Individual boards or plywood panels make wood subfloors. Before it is covered with resilient flooring, both these have to undergo similar preparations. You have to ensure that the surface is clean with each of these floors before you apply any floor sealer. Before laying the resilient flooring on the wood subfloor ensure that the subfloor is well suspended and well cross-ventilated from underneath to avoid the ill-effect of moisture.
It is a simple process to prepare a plywood subfloor for new resilient flooring. Ensure that the panels are securely attached with annular ring nails or cement-coated nails and that the nailheads flush with the surface, if the subfloor is new. Use a wood putty for filling up of small indentations and gaps larger than the thickness of a dime between panels ; you have to allow for thorough dryness of the putty before sanding smooth.
While removing an old flooring and installing a new one make sure that every bit of felt backing, grout or any other material that is sticking to the subfloor is totally removed. Use a wide bladed putty knife to scrape loose these materials. For removing stubborn particles of felt backing, a solvent may be needed.
The old adhesive shouild be softened by heating it with a piece of iron. Better if the area is covered with a piece of paper first to prevent the adhesive from sticking to the heated iron piece. If the old floor is difficult to remove then lay a new underlayment of plywood or untempered hard board which is at least 1/4 - inch thick and cover the old floor. The level of adjoining floors should be considered before you select a new underlayment.
While preparing a wood board subfloor it should be covered with 1/4-inch underlayment grade plywood on hard board that is untempered and because most wood board subfloors, are , if not impossible, extremely difficult to smoothen and level enough for a covering of resilient floor. The subfloor must be checked thoroughly and if necessary repairs should be made before you begin the task. The loose boards in the subfloor must be renailed to make it as level as possible.
You might have to replace those boards that are bowed or badly cupped. You can smooth sand the boards that are not so misshapen. The plywood and the hard board underlayment will cover the minor indentations in the subfloor and they need not be repaired. Regardless of the fact that whether you are installing a plywood or hard board underlayment it should be installed in 4 by 4 or 4 by 8 foot sheets whichever can be handled easily. While installing the panels these three points must be borne in mind :
1. To avoid having four corners meet, stagger the joints between the panels ;
2. A gap of a dime thickness should be left between panels to allow the material to expand; and
3. Between walls and panels or baseboards a clearance of 1/8-inch should be allowed.
Fasten the panels down with 3-penny ring shank or 4 - penny cement-coated nails spaced 3 inches apart along the edges and 6 inches apart across the face of each panel. Always start nailing in the center of each panel and work out toward the edges.
Garage Flooring Protection
How To Prepare A Wood Subfloor
Pergo Laminate Flooring - Learn How To Do A DIY Pergo Flooring Installation
Pergo Laminate Flooring is one of the giants in the laminate hardwood flooring industry. The floors are designed for home remodeling DIY enthusiasts, so questions related to installing laminate flooring abound. Pergo Laminate Flooring, Harmonics Laminate Flooring, Armstrong Laminate Flooring and similar products are pounced upon by gleeful, hand-rubbing first-time home remodelers. An average-sized floor can be ready to use and admire within a day - just imagine all the compliments from somewhat green-around-the-gills neighbors...
The days of battling to fit messy, sticky, glued laminate flooring are long gone thanks to ranges such as Pergo glueless laminate flooring planks. The unique tongue and groove designs of Pergo floors simply click together for a perfect finish. This is one of the most gratifying do it yourself jobs to tackle, as progress is measurable and the end result quite spectacular.
Is Installing Pergo Flooring Over Existing Floors Advisable?
The beauty of Pergo Laminate Flooring is that it can be laid directly over ceramic, vinyl, tiles or real wood floors, saving you the trouble of ripping out an old floor first. Make sure that the floor is clean, smooth and carefully sand down any bumps or peaked joints. Carpeting needs to be taken out however. It is always recommended to do fittings of cabinets or cupboards first, before tackling your flooring project. Real hardwood installed over a concrete sub-floor also needs to be removed before a Pergo Laminate Flooring installation.
Do I Need Expansion Room Around The Perimeter Of My Pergo Flooring Installation?
Pergo Laminate Flooring is a floating floor product, meaning that it isn't permanently fixed to the sub-floor area. These ranges expand and contract due to changes in humidity and temperature. It is therefore vital to leave a 1/4" expansion space between the flooring planks and the adjacent walls or cupboards. If you don't do this, you will have unsightly buckling floors. The Pergo floor moldings are used to hide these spaces after installation and to ensure a professional finish. Use spacers to keep your distances even. If you are tackling a very large floor area, the expansion space needs to be increased.
