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!

Are you thinking about replacing your current flooring? If so, please keep in mind that choosing specific flooring can actually increase the value of your home. Your home is most likely the most substantial investment you will ever make. In fact, replacing your floors is a good thing that will not only fit your budget but will upgrade the design style of your home. Below, you will find some tips that will answer your questions and motivate you to start this project.

Hardwood Floors

Homebuyers will pay more for hardwoods because they are beautiful and timeless. Harwood offers many species and styles to fit any style. You can choose from Oak, Pine, Maple, Brazilian Cherry, Hickory, and many more. Harwoods are easy on your back and feet, compared to tile floors. Plus, they are easier to clean than carpet.

Natural Stone

Travertine, slate, and other natural stones are stylish, durable, and timeless. Not to mention, they are perfect for indoor and outdoor use. Natural stone is a product that blends well with other décor and flooring. It comes from the earth and has been around forever, and will continue to be popular!

Porcelain & Ceramic Tile

The toughest residential tile is porcelain tile. If you have children and animals, tile is your best bet. It is water-resistant and does not succumb to scratches. Tile is also beautiful and stylish. If you choose neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, they will mesh beautifully with your decorating style and other floorings.

Vinyl Flooring

With new technology, vinyl floors are quite the rage now. With improved printing processes, vinyl really looks like hardwood and tile floors. Vinyl plank flooring is installed by the individual planks, just like hardwood. Consider luxury vinyl tile (LVT); it is durable with fantastic style.

Looking for additional advice? One of Carpets N More‘s expert sales associates would love to assist you. Please do not hesitate to call or visit us today!

Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring has been storming the market for the past several years. Many homeowners and businesses have turned to this option of flooring for its superior durability and longevity. However, flooring investments may not be something you have done many times in your life. So why is LVP so incredible? Is it really worth the craze, and what should you look for in LVP? Not all vinyl planking flooring is created equal, but have no fear. We are here to help you identify some of the key attributes to look for in your LVP investments. Let’s take a look!

Wear Layer 

When shopping for LVP, you will quickly notice many products have different mil layers. The thickness of your planks does not necessarily represent the durability and quality. The mil layer is a top coating typically of clear urethane. This layer is there to help protect the vinyl layer beneath it from becoming damaged. Most wear layers can protect from stains, scratches, and UV damage. The thicker the mil layer, the better protection, and longevity you can expect out of the floor. The mil layer is simply represented by the thousandths of an inch. Most commercial applications are required to have a twenty mil layer. Mil layers can range from as low as six mils to forty mils. 

Water Proof 

Many manufacturers will market vinyl planking as waterproof. Waterproof is a very complex marketing term. The amount of water needed to penetrate a floor and pressure can all be used to determine a floorings water resistance. Typically, almost all LVP flooring systems are waterproof. They make great flooring options for rooms that will have wet areas.   Some companies will go as far to market their floorings as hurricane proof! Understanding the quality of your specific flooring can help you best determine its best application. That being said, most LVP will work in any wet environment. 

Underlayment 

Most LVP floors are floating, interlock flooring systems. You want to ensure when you are shopping that you are comparing apples to apples. Some of these floors will have a built-in underlayment, while others may not. The problem comes when you compare prices of a floor with the built-in underlayment versus one that must be purchased separately. Make sure you compare final prices to both floorings. 

When looking for the right LVP flooring, make sure to understand your flooring. Vinyl planking is an extremely versatile flooring, but not all LVP floors are created equal. Be sure to ask your Carpets N More sales representative for additional information. Thanks for reading!

Luxury Vinyl Tile has become an extremely popular flooring choice amongst homeowners. Loved for its style choices and durability, Luxury Vinyl Tile can provide everything you want in one flooring option. If you are interested in learning more about Luxury Vinyl Tile, we created this simple guide to help you. Enjoy!

Why Luxury Vinyl Tile?

Also known as LVT, Luxury Vinyl Tile is the solution for active homes wanting a stylish, affordable flooring option. LVT is constructed with several layers: a wear layer, image layer, and a core and backing. Luxury Vinyl Tile is 100% waterproof, making sure that it will not swell or buckle. Lastly, LVT is exceptionally durable, making it the perfect choice for active, busy households. Its scratch, stain, and wear resistant allows it to thrive in the busiest of homes.

Easy Installation

Luxury Vinyl Tile is easy to install and can be used in rooms that you never imagined possible. This unique flooring can work in basements, kitchens, and bathrooms to create a trendy and stylish look. Plus, with an array of different sizes, colors, textures, and styles, you are sure to find one that you will love.

