant heating. If you’re tired of stepping out of bed onto cold floors, or want a more energy efficient way to keep your rooms toasty warm in the winter, take another look at waterproof flooring.

They offer benefits for commercial too

While homeowners love the technology behind waterproof flooring, it’s making its way into commercial applications too. SPC, in particular, is a good choice for retail and hospitality settings, and can even be found in some medical facilities. Why not have your flooring look good, with durability and easy maintenance built it?

They’re beautiful

While we’ve spoken a lot about how well they handle, we should mention again just how beautiful today’s waterproof flooring is. With their enhanced style and design, they can match any personality, and give you whatever look you’re trying to achieve.

Plus, because of how they are made, they offer even more colors, styles, and options than traditional products. Where hardwood or stone is limited to what is found in nature, that’s not so with waterproof floors. You’ll find an array of options from the lightest to the darkest colors of the rainbow.

If you are trying to match your decor, you’ll find it in waterproof flooring technology.

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