The Advantages Of Using Glue-Down Vinyl Tiles In Your Home

Glue-down vinyl tiles have many advantages. Maybe that’s what has made them so popular for decades. They can be the perfect addition to any high-traffic area of your home where water-resistance is also in demand, like a bathroom, laundry room, or kitchen.

Of course, with today’s technology, vinyl tiles aren’t what you remember from your parents’ homes. Maybe that’s why there is increasing interest in this viable flooring choice.

However, once you’ve decided to install vinyl floor, you can quickly become confused about the best way to install the. One of the reasons homeowners choose vinyl tile is because it’s perfect for the do-it-yourself project. But once you’ve narrowed down your choices, you’ll also have to decide the best way to install: floating or glue-down.

The reason both ways are still on the marketplace should clue you in that there are advantages to both. It’s important to consider your options carefully before you make your final decision.

First, let’s discuss glue-down vs floating

Before you weigh your options and make a decision, it’s important to understand the makeup of each product.

Glue-down is considered to be a permanent flooring. Because it adheres directly to the subfloor, it adds to the strength to increase scratch resistance, impact, and spills. Being permanent means you won’t be replacing it regularly, and are looking at longevity rather than replacement convenience.

Floating vinyl planks lay over the subfloor. They usually feature a click-and-lock system that makes this easy for do-it-yourselfers to install a floor in a weekend.

Glue-down vinyl tiles are easy to replace. Simply peel up a tile and replace it with a new one. Or easily life sections at a time. While floating tiles are easy to replace, they take a little more work because of the click system.

Glue-down is suitable for any room where high-traffic and water-resistance is standard. That makes glue-down vinyl great in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and entryways. It works well, no matter how large or small the room.

Floating tiles work similarly, however, they don’t work as well in larger rooms. You’ll have better results with glue-down over time.

The cost of glue-down is also more economical than floating tiles in most cases.

Settled in on glue-down vinyl tiles? What about the glue?

If you’re moving forward with installing glue-down vinyl tiles, they come with two different types of adhesive: a separate adhesive that is spread onto the floor using a trowel, and those that have adhesive covering the back with a peel-and-stick system.

While it can seem daunting to use a separate adhesive you’ll have to spread across the floor, it’s actually easier than it sounds. Plus, it has some benefits that may make it worth your time.

Self-adhesive tiles are very sticky. That makes them hard to reposition once they touch the subfloor. While many homeowners purchase vinyl tiles because they are easy to work with, this factor can negate ease. Many homeowners have become “frustrated” by how permanent these tiles become even with just a basic touch.

By contrast, if you work with floor tile adhesive you spread across the floor, it takes time for the glue to set. This gives you a chance to reposition the tile, look at the results, and change the layout again. It usually takes up to a full day for the adhesive to set, giving you plenty of time to ensure you have it right.

Self-adhesive tile is also more prone to curling. If you don’t get the installation right, self-adhesive tiles can curl up at the edges weeks or months after installation. Compare that to vinyl tiles that are installed with adhesive; they rarely loosen and curl by themselves. This can be especially important in high-traffic areas where risk is higher to catch edges.

Self-adhesive vinyl tiles also require a smoother, more perfect subfloor. Because they are thin with a standard peel-and-stick system to hold them in place, you’ll have to ensure your subfloor is free of imperfections before you lay it into place. Even small bumps or uneven areas can quickly cause problems down the road.

Compare that to installing with separate adhesive, you’ll find these glue-down tiles are easier to hide minor imperfections. Because you control the amount of adhesive, it’s easier to apply these tiles to areas with less than perfect subfloors.

Misconceptions about tile adhesive

There are three reasons people are a little apprehensive about choosing glue-down vinyl tiles before they do their research:

• They assume the process is messy
• They assume the odor will linger
• They assume the adhesive is toxic

Who wants to bring all of that into your home, especially when you’re trying to make your home cleaner, and your life healthier?

In reality, those are nothing but myths about using glue-down vinyl tile. There are many different types of adhesives to choose from, some of which are latex-based, water-soluble, low or zero VOC. That means the smell isn’t very strong, and easily goes away in a short period of time. Because it’s water-soluble, it makes clean up a snap.

What’s even better is the cost. Glue-down tiles are, in general, less expensive than the peel-and-stick. You can get a gallon of adhesive for low cost, which will cover up to 400 square feet per gallon. That gives glue-down vinyl tile the advantage – and the perfect choice for the rooms you’re thinking of taking on yourself.

Which should you choose?

The reason there are so many choices on the market today is that there isn’t a right or wrong answer. Instead, it depends on your needs and your desires.

Start with your living styles. What would make the most sense for the way you live? Combine that with your personal choices, and you’re sure to find the perfect flooring for you.

