Is Engineered Flooring Good For The Environment?

Are you remodeling or renovating your home? Hardwood flooring is often a logical choice for the main living spaces. Homeowners all across the Front Range love the classic looks hardwood offers.

Yet classic hardwood doesn’t make sense for every homeowner. That’s why manufacturers have created many different options: engineered hardwood, laminate, luxury vinyl planks.

You know solid hardwood doesn’t make sense with your lifestyle. You’re leaning towards engineered hardwood. But something else is weighing on your mind.

Is engineered flooring good for the environment? Is engineered hardwood sustainable?

Many people question the sustainable practices of using hardwood flooring. It can be detrimental to the environment, chopping down trees that took decades to grow. Is engineered hardwood a better solution?

What is engineered hardwood? 

While solid hardwood flooring is constructed from a solid piece of wood, engineered hardwood is constructed in layers. It uses a relatively thin layer of wood veneer bonded over a premium quality plywood layer. It gives it classic good looks as well as durability.

The best engineered hardwood floors are created from up to nine layers of plywood core for flexibility and stability. While it may not last as long as traditional hardwood planks, a good quality product will give you up to 30 years of life, and be able to be refinished several times before it needs replacing.

Because it’s easier to handle, it’s also more do-it-yourself-friendly – if you’re looking for a DIY project, engineered hardwood may be the better choice. With a lower cost than traditional hardwood, it’s often the better choice.

What makes engineered hardwood more natural than solid hardwood?

Engineered hardwood planks are still made from wood. Instead of a solid core, it’s created in multiple layers.

While solid hardwood is created from freshly harvested trees, engineered hardwood planks are created in more ingenious ways. They are still natural wood flooring, created from the environment with all-natural products. The veneer consists of real hardwood. The core is produced from plywood or fiberboard, all of which are natural wood products.

Yet because they aren’t solid hardwood, they can be created in many ways. Often, plywood and fiberboard are created from recycled or leftover wood byproducts, eliminating waste in the manufacturing process and creating a more sustainable product.

Does engineered hardwood use fewer trees? Yes! Solid hardwood planks must be cut from the heart of the tree, which can create leftover materials. Engineered wood only has a thin veneer that sits on top of plywood or fiberboard. This means less traditional wood is used in each plank production, and ultimately requires fewer trees to be cut down for the same level of production.

What does sustainable harvesting mean?

Without healthy forests, our entire way of living may be at risk. More evidence is pointing to needing forests for proper global diversity.

Many manufacturers realize this, and have set up sustainable businesses to put these ideas into practice.

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an organization dedicated to achieving better practices with the use of our forests. This ensures they are properly managed for ecosystems and habitats, as well as giving the world the products and resources it needs and desires.

By checking for the FSC label, you’ll ensure the engineered hardwood you purchase is FSC-certified. That means it’s sourced from forests that are managed responsibly, while helping to protect wildlife habitats and ensuring zero deforestation.

When a manufacturer uses this label, it means they are part of the bigger picture of creating sustainable, eco-friendly measures. Because engineered hardwood doesn’t require the same core hardwood product as traditional hardwood planks, it ensures companies can use more of the materials they harvest, which means less wood to cut down. This can preserve older growth forests, and encourage healthy forest regeneration.

What about indoor air quality?

With all we’ve been through the past few years, many homeowners are paying attention to the products and materials they bring indoors, ensuring they won’t create an unhealthy environment.

Wood is a carbon-neutral product, which means it has low environmental impact throughout the life of the product. Of course, you have to consider all of your options carefully. Look closely at the manufacturer – do they work hard at sustainable business practices? It also requires you to look closely at the dealer you do business with – do they use sustainable methods when installing and replacing the flooring?

Wood floors are one of the most popular options because they are also one of the most hypoallergenic. They are created from sustainable, low-VOC materials. And because they are easy to clean and maintain, they won’t attract dust and debris like other materials. A simple swipe of the broom each day will keep the dust bunnies away.

Pay attention to the entire production process. If engineered hardwood flooring products state they are low or no VOCs, it means they won’t release harmful toxins into the air before, during, or after production. Ask about installation, and choose a chemical-free installation method that won’t introduce other toxic chemicals into your air supply. Every little bit helps in creating a clean indoor environment.

Will they last?

