How many times have your children or you spilled something on the floor? And we are not talking about just a little bit of liquid either! If you are like everyone else, this probably happens quite often, especially if you have younger children. Fortunately, the residential flooring industry has grown by leaps and bounds, and now we have the luxury of installing 100% waterproof flooring, not just water-resistant flooring! This advancement really is amazing, especially if your lifestyle is busy with work, children, and pets. To further explore the topic, we have listed some valuable information below about waterproof flooring. Let’s take a look!

Waterproof Vinyl Flooring: What Is It?

Wood Plastic Composite is known as WPC or Waterproof Core and is a phenomenal product that is 100% waterproof. In this article, we will refer to waterproof flooring as WPC. Imagine how great it will be to install this type of flooring in areas of the home prone to water exposure like the kitchen, bath, laundry/mud, and basements.

WPC Layers

We are going to list the four layers of WPC, but keep in mind that the layers may differ in vocabulary per manufacturer, but basically, all WPC’s have four layers. The backing layer is the backbone of the product. WPC core is the heart of the product; it will not buckle or swell. The printed vinyl layer is the photographic imagery technology that gives you the beautiful look of your flooring. For instance, your WPC may look like hardwood plank, tile, or stone flooring. People will have to get on the floor and examine to tell the difference. The wear layer is what helps protect the floor from scratches and dents. WPC has heavier wear layers that will offer more protection to the floor. Make sure you pay special attention to the thickness of the wear layer as you do the plank thickness.

Waterproof vinyl flooring is the best it has ever been, and we can say that technological advances are responsible for such a fantastic product! You get the look of real hardwood planks, tile, and natural stone. The tile and natural stone WPC products can be installed with actual grout, just like the real thing. Do not overlook the easy take care and maintenance required for WPC floors. Simply sweep, vacuum, and mop with the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning product. Also, WPC is very price competitive and deserves a closer look before your next flooring project!

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.

What better way to keep your home warm and comfortable than by employing a radiant heating system? While in-floor heating is considered a luxury, it is quickly becoming a trend in home design. It is a smart strategy for effectively heating an entire house, and it is a feature that can seal the deal with prospective buyers, especially if you plan on putting your home on the market. Here is what you should know about where, when, and how you should use an underfloor heating system:

Why Should You Consider Radiant Heating?

Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of radiant heating is that it can be more effective at heating your home than traditional heating structures. Sub-floor heating allows for better heat distribution. Instead of hot air being quickly dispersed into a space, it emits into the room over time, which is especially ideal for homes with tall and big rooms.

Where Should You Install Radiant Heating?

So should you install radiant heating in your entire home or in specific areas? That depends on essential factors like your budget and the flooring material installed. Radiant heating is considered a luxury upgrade because it can be expensive to install. This pricing factor is separate from additional flooring costs in the process of remodeling your home.

Additionally, radiant heating is ideal for areas of the home that have natural conducive flooring. For instance, in-floor heating is a match made in heaven for bathrooms because most bathrooms use ceramic or tile floor, which can be naturally cold to the feet. However, if you have carpet, radiant heating may not be as effective since this flooring material has insulating properties.

What Radiant Heating System Should I Use? 

There are several different types of radiant heating systems that are available. The most popular sub-floor heating system that we recommend is the Ditra-Heat System. This system allows you to customize where exactly you want the heat in your space without creating a height difference. Additional features include: 

• Waterproofing Capabilities 
• Vapor management 
• Uncoupling 

Ditra Heat is the only product in its category that works to protect the structure of your flooring while providing the warmth that you desire.

Do you have additional questions? If so, please leave us a comment below, or call or visit one of our showrooms for more information.  