If you have questions, that’s where it helps to stop by and speak with one of our flooring representatives. Our goal is to ensure you have the right flooring for your needs, and that you’ll be happy with it for years to come.

If glue-down vinyl tile is the right choice for you, you’ll love all of the colors, styles, and patterns we have in stock. Whether you’re taking on a do-it-yourself project, or are hiring a professional to handle the job, we’ll help you make the right choice.

 

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

There’s plenty to love about wintertime: skiing, sledding, and of course, the holidays. However, increased foot traffic and wintery ground conditions can put your carpet to the test. Stick to these carpet cleaning tips from A Personal Touch Cleaning in Littleton and expect a great-looking carpet all season long.

Dirty Snow Stains

Long ago, before the advent of cars, trucks, and general industry, snow remained more or less white. Nowadays, it’s only a matter of time before the snow that collects on your street and in your driveway acquires a “dirty” texture, which when tracked into a home can leave unsightly stains on the carpet. You can eliminate these by applying soapy water to the affected area, gently blotting over the stain until it disappears. Once it’s gone, you have two choices for removing any excess water: a dry white towel and a vacuum. Go with the latter option if there’s still some loose dirt around the area.

Christmas Tree Care

For many people, a Christmas tree is the item that ties an entire room together during the holidays. But before you can gather the family for decorating and sing-alongs, you need to get the tree into the house. Simply dragging the tree in is a no-go, since the tree is liable to pick up dirt and snow along the way, which is then deposited on your carpet. A sound solution is to wrap the tree in a plastic sheet from the time you purchase it until the minute you reach your front door. Remove the sheet (and the dirt, snow, and detritus that no doubt cling to it) and introduce your clean, fresh tree to the family.

Another big tree-related to-do: waterproofing the area where the tree stand is placed. Make sure the stand doesn’t contact the carpet directly, or you could be left with an unsightly post-holiday dirt ring on the carpet. Another necessary precaution is to avoid overwatering the tree: too much dirty tree water is liable to spill over the edges of the waterproofed area.

Humidity

We know what you’re thinking: “In the dead of winter, why would I give a hoot about humidity?” A fair question, until you consider that all of the snow that gets tracked into your house doesn’t stay frozen. It melts, and the build-up of water will increase your home’s humidity level and create an environment that encourages mildew growth in your carpet. The solution is two-fold: keep the heat inside your home at the recommended level, and vacuum frequently so that moisture and dirt don’t have a chance to seep into your carpet.

Shoes/Boots

We know this is carpet care 101, but here’s a friendly reminder to put a snow rug just inside your door(s). Shoes and boots are by far the most common way that dirty snow is introduced into a home, but a combination of a snow rug/shoe rack/insistence that shoes aren’t allowed inside will be a big help in maintaining a clean carpet.

Here To Help, All Winter Long

If at any point this winter you a professional’s help with carpet cleaning or carpet repair, contact A Personal Touch Carpet Cleaning. Having served Littleton for decades, across all four seasons, you’ll find our expertise is invaluable when it comes to cleaning and preserving your carpets.

Call us today at 720.344.2870 or use our online contact form to request your free estimate. Remember at A Personal Touch, “We don’t cut corners, we clean them.”

The post Don’t Let The Cold Weather Ruin Your Carpets appeared first on A Personal Touch.

When you are choosing a new wooden floor, it is important to select the correct fitting system for your particular project.  The two main choices you have are either tongue and groove or click fitting. Read More

Home remodeling projects can quickly become overwhelming. The amount of decisions you have to make in a short time escalates as you move from beginning to end.

A lot of homeowners have their hearts set on a particular type of flooring, only to discover their contractor tries to steer them in a different direction. It turns out that exotic hardwood flooring you’ve been dreaming of might not be the perfect fit for your bathroom. There are better choices, she says.

How about vinyl or laminate?

Before you scream: “What!” take a  second look at these two products and see how they’ve changed the marketplace. These aren’t your parents’ flooring products. Technology has changed what’s possible, and made vinyl and laminate some of the best flooring products for every room in your home.

What is laminate made of?

Remember the laminate of yesteryear? It took on an almost plastic look and feel. Yet contrary to belief, laminate isn’t made up of plastic at all. Instead, laminate is made up of four wear layers built upon each other to build strength and durability into the final product. They are fused together using high heat and intense pressure to create a product that stands up well in areas where traditional hardwood often fails. These layers include:

• Back layer – this is the bottom layer used to protect against moisture and help balance the floor
• Core layer – this is a highly durable board that helps protect from moisture and build strength
• Design layer – this is a high resolution photograph to mimic many of the top floor patterns on the market today
• Wear layer – this is a clear layer to protect against scratches, stains, and fading

What are vinyl planks made of?

