The Best Flooring for Pets

If you have pets you will probably be thinking about them when you decide on a new floor.  Especially if you have cats, dogs, or other animals that will be walking on the floor.  You will more than likely want to choose a floor that is durable, hard wearing, waterproof and easy to clean. Read More

2020 will be remembered for a lot of things, but if you had to bring it down to one word, it would be: change.

No matter what industry you look at, what market you study, one thing becomes apparent very quickly – this has been a year where we questioned everything and changed accordingly.

Housing is no exception. According to the Colorado Association of Realtors:

• This has been the greatest 12 month period of price appreciation – 21.3 percent – ever tracked by the Colorado Association of Realtors
• There were 42 percent more single family homes sold during 2020 than at the same time the previous year

People are choosing to move for a variety of reasons.

• Move closer to family
• Relocate for better jobs
• Changes in family dynamics
• Build a better setup for working at home

Ultimately, we’re all spending a lot more time at home. And with that comes the desire to make “home” a perfect place. One that meets all the goals you have to make it through your busy day.

For some homeowners, their current space won’t do. The perfect solution may come in the form of new construction, the opportunity to build from the ground up and create the ideal home for your family.

But that isn’t without its own stress.

Some decisions are more critical than others. You can change the paint on the walls, but core decisions are things you’ll live with for years without easy fixes.

Like flooring.

Flooring is one of the most dominant visual factors you’ll install into your new home. Get it right, and it will stand the test of time. Get it wrong, and you’ll have buyer’s remorse from the moment you move in. It must match the dynamics of your living space, and withstand the foot traffic that takes place each day.

What are the most popular flooring choices for new construction on the market today?

Hardwood

When you’re thinking about adding flooring to every room in your home, it’s hard not to look at hardwood. Hardwood has a modern look and feel that compliments any home. It’s durable, easy to clean, and stands up well to the test of time. What’s not to love?

Thanks to modern technology, hardwood comes in many formats.

If you want the timeless classic, nothing can beat traditional hardwood. You’ll find a wide variety of woods, patterns, and stains that can take your decor from country to modern, minimalist to sophisticated. With so many hardwood varieties to choose from, you’ll find one that blends perfectly with your decor in mind.

If you want something even more durable, engineered hardwood may be the perfect choice. It’s made up of multiple layers to add strength and durability to your flooring. The top and bottom layers are real hardwood. In between are sandwiched additional layers that give you even more added benefits. Engineered hardwood is typically less expensive than traditional hardwood, but it increases scratch resistance, and can add durability against spills and messes that might otherwise warp traditional wood.

LVT – Luxury Vinyl Tile

What do you think of when you hear the word “vinyl?” For most people, they revisit their youth, imagining the patterned vinyl installed in their parents’ or grandparents’ kitchens and baths. But today’s luxury vinyl tile – LVT – is so much more than that.

Thanks to today’s technology, LVT is one of the most durable flooring choices on the market. What’s more, it can be designed to take on any look, including replicating hardwood, stone, and tile. What makes it so attractive is it’s waterproof – yes, waterproof. If you spill on an LVT floor, you don’t have to worry about the product warping or fading. Simply wipe it up and walk away.

Hardwood is hard – that’s a big drawback in some cases. If you have elderly at risk of falling, or young kids that love to play on the floor, hardwood can be painful, even dangerous. LVT has a soft cushion that makes it easier to stand on for long periods, and produces a “bounce” factor if you drop something to the ground. That doesn’t mean your fine china will survive a fall. But it does have a little spring in it that makes it more comfortable.

Its waterproof feature also makes it feasible to install in places where hardwood shouldn’t be used. That makes it an ideal choice for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and even downstairs in your basement. You won’t have to worry about damage from a cold, moist sublevel anymore.

Carpet

With so many styles, patterns, and colors to choose from, carpet remains one of the most versatile flooring choices for a new home. While you may not want it in every room, it’s perfect for the places you spend a lot of time lounging or playing. It’s one of the most comfortable flooring surfaces, giving you added cushion when you walk, stand, or sit on the floor.

