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!

Carpet can be made of many different materials. Originally, wool was the most common application. Today, synthetic fibers have been engineered to make your carpet more durable, reliable, and easier to clean. However, not all carpets are made alike with polypropylene, nylon, polyester, and more being used today. Although, there are many benefits to having these typically less expensive textiles options.

Nylon

When dying the carpet, there are also many ways to apply color and durability. Solution-dyed nylons (SDNs) are favored by many flooring experts because their ability to be cleaned by 10% bleach concentrate. Carpets can have the dyed applied to the top layer of the filament or homogenous throughout the pile.

Imagine a radish and a carrot. When you cut through a radish, the top layer is red, and the inside is white, whereas a carrot is orange all the way through. SDNs are like carrots. Each fiber is pre-dyed before being tufted yarned onto the backing. This makes the color all the way through and not faded or just printed on the carpet, allowing the color to maintain longer and be more durable to strong cleaning products like bleach.

Olefin

Do not feel limited to just SDN carpets because nowadays, we have also engineered many carpet cleaners other than bleach! Polypropylene (olefin) carpet is highly desired because of its wool-like imitating features. Olefin may not have the “bounce back” feature you have in other carpets but is extremely water-resistant and can be applied outside. It does, however, like to attract oils and makes it hard to clean any oil-based stains.

Polyester

When comparing stain resistance properties, polyester carpet is superior over nylons and olefins. It can be compiled of recycle products and is known for being excellent at retaining texture retention. Polyester carpets are another great option with a wide variety in their color palette.

With the carpet engineering evolving through pile, texture, loop, and dyes, there is a lot going into the manufacturing of each carpet. Find a carpet that fits your design taste and that you like how it feels. Knowing how each carpet can respond to stains and foot traffic can help you make your decision feeling confident.

Because of their size, area rugs tend to draw attention when you walk into a room. That is why it is essential to choose the right one for your living space. Color, texture, and function all need to be taken into consideration when making your selection. There are a lot of options out there, so take the time to be sure which will be the most attractive and useful in your home.

Color

When choosing the color that looks best with your flooring, think about what furnishings are also in the room. If the furniture in your living space is meant to put focus downward, it may be best to use a rug of contrasting color to bring attention to it. This variation will make the colors pop and provide additional visual interest.

For flooring that you may not want to draw too much attention, you can use a neutral color for your area rug. Try to use a color like your other flooring material but slightly lighter or darker to set the area rug apart from it. This way, it will keep everything very even-looking without causing the rug to become invisible from blending in a little too well.

Texture

The textures in a room’s design will have an influence over your rug choice. If there are a lot of sleek, minimalist touches to the space, adding a luxurious shag rug will add instant warmth. If the room is already looking soft and cozy, consider a lower cut pile material to keep things balanced. If there is a good mixture of both warm and cool items, choose a mid-length pile to maintain balance.

Function

Above all, the function of the room is what is most important. Think about how much traffic will be going through the area. Is this going to be used by mostly adults, or are children and pets going to be playing on the floor as well? Choosing a quality rug with stain-resistance that can also withstand daily wear and tear will be a priority.

If you are struggling to find the perfect area rug, Carpets n More is here to help! Call or visit us today for assistance.

Lawn maintenance and care are essential to our home’s curb appeal and overall exterior aesthetics. While bushes and shrubs can offer privacy and shade, sometimes they can become too overgrown and need to go. Plus, this can also be important to do if the plants are dying or diseased. Removing shrubs and bushes is a project you may want to seek professional help for, or you may consider tackling it yourself. If you are an experienced do-it-yourselfer, this is the perfect job for you.

Equipment 

• Safety Goggles 
• Gloves 
• Chainsaw/Saw 
• Shovel 
• Stump Remover 
• Bypass Pruners 
• Hatchet 

Removal

To begin, remove all the branches from your tree. This can be tedious but can help break down your bush or shrub into more manageable pieces. Use your bypass pruners to remove all branches. For large branches, you may need to use a pruning saw or a hatchet. Be very careful when cutting and wear your safety glasses. A power tool like a chainsaw can also help speed up this process but is not essential.

Leave a little bit of your stump exposed to help give leverage to remove. Use your shovel to help dig and remove your stump. You may need to use a trowel or hatchet to help break down roots. With the remaining stump, rock it back and forth until it breaks free from the ground.