Vinyl comes in a variety of styles. While the more traditional vinyl flooring products were laid in place as either sheet vinyl or vinyl tiles, today homeowners have another option: luxury vinyl planks. These closely resemble other top flooring products, including hardwood or stone.

In the marketplace, luxury vinyl is commonly referred to as Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP).

Both LVT and LVP are made up of synthetic materials formed by mixing polyvinyl chloride (PVC), calcium carbonate, plasticizers, fungicides, and UV stabilizers, among other things. Through a heating process, they are combined with a vinyl compound that finishes the product base.

Like laminate, LVT and LVP both use four main layers:

• Backing layer – a vinyl base layer that protects against moisture, mold, and mildew
• Vinyl core – this is made from PVC material to make the product flexible and waterproof
• Decorative layer – this is a thin digital image layer that is adhered to the vinyl core
• Wear layer – the is a transparent topcoat that protects against scratches, stains, and fading

Vinyl vs Laminate – Which is better?

Homeowners usually gravitate towards vinyl and laminate when they are looking for a durable, economical, attractive flooring choice. If you want to take on a DIY project, both vinyl and laminate are good options. But which is better? That’s where many homeowners get confused.

For many years, laminate was the flooring of choice with its realistic graphics, easy installation, and thick, durable product that stood up well under traffic. But when the luxury vinyl plank entered the marketplace, things changed. A high quality LVP can stand up to pressure equally as laminate, and the graphics make it look like the real thing.

There really isn’t a bad choice when comparing the two.

Where will you install?

In some cases, it can center around where you’ll be installing your new flooring. One of the biggest separators between laminate and vinyl is the ability to stand up against moisture.

All types of vinyl – sheet, tile, and plank – are waterproof. They are usually made from a material that is 100 percent waterproof, giving it the ability to be installed in rooms where wet conditions are prevalent, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, or mud rooms. While older vinyl may have had a fabric or felt back, newer product lines are made from polymer materials that can be fully immersed in water and still be unaffected.

Laminate uses a fiberboard at the core. Because this is a wood-based product, it will soften, swell, and eventually deteriorate when exposed to water. This can cause a host of damage, from warping during the drying process, to having the design layer peel back and fade away. If laminate has severe water damage, it will most likely have to be replaced.

Because of that, vinyl can be installed anywhere in your home and look great no matter how much abuse it takes. With laminate, you should be a little more choosy about where you install. Places like the living room, dining room, or bedroom are perfect for laminate. Full bathroom, laundry room, or mudroom, not so much.

Let’s talk about composition

While we’ve already compared the two products based on how they are produced, we haven’t talked much about composition.

Vinyl flooring is made entirely from synthetic material. You’ll find a thin fiberglass base coated with PVC vinyl, embossed with a print layer, and finished with a wear layer over the top. When you select luxury vinyl planks, they fit side by side, clicking into place. Because these layers are thin, you’ll find the overall thickness ranges from 1.5 mm to 5 mm.

Laminate flooring uses the same locking installation process, but the critical difference is the core. Because this is made from a wood product, it’s thicker than its synthetic counterpart. The overall thickness of laminate flooring ranges from 6 mm to 12 mm.

That can make the difference for where you choose to install it. Pay attention to transitions from room to room; are you trying to match a different flooring choice?

It’s all about aesthetics and preferences

Still trying to decide which is better, vinyl or laminate? Honestly, we love them both.

Today’s product lines can mimic just about any flooring product on the market, while giving you the benefits of being a more resilient flooring choice. Both vinyl and laminate can mimic wood, stone, ceramics, or just about any flooring you choose. The three-dimensional graphics used to create both vinyl and laminate are more real than ever before. If you want the look of exotic hardwood, for example, you might just prefer the look used to mimic it on vinyl or laminate, plus it’s a fraction of the price.

Is there a right choice? It all depends on your preferences. The best place to start is to stop by our showroom and see the differences yourself. Both vinyl and laminate are great products to include in your latest remodeling project.

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

Are you looking for carpet remnants for sale? Find everything you will need during our giant remnant sale. Our warehouse shelves have gotten full, and we have extra flooring that has got to go. The carpet remnants are all high-quality products, and the prices have been reduced like crazy. This warehouse sale also includes; sheet vinyl, laminate, and LVP/LVT.

Throughout the year, our warehouse gets filled with many different products. During this time we begin to stockpile some carpet remnants and other flooring products for sale. Continuously offering the cheapest prices on a daily basis, is only possible if the older products go.

