Banish mold and mildew with regular tile and grout cleaning

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

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

What’s the difference between mold and mildew?

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

According to the Environmental Protection Association (EPA),

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

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

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

Disappointed with at-home grout cleaning?

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

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

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

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

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

Want to beautify and safeguard your home?

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

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

Source

Basic Facts about Mold and Dampness | CDC

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

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

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

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

How today’s Berber carpet differs from past materials 

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

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

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

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

Why you should consider Berber carpet for your next remodel 

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

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

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

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

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

Things to be aware of before installing Berber carpet

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

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

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

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

Is Berber carpet the right choice for you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Yes, you can get matching wooden flooring accessories to complement your décor and add the finishing touches to your room.  They will help to cover over the expansion gaps that need to be left during the installation process.  We have a wide range of wooden flooring accessories, ranging from solid oak trims, MDF beading and aluminum door bars.  If you have an Oak floor then you will probably want to have matching Oak accessories. However, if you have a colour stained floor then you might want to go for the closest match in MDF or aluminium.  Have a look at our full range of accessories. Read More

With spring just around the corner, and homes are going up for sale, The Carpet Guys want to help make moving easier. If you bought a new home, you are realizing just home much stuff you have. A lot of packing is in your future. So how do you make this easy on yourself? Let The Carpet Guys help.

First off, consider the necessities:

• What stuff do I need/what can I get rid of?
• Do the floors of your new home need to be replaced?
• Have I double checked the utilities?
• What supplies will I need?
• Have I labeled my items by room?
• Do I need moving services?

Get Rid of Useless Items

Take some time to separate the items you need from the items you don’t use anymore. Most items can be split into 3 categories: sell, trash, or donate. Consignment centers, eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, etc., are all great places to sell gently used items. Or, consider donating things to your favorite charity. If it’s unusable or obsolete, it goes in the trash.

After you are left with the items you’re keeping, place the items in boxes and label them for what room they belong to. The key to moving is starting organized.

If you have a lot of items that you must keep, you may be in need of moving assistance. For a smaller move, ask family and friends.  If you have more than a few rooms to move, you may want to contact a service.

Do you Need Flooring Renovations?

Before moving into a new residence, having your flooring changed or replaced is much easier when the home is empty. The Carpet Guys can oftentimes replace your flooring the next day. Give us a call at 855-4-MY-GUYS and we will set up a free in-home estimate. It will be easier to move into your new home with beautiful new flooring.

After you have moved from your old home, you may need to replace flooring for the new owners. Many purchasers will put a stipulation in their home purchase agreement that they want carpet replaced prior to closing on the home.

Utilities

Make sure to find out which utilities you will need to start up, transfer or cancel.  For example, if making a short distance move, you can transfer your electricity from the old address to the new address. It may require a service person to come to the home in the case of a gas shut off or turning on.

What Moving Supplies do you Need?

Figure out what supplies you will need for the move. Besides the obvious large count of boxes, you may need to pick up other items such as:

• Plastic/Bubble wrap
• Bags
• Plastic bins
• Stretch wrap
• Tape and dispensers

Hopefully, these resources will make moving a little easier for you. The Carpet Guys can kick-start your new space with new floors and we hope you enjoy your new home for years to come. Go to our free estimate scheduling page to book your appointment today!

The post Make Moving Easier appeared first on The Carpet Guys.

Take a look around your home. Does your flooring suggest it’s been around a while? Do your carpets look worn, faded, and outdated?

Still, you’re nervous about remodeling. Should you install new carpet? Is carpet still fresh and new? What’s the most popular carpet right now? Is carpet truly something for you?

Here are some statistics that may surprise you.

The carpet industry in the United States accounts for 51% of the total flooring market.

Flooring sales in the United States reached $21.9 billion in 2017, with over 19.7 billion square feet of product sold. Carpet holds the largest share of the overall floor industry, with 41.5% of revenues earned in 2018.

We often get homeowners in our retail location, asking whether carpet is still a viable option inside their homes. Our answer is always overwhelmingly: Yes!

