A Step-By-Step Guide To Choosing Flooring For Your Remodel

Planning a remodel soon? Choosing flooring is more complicated than selecting based on looks.

If you choose the wrong material, you’ll hate your floors from the moment they are installed.

Where should you begin? Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you reach the best flooring decision right for your needs.

Step One: Is moisture a problem?

While this seems like a simple “yes or no” question, it’s also one of the most important you can ask. You may love hardwood and want it throughout your home, but if you put it in a high-moisture area, you’ll have a variety of problems associated with it.

If you are remodeling a kitchen, bathroom, or even the basement, keep in mind that moisture may be a problem in the future. You can use this to guide you in making a decision that will be based on lifestyle, and not just looks.

Step Two: Dive deeper into the room’s purpose

Different rooms have unique requirements. While there are a variety of different flooring choices available for each room type, it helps to think about your lifestyle and what you consider “normal activities” within the room you’re remodeling.

The concept of a kitchen is unique to every family. Some families barely enter the kitchen, using the refrigerator mainly for storing leftovers. Others consider the kitchen a pivotal room in the home. They create meals together. They work there. They host parties there. They’re active multiple hours of the day.

By considering your daily activities, you can work with a flooring expert to come up with several different flooring types, and finalize it to suit your individual needs.

Step Three: Who do you live with?

You may love white carpet, but if you have three young children and four furry friends, a white carpet wouldn’t be a great choice.

Have elderly relatives living with you? While thick, plush carpet may cause a tripping hazard, a cement floor is hard to stand on, and even more dangerous if they fall.

Flooring provides the base for whatever your family needs most. Dreams and wish lists should be considered, but don’t forget to look at your lifestyle realistically as well.

The good news is there are many flooring choices designed to mimic well-loved choices. Love hardwood but know it’s not practical? Luxury vinyl planks may be just what you’re looking for.

Step Four: Different types of flooring

Depending on when you last replaced flooring, you might not be aware of some of the latest technology available for your home’s remodel. Today’s flooring is more durable and easy to clean than ever before. Whether you’re looking for natural, eco-friendly, stain-resistant, or water-resistant, you’ll find it in today’s flooring.

A few of the most common ones that homeowners love right now include:

• Hardwood – people can’t resist this classic flooring material. Yet if you’ve had it in the past and aren’t sure about durability, give it a second look. This makes a great choice for many rooms in your home.
• Tile – this is one of the most cost-effective flooring choices available today. Plus with an almost unlimited color and pattern supply, you’ll be able to create any look you’re going for. Manufacturers have also duplicated other classic good looks, such as hardwood and stone, giving you an option when the more traditional options won’t work for your situation.
• Luxury vinyl – this isn’t what you remember from your mother or grandmother’s homes. Today’s luxury vinyl comes in plank and tile format, giving you a beautiful design with things like water-resistance or waterproof to go along with it.
• Carpet – it’s still a good choice when softness and acoustic insulation are required. And with today’s technology, stain-resistance will give you years of quality behind it.

Step Five: Define your budget

With every flooring choice you’ll consider for your remodel, you’ll find a product in an array of costs and qualities. Still, it’s a great idea to define your budget early and adjust your expectations to match what you can afford.

Don’t forget to leave money for underlayment, subflooring, and installation too. They will likely add more to the bottom line, impacting the total dollar amount you’ll spend.

• Low price – for homeowners with a tight budget, easy to install options can help you save money and time. Laminate and vinyl are often good choices for quick installations.

• Medium price – you get a great quality product at reasonable prices. You’ll have great choices in every category of flooring.

• High price – if uniqueness is important to you, you can look for customized flooring choices. Exotic hardwood will show off your personality, or look for premium tile, luxury vinyl, or carpeting.

Step Six: Professional installation or do-it-yourself?

When some people remodel, they look for ways to get involved. Paint a few walls … sure, why not?

For do-it-yourselfers, click-and-lock technology is a great way to go. You’ll find that technology on things like laminate or luxury vinyl planks.

https://pro-flooring.com/everyones-talking-about-luxury-vinyl-is-regular-vinyl-still-a-thing/

For more complicated jobs, hiring a professional is the only way to go. Traditional hardwood is easy to mess up if you aren’t sure of the installation process.

Know your limits, and select based on your needs. Because your flooring is the base for everything in your room, it’s the one thing you should be guaranteed and feel comfortable about. Ensure your flooring will stand the test of time.

Step Seven: Maintenance

Once your new flooring is installed in your remodel, what level of maintenance would work best for your situation? Do you want daily hands-on care? Or would you prefer a lay-it-and-leave-it approach?

Some floorings are more sensitive to daily care than others.

This is where resilience comes into the picture too. Any form of resilient flooring such as vinyl, tile, or even laminate works well because of its hands-off approach. A quick sweep, and you’re set to go.