Carpet also has the ability to insulate a room with the carpet fibers. It holds heat at floor level better. And it adds noise reduction. That makes it perfect for bedrooms, game rooms, or family rooms where you spend a lot of time engaging in your favorite activities.

Carpet can be made from either natural or manufactured fibers. If you want an eco-friendly option, try wool carpet. Want stain-resistance? The most popular manufactured fibers are nylon, polyester, and polypropylene, or olefin. These fibers offer durability, stain resistance, and ease of maintenance. Vacuum regularly and deep clean occasionally to keep it looking its best.

Where carpet really excels is in its design. If you want a particular color, pattern, or texture, you’ll find it. Be sure to upgrade the padding underneath to further add softness and texture that makes it perfect for your home.

What flooring choices are right for your new construction project? 

Flooring is the base for your overall design. Get it right, and you’ll love your flooring for years to come.

No matter what designs you have in mind, we have the perfect solutions for your new construction home. We can help you make your selections and have it professionally installed, ready for the day you move in and setting into your new home.

You’ll love your new flooring.

The post The 3 Most Popular Flooring Choices People Are Asking For In New Construction first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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

We have four new beautiful parquet block Oak floors to add to our Charnwood range.  There are two different sizes to choose from; either 70mm or 90mm, and two colours; either natural or smoked. All four floors are engineered, giving additional strength and versatility to the flooring.  The two different sizes allow you to choose the correct size of block to suit your home.

  Read More

Traditionally we think of Christmas colors and decorations as typically being red and green but, has 2020 been very typical? No. This year the trends for holidays are very upbeat, bright, and creative!

Decorating the House

Okay so first on the list, wreaths. Having a wreath hanging on the door of your home is often a Christmas/Winter staple. This year we are seeing asymmetrical wreaths. An example is a ring type wreath with Christmas foliage on one side of the ring draping down. It is very stylish and trendy. 

Next, Christmas cards; how the heck do you display them?  Many of us just get a nice long ribbon and staple or tape our cards in a neat line and hang them. Well, have you considered hanging them on a wall or door in the shape of a Christmas tree? You can create one large one or ornate two or tree walls in the house the same way if you like!

Christmas Tree

This year we are also seeing unusual tree skirts. Using something as simple as corrugated paper, a chunky knitted blanket, or even repurposing an old iron sink basin covering it with new paint and glitter! Oversized Christmas bulbs and thick, heavy garland continue to be a trend. This season is no different! If your room allows, go big! Another trend we are seeing is rustic accents. Incorporate some plaid fabric in your garland or even a plaid tablecloth! Or get creative with a rustic wood holder for your firewood.

One of the major staples of the Christmas season is obviously the Christmas tree. Are you one of those trendy, fashionable folks who likes to create a themed masterpiece? This year the Christmas tree decoration trends are:

• Pastel colors – soft, muted, tender, elegant ornaments combined with gold balls or stars for a soft glam accent.
• Flower ornaments- a very decorative, beautiful, and bright trend for the season reminding us of a fairytale.
• Fancy bright colors with toys on white fir branches that excite children and keep the theme light and funny.
• Light and neutral color scheme – white, gray, beige tones with silver accents and a touch of glitter.
• NEON! MERRY AND BRIGHT! Break all the stereotypes and get a hold of turquoise! It is the color of 2020!
• Wood and clay- wood beads, wood bulbs, figurines made of natural materials. This creates a warm, soothing atmosphere. 

And now for the big question…when do you put the tree up? 

Do What You Feel is Best

In other words, there are no rules for decorations but the one thing we tend to observe is the earlier installation of festive or more plain pines and fir trees. However, now the trend has shown that the festivities start as soon as November and folks then do not decorate ornate trees until the first of December. 

If you plan to purchase a fresh cut tree the recommendation is to wait at least until December 1^st. 