The nitty-gritty of carpeting

Before we get into the good stuff of selecting carpet, it’s worth a few moments to understand what carpet truly is.

Most people start with the looks, styles, and designs available, we tell people to focus instead on the fibers and how the carpet was made.

A saxony carpet is dense and luxurious. It’s similar to shag pile, and flattens a bit over time.

Loop pile is hard-wearing and a good choice for busy rooms. It’s created from heavier and wider cut loops of yarn, giving you a textured look. The loops can snag, and may be difficult for homes with pets.

And then there’s the hardest working carpets in the industry, twist pile carpets. These are one of the most popular carpets found in homes all across Colorado. That’s because it’s created from yarn that has been tightly twisted together. The loops are cut, meaning it won’t easily snag. It creates a firm surface area that won’t collect dirt easily.

Twist pile carpet comes in a variety of styles and colors. You’ll also find plenty of textures and patterns.

When it comes time to clean, twist pile carpet holds its shape. Just run a vacuum over it regularly to help it keep its original condition.

It’s a style that you’ll find readily through many different manufacturers. And with the warranties they offer, you won’t be disappointed in how these flooring choices handle.

What about options? I want a carpet that looks good over time

When selecting carpet, focus on manufacturing first, looks second. It’s our top recommendation when people come into our location.

If you want a carpet that wears well over time, the way a carpet is created will determine just how well it stands up. It’s about the fibers, the backing, and even the padding. You’ll never be disappointed if you invest in high-quality carpet.

Yet we understand that you want style, color, beauty. After all, that’s what people see when they walk into your home.

The good news is you’ll find all of that and more in today’s carpet choices. What people want right now is:

Green carpet

Sustainable, eco-friendly, and green are the in-thing. Why invest in a new floor that ultimately harms the environment? That works in a number of ways. Homeowners want carpet made from a sustainable resource. They want materials that aren’t harmful to the environment. That includes indoor air quality. Why bring something inside your home if it makes your space anything but a safe place to live?

Luckily, you have choices today. We can point you in the right direction to find the greenest carpet materials on the market. You can also look for certifications such as Green Label Plus. This Carpet and Rug Institute’s certification is placed on products that care about indoor air quality. Manufacturers pay attention to materials with very low emissions, and are safe for the environment.

Natural fibers

Wool carpet is climbing in popularity because of the qualities it offers. Harvested from sheep, it’s soft and durable. Its thickness comes from tightly wound natural fibers that have long since stood the test of the elements. It’s soft, thick, plush, and has environmentally-friendly options. While wool can last longer than many other carpet options, it’s important to note that it does take care to maintain it over time.

Underlay

What’s underneath your carpet will have more impact on the durability than what you can see. Yet most homeowners place attention solely on the fibers.

Think of the underlay as the base for your flooring. If you have the right base, your carpet will last for years, and look great while aging.

Underlaying also determines the acoustics of the room. If noise reduction is important to you, ensure a quality underlay that has effective noise control. Underlayment and padding come in a variety of materials, thicknesses, and capabilities. You can get a waterproof backing that will help in potentially moist situations, such as the basement.

Also realize that what lies underneath your carpet will change depending on where you install your carpet. The basement has different needs than an upstairs bedroom. A staircase will require different underlayment than a home office or den.

While the quality of the carpet matters for longevity, equally, quality of the underlayment matters to. If you want your carpet to last, choose the highest quality padding you can afford.

Carpet makes a statement

Is carpet still a viable option for your home? You bet! We think it’s often the best choice for certain rooms in your home.

Only you know your personality and your tastes. Do you prefer to go bold? Or is natural more suitable for your liking?

Not all carpet colors are suitable for every environment. It’s about creating a space that creates a livable situation.

You can’t go wrong with gray or beige. Light natural colors will always be in style. They set the stage for your walls and furniture. They allow you to play with color through accents and decor.

Of course, if you’re big on color, you’ll find more colors available now than at any time in history. No matter what statement you wish to create, you’ll find the right color to suit your tastes.

Is carpet still trending? You’ll never go wrong with carpet. It’s the best flooring choice in a variety of situations.