Yet other things may come into play too. Wall-to-wall carpet may require you to replace the entire room if an accident occurs. With luxury vinyl planks or even carpet tiles, you can replace sections without having to install a new floor.

Final thoughts

Use this step-by-step guide to help you define the perfect flooring choices for your remodel.

With so many options available, there’s more than one choice that will perfectly suit your needs.

How can we help you finalize your selection?

The post A Step-By-Step Guide To Choosing Flooring For Your Remodel first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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

Want to know the most popular question we get about hardwood flooring? It isn’t about durability or maintenance. Instead, it’s about hardwood stain colors.

Homeowners want to feel assured they are selecting a hardwood stain color they’ll love for years to come. They want a color they won’t grow weary of in a few short years. One that will be too trendy, and looks dated before they’re ready to replace it.

They also want a hardwood stain color that adds to the resale value in case they decide to sell. Why add something to your home if it will detract from the looks, especially for potential buyers as they enter your space?

That’s a lot to ask from one question. Yet we’ve been doing this long enough we have a great answer whenever homeowners come in with this question.

The answer isn’t as hard as you might think. By starting with a few questions of your own, you’ll easily be able to select a stain color that best suits your lifestyle. And it’ll bring just the right personality to your home that anyone who enters will fall in love with the aesthetics you’ve created.

The basics of staining

Before we jump into color decisions, it’s important to fully understand what staining is. Staining is a separate process performed between sanding the hardwood planks and applying the clearcoat top cover. Don’t confuse stain with finishing.

Finishing is the topcoat process. It contains multiple coats of clearcoat applied on top of the stain.

A floor doesn’t have to be stained. It’s perfectly okay to apply finish to the original hardwood planks. If you prefer the color of natural wood, a clear coat protects the hardwood itself, and seals in the natural beauty of the wood.

If you want to change the color, stain is applied to hardwood planks after it’s smoothed and ready for a surface finish to be applied. This is when you have the option to use a colored hardwax oil, a stain under the oil, or a pre-tinted finish. Each will have different looks; it’s up to you to decide which is the best look for your home.

Hardwood also makes a difference. You can select from many different species of wood. Mahogany, cherry, walnut, pine, and oak all have different characteristics and hues. You may fall in love with the natural qualities of a species. Or you might prefer using it as a basis, then lightening or darkening it with a stain. This is how you build character. Some have more grains and imperfections than others, giving you the chance to create something truly unique.

Of course, you can also go with pre-stained planks, which allow you to select the color before it’s installed into your space. You can see the color applied, and know what it will look like before you install the first board.

How do you choose wood stain color?

If you’ve ever shopped at your local big box store, wandering the paint aisles can have you running for the doors. You’ll find several manufacturers of stains. Each manufacturer offers a selection of different colors, different treatments, and different options.

And if you’re not confused enough, pick up another manufacturer’s information and start comparing. The colors are similar, yet different. Is that too much yellow? Or maybe too much red?

Maybe you start with the fact you want a dark color. But the light color choices throw you into a tailspin – is it the best choice?

Before you finish your planning, step back and think about what you desire. There’s a reason you’re installing hardwood flooring in your home. What were your original desires? How did you see your “dream home” after renovation? That gives you a starting point in the direction you should take it.

Take a look at the latest design magazines. You’ll quickly find an array of color choices. You’ll see some hardwood in the darkest colors, while others stay more neutral, or traditional.

That says it all.

The best choice is always based on what you desire.

Let’s talk about hardwood color choices

Dark hardwood colors are considered stylish and dramatic. But there are a few things to keep in mind.

The darker the color, the less you see the grains of the wood. You can find an array of dark colors – ebony, expresso, true black – but the darker you stain the wood, the less color variation will come through in the wood planks. This can create a clean, minimalistic look that may make it easier to decorate. However, with a more solid line on your flooring, it is more difficult to clean and maintain the look.

Lighter colors remain open, airy, and neutral. They blend well with any decor, letting the aesthetics of your decor shine through rather than the color of your floor. In many cases, decorators will select a species of hardwood based on the color the homeowner desires. The closer you can keep your color choice to the original color, the easier it will be to maintain.

Lighter does tend to wear better, show less dirt, and stand the test of time.

Of course, mid tones might be more of your preference.

Mid tones are more traditional. You’ll see this in older homes, and it hides imperfections well. This tends to have more brown tones than red, but can change based on where it’s applied. How much direct sunlight streams in? What does your decor look like? Keep in mind that every species will impact how the color appears when they are finished and ready for daily wear.

Don’t forget about gray hardwood and whitewash. It’s one of the newest, hottest color choices, and has been popular for the past several years. Gray can be a bit challenging, and often requires mixing several colors to get the right hew.

Going back to resale – what’s the best hardwood stain color? 

Homeowners often move back and forth during the decision process, trying to settle on a color.

Should you go with a color you love?

Or should you choose one based on longevity, resale, and ensuring it holds up well over time?

That’s a personal decision. What’s best for you?