Stump Grinder

For harder or more difficult stumps, you may need to invest in a stump grinder. This is recommended if you plan on planting anything new in the spot you are removing the shrub. You can rent one from your local tool rental stores. Put on your safety glasses and start up your grinder. The teeth will rapidly break down your stump to help you remove it.

It is important to be safe at all times and never forget the safety protocol. If the shrub or bush is close to powerlines or your home, you may also want to contact a professional. If you are confident in the situation, go ahead and remove your bush. This task can help improve lawn aesthetics and save you some extra cash.

If you have ever visited a flooring showroom, you will notice how inspiring and beautiful tile’s design element can be. With numerous spectacular displays, there are literally hundreds of different options and designs, all at various price points. But before you make your purchase, it is important to know what types of materials are available to you and the key differences in tile products. To help, here is the lowdown on a few popular types of tile.

Glass

Glass tiles consist of really thin pieces of glass that are usually sold independently or in a mosaic-form, supported with a mesh material. Additionally, glass tiles are more colorful than other tile options. They are reflective and are ideal for backsplashes and walls.

Glass tile can create a really beautiful look, but it can be more expensive. Additionally, since glass is transparent, the adhesive can be visible through the material. That is why it requires installation from a flooring contractor to achieve the best, most flawless results.

Ceramic

Ceramic tiles are produced from a mixture of water, clay, which is then heated at high temperatures. Most ceramic tiles are treated with a liquid coating that is heated under high temperatures to make it really durable. It is also considered more affordable, and you can purchase ceramic products in a variety of colors and patterns.

Stone

Stone tiles tend to be more expensive than most flooring products since stone tiles are handmade from natural materials. You will find that stone products typically have unique and bold patterns or designs. Additionally, when installing stone tiles, they must be sealed since they are prone to etching when encountering to harsh products.

Do you want to learn more about one of the tile products we discussed? If so, do not hesitate to call or visit us for more information. One of our expert sales associates would love to assist you. Thanks for reading!

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!

Designing the perfect bathroom requires that you give attention to two of the most important fixtures in this area: the bathtub and shower. While you might be tempted to cut corners and stick to the basics, adding spa-like features can make a world of difference. Do you know what else can have a massive impact on the design of your home’s bathroom? The right tiling in the shower stall and bathtub is essential for further maximizing the overall look.

Selecting the right shower tile is not as easy as it may seem. A number of factors come into play when shopping for the perfect tiles. The size and style of the tiles are primarily dependent on the shape and size of the area. Here are some tips for picking out the right tile for the bathtub and shower:

Opt for Smaller Tiles for Curves

If your shower features architectural curves, it is best that you install small-sized tiles. If you are aiming for a really polished look, smaller tiles will be able to handle the arches and curves without deviating from the design.

Small vs. Large Glass Tiles

Even though glass tiles are trendy, they can also be challenging to use. With just a few uses, glass tiles can begin to look foggy due to the moisture that gets trapped behind them. This can definitely make the shower look unattractive. Therefore, you should stick to small glass tiles rather than large ones.

Adding a Feature Wall

If you really want to make your shower stand out, consider installing a feature wall. A feature wall will utilize a different tile design from the one you selected to install around the area. It helps add a statement piece to your space while incorporating a jaw-dropping look.

How do you add style and character to your shower with tiles? We would love to hear your thoughts below in the comment section.

If you have the privilege of a walk-in closet, you will probably never want to go back to a regular closet. This amenity is great for more than just storage, but it can also serve as a functional changing room. Depending on the size of your walk-in closet, you can make it even more of a luxury. Treat yourself with these simple four walk-in closet luxuries:

Full-Body Mirror 

If you have a walk-in closet, you mostly have a changing room. To make sure your outfits are always looking sharp, incorporating a full-body mirror is a must. Investing in a full-body mirror is the most significant investment you can do to help your fashion and style. There is no better way of assessing your clothing options than trying them on in front of a full-body mirror; trust us!

Built-In Closet Storage 

Next, buy a built-in closet storage system to take your closet to the next level, and have your closet more organized than ever! Be sure to buy one that has compartments for your casual and formal attire. You can also have built-in shoe departments, storage for ties, and even jewelry display areas.

Vanity 

Do you apply your makeup where you get dressed? If so, having a vanity in your closet can make sure your makeup and outfits flow perfectly. Use the extra storage compartment to put your everyday products for optimal use and function.