How can we help you select the right carpet for your space?

The post What Is The Most Popular Carpet Right Now? first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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When thinking about hallway flooring choices, you will want to consider quite a few things.  Firstly, the hallway is the entrance to your home, so you will want a stunning and memorable floor to welcome people in.  Secondly, the floor that you choose will need to be hardwearing, especially as a hallway is one of the busiest areas of your home.  Finally, you will, more than likely, want a floor that is easy to keep clean. Read More

What does the word “tile” bring to mind?

For some, it might symbolize a durable flooring option.

For others, it can be a sign of beauty.

Tile is a versatile flooring choice that works just about anywhere.

Yet what a tile actually is may surprise you.

Wikipedia states a tile is a thin, square or rectangular covering manufactured from hard-wearing materials. It can be made from ceramic or stone, but it can also be created from glass or fabric.

What makes tile multifaceted is the fact it can be easily replaced. If a tile breaks, with care and work, you can replace it and have your entire flooring look great once again.

Whether you’re using tile in a residential application, or are replacing flooring in a commercial setting, you’ll never regret it as your flooring of choice. Why?

In one word: durability. Regardless of where you install it, tile will stand the test of time and look good in the process.

Want to learn even more about tile? We’ll share some of the top reasons why we love tile, and think it makes the perfect application to almost any residential or commercial space.

The most durable tile for your home

People often select tile when they want a combination of color, functionality, and style all wrapped into one.

The best tile you can choose is the one that works for the room. Tile flooring adds value to your home, and it does even more.

• Need a waterproof option? Tile maybe your solution.
• Want a flooring that is easy to clean and maintain? Depending on the tile you select, you can easily wipe dirt and grime away.
• If you need something hypoallergenic? Tile can be there for you too.
• Want a specific color or design? Nothing gives you more options than tile flooring.

That may be the most challenging part about installing a new tile floor. Where do you begin! With so many options available to you, you’ll need time to settle on the right tile floor for you. Popular choices include:

Ceramic tile – made from red, brown, or white clay, these can be your best option in a variety of situations. Put it in the bathroom; it works great for flooring, countertops, and shower walls. Place them in the kitchen; they look as great on the floor as they do on a backsplash. Once hardened and fired, ceramic tile can be durable enough to last for years. The color and pattern choices are endless, which gives you an infinite palette of opportunity as you install it into your home.

Natural stone – nothing says quiet elegance quite like natural stone. Whether you choose granite, limestone, or marble, using a natural stone brings the great outdoors inside. They come in any size and shape, depending on how natural you want to go. If you’re looking for personality and uniqueness, natural stone brings it to the table. You’ll always see individual beauty shining through, because each stone is uniquely its own.

Luxury vinyl tile – many people think they know what tile truly is. They think ceramic or stone … but it’s so much more. Tile has two core characteristics: its familiar square or rectangular shape, and its ease of installation. You’ll find both in today’s luxury vinyl tile. Whether you select the look of hardwood or stone, these hardworking tiles keep on giving. What’s more, they bring in the most popular flooring choices available, and add something more. If you’ve always wanted hardwood but need waterproof too, luxury vinyl tile may be the perfect solution.

The most durable tile for high-traffic situations

Inside your home, some areas naturally see more traffic than others. Think about how many times you walk through the front door into the entryway. Or down the hallway. Or into the kitchen. Wear patterns form quickly on flooring that is anything but durable.

Now think about commercial applications. The definition of high-traffic changes again. While you may have a handful of people walking through your home each day, hundreds, even thousands can journey over specific paths in a commercial setting. That means you have to think carefully about the most durable flooring options to suit your needs. Luckily, tile tops the list.

Quarry tile – this is perfect for heavy-duty applications. Made from hard-fired clay, this gives you functionality and durability, all in a pretty package. With the color and pattern choices available to you, you’ll be able to create and design you’re looking for. Just ensure you use epoxy grout and adhesive specifically designed for high-traffic applications to safeguard your tile and keep it durable throughout its use.