Carpet is a timeless floor covering solution that homeowners and businesses continue to use today. In fact, carpet is one of the most comfortable and coziest options to add to a home. It comes in many different styles and can help add the element of texture to your space. While there are thousands of carpets available today, there are some general pros and cons to this flooring option. Understanding and knowing these factors can better help you make a wise and well-educated decision. To help, here are some of the general pros and cons of wall-to-wall carpet:

Pros

Comfort

Wall-to-wall carpet is typically chosen to add comfort to your room. In fact, carpet is one of the most comfortable options that you can add to your floor. When paired with thick padding, it is soft enough to help absorb sounds and falls without discomfort.

Many Options

No matter your design theme, there is a carpet style that can work. From different weaves and strands to colors and patterns, carpet has an endless range of options and styles to explore. This feature can be a great way to add character to your home’s design theme.

Insulation and Warmth

Walking around on tile or hardwood can be cold. Carpet works as an excellent insulator capturing heat. If you like to walk around your home barefoot, this flooring may be the best option for you.

Cons

Staining

While advancements in technology have improved carpet fibers, most carpets can still stain. It is risky to put carpet in a room where you will be eating or drinking or have the opportunity to spill liquids. Pet stains can also be tricky to remove. Even when removed from the surface, some stain can penetrate through the fibers into the padding and leave a foul odor.

Seams

Typically, carpet is made in twelve-foot rolls. This factor means any room over twelve feet will have a seam. No seam is invisible, though they can be difficult to see. The higher the pile is in the carpet, the more unnoticeable a seam may become.

Moisture Absorption

Carpet does not handle moisture well. Liquids can penetrate the fibers and begin to mold. It is best to keep your carpet away from wet rooms in your house like bathrooms or kitchens.

Carpet can come at many different price points. You can find it throughout the whole spectrum of pricing for your home. Typically, the more expensive carpets can come with more features like stain-resistance, nylon fibers, and even waterproofing. And for more information on Carpets N More‘s selection of carpet, please visit us here.

Choosing the right flooring for each part of your home is essential to making the layout work for your lifestyle. There are a lot of different materials out there, and each one has its pros and cons. Here are some popular flooring materials used in homes today and how they can benefit your living space, as well as some disadvantages they may pose:

Carpet

This material is excellent for living rooms and bedroom floors, where you want to add some warmth to a space while also creating a comfortable underfoot. Carpet protects the floors underneath and provides cushion to children, the elderly, and pets while providing a soft place to land in case of falling. Disadvantages are its lack of water-resistance, and the material needs to be vacuumed on a regular basis.

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring is a less expensive flooring choice that can stand up to a lot of foot traffic. It is available in a variety of colors and patterns and has the ability to reduce noise underfoot-which is good news if you have noisy children and pets! Disadvantages include the tendency to dent if it comes into contact with sharp objects, possibly fading in prolonged direct sunlight, and its inability to withstand extreme temperatures.

Stone

Stone flooring has always been popular mostly for foyer areas, but it is gaining more popularity in other places in the home-even the bathroom. Available in a variety of colors and textures, this material adds an earthy flavor to any room. Disadvantages of this flooring choice include the need for regular resealing to prevent water damage, a higher tendency towards scratching, and the need for constant cleaning to keep it in pristine condition.

Hardwood

Hardwood is a truly timeless flooring choice. Most homes have this material installed somewhere inside them. Bedrooms, hallways, and dining rooms are all popular places to have hardwood. Its natural origins give any space a down-to-earth look while adding class at the same time. Some disadvantages to hardwood are its tendency to warp in moisture-prone and high0humidity areas. Additionally, the installation also takes longer than most ready-to-go flooring choices and can be more expensive.

If you would like to learn more about any of these flooring choices, one of our expert sales associates would love to assist you. Call or visit us for more information!

Who does not love an inviting and comfortable bedroom made for a blissful night’s sleep? Sometimes, no other floor can compare to soft comfort that carpet brings. In fact, many homeowners prefer carpet in a child’s playroom or bedroom for overall comfort that it can provide. Plus, it can prevent injury from falls with its cushiony underfoot. There are many factors to consider when picking out carpet according to your lifestyle. To help you avoid making a costly mistake and protect your investment, we have included a few helpful tips for picking out the perfect carpet for your bedroom. Let’s take a look!