One of the biggest benefits of solid hardwood is its longevity. Because you can sand them down and refinish them multiple times, it’s less waste overall. They can realistically last 50 to 100 years, depending on the quality of the product and the care it’s given over its lifetime.

While engineered may not offer that level of longevity, they can still be a welcome addition to your home for several decades with the proper care. That means if you invest in a higher quality product in the beginning, you can expect to keep them in your home for years, even if you choose to remodel or renovate other furnishings in the future.

Fewer replacements, less waste, lower costs – all of that may be just what you’re looking for. Add in environmentally friendly products too, and you may decide engineered hardwood flooring is the perfect choice for you.

Is engineered hardwood flooring right for you? We can help. Stop by today and see our complete selection of engineered hardwood flooring products. We’ll help you find the perfect look for your home.

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If you are looking for a wooden floor with warm tones then you probably want something that will add a touch of richness and depth to your room.  There are so many different types and colours of wooden flooring around, that it can sometimes be an overwhelming choice. Honey and caramel shades can often add warm tones.  The colour of the wooden floor is usually determined by the species of wood.  However, most wooden floors are made from Oak, and then have a colour stain added.  This gives you even more choice, or you could buy an unfinished floor and add your own colour stain. Read More

Replacing the style of flooring that already sits in place is usually exciting, but may be a bit overpowering, too. There is certainly no shortage when it comes to materials, colors, and patterns that are readily available to consumers. Both hardwood and laminate flooring are extremely sought-after products nowadays. Flooring.org provides the information below in order to assist you in your goal of purchasing the more beneficial option for your situation and need.

Differences in Pricing

Hardwood flooring is more costly in price than laminate. Keep in mind that although you will be shelling out more cash, going with a hardwood floor ensures a significantly longer lifespan; therefore, for the approximate $4.00 to $8.00 per square foot for hardwood as opposed to around $1.00 to $3.00 per square foot for laminate, you can enjoy your flooring for a lifetime. Remember, since prices can vary immensely depending on what you ultimately choose, buying a premium laminate that closely mimics natural wood may not save you a considerable amount of money than if you did purchase real wood itself.

Appearance-Wise

Hardwood flooring undoubtedly beholds a stately and unmatched beauty. If you prefer to install laminate instead and do your research, you can find a slew of remarkable laminate in today’s market that does an amazing job of imitating the appearance of hardwood. State-of-the-art laminate flooring is capable of doing so by manufacturing an inconsistent design within the product itself in order to create an extremely realistic look.

Cleaning Methods

Maintenance is also an important concern among customers. Hardwood flooring is not as difficult to keep pristine as it was in the past as it can simply be swept or vacuumed on a regular basis. If you desire a thorough cleaning, utilizing a damp mop and a reputable wood cleaner is highly efficient at doing a terrific job. Contemporary hardwood flooring contains a polyurethane varnish that seals flooring and spares you from the process of waxing or polishing.
Laminate flooring can be swept or vacuumed as well in order to keep it looking great, but water needs to be applied sparingly. A damp mop with floor cleaner is ideal, but only with very little water. Avoid using a steam cleaner on laminate flooring as it will soften the glue situated underneath.

Longevity

Amazingly, solid hardwood flooring is capable of reaching 100 years of age, as routine care will allow it to remain lovely over the decades. Laminate typically lasts anywhere between 15 and 25 years.

Flooring.org furnishes clients with an impressive selection of quality flooring at fantastic prices. Please contact our accommodating staff at 1-800-689-9006 for additional information.

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Hardwood floors often top a homeowner’s dream list. They may envision them for years before finally remodeling and installing them throughout their homes.

Yet finalizing the decision is often the easy part. Then comes the decision process of what species of hardwood, what color of stain, and what flooring patterns to install.

Every plank of hardwood is unique. It comes with its own patterns, textures, colors, and designs. How you install it will ultimately determine its final look. It will create an aesthetic you’ll be proud to call home.

Not sure of what hardwood floor pattern to create? Have you always assumed hardwood planks are a “one size fits all” kind of choice? Think again. TYou can create many different patterns from hardwood, which will change the look of your room as it runs across the floor.

Straight

Straight hardwood floor patterns are considered the norm in the industry. It’s the most common pattern you’ll see when you walk into a home. That’s primarily because it’s the simplest and least expensive method for installation.

The hardwood planks are laid together side by side, parallel to each other along the length or width of your room.