Everything Must Go in Our Huge Warehouse Sale

Though remnants may be the last bit of carpet off the roll, they aren’t unwanted.  These name-brand, flooring products are great for those off-the-cuff renovations you need such as:

• Man caves
• Dorm rooms
• Safe play areas for toddlers
• Odd-shaped rooms

While the prices are cheap, the quality of the flooring is top-notch. We buy our products directly from the manufacturers themselves. So, rest assured knowing that your floors will perform well and look great for years to come.

All Kinds of Flooring for Sale

During this giant warehouse sale, you’ll find some incredible deals on popular kinds of flooring such as:

• Plush, frieze, looped, Berber, and patterned carpet
• Luxury Vinyl Plank
• Luxury Vinyl Tile
• Sheet Vinyl
• Laminate

Do not let this bargain sale pass you by.  If you’re looking for carpet remnants or other types of popular flooring for sale, The Carpet Guys have you covered. You get to save a lot of money and find the flooring you want, so this is a deal you don’t want to miss.

Many of our products can be installed as early as the next day. Every installation comes with a Lifetime Installation Warranty.  If you’re interested in having your dream floors installed, fill out our Free In-Home Estimate form.  Or Be Wise, Call The Carpet Guys at 855-4-MY-GUYS (855-469-4897).

The post Carpet Remnants and Warehouse Sale: Massive Savings! appeared first on The Carpet Guys.

Commercial flooring takes a lot more abuse than standard residential flooring. It sees higher traffic levels. It takes more punishment as dirt, debris, and moisture scrapes across from shoes and moving inventory.

If you’re in the market for new commercial flooring, it’s important to think beyond the looks. An exotic hardwood may move to the top of your list based on looks, especially if you’re in finance or banking, for example. But will that exotic hardwood be the best choice for years to come given your traffic levels?

There’s a lot to consider before you make your final selection. Luckily, we have some tips for you, and have a few suggestions to help you make your final decision. The most important thing is to love the look now and for years to come.

Start with a great foundation

Unfortunately, most people start looking for commercial flooring based on price and budget. And while that may seem like the best place to start, it actually prevents you from considering all of your alternatives.

In many cases, it isn’t the flooring choice you should consider first; it’s the foundation. It’s the base that your flooring is installed on.

Take, for example, carpeting. People often select the highest grade of carpet they can, then skimp on the padding underneath. Yet it’s the padding that works to protect the carpet from wear, adding strength to the binding and backing to absorb the impact of foot traffic. Padding also determines how easily your carpet can be cleaned. With the right padding, it helps increase suction as it’s vacuumed, allowing dirt to be pulled easily from the depth of the fibers.

If you’re thinking of installing new commercial flooring, don’t start by looking at flooring choices. Instead, start by asking yourself a few important questions.

• What kind of traffic will the flooring have to sustain each day?
• Is contamination a consideration?
• Does sound matter within the space?
• Will the flooring be subjected to chemicals or excessive exposure to dirt?
• What image will be portrayed to visitors?
• Is worker comfort something to consider?

The more you define what will happen in your space each day, the easier it will be to select the right choice for your needs.

Laminate

One of the most popular choices for commercial spaces if laminate wood flooring. It’s easy to install and maintain over time, especially when compared with hardwood. It has an added benefit of being hygienic, making it the perfect choice for business in fields like medical, that care equally about aesthetics as well as functionality.

If you’re attempting to gain LEED certification, you’ll find that laminate leads the way in helping you achieve accreditation. Laminate isn’t hardwood, but instead is made up of a composite wood with an overlayment hardwood image that mimics the real thing. Focus on materials used to find the most eco-friendly product in the marketplace. We can help you do that.

Engineered Hardwood 

If you want the look and feel of hardwood but are nervous about durability, consider engineered hardwood. Instead of being a solid piece of wood, engineered hardwood is a small slice of hardwood adhered to high-quality plywood. It’s less expensive than traditional hardwood, but provides the same look and feel. You’ll often find this in office buildings as it is more durable than traditional solid wood. It’s also more eco-friendly as it only uses a small amount of hardwood to produce the same results.

Vinyl composite tile

Vinyl composite tile is the perfect solution when you’re looking for an affordable, easy to maintain commercial flooring. What many business owners love about vinyl composite tile is the convenience; if you tear or damage one tile, it can be easily lifted and replaced. It’s also easy to keep clean; using mild cleaners, you can mop up just about any spills in no time.

The biggest drawback is durability. Depending on wear, the corners of the tile can start to peel back. The adhesive can also come loose, allowing the tile to shift into place. It can also fade if subjected to harsh light, or is cleaned with chemicals on a regular basis. Still, in the right location, vinyl composite tiles can offer you an affordable solution to your commercial flooring needs.