Carpet Type

At Carpets N More, we will ask you general lifestyle questions to educate and guide you to what type of carpet best suits your needs. That being said, it is important to educate yourself by researching the types of carpets online. This way you have a better understanding of the products that our sales representatives recommend.

Padding

Try not to buy the least expensive padding. The padding helps to absorb noise, adds an extra layer of comfort, and provides additional warmth during cold winter months. Also, keep in mind that a guest bedroom will not have as much traffic as a master bedroom; therefore, you can choose a thinner padding in rooms that are not used frequently.

Watch Your Budget

When shopping and budgeting for carpet, ask your Carpets N More sales representative to help you find a carpet in your price range. We want to help you find the carpet of your dreams at a price that agrees with your bank account.

Maintenance

If you have children and pets, you might want to stay away from shag and high-end carpets. Go for a carpet that is easy to maintain and clean. Stain-resistant carpets can help with accidental spills and makes overall carpet cleaning easier. Additionally, textured carpets and patterned carpets help to camouflage dirt, footprints and vacuum cleaner tracks. Only install cut pile and multi level-loop carpets in low to medium traffic areas since these types of carpet trap dirt and resist cleaning.

Warranties

Remember that carpeting carries many, many warranties. You will see five and ten-year warranties, matting and crushing warranties, wear warranties, and guarantees for stains and overall appearance. The better quality carpets will provide more coverage through warranties. Your Carpets N More professional will help with your questions regarding warranties.

At Carpets N More, we strive to provide expert service and educate our customers on their purchases. If you have any questions while you explore the different types of carpets, please do not hesitate to ask one of our sales representatives.

The time has come to choose new flooring for your home. Sometimes, we are so busy with our everyday, normal tasks that we often overlook the importance of choosing the floors for our home. It is important to take into consideration how they will affect the home’s functionality and style. At Carpets N More, we have listed a few topics to consider when choosing the correct flooring for your home. Let’s take a look!

Daily Activity

Your lifestyle is critical when choosing the right floors for your home. Do you have children, pets, friends, and family coming and going? If so, your floors must withstand heavy traffic and be resilient to moisture and dirt. Ceramic tile and vinyl flooring are durable and ideal for high-traffic areas. Hardwood floors are durable but can succumb to scratching and over time, require refinishing. If you prefer a soft underfoot and have minimal traffic, consider carpet or using area rugs over hardwood and tile flooring. Just keep in mind the function and style of each room and choose your floors accordingly.

Specific Room Tips

Foyers and entryways should always have a warm welcome and introduce your home’s style. A key factor to remember for entries is to prevent dirt and debris from being tracked into the house. If snow, rain, mud, and sand are elements in the entryway, consider stone, tile, or luxury vinyl. Make sure you place an entry mat at each door to trap and absorb as much of the debris as possible. To protect your entryway’s interior floors, rugs are always the perfect solution. They are functional while adding a pop of color to enhance the foyer’s design.

Family and great rooms are active rooms, so remember that area rugs are ideal. Many people still prefer carpet in bedrooms simply for the softness and warmth on bare feet. Keep in mind that kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry/utility rooms are considered “work areas” and the flooring should resist water.

Flooring Cost

Flooring is priced per square foot for the product with additional labor costs. Understanding flooring pricing is an essential factor in keeping you on track and within your budget. Keep in mind the product’s quality for your price range. Another factor to consider is the flooring’s lifespan. Floors need to be maintained, and the type of flooring you choose will depend on how often you must replace them.

At Carpets N More, we are here to answer any questions you might have about flooring. Stop in to our beautiful showroom today for more information. One of our expert sales associates looks forward to working with you.

Now that you have installed beautiful hardwood floors from Carpets N More, we wanted to share a few helpful tips for prolonging the life of your floors. Of course, you want to protect your investment and preserve the natural beauty of your hardwood floors. That is why we wanted to focus on five precautions you should take with your hardwood floors. Let’s take a look!