This pattern creates a clean, contemporary design that enhances the look of the hardwood flooring material. It uses the hardwood most efficiently, sticking with the hardwood planks as they were initially cut and designed.

Diagonal

When you walk into a room, and the planks run parallel to the length or width of the room, your mind moves up to the overall aesthetics of the room. But when you install hardwood planks diagonal, you instantly notice a more unique, luxurious look and feel inside the space.

The planks are installed parallel to each other, but instead of being installed along the length or width of the space, they are laid at a 45-degree angle to the wall. This creates a striking visual effect that isn’t expected. It gives anyone who enters a moment to notice the floors time to pause and take in the beauty of the flooring.

This is perfect for any homeowner who wants something a little different, yet still wants to stick with the functionality of traditional hardwood, while efficiently utilizing the product.

Random

For an orderly, traditionalist homeowner, they might not be able to imagine flooring in any other way but straight. But for homeowners who desire to change things up a bit, random placement may be more your style.

You’ll still install your hardwood floor based on the length or width of your room. But instead of using the same planks in a repeating pattern, you’ll mix things up a bit.

Select planks in different lengths and widths. Mix the color of two different hardwood colors – light and lighter. Then install them in a varying pattern. This mixture of boards will give your room a more rustic feel. It’s customizable, allowing you to play with final looks and patterns, and create something uniquely your own.

Parquet

It should come as no surprise to discover that parquet flooring dates back to 16th century France. Parquet is derived from the French word “parquetry”, meaning “small compartment.” These wood floors used country estate marble and stone, which was difficult and expensive to replace. The most famous comes from a single room in Versailles, created by Louis XIV. The parquetry is distinguishable by large squares laid on a bias, with diagonal squares within.

Today, parquet flooring is distinguishable by a repeated geometric pattern, giving it a checkerboard pattern. You’ll sometimes find even more sophistication to the complex patterns within each square.

Cheap imitations have been created in recent times to make this expensive and incredibly detailed flooring choice easier to install. But it can never replace the sophistication of a truly original parquet flooring.

Chevron

This pattern is often referred to as diagonal because wood planks are laid diagonally, alternating direction across the space.

The chevron pattern is effective when each of the planks is identical in size and shape, and appears in columns going one direction. Then the next column is laid facing the opposite direction. The edges are always flush against one another, giving it a seamless look.

Herringbone

Close to the chevron design, a herringbone pattern uses the column sections laid on the diagonal, but mixes it up by placing them in a zigzag pattern. This makes the blocks appear to be stacked like a staircase rather than running flush from side to side.

This is a sophisticated installation challenge, not one meant for DIY projects. The more complicated a pattern, the more you should search out a reputable installer who has laid various hardwood patterns in homes before.

Basketweave

One of the most complex patterns for hardwood floors is the basketweave, consisting of both rectangular and square shapes. To install, it starts with two rectangular pieces laid down as a T-shape. Additional T-shapes are fed in on either side. The gaps will be filled with the square shapes.

This pattern is continued across the floor, resembling a basketweave then it’s completed. The basketweave design works well in mid-size rooms when you want to give an illusion of grader and space. This flooring works on optical illusion, pushing out walls and making the room seem bigger than it is. It can lend sophistication to long, narrow rooms such as a hallway.

Finishing work

While you might have a specific pattern in mind, custom hardwood flooring work can create something uniquely your own. Complete the project with hand-crafted molding. Or build a pattern around a medallion or centerpiece. Stick with hardwood, or build it around stone, metal, or glass for a one-of-a-kind look.

Note that any additional patterns or finishing work required for installation will only add more time to the job. If you need your final flooring in place by a certain time, it’s better to check in with a flooring servicer first. They can help you create a pattern perfect for your home, building a spectacular display that will add style and uniqueness that’s all your own.

How can we help you find the perfect hardwood flooring pattern to suit your needs?

The post Wondering How To Install Your Hardwood Floors? The Top Patterns Homeowners Love first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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It’s easy to fall in love with area rugs. They can bring a pop of color, changing the aesthetics at any time simply by rolling it into place.

Area rugs are such a part of room design, you’ll find them everywhere. They’re easy to change periodically without reinvesting entirely in a new floor. Or change them by the season – it’s a great way to freshen up a room.

Hardwood, vinyl, tile – area rugs work great on many different flooring surfaces.

But what if you don’t have a hard surface? What if you have wall-to-wall carpet in place? Can you place an area rug on top of carpet?