The Perfect Alternative

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is the perfect alternative solution to hardwood and ceramic tile. With LVT, you can get the look of hardwood without sacrificing durability. Plus, LVT works perfectly in moisture-attracting rooms—giving homeowners the opportunity to put in places that they never imagined possible! LVT is also an excellent alternative for ceramic tile because it is softer and warmer than tile’s hard-surface.

Plenty of Styles

Luxury Vinyl Tile’s versatility makes it a popular choice amongst homeowners. Whether you are looking for something close to hardwood or natural stone, LVT can give you the look and performance that you are seeking. Some of the stylish options for homeowners to choose from are Authentic-Looking Wood, Natural Stone, and Textured/Finished Effects.

We have a wide selection of different Luxury Vinyl Tile options for homeowners. To browse our vast selection of LVT, take a look at our online showroom here.

If you are here to learn more about flooring, you came to the right place. To help buyers become more aware of the products within our market, we have created a quick and easy guide. This guide covers the basic types of flooring that consumers are eagerly buying. If you are interested in learning more, keep reading!

Popular Types of Flooring:

Hardwood.

One of the most classic and timeless choices for homeowners is hardwood floors. Their natural beauty and classic look create for a stunning home. Hardwood can be a breathtaking addition to any home, and it is offered in a wide selection of sizes, styles, and colors to meet your style preferences.

• Best Rooms for Hardwood: Living Room, Dining Room, and/or Bedroom(s).

Carpet.

The other most traditional flooring option is carpet. Carpet adds instant coziness and texture to any space. Carpet can also be an excellent choice for families because of its add plushness and added protection.

• Best Rooms for Carpet: Family Room and/or Bedroom(s).

Laminate.

Laminate takes on the look of popular flooring finishes like stone, wood, tile, and even concrete. Laminate flooring can be installed over top of your existing floors without the need to use nails/glue.

• Best Rooms for Laminate: Kitchen and/or Bathroom.

Ceramic Tile.

Ceramic tile can be one of the most personalized choices for homeowners. From your kitchen backsplash to bathroom floors, ceramic tile can be a beautiful addition in your space. Plus, it comes in an array of colors, shapes, sizes, and even textures for your personal preferences.

• Best Rooms for Ceramic Tile: Kitchen and/or Bathroom.

Natural Stone.

Natural stone withstands moisture and creates a stunning finish inside of any room. With its polished look, you can create a luxurious space in no time. Plus, stone can be used outside; making it the perfect option for outdoor patios.

• Best Rooms for Stone: Kitchens, Bathroom and/or Outdoors.

Vinyl.

Vinyl can be an extraordinary flooring option for homeowners who want a resilient and versatile flooring option. Vinyl flooring has exceptionally low-maintenance and high durability for homeowners who need a little wiggle room in their flooring. With its gorgeous array of choices, you can complete the look of your dreams for less.

• Best Rooms for Vinyl: Kitchen and/or Bathroom.

Are you interested in learning more about a particular product? We would love to help you. Contact us today or visit one of our locations to learn more. Thanks for reading!

Today’s post is wrapping up what you need to know about luxury vinyl tile (LVT). If you missed our other posts on LVT, be sure to check them out here.

Here’s what you need to know after installation of LVT:

Depending on the manufacturer these guidelines may vary:

After installation, furniture and foot traffic should not be on the floor for at least 24 hours. This allows the adhesive to dry completely.

After installation, the floors should also not be washed for 48 hours.

The adhesive residue on the floors after installation can be removed with mineral spirits.

Floor covering subjected to excessive heat and light exposure is subject to

thermal degradation. Use appropriate precautions to minimize potential

affects on the floor covering.

Oil or petroleum based products can result in surface staining. Do not track

asphalt driveway sealer or automobile oil drips onto the vinyl floor covering.

During the life of the floor, the temperature should never drop below 55°F.

Care and Maintenance

Floors should never be flooded with water or be allowed to have standing water. This can loosen the adhesive.

Care should be taken with heavy furniture and appliances. Furniture protectors should be used that are at least 2” in diameter. The hard and small buttons sometimes found on the bottom of chairs and other pieces of furniture should be removed. High heeled shoes also apply here.

Protect the floors from dirt and grit that can be tracked in by using walk off mats at every entrance.

Do not use rubber backed mats. Certain rubber compounds can permanently stain vinyl.

Never use vinegar, acetone or lacquer thinner to clean these floors.

For extreme staining like nail polish , paint, dye and permanent markers try applying fingernail polish remover that contains acetone, but is not pure acetone with a soft cloth and gently rub.

Spills should be removed immediately.

The floor should be swept, dust mopped or vacuumed on a regular basis.