Luxury vinyl tile

Luxury vinyl tile is growing in popularity in both the residential and commercial markets for good reason. It can give you the look of just about any type of flooring in a more affordable package. Imagine having a floor that looks like hardwood, marble, or stone, yet gives you the convenience of vinyl composite tile. That’s the beauty of luxury vinyl.

It has a harder surface area than traditional vinyl. It also has a clear wear layer that provides more protection against wear and tear. Because of this wear layer, it doesn’t have to be stripped, waxed, or sealed like other choices. It’s becoming one of the preferred options for commercial property managers.

Carpet tiles

It’s hard to argue against the more traditional carpet tiles you’ll see in commercial properties all across Colorado. Since they are tiles, they offer an easy way to install and maintain the flooring. If you have a problem with one tile, simply pull it up and replace. Carpet tile also uses a strong adhesive for installation, making them stay in place longer than ever before.

Carpet tile comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. If you have something specific in mind, it can be dyed and created just for you. It reduces noise and provides a softer environment – especially important in wide-open spaces where noise reduction is essential. They are also better for safety reasons; they can reduce falls near entrances where people track in snow and slush.

What’s your choice for commercial flooring?

With all of these great choices, what’s the best flooring for your needs? If you can’t decide, stop by, and we’ll show you all of these choices and help you make a well-informed decision.

Start with what you know you want. It might be the type of flooring, or a desire to become LEED certified. We’ll show you your options and help narrow down your choices. We’ll help you pick the right product to suit your business needs.

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

If you’re looking to remodel your bathroom, you’ve probably looked at porcelain tile. It’s among the most popular products used in bathroom remodels today.

Porcelain tile is durable and versatile; you can find it in many different colors, styles, sizes, and patterns. It gives a homeowner a wide variety of choices when configuring their final design. What’s not to love about porcelain tile.

But lately, homeowners haven’t been stopping with the floors. If porcelain tile looks as good as it does on the floor, why not move it up onto the walls? If it makes a great flooring choice because of its water resistance, surely it would make a great choice on shower walls too?

Is porcelain tile great for shower walls? It’s actually one of the best choices. Here’s why.

Moisture and water-resistant

Let’s start with the most obvious. Anything on your shower walls is going to get a lot of exposure to water. It will also deal with a lot of steam. That means you’ll need a covering that can handle all of that and stay looking great too.

Porcelain tile is made from clay with specific properties that add to its moisture resistance. Because of this, they have a water absorption rate of 0.5 percent or less. That makes them highly effective in areas that regularly get wet. It means standing water won’t penetrate the tile, and steam won’t affect the quality over time. It can also improve air quality, as it won’t absorb unwanted air particles back into the space.

Durability

Not only can porcelain tile withstand the daily abuse of water and moisture, but it is also one of the strongest tiles to stand up to everyday wear and tear.

With ceramic tile, the color and pattern are surface only. When they chip or crack, the color chips away and you’re left with an eyesore that stands out from the tile.

WIth porcelain, the color or pattern is created all the way through. The color penetrates from front to back, so a chip will only reveal the same color underneath. While you’ll still want to keep extra tiles on hand for replacement of severe wear, it’s nice to know that one small chip won’t destroy the aesthetics of your design.

Maintenance

Because porcelain tile is water-resistant, it won’t attract build-up, mold, mildew, and other particles over time in the same way as other tiles. It’s easy to maintain.

With floors, sweep or vacuum loose dirt and dust. Dry mop as needed. Use a mild cleaning solution to keep it looking its best.

With shower walls, use a soft cloth to wipe down the tiles regularly. Use a mild cleaning solution to keep them clean and looking their best.

You can also check with one of our sales associates for the best products to use. And be sure to read manufacturer’s guidelines as they make suggestions to keep your porcelain tiles under warranty.

Appearance

You can’t ignore the look of porcelain tiles when they are installed on shower walls. They look amazing! That’s why designers are turning to porcelain tiles more and more. They come in many colors and patterns, a wide variety of sizes and shapes. You’ll find them glazed or unglazed, with the ability to create and look you desire.

With today’s technology, you can also find them taking on the appearance of many other product lines. Love the look of real wood? Porcelain tile mimics the look. Want marble or granite without the work of having it installed? You can find porcelain tiles that mimic that too.

Although porcelain tile can cost more than other tile options, it can be a great investment in your remodel, and give you years of enjoyment. That makes it a wise purchase to make when considering your options for a remodel project.

What about the installation process of porcelain tile?

Porcelain tile isn’t mined, or created from stone or wood. Instead, porcelain tiles are made from compressed ceramic dust.

During the manufacturing process of porcelain tile, it is compressed in such a way as to remove microscopic air pockets within the material, making it heavier than it’s ceramic cousin. If you were to pick up a porcelain tile the same size as a ceramic tile, you’ll feel the difference in weight. That’s because porcelain tiles are denser because of this process.