Is this your “forever” home? Then, by all means, go with your instincts, and choose your favorite color.

If you have any doubts, and aren’t sure about direction, it might benefit you to stay more neutral. Grays are very trendy. Reds can feel dated. Whitewash is an acquired taste.

Yet neutral will never go out of style.

What hardwood stain colors are your favorites?

The post Confused About Hardwood Stain Colors? Here’s How To Choose first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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

Balterio was founded in 2001 by Balta group and in 2015 was taken over by the Unilin group. The Unlin group is one of the largest flooring manufacturers in the world and Balterio is one of its premium brands. Balterio has 4 core principles which are: DurabilityAll Balterio floors have superior wear, impact and scratch… Read More

The post Is Balterio laminate flooring any good? first appeared on Discount Flooring Depot Blog. This post appeared first on https://www.discountflooringdepot.co.uk

Were you aware that hardwood flooring in homes dates back to the 1600s? According to experts, people have used hardwood flooring in their houses since the Baroque Era, between 1625 and 1714. Unsurprisingly, even more than 300 years later, hardwood floors have become a go-to choice for many homeowners.

If you’re considering putting your home on the market or want to add value to your home, you might be interested in what we have to say. Our team at Flooring.org has compiled this list showcasing the top three ways hardwood flooring adds value to your home. So continue reading to learn more.

Although there are many ways that hardwood flooring can add value to your home, we’re going to look at the top three below.

They Increase A Homes Resale Value

When you install hardwood flooring in your home, you are doing far more than simply elevating the look of the rooms in your house. With the installation of hardwood flooring by a reputable company like Flooring.org, you’re increasing your home’s resale value.

Hardwood flooring increases a home’s resale value because many people across various age groups prefer hardwood floors to other types of materials. In fact, most people will pay more for a house that has hardwood flooring already installed.

How much more you will get is difficult to determine as it depends on where in the US your home is, but on average most homebuyers are willing to fork out $2080 more for homes with hardwood floors.

They Make A Home More Attractive

Should you plan on potentially selling your home in the future, installing hardwood flooring will make it more attractive to buyers. Since, as you now know, more people want hardwood floors so they seek out homes with them. This means you will beat the competition that doesn’t have hardwood floors and potentially sell your home much quicker.

With hardwood flooring, you have a much better chance of limiting the time you have to wait for your home to sell once it’s on the market. Best of all, there are numerous hardwood flooring options, so consider them before choosing tiles, carpeting, laminate, or concrete.

They Are Durable

Hardwood floors will stand the test of time, unlike other flooring options, because they are durable and can deal with wear and tear much better than softer flooring materials. Hardwood floors will last between 20 to 30 years when installed professionally. This means that you won’t need to replace them as often, saving you money and time in the long run.

Since other people know that hardwood floors are more durable as well, it immediately makes your home more attractive and ratchets up the value. After all, it’s believed that hardwood flooring typically yields a 75% return on investment.

As you can see, hardwood flooring adds value to your home in many ways. If you’re ready to install hardwood floors and want assistance picking out the hardwood flooring that matches your home best, you can speak with us at Flooring.org. Our team knows everything there is to know about hardwood flooring and is eager to help. To reach us directly, please give us a call at 800-807-4079.

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

The kitchen and living space are places in the home where we spend the most time. It’s no wonder we look for ways to improve it and make it better.

For many homeowners, that involves turning to the great outdoors. It means pushing the boundaries of what we consider to be livable space beyond the walls and into nature.

Of course, some things you can include both indoors and out. Open up the windows to create a larger space. Add a fireplace, a cooktop, and a big screen TV. We’ve found lots of ways to be able to spend more time outdoors.

But if you don’t get your flooring right, you’ll have more work than enjoyment. Maybe that’s why more people turn to ceramic and porcelain tile than any other flooring type.

What is ceramic tile?

Ceramic tile is made from a coarse clay with a small ratio of kaolin clay. It’s fired at lower temperatures than its porcelain counterpart, at no more than 1,650 degrees. It’s softer than porcelain, has good water resistance, and comes in an almost unlimited supply of colors and patterns. Their popularity makes them a mainstay in homes worldwide, being more frequently used in bathrooms. With proper installation and sealing, you’ll find them on floors, shower stalls, even countertops.

What is porcelain tile?

Porcelain tile has an increased water absorption rate over ceramic. It uses a special kaolin clay that is finer and purer than ceramic clay. It has additional additives such as quartz and feldspar for added strength. Porcelain tiles are fired at higher temperatures, usually from 2,200 to 2,500 degrees. This provides a denser, smoother tile that stands up better than ceramic. It’s also what makes it a perfect addition to homes inside and out.

What’s better, ceramic or porcelain?

After reading the descriptions above, it may seem like porcelain tile is your better choice. But the bottom line is: it depends.

When building out outdoor living spaces, the focus is always on design. How will your room be covered from the elements? How much protection will it have from the weather?

