With the holiday season fast approaching, it’s time to get your home ready for entertaining family and friends. When living in an area known for its unique mix of climate and lifestyle, choosing the right flooring can set the stage for a welcoming and memorable holiday environment. Here’s your guide to making your floors holiday-ready, from style tips to durability and easy maintenance.

1. Elevate Your Style: Choosing Flooring That Complements Your Decor

Selecting the right flooring can help tie together your home’s decor, offering the perfect blend of elegance and resilience. Consider these top flooring styles that work well in spaces where both holiday gatherings and day-to-day living come together:

• Hardwood Flooring: Hardwood floors add a timeless elegance to any space. Available in various finishes and wood species, hardwood can complement holiday decor beautifully while bringing warmth and sophistication to rooms used for gatherings.
• Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): For a stylish, budget-friendly option, LVP offers the look of hardwood with added durability—perfect for high-traffic areas. With resistance to water and scratches, it’s an ideal choice for areas where you’re hosting guests or entertaining.
• Tile Flooring: Tile flooring’s versatility makes it a great option for the holiday season, whether you prefer the look of natural stone, marble, or ceramic. Tile not only withstands heavy use but also gives you room to get creative with design. Opt for finishes and patterns that enhance your holiday aesthetic while fitting seamlessly into your home year-round.

2. Plan for Durability and Easy Maintenance

With extra foot traffic and the possibility of spills, durability is essential. By selecting flooring that’s as practical as it is stylish, you can worry less about maintenance during the busy season.

• High-Durability Options: Hardwood, LVP, and tile all rank high in durability, but certain finishes make them even more resilient. Water-resistant LVP and specially treated tile or hardwood finishes provide peace of mind for high-use spaces.
• Scratch Resistance: Homes with pets or children will benefit from scratch-resistant flooring like LVP or durable ceramic tiles, making them ideal for spaces where guests will gather and celebrate.
• Simple Cleaning: Hardwood and LVP floors require little upkeep, needing just a quick sweep or mop to stay fresh. Tile, when sealed, also cleans easily. For holiday hosting, choosing floors with dirt- and stain-repelling finishes keeps your prep time manageable.

3. Comfort with Style

Even in warmer regions, winter calls for a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Flooring can add comfort underfoot and warmth to any room, making it ready for seasonal festivities.

• Carpet for Cozy Comfort: Nothing says cozy like carpet, especially in living rooms or bedrooms. Plush, stain-resistant carpets provide warmth and comfort underfoot, creating a soft surface that’s perfect for seasonal gatherings.
• Radiant Heating Options: Radiant floor heating works wonders for those chilly winter evenings, especially when installed under tile or hardwood. Imagine the comfort of stepping onto warm floors in areas where you spend the most time during the holiday season.
• Accent with Area Rugs: Area rugs add an extra layer of warmth and protection. Not only do they tie rooms together aesthetically, but they’re also practical for high-traffic areas like living rooms and dining rooms, protecting your floors and adding a pop of seasonal color.

4. Prepping for Holiday Guests: Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

A little maintenance before guests arrive ensures that your floors look fresh and inviting. Taking the time to clean and prep can make a big difference when hosting.

• Deep Clean for a Fresh Start: A deep cleaning can make your flooring shine for the holidays. A professional polish for hardwood floors restores their luster, while carpets benefit from a deep clean to lift out any buildup from previous months.
• Protective Finishes: If you have hardwood or tile floors, consider applying a protective finish. Not only does this protect against spills and stains, but it also gives your floors a refreshed, polished look just in time for the season.
• Floor Mats at Entrances: Place mats at entry points to keep out dust, sand, and moisture. This extra layer of protection preserves floors, making cleanup easier, especially in busy entryways or common areas.

5. Flooring Fit for Kids and Pets

The holidays often mean guests with kids and pets, making it essential to choose flooring that can handle the extra excitement and potential messes.