This weight is what gives it its strength. It also makes it heavier to hang on shower walls, and to drop as you’re placing it into its final position. That means it can be trickier to place porcelain tiles on the wall if you’re planning on making this a DIY project. You’ll need an aggressive adhesive to prevent tile slippage as you put your design into place. You’ll also need different tools. While ceramic tile can be cut with standard tile tools, you’ll need a wet diamond saw for cutting porcelain tile without breaking.

For DIYers, it’s important to note that when you do make cuts, these edges should be placed along wall corners or ceilings, not by tub or sink edges. This makes it more susceptible to water damage.

Of course, the grout you choose plays an equally important in how durable your shower wall remains over time. There are several different options; our sales associates are happy to speak with you about the differences.

Cement has been a popular choice because it is the least costly of all methods. But cement is porous, meaning it will have to be sealed regularly to prevent water damage. That’s why for shower installs, most designers turn to an epoxy grout. It’s durable and doesn’t need to be sealed, providing better protection on the shower. It’s also both stain and chemical resistant, meaning it can stand up to all the products you use as a part of your daily routine.

If you’re trying to keep your house green and create an eco-friendly living space, there are options for you too. Many of the newest grout products offer the durability of epoxy grout, yet do so in a non-toxic manner. They come in a wide variety of colors, making it the perfect product to match any decor.

What’s your choice for porcelain tile for your shower walls?

Are you sold on creating a new bathroom space that uses porcelain tiles on the shower walls? You’ve made a good choice.

Now comes the fun part; finalizing your selection. Stop by today and see the selection we have for you. You’re going to find the perfect look for your home, and love the look for years to come.

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

Whether you choose pre-finished or unfinished wooden flooring will depend on your personal preference. All types of wooden flooring need to be protected from stains, moisture, water and daily wear and tear. Both are great choices; it just depends if you can find a pre-finished floor that you like the look of.  Read More

Thinking of remodeling your bathroom? It’s fun looking at photographs of all the things you can do. What colors should you use? How about upgrading the tub? Or maybe adding a steam shower?

The possibilities are endless.

At some point, you’ll head down to the bottom – the floor. What’s the best flooring for a bathroom remodel? You’ll quickly find you can’t ignore tile. By far, tile is one of the most popular choices you can make. But even within the subcategory of tile, you’ll have a lot of decisions to make.

Which is better for bathrooms, ceramic or porcelain tile?

As you start looking at your options, you’ll quickly discover that tile falls into two categories: ceramic and porcelain. Porcelain tile is the more popular choice for bathroom floors for a variety of reasons. It’s made of a denser material, is harder, and a less porous option. That makes it more water resistant and stain resistant than ceramic tiles. And in a bathroom, those are both great things to have.

Porcelain tile is also the perfect choice for installing over radiant heating. And here in Colorado, tile and radiant heating naturally go together. Because tile can be on the cold side of things, that’s the first hurdle many home remodelers have. Homeowners want a floor that won’t be cold on their as they get out of bed on frosty winter mornings.

Even more, porcelain is unmatched in its beauty. It can mimic any design you desire. Do you want natural stone without the care involved in keeping natural stone looking good? Do you want the look of hardwood floors without the upkeep? Porcelain tile is the solution for you. Depending on your budget, you’ll find it can take on just about any look you desire.

Porcelain tile typically comes in two basic types:

Through-bodied – where texture and color run all the way through the tile. This makes each tile strong and durable as it can hide scratches and chips better.

Glazed – where the entire tile is glazed with a wear layer that gives it a strong, dense surface. It also gives you the widest range of styles, colors, and patterns.

Do porcelain tiles chip easily?

Your bathroom floors take a lot of abuse. Think back what they’ve gone through just in the last few days.

• Water spilling over from the tub
• Moisture and humidity from that long shower you took on the coldest morning of the year
• A dropped hair dryer
• The mess when your makeup spilled

That’s a lot of different potential problems your floors will face. And flooring can be quickly damaged if you don’t select the right flooring for your room.

Porcelain is denser than ceramic, which means it has a lower absorption rate. This is what gives it water and moisture resistance, including the ability to withstand frost. That’s why it’s a great indoor/outdoor option.

That denseness also makes it less likely to chip. This is where you should also pay attention to something called a PEI rating. This will tell you just how resistant the surface of the tile is to scratching and chipping. A tile with a PEI rating will chip and scratch easier, meaning it’s better for applications where it won’t get much abuse, such as the walls. A PEI rating of 3 is good for all residential applications. Commercial or industrial often move to a PEI rating of 4 or 5.

Are porcelain tiles slippery?