Can you put an area rug on top of carpet?

An area rug on top of carpet seems a bit redundant. But there are many reasons why it might be the perfect choice for your situation.

Renters often use area rugs to make their home cozier, and to bring their own personality into the space. Property managers often install the low-grade carpet that can wear out quickly. If it’s looking a little threadbare soon after you move in, why not ramp up the quality of your rental unit by adding an area rug into the mix?

Or maybe you own your home and you’re planning a remodel … eventually. Your carpet is a little worn down, but now isn’t the best time for a remodel. An area rug is the perfect way to upgrade your aesthetics without the major time and money commitment of a significant remodel.

Have a large room you’d prefer to divide into workable spaces? That’s a great reason for introducing an area rug. Place one underneath a dining room table and you have an instant eating nook. Use one underneath a coffee table, surrounded by a couple of chairs, and you have a quaint space perfect for intimate gatherings. If you can dream it, you can do it. Use an area rug as your inspiration.

Or maybe you just like change. You love your soft, plush carpet. But occasionally, you want to change things up a bit. You’re looking to make your home cozier in the winter. Or maybe fresher, airier in the summer. An area rug is just what you need to make it happen.

Whatever your reason for wanting to use an area rug over carpet works. It’s your home, your design, your aesthetics. If it works for you, go for it.

How to live with an area rug over carpet

When you lay an area rug down on a hard floor, it conforms to the surface below and creates smooth transitions as you move across the floor.

When you lay an area rug on carpet, you’re placing soft on soft. It’s much easier to catch your toe underneath the area rug, creating a dangerous situation.

While placing an area rug over carpet is possible, doing it properly is essential to avoid problems.

Preventing ripples

When you place a rug over carpet, it will naturally have a tendency to move around. How much movement you’ll get depends on the carpet and the area rug. Sturdier rugs may move and slip, while softer area rugs may ripple and fold in on itself. Regardless, an area rug will shift with a soft surface underneath unless it’s properly anchored into place.

Wrinkling can occur when you step on one portion of the area rug and it shifts underneath the weight. It causes one side to move while another stays in place. You might see a “wave” as it moves to a new position.

The easiest way to solve this is by making your furniture work for you. If the area rug is creating a sitting area, use tables and chairs to anchor the rug’s edges into place. The aim is for weight to be placed on all four corners of the rug, to keep it tight and avoid having it be a tripping hazard.

Using a non-slip pad

If you’ve ever used an area rug over hardwood flooring before, you know there are non-slip pads for everything. Including adding an area rug over carpeting. They generally are referred to as carpet-to-carpet pads.

They are specifically designed to help keep the area rug in place over a soft surface, to help keep it from rippling as you walk over it through your daily activities.

Additionally, these carpet pads can help keep the carpet underneath the area rug safe from damage. As the area rug shifts and moves, it can damage the fibers of your carpet. With a pad in place, it gives an added layer of protection.

Their effectiveness varies greatly depending on the carpet you have in place and the area rug you purchase. This is why relying on an expert’s help to provide guidance can help you make a wise choice to ensure both safety as well as gain a long life from both your carpet and your area rug.

Finalizing your selection

Layering a rug over carpet takes a little more thought than just buying what you love in the store. You can’t just lay it down because you like it. It requires a little planning to make sure it works well overall.

Will any area rug do? We advise our clients to stick with high-quality fibers to ensure the best results over time. Going with a rubber-backed area rug can damage carpet fibers and allow moisture to build underneath. Natural fibers ensure breathability, keeping all layers of your flooring to remain safe over time.

Pay attention to textures

The texture of the carpet should work well with the surface of the area rug. A plush shag area rug with a Berber carpet might work. A low-profile rug and carpet will also work well together. Consider fibers that add depth, yet still stay in the same aesthetics to create natural flow.

Consider color palette

While you can’t do anything about the color of the carpet you’ll be laying the rug over, it should still be considered as you select the color of your area rug. Clashing colors and patterns will add more chaos to the room. If you have questions about getting hues and tones to match, a color wheel can be your best friend. It’s a great way to select shades that complement, never overwhelm.

Let rugs complement your decor

An area rug should always fit the aesthetics and personality of the room. Select a size that works well with the furniture it’s bringing together. Never select it just because you like the color. It should bring out a natural feeling in the way your room flows.