Installation is a big deal. This isn’t something you’ll want to take on yourself without expert knowledge. Especially here in Colorado, where we can get extreme temperature variations. It comes down to creating the proper substructure, paying attention to the type of tile, and giving equal thought to grout and sealant as you lay your tiles into place.

Still, tiles work well for all of your design work: countertops, bars, fireplaces, and flooring.

Are porcelain tiles good in freezing conditions?

Even though Colorado’s weather patterns seem to be changing, we generally have a few frigid days each year. Your outdoor living space is only beneficial if it can hold well in all conditions.

Porcelain tile is an excellent product for use in outdoor applications because:

• It has a low water absorption rate, making them stain and weather-resistant. They absorb almost no water, and won’t crack in freezing conditions.
• They are extremely resistant to fading, meaning they’ll keep looking great even in Colorado’s blazing sunlight.
• They are manufactured to withstand high traffic situations. They are one of the most durable flooring materials around.

When you’re designing outdoor living space in such a changing environment, it’s important to go with a high-quality tile, one that will stand up to all Colorado’s environment can dish out. Porcelain tile often meets that requirement because of its:

• Durability – it’s far superior in extreme and high traffic situations
• Versatility – they can be used indoors and out, and are manufactured to weather all kinds of conditions
• Flexibility – they are far easier to use and install than more difficult building materials like concrete
• Maintenance – because of their composition, they are low maintenance and easy to keep clean
• Strength – they stand the test of time against moisture, stains, and even fire resistance

Kitchen and living room tiles – it’s more than what you expected

The kitchen and living space are the areas of the home with the most action. You prepare dinners there. You hang out with friends and family. You throw parties and create memories there.

That’s why many homeowners debate about creating the right ambiance.

People love hardwood, and it works well in so many situations. But if you’re looking for seamless flow-through from indoor to outdoor living, you’ll naturally migrate to tile.

Thanks to an extraordinarily large range of tile options, you’ll find your desired look quickly. And what works well as flooring might compliment what you decide to include on your outdoor fireplace or kitchen.

Not every setting needs to have the same tile. However, complimenting and flow-through are required. This starts by selecting no more than three distinct types of tile, and ensuring they are in the same color range, creating an aesthetically pleasing look.

And the reason so many homeowners are turning to tile is because of the looks you can create.

• Marble
• Stone
• Quartz
• Hardwood
• Onyx
• Concrete
• Metal-look
• Slate

If you have a desire, you’ll find it in ceramic or porcelain tile. It’s created to mimic some of the popular and well-loved flooring materials ever used. Yet because it’s tile, it has the benefit of being durable and easy to care for.

Other things to consider

Tile also guarantees a healthier air supply. That’s because tile is made with non-toxic materials, and does not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It’s hypoallergenic, hygienic, and are easy to clean. All of those messes you make from creating memories? They’ll be easy to clean.

Furthermore, tile is one of the best materials to lay over radiant heat. Tile is often overlooked here in Colorado as a primary living space flooring choice because it can be cold underfoot.

No more.

With radiant heating, your flooring will be toasty warm on the coldest days of the year. Tile is an excellent heat conductor, which means you’ll create a warmer living space while enjoying energy savings too.

Is ceramic or porcelain tile in your future?

If you’re expanding your kitchen and living space from indoors outside, take a look at ceramic and porcelain tile to create a sophisticated look.

https://pro-flooring.com/using-the-perfect-tile-for-every-room-in-your-home/

There’s nothing more beautiful and functional as tile for flooring, fireplaces, kitchen layouts, and even pool space.

How can we help you find your ideal look?

The post Ceramic and Porcelain Tile For Your Outdoor Kitchen and Living Space first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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Homeowners usually make a flooring purchase for one of two reasons:

1. They remodel their homes and need new flooring out of necessity.

2. They notice their current flooring is worn out or out of date.

That’s when the process begins, and homeowners start noticing flooring around them.

This is when your flooring research should begin. And how you should go about it may surprise you.

Start with dream boarding flooring choices

When most homeowners are ready for new flooring, they start with definite ideas in mind. They want hardwood. They love carpet. Only dark colors will do.

But your initial ideas might not be your best choices. Because you haven’t looked at flooring in a while, it benefits you to start noticing what’s currently on the market. What’s trending.

We suggest homeowners do this in two ways.

Start by pulling decorating magazines and find what draws in your attention. Rip out pages, start a “vision board,” and see where your ideas lead you.

You can also watch home shows and see the latest trends. What do you fall in love with based on what you’re seeing installed in other homes?

This will lead you online, where you can further your research. Why not create a pinboard on Pinterest, where you can save all of your research? This will help you go back through your ideas, as well as share it with our sales team so we can learn more about your goals and desires.

Go deeper with your research

You want hardwood. You want carpet. You want resilient flooring.

You’ve seen the looks, colors, and styles. Now it’s time to go deeper with your research.