Luxury vinyl tile – if you select a commercial grade luxury vinyl tile, you’ll have a durable flooring that’s attractive enough for even the most upscale space. We’ve seen luxury vinyl tile placed in offices, schools, even medical spaces. These products are also known as resilient flooring for a very good reason. If you want a flooring choice that can handle all you dish out, luxury vinyl tile may be just what you’re looking for.

Carpet tile – did you look at this heading twice? How can carpet be durable? Today’s commercial carpet tiles are some of the most durable flooring choices on the market. These aren’t your typical broadloom carpets. If you want a soft flooring that looks great too, you’ll be surprised at just how well carpet tiles function in a variety of situations. Not just for commercial applications, we see them popping up in residential homes too.

Still have questions about tile and how they can offer you durable flooring options? 

We have the answers for you.

While we’ve tried to cover a variety of flooring options available to suit all of your needs, it’s still just an overview of what’s truly possible for your final design.

We’re here and ready to answer all of your questions. Whether you’re buying tile for one room, or have an entire commercial space in need of new flooring, we can help you find a durable flooring option you’re going to love as much in the future as you do on the showroom floor.

The post Tile Continues To Be One Of The Most Durable Flooring Options first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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If you’re trying to decide why carpet stairs, The Carpet Guys can help.  Frequently, our Design Consultants are asked questions about stairs and the best way to handle them.  Read on to find out more about stairs and carpet.

Stairs in the Home

Most homes in the Midwest have stairs. Even many single-level, ranch-style homes have stairs to a basement. Some homes and condos may have a step or two in a family room or formal area. Most stairs are for the purpose of moving from one level to the next. But some stairs are meant to be an aesthetic addition to an entryway of the home. No matter the purpose of the staircase, The Carpet Guys want to make sure you are safe in your home. So frequently, we recommend putting carpet on stairs.

Stair Carpet Safety

With the invention of luxury vinyl and laminate at a price point lower than hardwood, many homeowners want that “wood-look”. These hard surface flooring options are clean, easy to maintain, and will elevate the appearance of a room. Unfortunately, they are not the best stair option due to safety.  Most people wear socks or slippers in their homes. Any hard surface flooring is slippery. One wrong move and you could fall down hard stairs. If you add carpet, it gives the foot something to grip. Even adding a carpet runner if there is hardwood is preferable to nothing.

Stair Wear-and-Tear

Safety is the biggest reason our Design Consultants recommend carpet on stairs. We want to make sure steps are not a slippery hazard.  But another reason is that carpet can endure the wear-and-tear that stairs endure.  Every step down engages twice the weight because of the action. This means that stairs will wear quicker than a bedroom or hallway.  The cost to replace and refresh worn carpet on stairs is lower than replacing hard surface flooring. Plus, carpet absorbs the impact of your footfall making a softer landing for your feet and legs.

The last reason we recommend carpet on stairs is the beautiful, finished look. Having a Hollywood tucked finish or a carpet runner on a hard surface creates a look of elegance. It’s also quieter! If you’re looking for more information about all the ways to finish stairs check out our blogs What are the Best Flooring Options for Stairs? Or What is a Waterfall Finish?  We can also help you when you call us at 855-4-MY-GUYS (855-469-4897) or set up a free in-home estimate with one of our professional Design Consultants.

The post Why Carpet Stairs? appeared first on The Carpet Guys.

The coughing. The sneezing! It can leave you searching for relief.

And eventually, it can lead you to look at your home as a source. What can you do to make your home a little more friendly towards keeping you feeling your best? A little research may lead you to your flooring – it’s a great place to start.

Hypoallergenic means a product contains few allergy-producing substances known as allergens. They have been proven not to trigger allergic reactions.

Combine it with flooring – hypoallergenic flooring – and you create a base that allows you to have a room you can live in all the while feeling your best.

Some flooring materials are better than others.

Getting to the root of the hypoallergenic movement

Before we start discussing hypoallergenic flooring choices, we thought we’d dive deep into understanding hypoallergenic a bit more, since it’s a relatively new term. You might start noticing “hypoallergenic” on a wide variety of products – flooring, cosmetics, even the paints you use on your walls.