• Waterproof Flooring Options: LVP and tile are both waterproof, making them a top choice for homes with kids or pets. From accidental spills to pet messes, waterproof flooring handles it all without hassle.
• Stain-Resistant Carpeting: If you prefer carpet in your living spaces, look for stain-resistant options. These carpets are designed to withstand spills, making cleanup simple and keeping carpets looking fresh.
• Rug Layers for Added Protection: Adding washable area rugs over your flooring in high-use areas keeps it protected from everyday wear and tear. Look for durable, non-slip rugs that can handle busy gatherings and stay in place for the season.

6. Decor That Protects Your Floors

Holiday decor adds magic to the season, but certain decorations can be rough on flooring. Here’s how to protect your floors while decking the halls:

• Tree Mats for Christmas Trees: Placing a mat under the tree protects your floor from water spills and pine needles. For real trees, a waterproof mat prevents moisture from damaging hardwood or carpet underneath.
• Furniture Pads for Rearranged Spaces: If you’re moving furniture to make more room for guests, use furniture pads under chairs, tables, and couches to avoid scratches and scuffs on hardwood or tile.
• Mindful Holiday Lights: Be cautious about placing holiday light cords along the floor or under rugs. Avoid pinching cords under heavy furniture, and keep cords out of high-traffic areas to prevent wear on both your floors and your holiday lighting setup.

7. Quick and Easy Post-Holiday Cleanup

After all the festivities wind down, your floors might need a little extra TLC to keep them looking great.

• Spot Clean for Spills: For carpet, blot spills with a clean cloth and use a carpet cleaner as needed. For hardwood and tile, a mild cleaner and mop will take care of any residue left from holiday activities.
• Wash Area Rugs: Washable area rugs can be refreshed with a quick wash, especially if they were placed in high-traffic areas. Machine-washable options make cleanup a breeze and keep rugs looking good for the next season.
• Inspect for Damage: Once things have settled, take a moment to inspect your floors for any scratches, stains, or scuffs that may have occurred. For hardwood, a touch-up kit can help with minor scratches, while specialty carpet cleaners tackle stains. Regular post-holiday maintenance ensures your floors stay in top condition.

Holiday-Ready Flooring Brings Style and Function Together

Preparing your floors for the holidays doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right choices, your flooring can add elegance and durability to your home, setting the tone for an inviting and memorable season. From hardwood and LVP to plush carpet and durable tile, there’s an option for every room and every style.

This holiday season, let your floors make a lasting impression, adding beauty and resilience to all of your celebrations. A well-prepared home allows you to focus on what matters most—celebrating with family and friends. So start planning now, and enjoy a holiday season where your flooring is as ready as your holiday spirit! Click here to explore options perfect for every celebration!

When designing or renovating your home or commercial space, flooring decisions carry significant weight, particularly in high-traffic areas. Whether it’s a busy kitchen, a bustling hallway, or an office lobby, choosing the right flooring for these areas is essential to ensure longevity, ease of maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Flooring in high-traffic zones must be durable enough to handle the wear and tear that comes with regular foot traffic while still offering comfort and style.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best flooring options for high-traffic areas and discuss important factors like durability, comfort, water resistance, and ease of cleaning. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of various flooring materials, you can make an informed decision that suits both your design preferences and practical needs.

What Qualifies as a High-Traffic Area?

Before diving into specific flooring types, it’s essential to define what we mean by “high-traffic areas.” These are spaces in your home or business where people frequently walk, stand, or move items. As a result, these areas experience more wear, dirt buildup, and the occasional scuff or spill. Common high-traffic areas include:

• Entryways and Foyers: The entrance to your home or office sees a lot of foot traffic and often bears the brunt of outdoor dirt and moisture.
• Hallways: Hallways are frequently used passageways, especially in homes with multiple rooms or in office buildings. Their narrow design can lead to concentrated wear in specific spots.
• Kitchens: The heart of many homes, kitchens are high-traffic due to meal preparation and family gatherings, not to mention the likelihood of spills.
• Living Rooms and Family Rooms: As spaces for relaxation and entertainment, living rooms see constant use, whether from family members or visitors.
• Commercial Spaces: In offices, retail stores, or restaurants, flooring must handle heavy daily traffic, as well as the movement of furniture or equipment.