When it comes to selecting a flooring product that has slip-resistant qualities, porcelain tile leads the pack. That’s why you’ll find porcelain tile in both residential and commercial, indoor and outdoor applications.

It is important to note that not every porcelain tile is perfect for wet spaces. It also depends on the surface structure and the glaze used in production. Porcelain tile does have slip-resistant qualities. But to ensure you make the right choice for your bathroom, ask which of your favorites would be best. We’re happy to help you make the right decision for your home.

Are porcelain tiles healthier than other flooring choices?

Bathrooms need to be a hygienic place. From spills to accidents, odors, and the chance for biological growth, your bathroom sees it all throughout the day. Yet porcelain tiles stand up well to the pressure.

They are easy to clean. You’ll be able to wipe off spills and accidents quickly.

They are hygienic, meaning the non-porous surface won’t trap allergens.

They also won’t allow mildew or mold and bacteria to grow.

If you want ease, porcelain tile is a great choice to make.

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Porcelain tiles are highly versatile and will give you the look you want!

If you think all tiles are the same, you haven’t looked at today’s tile. Especially with porcelain tile, they are designed to mimic just about any look you desire.

You’ll find them in every size, shape, and color. Want tiny tile to lay in mosaic format? Love the look of subway tile? Want a different shape – how about hexagon? Or maybe you want the look of exotic hardwood without the headache that comes along with installing exotic hardwood in the bathroom. Porcelain tile’s got you covered there too.

Plus, it doesn’t stop with selecting one look or feel. You can combine several different porcelain tiles to find a pattern that’s uniquely your own.

To find your ideal look, we recommend going online and finding design sites to look at. Sign up for Pinterest and you can create a pinboard that highlights the look and feel you desire. Then bring it in and share. It’ll give us a starting point to help point you in the right direction of the product lines that will be perfect to create the look you’re going for.

Are you ready to install porcelain tile in your bathroom?

When you’re ready to get started on your remodeling project, the best place to start is by stopping by and seeing our complete line. We can give you all the information you’ll need to make a decision on the tiles best suited for your needs.

Choosing porcelain tiles for your bathroom is the best decision you can make in your remodel. You’re going to love the look for years to come. 

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Over time, your wood floor may start to lose the sheen and colour that it once had. This is very likely down to the fact that your floor needs refreshing and reviving with oil. Oiling wood floors helps to enhance the overall appearance of its surface, as well as adding protection and nourishment.

If you want to oil wooden flooring, it’s important to consider its benefits, the proper steps to take, and how often you should replenish its coat.

Why is it Important to Oil Your Wood Floor?

Firstly, oiled wood flooring helps with its longevity. The oil revives the appearance of the floor. It also protects the floor’s surface, to keep it looking brand new for longer.

Your floor is thirsty

Wood flooring is thirsty. It may sound strange, but it’s true. 

Without oil protecting the surface, your wood will drink up any water and moisture. If this water gets into the wood, the floor will move and can cause long-term damage. 

On the other hand, with a protective oil coating, your floor is unable to soak up this moisture, therefore protecting your flooring. 

Are you a pet owner?

The longevity and durability factors of oiling wood floors makes it perfect for pet owners. For instance, any scratches caused by claws or teeth can simply be sanded down and oiled over.

A lacquered floor, in comparison, is less of  a quick fix when it comes to scratch marks. 

Bringing out details in design

Oiled wood flooring brings out the amazingly fine details and grains of each plank. This, as a result, provides a wide range of tones and colours depending on the oil you use. 

Our selection of Osmo Oils does a perfect job of making your flooring truly unique, offering warm, rustic tones, to lighter and more subtle finishes. Similarly, even clear oils can help show a floor’s natural beauty.

 

Floor protection

Unfinished wood flooring leaves vulnerability for liquid stains such as wine, cola, or sauce. A simple oiled finish prevents unwanted stains. 

The oil itself acts as a protective layer, so that liquids can’t be absorbed into the wood’s fibres.

Prevent your floor from drying out and cracking

In extreme cases, your floor can crack due to the lack of oil that it receives on a regular basis. Although this is only in extreme circumstances, it’s important to be mindful about the necessity of regularly oiling your wood floor.

Ongoing maintenance

Any form of hardwood flooring requires maintenance. 

However, taking proper care of your oiled wood flooring means that you won’t need to re-sand and finish your floor too often. 

Oiling your wood flooring should be part of your wood floor maintenance routine. We’ll go into this more in a moment.

 

 

Quick re-cap:

1. Helps with longevity.
2. Protects against pet scratches. 
3. Quick and easy fix if any marks appear.
4. Brings out detail, tone, and colour.
5. Helps maintain the look of your floor
6. More protection against liquid stains.
7. Prevents your floor from drying out and cracking.