Stubborn rubber heel marks can be removed with a soft cloth dampened with mineral spirits.

When the floor gets build up, consult the with the manufacturer’s recommended cleaner system to see if a stripper is available.

What to know before you buy Luxury Vinyl Tile

• These floors should not be used in high moisture areas.

• Typically, these floors should not be installed over existing resilient floors.

• When using radiant heat flooring, the substrate should not exceed 85°F.

• If not installed properly, the floors can look unsightly and not wear properly.

• These floors can scratch and indentations can be made.

• It is recommended that these floors not be exposed to too much sunlight. Drapes and window coverings are recommended during peak sunlight hours.

• Hot items like cigarettes and matches can burn the floors.

Installation – Preparing for:

Depending on the manufacturer these guidelines may vary:

The floor covering, adhesive, and room temperature must be kept with

in a temperature range of 65°F to 100°F for at least 48 hours before,

and 48 hours after installation. In certain cases where epoxy adhesive is used, the temperature should not exceed 85°F.

The flooring material should be allowed to acclimate to the temperature of the area it will be installed for at least 48 hours in advance.

Start with a clean jobsite, a prepared subfloor and remove any items that may damage a finished installation. Substrates must be dry, clean, smooth, and free from paint, varnish, wax, oils, solvents, adhesive from former flooring and other foreign matter.

A properly prepared subfloor is important because the wrong type can telegraph through the new floor. This will not only be unattractive, but it will cause uneven wearing. Underlayment panels are intended to provide a smooth working surface, but are not designed to correct or properly cover structural deficiencies.

Some types of nails, such as common steel nails, cement coated or someresin or rosin coated nails, may cause a discolor-ation of the vinyl floor covering. Use only non-staining fasteners with underlayment panels.

Before getting started, check each box to make sure it is the right style, color and pattern number. Then, be sure to check and make sure the dye lot numbers are the same on each box. It is best to know if a box does not match in the beginning in order to give you time to get a replacement. If there are many boxes that are not the same, you may need to return the entire shipment.

Once you have checked all of the cartons, mix tiles or planks from each carton to minimize shade variation.

Read the manufacturers installation instructions to see if your subfloor is suitable to install the new product over. Often, resilient products should never be installed over residual asphalt type or cut back adhesive. It can bleed through onto the new flooring. All of the adhesive needs to be removed or properly covered before proceeding with the installation.

The manufacturer’s recommended adhesive should always be used in order to maintain the manufacturers warranty.

When installing, be careful and precise measurements must be taken during tile layout. Lay all tiles in the same direction, all directional arrows pointing in the

same direction. With plank layout it is also important to balance the layout of the plank format. Proper planning and layout will revent narrow plank widths at wall junctures. Accurately easure the room todetermine the center line, adjust this stablished line to accommodate a balanced lay out and then transpose this line to a comfortable width away

from the starting wall (approximately 2’ to 3’ wide). Apply the adhesive in this area and begin installing planks.

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When determining the proper layout for mixing tile and planks for custom installations it is important to consider overall pattern and concept before getting started. The pattern should be carefully calculated and laid out for a successful installation.

When the installation is complete, most floors must be rolled with a minimum 100 pound three-section

floor roller immediately after installation. Roll the flooring in both directions

to firmly seat the tile into the adhesive.

Next, we will follow up with what you need to know after installation as well as care and maintenance advice for Luxury Vinyl Tile. Be sure to check out our previous post on advantages, styles and how LVT is made.

Luxury Vinyl tile floors are a durable, affordable and attractive alternative to ceramic tile, natural stone and hardwood. Patterns can be created for a modern look with metallic styles or traditional looks with travertine and slate looks.

Advantages to these floors include:

 Ease on joints
 More quiet underfoot than most hard surfaces
 Easy to maintain
 Available in wide variety of styles, colors and sizes
 Commercial and residential use
 Real wood, tile and stone looks
 Easier installation than ceramic or stone

How it’s made

Limestone Composite Construction Resists Cracking

One particular product on the market is made of 67% post consumer recycled material. Vinyl products that were previously discarded in a landfill are now reclaimed in a proprietary process. LEED points are available for these products.

Styles

Luxury vinyl tile comes in a variety of styles, shapes and colors. The different types of styles include:

 Planks
 Tiles
 Wood looks
 Decorative borders
 Geometrics
 Tile and stone looks
 Grout option or no grout option
 Overall patterns

An advantage to Luxury Vinyl Flooring is the ability to install modular patterns. Different tiles can be combined, different planks can be combined as well as tiles and planks can be combined.

Stay tuned for more info on LVT – what to know before you buy, what you need to know before and after installation and care and maintenance advice!