In conclusion, 2020 has been stressful enough! Do not stress the holidays! It is time to make your own rules and create a festive, happy atmosphere in your home as soon as you wish!

If you’re looking to spruce up your flooring for the holidays, don’t hesitate! Be wise and call The Carpet Guys for all your flooring needs. Schedule a Free in-home consultation today.

The post Decorating for Christmas appeared first on The Carpet Guys.

Have you ever wondered where hardwood flooring trends come from? They ultimately come from you, the buyer.

As demand increases for a particular type of hardwood flooring material, manufacturers follow up by giving in to the demand. They create what you want. So the more you ask for it, the more they deliver.

 

Of course, manufacturers are also working hard to give you a better product as well. Hardwood has long since been a durable and aesthetically-pleasing option for your home … why not make it even better! And if you compare a lot of the products on the market today, you’ll find they handle better than ever before.

If 2021 is the year you upgrade your flooring, and you’re trying to select the right options for you, we have some advice on what hardwood floor is trending right now. Stop by, and we’re happy to show you lots of options that will fit in with any decor.

Here’s what we’re seeing our customers want right now.

Dark Hardwood Floors

Remember when a lighter, more golden color was the standard? No more. Today you’ll find dark hardwood flooring has taken over the most popular hardwood homeowners want in their homes. For some, that means black. For others, it means a chocolate color. No matter how you define dark hardwood, there’s an option for you.

One of the most frequent questions we get about dark hardwood is its durability and maintenance. Luckily manufacturers have created products that give you both in whatever color combinations you choose.

Dark hardwood can highlight dirt and stains more than lighter wood, and tends to scratch easier than other types of hardwood. But don’t let that stop you from installing it. The darkness of the wood also tends to blend gaps and uneven surfaces better, making it well better over time. If you’re going to have hardwood, you’ll get used to the care and maintenance it requires; it’ll be a part of your day.

• Use a soft mop daily to keep dust, dirt, and crumbs off the floor
• Plan on restaining your flooring every 10 to 15 years
• It’s a great way to make the rest of your decor pop – accent it with light walls, and any color will make your home shine

Grey Hardwood Floors

Are you the type of person that looks at dark hardwood and thinks: no way? For some, light furnishings will always top their list.

Then you might benefit from looking at another top trend, grey hardwood floors.

What we love most about grey hardwood floors is the fresh, clean look you’ll get just by installing them. They look good everywhere: the kitchen, living room, dining space, or even the basement.

Be conscious of the color grey you select. A softer shade can keep your home fresh and minimalist, while a darker grey can have an aged effect. The good news is you can set the tone if you’re willing to have them stained after installation. It’s a simple process of adding white to ebony to come up with any shade of grey you desire.

The key with any hardwood flooring you choose is to opt for a higher grade water-based polyurethane finish to give you the protection you need. You can decide how glossy or matted it is based on your desires.

If you have a question about the best color for your home, ask one of our consultants for advice. They can provide you with several samples to take home so you can see how it looks in your room. Be sure to look at it in all lighting conditions, sunlight throughout the day, as well as artificial light at night. You’ll want to be happy with your choice no matter what time of day you spend in your room.

Whitewashed Wood Floors

If you want a neutral palette to work from inside your home, consider whitewashed wood floors as your base. Whitewash wood has the advantage of brightening up any room, no matter how much natural light spreads through the windows.

Whitewash wood is also one of the best color choices if you have a busy household with kids and pets running in all directions. That foot traffic, including scratches and small dents, won’t show as easily with a whitewash design.

While homeowners who choose whitewash tend to love color, you can always mix and match different shades of wood. We especially love mixing whitewash with varying shades of blue – from Mediterranean to a deep navy, whitewash accents the final color choice nicely.

Whitewash wood can start with many different hues. While they may not appear to be that different on the showroom floor, you’ll be surprised at the differences when you bring them home. From greens to blues, browns to greens, and more, it’s important to stick with hues that match your decor. That’s where one of our consultants can help you choose. And if you have a specific color in mind, a contractor can always mix and match your ideas once the planks are laid into place.