The post Yes You Can Use Area Rugs On Carpet first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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Laminate flooring is really easy to keep clean.  All you need to do is keep up with a simple cleaning routine consisting of sweeping and mopping.  You will notice that most laminate floors are relatively durable, but you still need to keep on top of a cleaning routine to keep them looking fresh and new.  If you are not sure which products to use, or how often you should be cleaning, then you are in the right place!  Here are a few tips and some handy advice to keep you on track. Read More

Upholstered furniture adds a lot to the look of any home by making it cozy, warm and welcoming. However, it’s a big investment – recliners, sofas and sectionals can cost thousands of dollars. You’ll want to make sure to protect that investment by keeping your upholstered furniture clean. Here are some of our favorite upholstery cleaning tips that will keep your furniture ready to welcome family and friends all year long.

Vacuum Your Upholstered Furniture Regularly

Upholstered furniture should be vacuumed at least weekly, and even more often if it gets especially dirty (particularly if you have kids or pets). Be sure to vacuum under the cushions and in the creases in order to pick up all the dirt and debris – you never know what’s hiding in there! Oh, and don’t forget to vacuum the throw pillows, as well!

These days, vacuum cleaners come with an assortment of attachments that are perfect for cleaning upholstered furniture, such as upholstery tools (with or without brushes) and crevice tools. Do your furniture a favor and use them on a regular basis when you vacuum. 

Check the Information Tag

Did you know that most upholstery comes with a “manual”? That’s the little tag attached to the bottom of chairs or the back of sofas. Not only odes that tag contain information about the upholstered item (where it was manufactured, the manufacturer’s name, etc.), but it also has information about the upholstery fabric and its care. Here are some of the symbols you may see on the information tag and what they mean:

WS: Use a mild detergent with steam vacuum or dry-cleaning detergent.
S: Use a dry cleaner detergent only.
X: Use a vacuum only. Do not use water on upholstery as it may stain.
W: You can use water or a water-based solution on the upholstery.

Blot, Don’t Scrub

No matter how careful you are around your upholstered furniture, stains sometimes happen. When they do, make sure you blot them – don’t scrub them. Scrubbing the stains can loosen the upholstery fabric fibers, not to mention the fact that it can push the stain deeper into the fibers. Remember – blot, blot, blot!

You may also be tempted to add water to the stain in an attempt to remove it, but don’t.  The goal is to dry out the stain and keep the padding under the upholstery dry. Simply blot it with a dry, absorbent cloth instead. 

Get Your Upholstery Professionally Cleaned

If your furniture is especially dingy or dirty, or you have stains that just aren’t coming out no matter what you do, it’s time to get your upholstery professional cleaned. In addition to carpet cleaning services, we offer upholstery cleaning services in the Denver metro area. We take extra care with delicate fabrics and trim, and can make your upholstered furniture look like new again. We’ll also apply a fabric protector to further protect your investment. Contact us today to get your upholstered furniture clean and ready to welcome friends and family this holiday season!

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

The post Our Favorite Upholstery Cleaning Tips appeared first on A Personal Touch.

Hardwood floors are perfect for the modern home. They’re beautiful. They can last for decades. They compliment any decor.

Yet once you decide hardwood flooring is right for your home, then comes the difficult choice of selecting a hardwood finish. There’s more to it than picking out your favorite color.

On-site or prefinished? 

Different installation methods will impact the hardwood finish installed on your flooring.

Prefinished hardwood flooring is sold with stain and sealant already applied. This makes the entire process easier, from picking it out in the store, to laying it into place in your home. What you see is what you get. You’ll never be surprised by the color or the finish, as it’s in place from the moment you pick it out. The advantages are many:

• You’ll have less mess. Once the planks are installed, your flooring will be ready to use immediately. No waiting for staining or finishing, or dealing with the fumes and other by-products of the install.
• You’ll have less cost. Prefinished will incur labor costs for the installation of the planks. You won’t need additional time for finishing work.
• You’ll need less time. This can be a huge saver if you are redecorating your home on a timeline.

On-site finished hardwood planks are installed with raw wood planks. Once installed, stain and finish will be applied to the entire canvas of the floor. The advantages include:

• You’ll have more flexibility. Many homeowners add hardwood to their homes one room at a time. By laying it unfinished, a professional will have an easier time getting an exact match.
• You’ll have a more uniform color. Do you have a large, open space? Are you adding hardwood to many rooms throughout your home? The larger the space, the more likely you’ll have color variance with prefinished flooring. Unfinished, on-site finished hardwood allows you to select the color and have it run throughout your home.
• You’ll have more opportunities. If you can dream it, it’s possible with on-site finished hardwood. In historic homes, you may wish for a certain width of plank that might not be found in the prefinished market. A flooring professional can cut to size, and match any color you desire. It’s the perfect way to stay on track with your renovation plans.