These spaces demand flooring solutions that are not only attractive but can withstand the heavy wear and tear that comes with frequent use.

Key Considerations for High-Traffic Flooring

When choosing flooring for high-traffic areas, it’s not just about looks. You’ll need to consider various practical factors to ensure your choice can withstand the demands of the space. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

1. Durability: The flooring material needs to be tough enough to resist scratches, dents, and general wear. High-traffic areas are subject to more damage than low-traffic rooms, so it’s crucial to choose a material that can handle frequent use.
2. Ease of Cleaning: In areas where dirt, dust, and spills are common, easy maintenance is essential. Look for flooring that can be quickly swept, vacuumed, or mopped without special treatments.
3. Moisture and Stain Resistance: Spills, water, and mud are common in kitchens, entryways, and bathrooms. Choosing flooring materials that are moisture-resistant and less prone to staining will extend their lifespan.
4. Comfort: Some areas, such as kitchens and living rooms, are spaces where people stand or walk frequently. In these rooms, consider choosing flooring that offers comfort underfoot, whether through the material itself or by using a cushioned underlayment.
5. Style: High-traffic areas often serve as transition zones between rooms, so it’s important to select flooring that complements your overall interior design. The right flooring should enhance the aesthetic while maintaining practicality.
6. Cost: Durability and longevity often come at a price, but budget is always an important consideration. Some options like vinyl or laminate may offer a good balance of affordability, durability, and style, while other materials like hardwood may require a more significant investment.

The Best Flooring Options for High-Traffic Areas

With the basics covered, let’s dive into the best types of flooring for high-traffic zones. These materials have proven their resilience in busy households and commercial spaces.

1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

Luxury vinyl is a standout option for high-traffic areas due to its impressive durability, affordability, and style flexibility. LVP and LVT come in plank and tile forms, respectively, and offer realistic designs that mimic natural materials like wood and stone.

• Durability: Made from multiple layers, luxury vinyl is built to resist wear and tear. It has a protective top layer that defends against scratches, scuffs, and dents, making it perfect for spaces like kitchens, hallways, and entryways.
• Water and Stain Resistance: LVP and LVT are waterproof, making them ideal for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and mudrooms. Unlike natural wood, vinyl won’t warp or stain when exposed to water or spills.
• Maintenance: Luxury vinyl is easy to clean and requires minimal upkeep. Regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional mopping are all it takes to keep it looking new.
• Aesthetics: Modern luxury vinyl comes in a wide range of colors and textures, allowing homeowners to achieve the look of hardwood, stone, or tile without the cost or maintenance issues associated with natural materials.
• Cost: Compared to other durable options, luxury vinyl is a more budget-friendly choice, offering a great combination of resilience, style, and affordability.

2. Porcelain and Ceramic Tile

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are renowned for their hardness and durability, making them excellent choices for areas that experience heavy traffic, moisture, and frequent cleaning.

• Durability: Porcelain tile is known for being harder and denser than ceramic, which makes it more resistant to wear and moisture. Both tile options are tough enough to withstand high foot traffic without showing signs of wear, and they are highly resistant to scratching.
• Water Resistance: Tile is inherently water-resistant, making it ideal for entryways, bathrooms, and kitchens. Porcelain, in particular, has a very low water absorption rate, making it the best choice for areas that may see frequent spills or moisture.
• Maintenance: Tile flooring is very easy to maintain, as it can be swept, vacuumed, or mopped with minimal effort. Grout lines, however, may require periodic deep cleaning or sealing to prevent discoloration or mold buildup.
• Aesthetics: Tile comes in a wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns, giving you endless design options. You can create everything from classic to contemporary looks with tile, and it can even mimic natural materials like wood and stone.
• Cost: While the initial cost of porcelain or ceramic tile can be higher than some other flooring types, its durability and low maintenance make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

3. Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring brings timeless elegance and natural beauty to any space, making it a highly sought-after choice for homeowners. While it’s durable enough for high-traffic areas, it does require a bit more maintenance than some other options.

