Do you find it challenging to match colors and styles when shopping for your home? There’s a simple tool you can create to make this process so much easier. Set up a set of kits with samples of all of your flooring, countertops, paint and fabric – organized by room.

When you have new flooring installed, grab a small piece of carpeting, a tile fragment or a piece of wood or your sheet vinyl. That’s your start. Next, as you paint, cover a sturdy piece of paper with your paint. Don’t rely on paint chips for your color, because the actual paint color will always be different. If you started your painting with a poster-board sampler, just cut a corner of your selected sample to put into your book.

Having furniture recovered? Ask for the fabric scraps and add a piece to your collection. If you can’t get your fabric or for existing furniture, check the hem to see if you can clip a little bit to give you that color or pattern. Do the same for any curtains in the space. To do color matching for other key pieces of furniture or accessories, go to your home improvement store and grab some paint chips in the right color range, and take them home to find the best match.

Finally, take a couple of photos of the room. You can put everything in a sturdy notebook, or even put each room’s samples in separate large envelopes or photo boxes and label them. When you go shopping for additional pieces, or even replacements years from now, you will be ready with the samples you need to match colors and styles.

When you say, “polyester,” do you mean just plain polyester, PET polyester or PTT polyester? There is lots of confusion about what the terms really mean. Recently, most of the polyester fibers used for carpet construction have been of the PET variety. PET polyester is manufactured primarily from used plastic soda bottles. It is an improved fiber over the original polyester, but still retains some of the performance issues, about which you may have heard stories.

The high points of PET carpets are that they are inexpensive, and the fiber is highly colorfast and resistant to water-based stains (though susceptible to oil-based stains).  Additionally, there is a particularly soft and lush feel (carpet folks call it good “hand”) to new polyester carpet. The main complaints about carpets made from this fiber are that they crush and mat quickly, and that oil-based stains are difficult – if not impossible to remove.

PTT polyester is a late generation fiber refined and introduced by DuPont in 2000, under the trade name Sorona. It has some interesting characteristics, like 37% renewable resource content (corn-based) and reported extra stain and performance capabilities over earlier generations of polyester. Because of its unique performance characteristics in carpet construction, the FTC (in March, 2009) authorized the new generic fiber name and classification, Triexta. Mohawk’s Smartstrand carpets are manufactured from this fiber.

According to DuPont and Mohawk, carpets constructed from triexta fibers will perform every bit as well as nylon – and yet retain the soft feel (the hand) and stain-resistance of polyester.

Sorry guys, this one is for the ladies. (Although Adam Lambert from American Idol may have changed all of that!) Have you ever been in a hurry and dropped your mascara on your carpet? Don’t worry, we’ve got the solution. Take a look at these simple steps and you’ll be able to tackle that stain with no problem.

Here’s all you have to do! Follow these simple guidelines:

Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. The Carpet and Rug Institute is a great resource- 1-800-882-8846.

Sorry guys, this one is for the ladies. (Although Adam Lambert from American Idol may have changed all of that!) Have you ever been in a hurry and dropped your mascara on your carpet? Don’t worry, we’ve got the solution. Take a look at these simple steps and you’ll be able to tackle that stain with no problem.

Here’s all you have to do! Follow these simple guidelines:

Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. The Carpet and Rug Institute is a great resource- 1-800-882-8846.

Wool, the original fiber used to make textiles of all types, including carpet, is an amazing fiber with incredible characteristics, with a documented history dating back to around 4,000BC. Alexander Smith & Sons, one of the largest carpet manufacturers in the world up to the end of WWII, was at one time the largest employer in Yonkers, New York – producing over 26,000 square yards of woven wool carpets per day. However, the introduction of nylon during the war had a dramatic impact on wool carpet production. As a result, wool carpets today account for only a fraction of the overall carpet production – but they are some of the most beautiful and sought-after carpets in the world!

There are a host of things you’ll love about wool carpets. They hide soil brilliantly, and even when soiled, release dirt easily with most standard commercial cleaning methods available today. Wool carpets, when constructed well and maintained reasonably, will never “ugly out.” Also, because of the fiber’s unique ability to accept dyes, you can find wool carpets in dramatically bright and compelling colors. Lastly, wool is a safe carpet, recognized as non-allergenic and will not burn (it is naturally self-extinguishing).

One of the down sides of wool carpets is that they are expensive.  Another difficulty with wool is its susceptibility to stain. Because wool accepts dyes so readily (giving the deep, rich colors), it will also “accept” stain agents like red wine or fruit drinks. If you have the budget and the discipline to protect against staining agents, you will absolutely love your wool carpet!

Ready to take a chance on color? Here are some tactics for increasing your likelihood of success.

Decided to add a color or colors to a room, but not sure where to start? Take a peek in your closet to get color ideas. The colors you pick to wear will generally translate into the colors you want to live with in your home. Take a general look and see if two or three colors are your favorites. Among those, choose pieces of clothing that have the colors you like best, and bring them out into the space you’re thinking of redecorating.

This may sound strange, but your next step is to lay out the clothes in various locations in your space. Does that corner need a burst of orange? Would the sofa look better with a red or green throw pillow? Move the fabrics around until you have a combination of colors that works for you.

The next step is using those clothes to create a color base for the room. Take the clothes to your closest paint store, and look for paint chips that come closest to matching the fabric colors. Tuck those chips in your purse or pocket – you now have color samples you can take with you to select fabrics, accessories, and other color elements in your room. And your clothes can now go back into your closet.

Using your paint chips as samples, start shopping. Do you need new draperies, accessories, rugs? Remember to balance colors across the room. They can create focal points or highlight a space, and color will always make a room more inviting and interesting.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and call us for help!

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!

Today we just wanted to share a quick post / note from a Carpets N More customer. It’s so nice sometimes to see a good old fashioned hand written note!