Hardwood finish – which is right for you?

Hardwood finish refers to the top coat. It’s the surface layer that provides protection and durability. Whether you’re looking for a shiny, high-gloss surface, or prefer something a little more subtle, there are plenty of options. We’ve chosen several hardwood finishes to give you more of an idea of what will work best in your home.

Water-based polyurethane

This is one of the most popular hardwood finishes for hardwood flooring. A water-based polyurethane provides a clear finish with a traditional hardwood look and feel.

If you look at engineered hardwood, it almost always has a water-based polyurethane finish. Its classic “wet” look provides a lustrous finish that makes your hardwood flooring stand out. It’s achieved by applying several layers of water-based polyurethane applications.

Most high-gloss finishes are created in the factory and provided to the homeowner in prefinished planks. This ensures even application for a fully uniform look. This high sheen also makes clean-up easy, although it also makes items like pet hair and scratches a little more noticeable.

High-gloss may be the most popular, but you’ll find satin and semi-gloss finishes too.

Oil-based polyurethane

Oil-based polyurethane consists of several different products, including linseed oil, synthetic resins, and plasticizers. This provides even more strength and durability, making this hardwood finish popular in the commercial marketplace. Homeowners also love it in high-traffic areas. This increases durability, and provides more strength against scratching and denting.

Oil-based polyurethane does have a slight amber or yellow tint to it. It can also continue yellowing more over time. Many homeowners love this rich, warm quality, and select a color that is enhanced by this feature. Oil-based polyurethane also comes in high-gloss, semi-gloss, and satin finishes.

This finish comes with a strong odor and releases VOCs during the installation process. It takes drying time between each coat, so this isn’t a project you’ll finish quickly. Most professionals recommend two or three coats, so plan accordingly.

Wax

Before homes moved to polyurethane finishes, wax was considered the finish of choice. In older, historic houses, it’s still a popular application. It’s perfect for do-it-yourself projects, and homeowners who like its low-sheen, natural appearance.

Wax comes in liquid and paste, both of which require several coats that are buffed by hand. You can mix wood stains into the wax to add color if you wish.

Because wax is a more natural finish, it doesn’t hold up as well to water exposure. You’ll notice white marks wherever it comes into contact with water, so it’s not a great choice for kitchens or bathrooms. It’s also a soft finish, meaning it’s easy to scuff and scratch.

Wax sometimes yellows or darkens over time. If you decide to move to a polyurethane finish, the wax finish will need to be stripped away before application.

Acid-cured

One of the most durable hardwood finishes available is acid-cured finish, also called Swedish finish or conversion finish. It’s an alcohol-based product that uses acid for the curing process. It creates a shiny finish that is highly durable and resistant to scuffs, scratches, and dents. It highlights the grain well, and allows the natural beauty to shine through.

This is a professional product and will need to be applied by a professional hardwood installer because of its high VOCs and flammable application. You will need to keep pets and kids away during application and drying, as well as excellent ventilation throughout. It’s not as easy to retouch or fix damage once the finish is in place.

What’s the right hardwood finish for your flooring?

These are just a few of the hardwood finishes available on today’s most popular hardwood flooring options.

If you have questions about finding the perfect flooring finish to suit your family’s lifestyle, we’re here to help. Stop by today and see our complete line of hardwood floors. We’ll help you find the perfect one for your home. 

The post Selecting The Right Hardwood Finish For Your Home first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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Herringbone Oak flooring is a type of wooden floor made from Oak and is displayed in a herringbone pattern. Oak is the most common species of wood used in flooring and gives you a beautiful grain pattern with pale and golden tones running throughout.  Herringbone is the pattern created by using parquet block of flooring.  You lay the blocks of flooring in a V shape to create a ‘herringbone pattern’. Read More

For some homeowners, the staircase sold them on the home. You enter to a dramatic, sweeping staircase that carries you up to the second floor. It’s the centerpiece for the entryway, which adds to the aesthetics of your space.