• Durability: Solid hardwood can handle heavy foot traffic if properly maintained. However, it is more susceptible to scratches and dents, particularly in homes with pets or children. Engineered hardwood, which consists of a solid wood veneer over a plywood base, offers a bit more durability and is less prone to moisture-related issues.
• Maintenance: Hardwood floors need regular sweeping and occasional mopping with a damp cloth. You may need to refinish hardwood floors every few years to restore their appearance and address surface damage like scratches or fading.
• Aesthetics: Hardwood floors are unmatched in terms of natural beauty and warmth. They come in a wide range of wood species, colors, and finishes, allowing for flexibility in design. Hardwood can elevate the look of both traditional and modern spaces.
• Cost: Hardwood is more expensive than other flooring options, both in terms of upfront costs and long-term maintenance. However, it adds significant value to a home, and its timeless appeal makes it a worthwhile investment.

4. Laminate Flooring

Laminate is a cost-effective alternative to hardwood that still offers durability and style. Modern laminate flooring closely mimics the appearance of real wood or stone, giving homeowners the opportunity to achieve the look they want at a lower cost.

• Durability: Laminate flooring is constructed to withstand heavy use. It has a tough top layer that resists scratches, dents, and fading, making it suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms.
• Maintenance: Laminate floors are easy to maintain with regular sweeping or vacuuming. Spills should be cleaned up quickly to prevent damage, but overall, laminate requires less upkeep compared to hardwood.
• Aesthetics: Laminate flooring has come a long way in recent years. High-quality laminate closely resembles natural wood, stone, or tile, offering a stylish look without the high price or maintenance associated with those materials.
• Cost: Laminate flooring is a budget-friendly option that still delivers durability and a polished look, making it an excellent choice for those seeking value.

Choosing the right flooring for high-traffic areas requires a careful balance of durability, style, and maintenance. Whether you opt for luxury vinyl, tile, hardwood, or laminate, each material has its strengths that make it well-suited for busy spaces. By assessing your specific needs, budget, and design preferences, you can find the perfect flooring option that not only holds up to heavy use but also enhances the overall look and feel of your home or business. With the right flooring, your high-traffic areas can remain functional, stylish, and easy to maintain for years to come.

Summer is an ideal time to embark on interior renovation projects. With longer daylight hours and a more relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect season to update and refresh your home’s interior. Whether you’re looking to enhance your living space’s functionality, modernize your decor, or simply make your home more comfortable, there are numerous summer renovation projects to consider. Here are some exciting ideas to inspire your interior summer renovations.

1. Revamp Your Living Room

Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to transform your living room is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. If you love the feeling of summer in your home year round, choose light, airy colors to brighten the space and make it feel more open. Summer hues like soft blues, greens, or warm neutrals can bring a refreshing change to your living room.

Update Furniture

Consider updating your furniture to give your living room a new look. Invest in a new sofa, add a stylish coffee table, or incorporate comfortable chairs. Opt for furniture pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the room’s overall appeal.

Add New Lighting

Lighting can dramatically change the ambiance of a room. Replace outdated fixtures with modern, energy-efficient options. Consider adding floor lamps, table lamps, or even installing dimmer switches to control the mood of the room. Natural light is also a great asset, so make sure your windows are clean and unobstructed.

2. Modernize Your Kitchen

Cabinet Update

If your kitchen cabinets are looking tired, consider replacing them. Cabinetry is a very important decision in the building or remodeling process. If you haven’t shopped for cabinets lately it can be very overwhelming with all of the design and finish options available since you typically don’t plan to replace your cabinets! We have taken the guesswork out of giving you the basics you need to know before shopping. Cabinets are so important because they keep you organized and they are a major design element in a room. With today’s technology, there are endless finish options and organizational options giving you the opportunity to get a product that fits your style and personality exactly- budget permitting, of course.

Upgrade Appliances

Summer is a great time to upgrade your kitchen appliances. Energy-efficient appliances not only look sleek and modern but can also help reduce your energy bills. Stainless steel appliances are a popular choice for a contemporary look.