Wide Planks

Wide plank wood flooring is also a growing trend in 2021. Gone are the days of standard sizing, you’ll find planks getting wider in size because of the way they open a room up.

Before you lay a wider plank in place, be sure you know what’s underneath the planks. A wider plank size should have a perfectly smooth subfloor to ensure a quality floor.

With a wider plank, be sure to purchase your product from a reputable dealer. We’ve heard many stories of people that found great “deals”, but were greatly disappointed when cupping and curling occurred throughout the flooring shortly after the installation process.

Seasoning is important with all hardwood jobs, but especially when you’ll be installing wide plank hardwood floors. That helps the wood acclimate to your surroundings before you lay it into place.

What questions do you have about installing new hardwood floors? If you want the latest trends, something you’ll love for years to come, let us help you pick out the perfect hardwood floors for your home. 

The post Hardwood Flooring Trends for 2021 and Beyond first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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

White flooring has become more popular over recent years.  Oak is naturally a light golden brown colour but can be transformed into tones of white with stains or oils.  White Oak Flooring offers a clean and fresh feel, whilst still having the luxuriousness of a real wooden floor. Read More

Are you looking to put flooring down in your basement, but you don’t know what flooring is best? The Carpet Guy’s has many flooring options!  Basement flooring can be done with many different types of flooring like carpeting, vinyl, or laminate flooring.

Best Carpet for Basements

Basement carpet can add a very warm, cozy atmosphere to your home. It is the most common type of flooring for basements. Basement carpeting is the most inexpensive, practical solution that is easy to maintain. Carpeting can take a cold, dark basement and make it warm and inviting. Therefore, carpet can also be an easy fix if your basement is uneven, has cracks, or even requires expensive leveling.

Be sure that you tend to any previous water damage and ensure that water destroy your basement flooring investment. If you have had previous water damage and could potentially experience it again, synthetic fiber carpet is the only flooring product that can be salvaged in this event. The Carpet Guy’s offer unbeatable carpet prices, styles, and colors!

Best Hard Surface for Basements

In addition another common basement flooring is vinyl flooring! Vinyl is a durable, low maintenance, easy to clean solution. It also offers a variety of decor options as well and there are options for any budget. Vinyl flooring will not face damage by normal amounts of water on its surface.

It will not be hurt by the occasional dampness on the concrete slab below. Likewise, there are also select waterproof options available. 

Be wise and call The Carpet Guy’s today to get your FREE, in-home estimate! We bring the basement flooring directly to you and together we can find the perfect fit for your home! In conclusion, The Carpet Guy’s offer flooring specials often so click the link to get the latest deals and discounts! 

The post The Best Flooring for Basements appeared first on The Carpet Guys.

Hardwood is everywhere here across the Front Range. Colorado has a log cabin vibe mixed with a little western elegance. It’s how we live. It’s what we do.

But no matter how much you love hardwood flooring, sometimes it just isn’t the right flooring choice for you. You know even before you install it that it would be more work than you’re willing to put in. Why install something you know will be a problem in a very short time?

Luckily, you don’t have to settle for hardwood if you want the hardwood look. With today’s technology, there are choices that give you the look that Coloradoans want, with resilience you need for a busy home.

The best on the market are wood-look luxury vinyl planks and wood-look tile flooring. Which is right for you? How do they handle? Which should you choose?

Let’s look at both to determine whether hardwood vinyl or tile is the right choice for your needs.

Durability

If you saw the word “vinyl” and instantly formed an opinion, it’s time to give wood-look luxury vinyl planks another look. This product is growing in popularity because of its looks and durability. Technology has made it so that these planks closely resemble the real thing. Even experts have to get a closer look to separate it from real hardwood.

Because of the different layers, luxury vinyl planks have a rigidness that will hold up well no matter what your family dishes out. That can make it an even better choice than hardwood if you have a growing family that loves to play indoors. Have pets? Not a problem. This will handle well.