Not all flooring materials are the same.

It’s easy to get sucked in with price when you find a “good deal” at your local big box store. They have one brand, one style, one color. But the price …

There’s a reason it’s such a good deal.

Manufacturers will never sell a high-quality product line at a bargain price. They make exclusive offers they’re willing to sell at lower prices. It’s an entry-product they do to reach a new market.

Is that what you want in your home? In some circumstances, the answer may be: yes. But if this is your “dream home,” settling is never the right answer.

Dig deeper into manufacturing processes

What’s important to you?

• Sustainability
• Eco-friendly
• Resilient
• Carefree maintenance
• Durability
• Water-resistance

What’s available today may surprise you.

As you start your research, you’ll find many organizations that help create strong manufacturing processes, better products for consumers, more ethical products for our environment.

National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) is an international not-for-profit trade association representing all segments of the hardwood flooring industry, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, installers, importers/exporters, inspectors, and consultants. Their goal is to strengthen the wood flooring community through technical standards, education, networking, and advocacy.

Choosing manufacturers and dealers who subscribe to NWFA helps strengthen the industry, as well as give you some assurances as to the ethical integrity of the company you’re doing business with.

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has provided 25 years of experience in sustainable forest management. They use our expertise to promote the responsible management of the world’s forests, bringing together experts from the environmental, economic and social spheres.

They help ensure companies are in compliance with all laws and regulations, maintain satisfactory workers’ rights and employment conditions. They manage forest resources for both environmental and social concerns. They manage all processes from production through disposal.

Of course, these are just two of the many resources available to ensure ethical guidelines within the industry, and educational resources for a better understanding of the products.

Whatever direction you’re heading with your own flooring choices, there is sure to be a wealth of information online about finding the best resources. Just do simple Google searches to find out all you can about the flooring you’re thinking of installing.

What’s the difference between flooring retailers and hardwood stores?

As a consumer, you might find your local hardware store appealing. After all, it’s a one-stop shop based on all of your needs.

When you’re dreaming, it’s easy to head in and get all of your ideas in one place. Visit the paint section, look at lights, find appliances, and settle on flooring.

But as you walk around the aisles, notice the choices presented to you. Want carpet? There’s a handful of options, probably from just a few select manufacturers.

Or maybe tile is more your style. There are several sizes and colors to choose from. Who needs more? More just adds to the confusion.

While that line of thinking may seem right, one big thing these big box stores are missing: customized professional help.

If you ask a sales associate at a local big box store for help, they may be able to offer limited guidance. They have knowledge of the product in the store. They are there just putting in their eight hours. They don’t have a thorough understanding of the flooring industry. They can’t provide a wealth of information that will help you make an informed decision.

That comes from a true professional in the industry. That’s what you get when you enter a professional flooring retailer.

They thoroughly understand how to help you find the flooring best suited for your needs. They have expertise in all types of flooring, and have the experience necessary to help you pick the right flooring for your lifestyle.

They also have a special relationship with the most popular manufacturers in the world. They purchase superior products that give you increased lifespan. They provide more colors to give you even more options.

But don’t think this adds to the confusion. The sales associate knows how difficult this choice can be, and is ready with questions to make the process seamless.

And let’s talk cost. Think you’re saving money at the big box store? You’ll be surprised at the comparison. Big box stores often have inferior products, meaning you’ll need flooring replacement a lot sooner than you would with a higher-quality product.

Still convinced a quick choice is the best choice?

Before you make your decision, how about stopping by and looking at our wide selection? No pressure. Just good advice. You’ll be able to see the difference.

And we’ll help you make an informed decision. Find flooring perfect for your situation.

The post Why Your Flooring Purchase Should Start With A Little Research first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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As we’ve mentioned before on the blog, professional carpet cleaning should be done at least once a year. It not only keeps your carpet fresh and clean, but it also extends the life of your carpet. But what can you do the other 364 days of the year to keep your carpets in tip-top shape? Here are a few tips on how to maintain your carpet between professional cleanings.

Leave your shoes at the door

Your shoes track a lot of dirt, mud, pollen, and other grime into your house and onto your carpets, often getting ground in and trapped in the carpet fibers. The pollen can cause allergies to flare up, and can even affect those with asthma. The germs, bacteria, and viruses in the mud and dirt can also cause respiratory problems if inhaled.

You can prevent outdoor grime from getting into your carpets by taking off your shoes when you come inside. Step into a pair of slippers – or just walk around in your socks or bare feet – and you’ll be doing a lot to keep your carpets much cleaner (you’ll be keeping your indoor air healthier, too!). The carpet cleaner will wear their shoes in the house during the professional cleaning. 

Don’t forget your furry friends

Humans are not the only ones who track in dirt and mud from outside – our pets, do so, as well. Make sure to wipe off their paws when they come in from outdoors, whether or not it’s been raining or snowing. You’ll be thankful you gave their paws a good wipe-down the next time they get up on the furniture!