Install a New Backsplash

A new backsplash can add a pop of color and texture to your kitchen. Choose tiles or stone that match your kitchen’s decor and are easy to clean. A stylish backsplash can become a focal point and enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Browse our tile catalog for inspiration.

3. Refresh Your Bathroom

Replace Fixtures

Upgrading your bathroom fixtures can have a big impact. Consider replacing old faucets, showerheads, and towel bars with modern, water-efficient options. This not only improves the look of your bathroom but also enhances its functionality.

New Flooring

If your bathroom floor is outdated or showing signs of wear, summer is a great time to replace it. Choose durable, water-resistant materials like tile, stone or luxury vinyl. These options are available in various styles and can transform the look of your bathroom. Get started by checking out our flooring products on our website.

Add Storage Solutions

Clutter can make even the nicest bathroom feel cramped. Add storage solutions like shelves, cabinets, or vanity upgrades to keep everything organized. Stylish storage options can also serve as decor elements, enhancing the overall look of the room.

4. Transform Your Bedroom

Update Bedding and Curtains

Refreshing your bedding and curtains can instantly transform your bedroom. Choose light, breathable fabrics for summer and opt for colors and patterns that bring a sense of calm and relaxation. New curtains can also help control the amount of natural light entering the room.

Create a Feature Wall

A feature wall can add a focal point to your bedroom. Use wallpaper, paint, or even wood paneling to create a unique and stylish accent wall. This simple change can make a big impact on the overall design of the room.

Improve Closet Organization

A well-organized closet can make your bedroom feel more spacious and functional. Invest in closet organizers, shelves, and storage bins to keep everything in its place. A tidy closet can also make your daily routine more efficient. Your laundry room is another great place to organize as well.

5. Upgrade Your Home Office

Ergonomic Furniture

If you work from home, upgrading your office with ergonomic furniture is essential. Invest in a comfortable chair, a spacious desk, and accessories like a monitor stand or keyboard tray. Ergonomic furniture can improve your productivity and overall well-being.

Decorate with Plants

Adding plants to your home office can create a more pleasant and productive environment. Plants improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your workspace. Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or spider plants for easy care.

Enhance Lighting

Proper lighting is crucial for a home office. Ensure you have a good mix of natural and artificial light. Task lighting, like a desk lamp, can help reduce eye strain and improve focus. Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light during the day.

Summer is the perfect time to focus on interior renovation projects that can transform your home. Whether you’re updating your living room, modernizing your kitchen, refreshing your bathroom, transforming your bedroom, or upgrading your home office, these projects can enhance the beauty, functionality, and comfort of your living space. By taking advantage of the longer days and warmer weather, you can make significant improvements that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Happy renovating!

Stainless steel sinks are very popular among commercial and residential applications. However, every type of sink comes with its own sets of pros and cons. Stainless steel sinks are very versatile and low-maintenance. So if you are considering a stainless-steel sink for your own home, you are making an excellent selection. However, there are some things that you may want to know before going and investing in one of these sinks. Here is a break down of some of the most common terminology and benefits of having a stainless-steel sink:

Versatility

There are many reasons why homeowners and businesses alike love stainless-steel sinks. They are incredibly versatile and can be very low-maintenance. Plus, stainless steel is heat- and stain-resistant, which can allow you to place hot pans or sharp objects directly into your sink. These durable sinks have an extremely long-life expectancy as well, with little maintenance. However, if not cleaned properly, they can collect water spots. These eco-friendly sinks are typically made from recycled materials, which can make them more affordable than other sink options like granite or marble. Stainless steel is also very easy to disinfect, which can prevent the spread of bacteria and mold in your sink. While extremely durable, there are different qualities to stainless steel sinks. A low-quality sink may be more prone to denting or having an echoing sound when doing dishes. While aesthetically pleasing and complementary to any other stainless-steel appliances in your kitchen, these sinks have a very limited color palette of options.

What to Know

There are several terms you will start to notice when browsing the market for a stainless-steel sink, including grade, gauge, and production.