After a series of court cases, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia ruled that FDA’s regulation defining “hypoallergenic” was invalid. This means there is now no regulation specifically defining or governing the use of the term “hypoallergenic” or similar claims. And because of the lengthy procedural steps required to establish a new regulation, that is likely to be the situation for some time to come.

Every individual has varying degrees of sensitivity to allergy-causing products and chemicals. It’s up to you to decide what’s right for your situation.

Still, doing your research can help you discover the best materials on the market today, and use that to make decisions that can impact your health.

What is hypoallergenic flooring?

While there might not be clearly defined rules on what hypoallergenic flooring is, you can still look to manufacturer’s guidelines to help you find the best fit to suit your needs. Because the top lines are working hard to create carefully crafted products, they often work with other organizations to create the best products possible.

Hypoallergenic flooring of any kind will resist moisture and block bacteria, fungi, and other contaminants that may impact your health. They use materials that have a lower chance of causing a reaction, and push away from using things like VOCs and toxic chemicals.

To ensure flooring meets these standards, you can look for certification programs that test materials and issue it to certain manufacturers who are going above and beyond.

A UL Greenguard Certification mark on the package will ensure the product has been scientifically proven to have low chemical emissions. In other words, it tells you that the flooring material has low levels of volatile organic compounds VOCs.

Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX is another certification program that ensures non-hazardous end-products and all of the materials and components in the final product are tested and proven free of harmful levels of toxic substances.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a green building rating system that ensures all building materials are healthy, highly efficient, and offer cost-savings. Many commercial buildings are now working towards their LEED certification, which not only helps create healthier space, but can make the building more desirable too.

Sold on hypoallergenic flooring? Here are some options

Every flooring you’ll find across our showroom is created by manufacturers who are working hard to create a better product. But if you’re specifically looking for the most hypoallergenic flooring choices on the market today, we suggest a few of our favorites.

In general, hard surfaces will work the best at creating hypoallergenic flooring space. That’s because it’s easy to clean, easy to sweep and mop up any messes you make, and it won’t attract dust mites or other pollutants. But keep in mind that all hardwood is not created equal.

Solid hardwood is typically your priciest option, but it will also be your healthiest option. Solid hardwood is hard all the way through, and is a living material that provides natural benefits to your living space. Like a tree in the forest, hardwood can be impacted by moisture and humidity, so it’s important to maintain it well over time.

Engineered hardwood is made from layers of wood or high-density particleboard bonded together with adhesive, and topped with a thin wood veneer. This lowers the cost compared to solid hardwood, and makes it harder and more forgiving in places where solid hardwood might not work, like basements.

Laminate is made from particle board topped with a photograph designed to simulate real wood. It can be highly durable in places where solid hardwood might not hold up. And at a lower cost than solid hardwood or engineered hardwood, it’s a viable option for a lot of homeowners.

With either, it is important to pay attention to the production process, and be careful about ensuring they meet guidelines of green certification boards. Some manufacturers will use toxic chemicals in the production process, with adhesives having things like formaldehyde as a binder, which is a common asthma trigger.

If you love the look of hardwood, but want a twist to your design, there are other options. One of the best alternative options for hardwood flooring is bamboo. It’s an all natural product made from bamboo, which is considered one of the most sustainable flooring materials in use.

Bamboo is a durable material that has been proven to last up to 50 years when well cared for. Like hardwood, it’s important to pay attention to the production, and look for certification programs listed on the packaging. Certain brands can use adhesives with higher levels of VOCs.

Another product that simulates solid hardwood is cork flooring. Cork is made from the bark of a cork oak tree, sustainable because the bark can be harvested multiple times without harming the tree. It has a softer texture than solid hardwood, making it a good flooring choice in homes with small children or elderly. It also has a natural resilience against things like dust mites, making clean up a breeze.

Thinking of hypoallergenic flooring in your next remodel? 

Before you make your final selection, stop by and see our entire line. We can help you find the flooring material perfect for your lifestyle. We’ll help you select wisely, so you love your flooring for years to come.

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