Wood-look tile is another option. Technology has made it that either ceramic or porcelain tile can now look like your favorite hardwood flooring. But it adds something hardwood can’t give – durability.

Tile flooring is extremely durable, can last for decades with the right care. No more worrying about scratches, dents, fading or other types of damage coming from normal wear and tear. It’s virtually indestructible, something that works well in certain rooms in your home. Just be aware that if you drop something heavy, it does have the potential for cracking. The only way to fix it is to replace the tile.

Water resistance

One of the biggest reasons homeowners are hesitant to install traditional hardwood is because of potential water damage. Hardwood just doesn’t make sense in areas prone to water, such as the kitchen, bathroom, or basement.

That’s why people turn to luxury vinyl planks or tile. Both offer you water-resistance as well as good looks.

Luxury vinyl planks are completely water-resistant when installed correctly. This means you’ll never face a floor that is warping, cracking, or buckling from moisture issues. You can install it in every room in your house without fear of walking into a mess.

Likewise, wood-look tile is also completely water-resistant when properly installed. This means ensuring the tile is properly adhered to the subfloor, and grouting is installed and in place.

While both types of wood-look flooring offer durability in situations you may be hesitant to install hardwood, keep in mind that while both luxury vinyl planks and tile offer water-resistance, nothing is one-hundred-percent waterproof. When anything sits underwater for an extended period of time, it runs the risk of having potential problems. It’s always advisable to clean up all spills as quickly as possible.

Styles, colors, patterns

If you’ve spent any time looking at hardwood, you know there are many different options to allow you to make your home uniquely your own. With either luxury vinyl planks or tiles, your options continue to grow.

Wood-look luxury vinyl planks come in a variety of colors designed to mimic the most popular hardwood on the market. Whether you want rustic country or sleek modern designs, you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Luxury vinyl planks also come in a variety of sizes and widths. Whether you want the standard four inches, or are looking for a more exotic wide plank width, you’ll find it here.

Also, pay attention to the thickness of the plank. This will help you determine a higher quality product, one where the patterns run deeper and offer you a stronger, more durable product.

Wood-look tile is also available in a full array of colors and styles. Like vinyl, tile is produced with 3D printing to create a product that mimics real hardwood. Pay attention to depth and boldness to ensure the product lasts for years to come.

Care and Maintenance

If you’ve had hardwood before, you know it requires a lot of maintenance to ensure it continues to look good. You clean it with special products. You wax it to maintain its sheen. You refinish it every few years to ensure the wood underneath is protected.

If you have a busy household, all of that care might be a little daunting. That’s why many homeowners are giving wood-look luxury vinyl planks or tiles a second look.

With wood-look luxury vinyl tiles, cleaning requires nothing more than regular sweeping with a dust mop to remove dust and debris. An occasional wet mop will pick up stains or other trace items stuck to the surface. You’ll never have to wax or refinish it to retain its original look and shine.

Tile is quite easy to maintain. Regular removal of dust and debris with a dry mop, followed by occasional wet mopping is all you’ll need. Watch tile grout for potential stains over time. You can clean this with a mild mixture of white vinegar and water to keep it looking its best. Beware of chemical cleaners that can stain and change the color of the grout over time. Check with the manufacturers’ guidelines if you have any questions.

Cost

Installing traditional hardwood can be quite expensive. That’s why both luxury vinyl planks or tiles are a viable option.

Both can be more budget-friendly depending on your needs.

When it comes to resale, homeowners love hardwood, and that will never change. However, home buyers also love style and cleanliness, and want to walk into a home that provides easy living.

If you plan to stay put for a while, choose what suits your family best.

And if you have any questions or need help in making a selection, we’re here to help. 

The post Want The Beauty of Hardwood, With The Ease of Vinyl or Tile? first appeared on PRO! Flooring.

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

If you’re remodeling your home, you are likely on the hunt for new flooring. One excellent flooring option
is white oak. Learn why you should choose white oak hardwood floors by reading on.