Clean Flooring

This is an essential task for maintaining and extending the life of your floors. Just like other chores, if you maintain the chore on a day to day basis, the chores will not pile up. Simply sweep and dust mop the floors daily to prevent dust and dirt from spreading. This will also eliminate allergens in the home and prevents the floors from becoming scratched. Also, you will not be chasing those pesky dust bunnies, especially if you have pets! For additional cleaning procedures, only clean your floors with products recommended by the manufacturer.

No Sharp Objects

Do not forget that high heeled shoes can scratch and damage hardwood floors. Simply remove your shoes when you enter and place them in a designated storage area in the foyer. If you are a pet owner, keep your pet’s nails trimmed or purchase footies for your pets.

Floor Protectors

Invest in inexpensive floor protectors to place under furniture to prevent scuffs and scratches. These protectors are also marvelous for sliding large pieces of furniture over hardwood floors. They not only prevent scratches but make it so easy for one person to move furniture, especially for cleaning.

Direct UV Sunlight Exposure

Do not forget that sunlight can and will fade the color of your hardwood floors. During the peak hours of the day, use window coverings to eliminate the sun from directly hitting your hardwood floors. Area rugs are another great way to prolong the life of your floors while adding comfort, texture, and pops of color. Another helpful tip is periodically rearranging the furniture to allow the flooring to age naturally.

Accidents and Spills

Clean spills quickly with a dry cloth or paper towel to prevent staining and discoloration of the natural color. Again, only use cleaning products recommended by the manufacturer.

For advice on your specific hardwood floors, it is always a good idea to look at your manufacturer’s website. Additionally, a Carpets N More sales representative would love to help you with any further questions.

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!

So, you have installed beautiful laminate floors in your home. They look great and complement the space perfectly, but how do you keep them that way? We have a few tips for you concerning cleaning methods that you should try and which ones to avoid. This will help to make sure that your new flooring remains as stunning as the day it was installed.

How to Avoid Scratches

The two main concerns you will have with laminate floors are scratching and warping. By simply keeping up with everyday cleaning, these issues can be completely prevented. Scratches result when dirt and debris are left on the floor with foot traffic assisting in grinding the particles into the floors in the process. Investing in a dust mop to keep the surface clean is a must. It will be gentle enough to take care of any messes without scraping the floor. Sweeping along the installed grooves will also help pick up all the dust and dirt that can become stuck in the seams. A standard hard bristle broom will cause minor scratches that can add up over time, so using one should be avoided.

If sweeping takes up too much time on a daily basis, a vacuum with a soft brush attachment will also do the trick. Be sure to set the vacuum on the bare floor setting for the best results. Keep in mind that vacuuming a laminate floor with high gloss may not be the best method for daily cleaning.

How to Avoid Warping

Warping is the other issue we want to avoid while keeping laminate floors clean and looking like new. This can be avoided by making sure excess water does not make its way through the seams of the installed flooring. While sealing is the best solution for making this material water-resistant, it is not impenetrable. Care does need to be taken to make sure that extra water is not dumped on the surface in an effort to clean it. The best method for mopping the floors is to use the same microfiber mop with warm water or mild cleaners if necessary. Applying water or cleaning solution directly to the floors is not recommended. Conservatively wet your mop, so it is not sopping wet and then apply to the surface. This will keep the moisture down while still getting the job done. If you do not have a bucket to dip your mop into, try putting the liquid in a spray bottle and directly spraying the mop.

For everyday spills that can happen, especially in the kitchen, be sure to blot them up with a towel as quickly as you can. If you have a stubborn stain, try mixing a mild solution of vinegar and water to remove it. Remember never to wax or polish the surface or use any cleaners that claim to restore shine as will damage the floors. Now you know how to keep your floors looking as wonderful as the day they were installed. Enjoy!