Wipe up stains, spills or other accidents immediately

Be sure to clean up any stains, spills or other accidents right away – the longer you wait, the much harder it will be to remove any stains that set in. There are a variety of DIY solutions available for simple stains – check out our handy tips for removing stains at home here. 

Note: You should not attempt to clean stains from fragile or antique rugs yourself – these require professional handling.

Vacuum weekly

Another tip for keeping your carpet clean between professional cleanings is to vacuum regularly – at least once a week. And don’t forget to vacuum the upholstery and curtains, as well – dirt, dust, dust mites, viruses and bacteria can hide in the fibers. These contaminants can reduce the quality of the indoor air, possibly resulting in allergy attacks and other respiratory problems in those who are susceptible. We know vacuuming is not a fun job, but it’s necessary to keep your carpets clean!

Following the above carpet cleaning tips will help keep your carpets fresh and beautiful, but it’s not quite enough – don’t forget to get them professionally cleaned at least once a year. Even if they’re not stained or visibly dirty, professional carpet cleaning rids your carpets of any deep-down dirt, germs, and dust mites that can cause health problems and shorten the life of your carpet. If it’s been over a year since you’ve had your carpets professionally cleaned, contact us today, and we’ll get them clean and fresh in no time!

The post Tips to Maintain Your Carpet Between Professional Cleanings appeared first on A Personal Touch.

Have you ever slipped, tripped, or fallen to the ground because of something in your path?

According to the National Safety Council, falling is the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related death, with over 42,000 people dying in 2020 at home and at work.

While work environments have their own safety rules, if you’re redesigning a room, safety may be a factor. Maybe you’re trying to create an environment where mom has less risk of slipping, or where the surface area reduces the impact of a fall.

Two step process

There are two aspects to creating a living environment that prevents slips and falls.

First, find flooring that reduces the chances of slipping. If you’ve ever walked across a slippery tile and felt your feet slide across the surface, you know how dangerous it can be. Slipping can be a big problem at any point in life, but especially as you age. The risk of injury escalates.

Second, find flooring that softens a fall if it happens. Concrete is a hard surface that can cause damage if you land on it. Carpet provides a soft surface that softens the blow.

Of course, there are many types of flooring in between. The American National Standards Institute has created a Test Method for Measuring Coefficient of Friction of Hard Surface Flooring Materials. It evaluates flooring based on five categories:

• Interior, Dry
• Interior, Wet
• Interior, Wet Plus
• Exterior, Wet
• Oils and Greases

Using these categories as a guide, you can find flooring choices rated effective in whatever room you’re considering. It can help you make smarter choices for the flooring you choose.

Flooring choices to avoid

When you consider the best flooring to install to avoid slips and falls, sometimes it’s easier to start with floors you should avoid. This is especially true if a senior lives alone and help may not be readily available.

The key is to make any surface area as risk-free as possible. That means avoiding tripping hazards that can cause someone to trip. Be especially conscious of transitions between different types of flooring, or as you move from room to room.

Area rugs should be avoided. The height difference could be challenging for some individuals. The material could shift and move as they walk across it.

Hard surfaces can be more challenging when a fall occurs. Concrete has zero give when a person lands on it. Stone tile is similar, with hard surfaces that can cause extensive damage after a fall. Polished stone adds a smoother surface area that can be more conducive to slipping, especially when wet. Ceramic and porcelain tiles look great and have many patterns and styles, but their slippery surface can be dangerous when wet. Wide grout tracks can add unevenness to a floor, and increase susceptibility to tripping.

Carpet makes a great choice

There’s a reason carpet is still a popular choice in homes across the country. It’s one of the best forms of flooring for both avoiding slipping hazards as well as cushioning a fall.

When selecting carpet, the key is selecting the right choice for easy walkability. This isn’t the time to look for a plush shag you can dig your toes into. That can work against shuffling feet, and prevent walkers or wheelchairs from having easy access.

Move to a short pile with a sturdy surface area. Padding is equally important as the carpet itself; it provides a base for keeping the carpet sturdy and in place.

A professional installer will ensure a tight, wrinkle-free material that will give you great wearability for years to come. Be sure to avoid clutter, vacuum regularly to pick up dirt and debris, as well as keeping allergens down to not exacerbate existing health problems.

Cork works well in living space

Cork is growing in popularity because of its functionality and good looks. Unlike stone, tile, or even hardwood, cork has a natural give to it that’s softer to the touch. It makes it easier to stand on for any length of time, and provides a softer surface for both walking and sitting on.

The softer surface area can be a problem with pet nails or hard, sharp objects. Talk with a flooring consultant before deciding on cork if you’re leaning in that direction. They can help you find the right product to suit your needs.

It’s both sustainable and hypoallergenic. Cork comes from the cork tree, and is harvested by removing the bark at maturity. It doesn’t kill the tree, but leaves it to continue reproducing bark to be harvested again.