Yet no matter how much you love your stairs, sometimes the idea of selecting the best flooring product can be a bit intimidating. What’s the right flooring for your stairs? Should it match the lower level, or feed into the upper level?

The material you use for your stairs is incredibly important to your home’s overall functionality and durability. It’s more than looks alone. Here are a few points to keep in mind while finalizing your decision.

Foot traffic

Families need and require different things to ensure a well-functioning home. Selecting flooring should be determined by how many people use the stairs each day, and how they will stand up to that traffic over time.

• Kids race up and down as they play between floors
• Adults move up and down between home offices and common areas
• Elderly may need more safety features
• Pets need soft spaces, especially as they age

Some homeowners install flooring based on what was on the stairs before. We feel you should base your decision on what best suits the functionality of your home. Softly moving up and down each step is entirely different than the constant pounding of teenagers flying up and down multiple times per day.

Noise

Typically, main levels have living space, kitchens, and entryways to the outside. Second levels have bedrooms, home offices, and reading nooks.

Do you have light or heavy sleepers? Do you have early risers or people that stay up all night? A mixture inside a home requires flooring that best suits those who live there. If a teenager is thumping up and down the stairs all night, it might be difficult for a light sleeper.

Keep in mind that there are many different ways to get the look you want and combine it with noise level reduction too. Want hardwood? Consider stair runners for a sophisticated look. That’s where working with one of our flooring experts can help you find the right solution.

Safety

How many stairs are included in your staircase, five, ten, fifteen? While stairs can create a sweeping, dramatic look, they can also create a hazard. Take steepness into mind when finalizing your flooring options for the stairs. Slipping can be shocking and dangerous.

A lot of flooring materials are designed specifically to help with safety. Look at these materials, and find a way to incorporate them into your final design. Carpet is always one of the safest materials for stairs, as they provide traction as well as soften falls. Even if you’re looking for a way to carry your flooring throughout your home – you have hardwood everywhere you can – there are still ways to make your stairs safer with additional features. Again, a carpet runner may be ideal in this situation, as it adds safety and a pop of color.

Durability

High-traffic areas are always some of the most difficult areas to finalize flooring decisions for. You want classic good looks, but for longevity, you have to select the best materials.

Hardwood, by nature, is hard; it will be more durable than soft fibers of carpet. Even in the best conditions, carpet will last 7 to 10 years, whereas hardwood can last for decades. Hardwood may cost more, but may be a better solution when you factor in longevity. It all depends on your needs.

If you choose carpet, and there are great reasons to use it, spend time selecting one that will handle well in high traffic areas. This will increase durability and help it look better over time.

Comfort

If you’ve ever stood on a hard surface all day, you know how it can impact your overall comfort. Hard surfaces like concrete or stone are notorious for longevity and durability, but if you’ve stood on them with your socks on for any length of time, you know just how uncomfortable they can be.

Now add that uncomfortable feeling when you’re traveling up and down the stairs all day, even pounding up and down as you forget things. It can add a lot of pressure to your well-being.

Softer materials may be a more comfortable choice in busy households. It can also add color and patterns to the aesthetics of the surrounding environment. Of course, this should blend in with the overall ambiance of your home.

Cleaning and maintenance

Stairs are usually one of the most high-traffic areas in your home. Because there’s usually only one way up and down, the center part of the stairs will receive a lot of foot traffic. That means you’ll be cleaning the stairs regularly. Hardwood is easier to wipe clean. You can vacuum dust and debris, and wipe down messes easily. Carpet will accumulate debris in its fibers over time. Lower quality carpet may mat easier, and require updating before the rest of your carpet shows wear.

No matter what you choose, be sure you have the appropriate cleaning tools available to make the job easy. A brush attachment can help pick up debris in the corners, further protecting the flooring material over time.

Budget

If you’ve ever priced installing new flooring to stairs, you know there are additional material and labor costs to consider. That may be enough to sway you one way or another when finalizing your decision.

The good news is almost any type of flooring material will work on stairs.

Whether you have an idea in mind, or have avoided upgrading your flooring out of uncertainty as to how to handle the stairs, we can help you finalize your decision and pick a material you’ll love for years to come.

Conclusion

If you have any additional questions about selecting the best flooring material for your stairs, stop by our showroom or give us a call today. We’ve helped families all over the Rocky Mountain region select the right flooring material to suit their needs. We’re happy to help you finalize your choice.

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