Grade

The grade of the sink is referring to how much chromium and nickel are used in the steel. If you see a grade of 18/8, this is referring to that 18% of the stainless steel contains chromium, while 8% is nickel. Marine-grade and surgical-grade are usually 18/10 grade stainless steel.

Gauge

The gauge of the stainless steel is referring to the density. The lower the gauge, the thicker the stainless steel will be. If you buy a high gauge sink like 24 or 22, the stainless steel is less thick. This factor can make it more susceptible to denting.

Stamped or Folded

There are two ways in which the stainless-steel sinks can be formed. When they are stamped, the metal is heated up and pressed into the shape of the sink. This process can make for more vulnerable edges because the metal has been stretched. You can also have a stainless-steel sink manufactured by being folded. This process is when the steel is cut into sheets, folded, and molded together.

Stainless-steel sinks are very versatile. They can be used in many applications while helping you get the best bang for your buck. Research and explore the different options and layouts of sinks available to see which style is best tailored to your needs.

The kitchen is the heart of the home. So, in many kitchen remodels, this can also be one of the most stunning rooms. Kitchens offer a wide variety of appliances, cabinets, countertops, and other investments that enhance the overall feel and look. When designing a kitchen, flooring is an option that will quickly come to mind. While many homeowners love the look of traditional hardwood flooring, it is typically not practical for kitchen application. Instead, you should look for a floor that can withstand spills or accidental drops onto the ground. This criterion makes hardwood very unpractical for the kitchen. However, have no fear because we put together some other excellent options to consider in your home.

Tile

Tile is excellent for most kitchens. Tile offers a versatile flooring option that is not only waterproof but extremely visually appealing as well. Choosing tile is one way to complement your countertops or backsplashes in your kitchen. Plus, tile is a luxurious flooring option that looks great in many kitchens and is extremely equipped for the job at hand.

Sheet Vinyl

Sheet vinyl has come a long way in the industry. We are seeing more diverse patterns than ever before with tile-like or hardwood-like selections. Plus, sheet vinyl can be cut to the size of your kitchen. However, you should be aware that it may have seams. Yet, some sheet vinyl offers a cushioned padding which can make your flooring soft and hold warmth in your kitchen. This factor is great for homeowners who may expect to drop dishes on the ground or have children.

Luxury Vinyl Planking

One of the most versatile flooring options on the market today is LVP. LVP is a vinyl planking system that is 100% waterproof. They come in many styles that can highly replicate that desired hardwood look. In fact, LVP is becoming one of the most common flooring options being used in modern design. Scratch-resistant, easy to clean, and durable, this floor is perfect for daily kitchen tasks.

Every flooring can come with its own sets of pros and cons. Any of these floorings can be great in your kitchen. Ask your sales representative for more information about the products that interest you, and for more great tips and tricks, make sure to subscribe.

From dewy yellow to creamy avocado, we have seen fad color schemes come and go in the kitchen area. However, the white kitchen design is a scheme that never seems to go out of style. Whether it is white on white or white warmed with wood tones, you cannot go wrong. In this article, you will discover why white has an enduring value.

If you are gearing up to remodel your kitchen, there is no doubt that you are about to spend a considerable amount of money. To get the most out of your investment, it is important to select a design that will still look great years from now. Here are a few reasons why an all-white kitchen is the best way to go:

Clean and Fresh

Featuring an all-white color palette all over your kitchen gives it that clean and fresh feeling. In fact, white will give your kitchen that healthy glow that is hard to achieve with any other color. Did you know that in the 1920s white was often associated with health and sanitation? To achieve this super fresh look, you will need to select a pure white look that is void of grey undertones.

Versatile

Whether your goal is to design your kitchen to reflect a contemporary or traditional kitchen, white is a color that can seamlessly blend into any style. In addition, since this is a standard color offered by all manufacturers, you will be able to easily find accessories, tiles, appliances, and furnishings that are within your budget.

Super Chic

An all-white kitchen does not have to be boring. Everything does not have to be white. In fact, black or stainless steel appliances can help you create the perfect balance. You can also mix in other neutral finishes such as wood, glass, and steel. For instance, glass cabinetry and stainless steel range hood is a great way to mix things up in your design.