The first reason you should choose white oak hardwood flooring is because it looks beautiful. White oak has a luxurious feel, while also appearing bright and warm. White oak hardwood is sophisticated and welcoming, making it the perfect flooring choice for any room in your home.

When you’re picking out flooring for your home, you want something that can withstand wear and tear. High-quality flooring that won’t break down saves you money on replacements and repairs. It is also easier to care for, saving you time. It can even improve the value of your home. White oak hardwood is durable, meaning it can hold its own under heavy furniture or in high traffic areas.

White oak hardwood flooring is moisture resistant. That means you can use this type of flooring in rooms like the kitchen and the bathroom. If you spill liquid on this flooring, cleaning is a breeze and you don’t have to worry about your floors warping. Because it is moisture resistant, white oak hardwood is also a good pick for entry areas where mud, snow, or rain water can get tracked into the house.

If you want eye-catching, strong, and versatile flooring, white oak hardwood flooring is the best choice. You can install white oak hardwood in your mudroom, kitchen, living room, bathroom, and so on. Check out this flooring at Flooring.org. You can browse our inventory online or give our staff a call at 800-689-9006. We hope to hear from you soon!

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

Are you in love with the popular timeless classic Herringbone style flooring? That’s perfectly understandable with all of its character and charm, as well as being available in laminate. Stylish and practical at a budget friendly price. Whilst laminate is often very easy to fit, a Herringbone Laminate installation often leaves first time fitters and keen DIY’ers asking “can I lay Herringbone flooring?” due to its intricate design. 

 

If you’re questioning whether to get a professional fitter or whether to have a go at fitting your flooring yourself, you should determine your level of confidence after reading our blog.

 

Can I Fit Herringbone Flooring Myself?

 

If you have experience in fitting flooring and are confident in doing so then our step by step guide should allow you to successfully fit your Herringbone Laminate Flooring.

 

However, should you be a DIY enthusiast, make sure you’ve read our guides carefully and are confident in fitting flooring as improper installation will void warranty. 

 

Prior to Installation 

 

Now we know what you’re thinking, this is the boring stuff! But what’s a little reading when the end result will be a stunning Herringbone Laminate flooring, free from installation mistakes?

We recommend you read these instructions thoroughly prior to installation and follow them carefully. Improper installation will void your warranty. 

 

Your flooring must be acclimatised for at least 48 hours. To do this, leave your flooring in the room it will be laid in, with the boxes open. 

 

When you receive your flooring, you will receive an even number of A boards and B boards. We recommend you separate these into two piles prior to your installation. 

 

When installing your flooring, it is important to note that each board is designed with a four sided click system to allow the boards to slot easily into one another. To create the classic Herringbone pattern, you will need to use board A and board B (the board type should be written on the base). This can be achieved by slotting the shorter side of the board into the longer side of the board at a medium angle. 

 

Tools

 

The recommended tools you may need to obtain before starting the installation of your Herringbone Laminate Flooring are listed below. 

 

1. Straight Edge
2. Floating Floor Underlay
3. Laminate Flooring Cutter 
4. Fixed Heavy Duty Knife
5. Square Ruler
6. Floating Floor Spacers
7. Tape Measure 
8. Jigsaw
9. PVA Adhesive
10. Pencil
11. Knee Pads

 

Once you’re confident you have the right tools, it’s time to get down to the labour!

 

Step by Step Herringbone Laminate Installation

 

Once you’re confident you have the right tools, it’s time to get down to the labour!

Can I lay Herringbone Laminate Flooring?

 

Now you’ve read through our guide for fitting Herringbone Laminate Flooring, the question as to whether you could fit it yourself or require a fitter is up to you. We hope this guide provides all the knowledge you’ll need to make that decision! 

 

If you’re yet to purchase your Herringbone Laminate, browse through our selection of laminate flooring now.

 

If you have any more questions, please get in touch and one of our flooring experts will be happy to help. 

 

The post How to Lay Herringbone Laminate Flooring appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.