Cork is also an all natural product that doesn’t collect pollen, mildew, or other contaminants known to increase allergies. It makes an excellent choice for helping to keep a clean home.

Luxury vinyl is a great choice

If you’ve been looking at new flooring for any length of time, it’s hard not to take a second look at luxury vinyl. That’s because manufacturers have taken what people love about other types of flooring such as hardwood and stone, and put it into an amazing product that works well in situations where hardwood and stone don’t.

Luxury vinyl comes in both tile and plank formats designed to look like other flooring choices you love. Luxury vinyl planks mimic hardwood, and come in a multitude of styles, colors, and patterns. Luxury vinyl tiles can look like natural stone, porcelain tile, or even marble or granite.

Yet the surface area is soft and smooth, with a little give as you walk across it. It might not have the same give as cork or even rubber, but it can be a great alternative, and provides a well-rounded option for both aesthetics and functionality.

Luxury vinyl is also budget-friendly, durable, and easy to maintain. You’ll never worry about leaving a mess behind with luxury vinyl in place. Simply wipe it up and you’ll be back to enjoying life.

What’s the right flooring choice for you?

If you’re in the market for new flooring to help reduce slips and falls, any of these choices can make a great addition to your home.

What’s the best choice for you? Stop by and compare them all. We’ll help you choose the perfect flooring material to suit your needs.

The post Select Flooring To Reduce Slips and Falls first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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Open concept. It’s taken on new meaning in recent years as we get more creative in the way we design our space.

Put in a sliding wall of glass, and you’ll suddenly transform what used to be indoor space into something more. Take advantage of the nice weather. Continue with the view. And let your guest list grow as you have even more space than before.

Of course, that also causes a design problem for functionality and flow.

You know you can’t bring hardwood from inside to the outside. What flooring choice do you use?

Indoor-outdoor space

Indoor-outdoor transitional spaces allow you to move freely between indoors and out. They are ideal for areas that have milder weather throughout the year that will enable you to enjoy all that indoor-outdoor living has to offer.

That describes Colorado living perfectly these days, as we’re seeing milder weather well into the fall. With covered patios, outdoor fireplaces, heated floors, and gourmet kitchens, this is a place you’ll use consistently, whether it’s to watch the fireflies play in the backyard, or tailgating before your favorite games.

Transitional spaces don’t need to be entirely open to the outdoors. Many homes use floor-to-ceiling windows and walls of glass to give the appearance of outdoor living. A well designed indoor-outdoor space will:

• Extend the reach beyond the physical limitations of a standard wall
• Create a uniform design and appeal that moves from indoor to outdoor living space
• Allows you to enjoy your outside living space more months of the year
• Incorporates what you love most about nature into your design space

Studies show that a well crafted outdoor living space can add as much as 10 percent to the asking price of your home when it comes to selling. On a million-dollar home, that means a well crafted outdoor living space can add as much as $100,000 to the final asking price.

Are you ready to design your indoor-outdoor space?

Indoor-outdoor tile

With so many positives, it’s no wonder homeowners are making this one of their biggest remodeling projects. Yet before you start enjoying the fireplace, or making your guestlist for the next party, you’ll have to settle on flooring choices.

The most logical choice is a tile floor. But if you’ve ever looked at tile, you know it can seem like there is unlimited potential.

To fully protect your transitional space, the tile needs to accommodate a full array of concerns.

• Withstand heavy use
• Avoid stains and resist spills
• Handle well in all weather conditions without cracking and breaking
• Withstand intense heat under the blazing sun

Colorado’s weather is often extreme, moving to both ends of the spectrum sometimes within hours. Ever experienced snow one moment, only to have it climb and set records a few hours later? That’s Colorado weather.

When looking for the right tile to use both indoors and outdoors, you’ll want:

• Durability – outdoor tiles must withstand freezing temperatures, high heat, ice and snow, as well summer storms.
• Texture – slipping can be a problem if tiles become slippery when wet. Slip-resistance means you’ll have added benefits in all kinds of weather, and it’ll be easier to clean the flooring after a dinner party.
• Unglazed – to withstand freezing temperatures, you’ll want tiles that are frost-resistant and unglazed. This ensures they won’t crack on the coldest days of the year.
• Weather-resistant – we’ve mentioned this several times for a reason. To ensure a fully transitioned flooring from indoors out, it’s important that tiles endure whatever weather Colorado dishes out.

You can easily bring outdoor tiles in. They are already designed for outdoor living. Bringing them in means they’ll function well in all conditions.

The easiest way to accomplish this is by looking at:

Ceramic and porcelain tile

Stroll through the tile section, and you’ll find an array of choices using both porcelain and ceramic. They both can be used for indoor and outdoor use.

The difference is in both composition and manufacturing.

Porcelain tiles are made of a finer, refined clay that is pressed harder and under more pressure, making it denser than ceramic. It is fired at a higher temperature, which makes it stronger and more scratch resistant.