Visually Expands

Because white reflects color, it can visually expand a space. If you have a small kitchen, a predominately white design will make it appear bigger than what it actually is.

Increases Resale Value

White is very marketable. In the future, should you decide to put your home on the market, your all-white kitchen will add some brownie points. It is simple to work from for potential buyers, and they will notice that when they come to see your home.

What are your thoughts on the all-white kitchen look? Yay or nay? Let us know in the comment section!

Stainless steel is a beautiful finish that looks even better when it is gleaming and shining. In fact, many homeowners feel that stainless steel can make any space feel modern and sleek. That being said, anyone with stainless steel appliances and surfaces in their kitchen will tell you that keeping this finish spotless can be a challenge, especially if you have little ones or a big family. How can you keep your stainless steel surfaces free from watermarks and fingerprints? Check out our tips and tricks:

Cleaning a Steel Range

When cleaning a stainless steel stove or range, you will really have to “dig in deep.” It is not enough to simply clean the top surface. You will need to remove the control knobs because dirt and grime often get stuck under them. When you do not remove the knobs to clean them, remnants of the food you have been cooking as well as other types of grime will build up in that area which is unsanitary and eventually become hard to remove. Also, make sure you clean the hood so that grease does not accumulate.

Stainless Steel Appliances Handles

The handles on your stainless steel appliances will require regular cleaning since we tend to touch these areas often. Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe them down a couple of days out of the week. It is best to use fine-woven microfiber cloths that are used to clean eyeglasses. This material is great at effectively removing dust and dirt without leaving behind smears or streaks.

Prevent Oxidation

Have you ever noticed a white film developing over a stainless steel surface? This is called oxidation. When steel begins to oxidize, a white film starts to grow over the surface creating a cloudy effect. You can fight against oxidation by applying a pumice powder and water mixture on your appliances. Pumice powder can be purchased at a local hardware store.

Cleaning the Countertops

If you have stainless steel countertops, a weekly cleaning of your countertops will keep the kitchen looking fresh. Plus, you do not have to use expensive cleaners, and you should avoid abrasive cleaning agents. In fact, a simple dish detergent and water mixture can be effective. Use a light dish towel during the cleaning process so that you do not scratch the surface.

Do you have any tips or tricks of your own for cleaning stainless steel appliances? We would love to hear your recommendations below in the comment section. Thanks for reading!

Are you trying to determine which style you want to use for updating your home’s kitchen? If you are leaning towards a specific trend, you will want to make sure that what you choose will be in style for quite some time. We have compiled a few kitchen style trends to help jump-start making that final decision. Let’s take a look!

Farmhouse

Farmhouse style is rustic but also has clean lines. This style has been around for several years, and design experts think it will be around for several more. The farmhouse style takes new and old features and blends them together beautifully. You will see lots of wood in the kitchen from the cabinets, the island, the ceiling, the flooring, exposed beams to the furniture. Often, the color palette is neutral to white with pops of color used in the accessories. If you have a beautiful, darker wood floor, consider choosing a white cabinet color, so the contrast between the two is undeniable! Regarding the texture of choosing your wood floors, we recommend using distressed, reclaimed, wire brushed or hand-scraped floors for that extra rustic charm.

Contemporary

Contemporary style is everywhere in today’s homes and commercial/business interior design. This style is clean and crisp with many ideas focused on today’s open floor plans. We recommend choosing a natural palette with white walls, cabinets, or floors. Bring a pop of color in the kitchen with the use of brightly colored artwork or accessories. Think of bright cobalt blue kitchen canisters with matching dinnerware and drinkware for that extra pop of color.

Coastal

Many of us love the beach and want to bring that look into our homes even if we do not live close to the ocean. Coastal colors are whites, tans, grays, and blues can create this beachy oasis. In today’s market, we also want to bring some green-blue into the color mix. Think about your flooring being a gray distressed or blonde hardwood to replicate the beach’s sand. With the coastal colors and timeless hardwood floors, you can create a vacation-inspired kitchen.