Countertop 

Lastly, you will want to have a place to fold your clothes, a spot to lay out your outfits, or just place your belongings. A countertop may not be the first thing you think of adding to your closet when designing the space, but this is a game-changer. Having cabinets inside the counter space will provide even more storage. Go for an island design or put it against the wall near your vanity. You will not regret this timeless investment. 

Upgrading your closet is a significant home improvement. While your closet may not be the first room you tackle to design, do not neglect it. This home amenity is used daily and should be treated with some love. For more home improvement ideas, make sure to subscribe.

 

There is nothing that screams luxury more than a stone shower stall. In fact, having natural stone built into the design of your bathroom is a luxurious addition to any home. Whether your shower stalls are encased in travertine, limestone or granite, knowing how to maintain it properly is important. While stone can last a lifetime, using harsh chemical products to clean it can result in discoloration. Here is how you can protect your investment:

Never Use White Vinegar

Distilled white vinegar is a natural cleanser that is often suggested for many materials. However, this substance contains acid that when used against any type of stone, can break down the sealant. As a result, the stone slabs or tiles will begin to erode and discolor, and this will ruin the look of your beautifully designed bathroom.

Steer Clear of Ammonia

Ammonia is another product you will want to avoid when cleaning stone in the shower. While ammonia is great at eliminating bacteria and creating a sterile environment, it also breaks down sealants. When mixed with bleach, it can be toxic to your health.

Liquid and Powdered Scrubs Are a No-No

Liquid and powdered scrubs are abrasive, which means that they can end up scratching and damaging stone tiles. These traditional shower cleaners also have acids in their ingredients that will discolor stone over time.

So, how can you safely clean your stone shower? We are glad you asked!

Use a Squeegee or Microfiber Towel

Keep soap scum at bay by using a squeegee or a microfiber towel to wipe away soap scum. Soap sum is a combination of dead skin cells, water, and soap. For the best results, clean off soap scum before it dries to prevent it from coming back as fast. Next, a microfiber towel can easily catch the soap scum on your shower walls. However, you will want to wash it every week to prevent bacteria from building up on the fabric.

Try a Steam Cleaner

Steam cleaners are a powerful tool for cleaning grout and the top layer of stone walls. You can use a small, portable steam cleaner which is effective at cleaning flat surfaces. This is a safe and chemical-free way to keep your stone shower clean.

At the end of the day, remember to avoid harsh acids with your natural stone because they are often sensitive. If you have more questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment below, and we will be sure to answer it for you.

Bills are inevitable. Your mortgage, car payment, cellphone bill, gas, insurance, electric, you name it, never stop coming. While we cannot eliminate bills, we can cut down on everyday household expenses. Learning where and when your money is drawing out of your accounts can better help you budget your finances. Here are three places you may be able to save some more money in your home:

Entertainment 

The first place to consider cutting is your entertainment bills. What are your monthly entertainment subscriptions? Do you watch cable or use a streaming service? If both, you may want to switch to a streaming service, and if possible, you can select streaming services with no contracts. Decide what shows and series you want to watch and purchase individual streaming services at that time. When you are done watching your shows, switch to another streaming service. You can also see if family or loved ones want to split entertainment service cost since you are now allowed multiple users.

Heating & Electricity 

Heating and cooling systems can be a large part of your bills. While you can adjust your heat to 78 in the summer and 60 in the winter, you can also find an alternative method that is not as uncomfortable. Invest in well-sealed doors and windows to help keep your home’s temperature from fluctuating. Cleaning your HVAC system’s filter regularly will allow air to move with less energy. Some appliances draw energy even when you are not running them. Items like cell phone chargers, televisions, computers, and coffee makers can cost you over $100 annually. Unplugging these devices is a quick way to save some money. Also, remember to turn off your lights in rooms you are not using and switch to LED bulbs to use less energy. 

Water 

Saving on your water will take some creative ingenuity. There are two places your water is used in your home: outside and inside. The most wasted water is used for gardening and plants outdoors. Make sure that if the water is running from your yard to the street to shut off the water. This is just wasting your water if your yard is not absorbing it. Obviously, inside your home, you can limit your shower time. However, your laundry machine will still use a lot of water. Make sure your laundry machine is energy efficient and that you are putting in maximum loads to get the most out of each wash. 

These three simple tricks can help save you money. You may also decide to spread out your bills if possible. Some people prefer them to all come out at the beginning or the end of the month. Do what works best with your income, lifestyle, and household.