Ceramic tiles are less dense and more porous, and can be glazed for smoothness or left unglazed for a more natural feel.

 

Porcelain is less vulnerable to water and other liquids, but ceramic comes in a wider array of colors and patterns and can be easy on the budget as well as the installation process.

Natural stone tile

Natural stone tile is a beautiful choice for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. With natural stone tile, you can select from:

• Marble
• Travertine
• Granite
• Slate
• Quartz
• Limestone

Natural stone has a slip-resistant surface that gives you, your pets, and your indoor-outdoor furniture traction and stability. Because it’s more durable than other tiles, it won’t fade in the sunlight, or break down or become damaged in harsh weather conditions.

Its classic good looks are something you’ll love everywhere in your home, inside and out. Natural tile has been high on homeowners’ request lists for generations, and with today’s manufacturing process, it will continue to be in high demand for years to come.

How do you choose? 

Selecting the right indoor-outdoor tile can be difficult, especially when there are many styles to choose from. We recommend for our customers to:

Start with your budget – there can be a big price jump between the different types of tile. Understanding your budget helps direct you to the best choice based on your budget and needs.

Consider where they will be installed – take note of daily activities and what your flooring will face year round. Note if the flooring will be covered, how you plan to use your space, and your plans for entertaining. Big groups of people every weekend require more thought than if you and your family are alone every day of the week.

How much light you get – a north-facing patio will receive different elements than a south-facing space. This can help you select color, material, as well as design. If your space rarely has sunlight, you might prefer a lighter color that highlights your surroundings. An area that always has sunlight streaming across might lead you to select one that won’t fade quickly in the summer months.

Your style – personality should always direct your final choice. Make sure you won’t regret it by selecting a flooring that won’t be easy to maintain. Yet when it comes down to style and color, let your heart lead the way.

Having an indoor-outdoor living space is a fun way to add more space to your home. Want to finalize your flooring choice? Stop by today and see our entire selection.

The post Indoor Outdoor Tile – Create The Living Space of Your Dreams first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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Carpets can make a home look beautiful and feel welcoming – after all, who doesn’t love to take their shoes off and let their feet sink into a warm, cozy carpet? If they’re not being kept clean, however, your carpets can make you sick by trapping a variety of contaminants that can lead to allergies and other illnesses.

Contaminants You Can See…

Carpet fibers can trap dirt, mud, pollen and other contaminants from outdoors that can cause allergies. Heavy foot traffic can grind the soil deep into the carpeting, making it extremely difficult to remove no matter how often you vacuum. Pollen can be especially troublesome during certain seasons of the year, and it can trigger asthma symptoms, as well. This is why professional carpet cleaning is a must if you suffer from allergies or asthma!

Moisture is another issue that can cause problems with maintaining a healthy indoor environment. If your carpets get wet and don’t dry quickly enough (or at all), the remaining moisture can cause mold and mildew to grow. Mold and mildew release spores which can be inhaled, often triggering allergic reactions. Symptoms may include excessive coughing and sneezing, or even eye irritation and difficulty in breathing. This is why it’s so important to blot and dry any spills on your carpets – you definitely don’t want mold and mildew to get a foothold!

…And Those You Can’t

Dust mites are also an issue when it comes to keeping your carpeting clean and healthy. What are dust mites, you ask? They are very small (too small to see with the naked eye), insect-like pests that feed on dead human skin cells and prefer warm, humid environments. The protein-based allergens they produce can trigger mild to severe allergic symptoms and can be responsible for asthma attacks.

Dust mite allergens don’t typically stay in the air – instead, they settle within dust or fabrics. Common places for dust mite allergens to hang out include mattresses, bedding, curtains, upholstered furniture – and carpeting. If you’re at all concerned about dust mites, regular carpet cleaning (beyond vacuuming) is a must!

Dust mites aren’t the only contaminants that you can’t see that may be hiding in your carpets – germs, bacteria, and viruses can all become trapped in carpet fibers. Breathe them in, and you could become sick from any number of diseases before you know it!

Eliminate All Kinds of Contaminants from Your Carpets with Professional Cleaning

There’s no doubt about it – if you want to stay healthy, you need to have your carpets professionally cleaned at least once a year, or even more often if you have asthma or other respiratory problems, or are prone to allergies. At A Personal Touch Carpet Cleaning Services, we use a powerful truck-mounted steam cleaning system that can rid your carpets of all kinds of dirt, dust, and contaminants. The steam used is heated to 230 degrees Fahrenheit –  hot enough to kill 98% of the germs, bacteria, and viruses hiding in your carpets.

Professional carpet cleaning can make all the difference when it comes to improving indoor air quality. You can literally breathe easier knowing that your carpets are deep-down clean, fresh and free of contaminants. If you’re in the Littleton or Denver area and it’s been more than a year since your carpets were professionally cleaned, call us today – your health depends on it!

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

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