Which kitchen style is your favorite? We would love to hear your thoughts below in the comment section.

Whether you are moving, remodeling, renovating, or installing new light fixtures, it is important to understand all of the different lighting options available to consumers. Today, we are going to focus on kitchen lighting. The lighting inside of kitchens is imperative for a successful meal. You need to be able to see what you are doing whilst in the kitchen. To help you find this perfect balance, we have created a guide of the most popular types of kitchen lighting. Let’s take a look!

Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting is an easy way to add glamour and luxury into a home. If you are not familiar with the term, recessed lighting is hidden in the ceiling in little tins to create a more spacious feeling. Most homeowners install recessed lighting for their beauty as well as their easy to clean nature. The only issue with recessed lighting is that you will need enough space above your ceiling for installation. They help to create a beautiful atmosphere but they are not solely used to light a kitchen. 

Pendant Lights

For a more stylish approach, homeowners have shifted gears towards pendant lights. Not only are they stylish, but they are extremely functional. They help provide a closer light to areas which in essence, provides better visibility while cooking. The only issue homeowners find with pendant lights is that they hang low from the ceiling which could potential get in your way while cooking. 

Surface Lights

Surface lights are referred to as the “mushroom” or “bubble” light fixtures in homes. They are placed directly on the ceiling and provide an ample amount of light. They are in fact, easier to clean than the two previous lights mentioned. The only issue homeowners have with surface lights is that they are very visible. If you do not like the look of them, we would not recommend choosing them. With recessed lighting, you have a hidden light source and with pendant lights, you are provided a stylish approach to lighting. Whereas with surface lights, they are kind of just there.

If you are remodeling your home, be sure to keep us in mind for new flooring. We would love to help you complete your home with beautiful floors, cabinets, windows coverings, and countertops. For more information on our vast selection, please visit our website here.

You have decided, committed, and guess what, you are doing it! You are remodeling your kitchen after much anticipation and talk about doing it for some time now. Before you jump right into the construction, there are a couple things you will want to consider. We know, you are super excited, but we encourage you to take five minutes to read these five questions. You may find that they really helped you in your decision process.

Who are you doing this for?

You may be like “what type of question is that?” But what we mean by that is, are you remodeling for yourself or are you selling the home after you renovate it? Kitchen remodels can be extremely expensive and time consuming, not to mention you will not have a place to cook or eat for the next couple of weeks. If you are listing your property after the remodel, do not go overboard! A lot of homeowners get caught up in the remodel and end up spending more money than they will make from selling it. If you plan on selling, always keep in mind your return-on-investment and only update where needed.

What are you doing yourself?

There are definitely some factors in the kitchen that you can do yourself.  Little things that guests will never realize may be a lifesaver on your budget. Look around your kitchen and take note of the areas that you can do yourself. 

Do you need it?

Sure, if we could spend whatever we wanted on a kitchen, we could easily blow through three times our budget, but we are trying to stick to a reasonable amount of money. Instead of going all out on top-of-the-line appliances, ask yourself “do I need it?” You can find greatly discounted appliances at an appliance outlet store. They may have a couple of scratches or dings, but you will pay a fraction of the price for nice looking appliances.

Does it flow?

You are remodeling your kitchen, now is the time to make changes to things that do not work. Think about the functionality of your kitchen and if you are happy with it, move on, but if you are not, talk to your contractor.

Will it be in style in 10 years?

Trends come and go quite fast. Do not be left behind with a too trendy kitchen. Try to incorporate some safe designs. If you must have a bold kitchen, be aware that you may have an outdated kitchen in a couple of years. Remember that a design can have a happy balance of trends and timeless pieces. You can meet in the middle to guarantee a longer lifespan. 

The main thing to focus on during a kitchen remodel is, you guessed it, the flooring. Flooring can make such an impact on a homeowner’s life without them realizing it. Stop in today and browse through our wide flooring selection. From backsplashes to floors, we have it all, and we look forward to working with you on your next project!