How to Oil Wooden Flooring

Below is a quick step-by-step guide on how to prepare and oil wooden flooring:

Prepare your flooring

1. If your floor has previously been oiled, you can apply the oil directly on top. For floors with different finishes, such as varnish, you’ll need to sand the surface until you get to the bare wood. This is to make sure you are not adding additional layers of a different oil onto a different existing layer. 
2. If you’re adding a touch-up layer after receiving new oiled flooring, you don’t need to sand it down. You can apply the new coat straight on top, due to the fact that the oil is the same as the previous layer.
3. Be sure to wipe away any kind of dirt or debris from the surface of your flooring, as this stops any debris from setting under the oil.
4. Make sure the room is well ventilated. This is to make sure any fumes from the oil are able to escape, and not linger in the room.

The process

1. Stir the container of oil thoroughly to make sure all of the components are well mixed
2. Use a stiff brush or roller and apply the oil evenly, going with the wood grain. Be sure to apply the oil thinly, as to keep your layers even.
3. Leave the oil to dry before applying more layers. Use the same technique as the step above and go with the grain, applying thin layers at a time
4. Depending on the type of oil, use anywhere between 1 to 3 layers, making sure each layer is dry before applying a new one.

To ensure the best results for your oiled floor, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This should be located on the container of the product.

How Often Does Your Floor Need Oiling?

For domestic use, we recommend to oil wooden flooring every 2 years, you may want to do this sooner depending on how much your flooring is used. 

This also adds an additional layer of protection from daily foot traffic or day-to-day mishaps that may damage your floor.

If you’re buying a range of flooring that comes oiled, we recommend oiling the floor again once it has been laid. 

This is because your flooring could have been stored for a number of months, and maybe a little dry. Re-staining your new flooring tops up the slight moisture that is needed. By doing this, you can also add more colour to the finish and increase its durability.

 

Oiling Wood Floors FAQ

What types of oil can you use for wood flooring?

Bona hard wax oil: One of the most popular waxes available, bona is easy to apply and dries quickly. It’s highly effective at combatting wear and tear that you would commonly see in unfinished flooring, this makes it a great option for high amounts of foot traffic in your home.

WOCA hard wax oil: This particular oil is more expensive, but provides a more effective result. WOCA oil is more commonly used by professionals, who have the necessary machines to apply the oil correctly.

Blanchon maintenance oil: Blanchon is very effective at reviving wood flooring. Its matt finish results in a professional-looking result if you are doing this on your own. Blanchon oil is known for quick drying if time is of the essence.

GRANWAX hard wax oil: This oil is completely clear, providing a great form of protection, without altering the appearance of your wood. GRANWAX is a great option for preventing any signs of daily wear and tear from showing on your flooring.

Will oil change the colour of your floor?

This depends on the oil you choose. Some change the overall colour or tint of your flooring, on the other hand, some simply add a protective layer to its surface. If you are looking for an oil that provides a different tint, our ranges of tinted Osmo Oils offer a wide range of options.

Osmo Polyx Oil – White	Osmo Polyx Oil – Honey	Osmo Polyx Oil – Terra

Should you oil wood flooring immediately?

We recommend that you oil wooden flooring as soon as possible after laying it. This is because the flooring can be slightly dried out during the storage period. Re-oiling acts as a little top up to the existing oil layer. This helps to bring some additional colour and tone, as well as added protection. 

Do all floors need oiling?

Not all floors need oiling, however, there are a few specific factors to consider depending on what flooring you have.

If your wood flooring comes oiled, as previously mentioned, we recommend you re-oil your flooring with a clear finish. This re-hydrates the wood.

Lacquered wood flooring will need to be sanded down to the bare plank in order for it to be oiled. This is because of the lacquer acting as an already existing protective layer. The oil will not absorb into the wood if a lacquer finish is already present.

Engineered wood flooring features a solid wood veneer as the surface of the plank. This means that you can apply oil to the planks of engineered wood, however make sure that the flooring does not have a lacquered finish already applied. Otherwise, you will need to sand down the veneer before applying the oil.

Laminate, LVT, Vinyl, and EvoCore flooring cannot be oiled, as they have no wood surface for the oil to absorb in to.

How do you maintain oiled hardwood floors?

To maintain your wood floor, we recommend our Impero Elite Wood Flooring Kit. This kit is efficient and effective at both reviving and maintaining the look of your wood floor. Included in this kit is our Reviving Wax, which provides optimum protection for your wood flooring.

To Conclude

Overall, the benefits of oiling wood floors are very important to know. As well as preparing your flooring for a new coat, using the procedures will guarantee the best outcome. As long as you keep on top of your flooring maintenance, your wood flooring will look much better and last a whole lot longer. It’s a no-brainer!

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