Does Pergo Laminate Flooring Also Have A Hollow Sound When Used?
The sound depends largely on the sub-floor layer and the thickness of the laminate flooring installation. One way to get around this is to install a sound underlayment and resin polyethylene film underneath your Pergo Laminate Flooring planks. This is a highly effective technique to use if you want to dampen the sound. This protective layer also acts as a moisture barrier, lengthening the life of the flooring. Take a look at Pergo SilentStep foam or Soundbloc foam and Moisturbloc vapor barrier. By adding these a cushioning layer, you also ensure a more comfortable, soft floor underfoot. If the sub-floor is wood, a vapor barrier isn't introduced before installing Pergo Laminate Flooring.
Can I Install Pergo Laminate Flooring Immediately After My Purchase?
To be on the safe side, acclimate your Pergo floor planks by leaving the cartons in the room where they will be installed, for a period of 49 to 96 hours. This precaution will give you a floor that remains clicked into place, rather than becoming an ugly buckling disaster area.
Can I Use Pergo Laminate Flooring In A Bathroom Or Kitchen?
Pergo Laminate Flooring's surface is highly water resistant, so the planks can be used in high humidity areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. In these areas however, the expansion spaces need to be sealed with Pergo Sealant or a similar mildew-resistant silicone product before installing the trim or molding. The same should be done where the planks were cut to make room for cupboards or a dishwasher. Some experts also recommend sealing the joints by using glue. Check with your supplier about the most satisfactory installation process. In spite of its water resistance, Pergo Laminate Flooring are not made to handle standing water.
Can I Use Pergo Laminate Flooring On Stairs?
Pergo flooring is perfect for stairs. Steps are finished with Pergo Stair Nosing. The nosing is adhered with a quality construction adhesive and finishing screws. A stair application is the only time that the floating floor concept of Pergo is replaced with a glued end product.
How Do I Ensure A Professional Finish When Installing Pergo Laminate Flooring?
A large range of color-coordinated transition moldings are available to give an elegant and stylish finish to your flooring project. T-Moldings are used in doorways, while end moldings are used along sliding doors and around tubs and basins. If you need to go from a raised Pergo flooring area to a lower hard surface such as vinyl, you would choose a hard surface reducer.
Oops! I Have A Nick In My Pergo Laminate Flooring! What Now?
No problem. The folks at Pergo realized that this is an inevitable mishap in a bustling household. They therefore made sure that you have access to Pergo Finishing Putty. Simply neaten the edges of the chipped area with a small knife, make sure the area is clean, and fill the hole with putty. A spatula gives a neat finish and the excess is simply wiped away with a clean cloth. Plank replacements are also possible if a more major repair is needed.
With a gleaming Pergo Presto or Pergo American Cottage floor installation, your home will be transformed into a wrinkle-less, stylish lady. Pergo Laminate Flooring has been performing plastic surgery on properties for years. It's about time to let that tattered carpet go...
Click here to download your free copy of The Ultimate Laminate Flooring Buyer's Guide. Get more free Laminate Flooring ebooks at Home-Improvement-Time.com, where you can also read the TrafficMaster Allure Flooring and other articles. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Quick Step Laminate Flooring - Floor Family With The Uniclic Quick Step Dance
Quick Step Laminate Flooring has ecstatic families skipping and sliding over newly installed, gleaming, smooth Uniclic floors. Even the most clumsy among do it yourself enthusiasts can tackle a Quick Step Laminate Flooring installation with complete confidence, knowing that the outcome will be quite spectacular.
Even if you love the warmth and texture of a real hardwood floor, you will soon fall in love with all the affordable wood simulated ranges Quick Step Laminate Floors offer. Laminate flooring isn't an inferior, cheap-looking alternative to real wood. This type of flooring has been transformed into the fastest growing sector in the home remodeling industry, thanks to its convenience and durability.
Gone are the days of messy, frustrating, time-consuming, glued laminate floors. The new tongue and groove flooring planks that simply click together are making experts of do it yourself novices all over the world. A room can be completed within a day, and can be used immediately. Decorative ranges of moldings ensure a professional finish you will be proud of. Quick Step Laminate Flooring trounces tattered carpeting with its easy-to-maintain good looks.
Many folks prefer a tiled look. Again the innovative home improvement experts at Quick Step flooring has the perfect solution. They have extended the Quick Step Laminate Flooring planks to include ranges with a ceramic tile look, complete with believable grout lines.
So, if you are apprehensive about trying your hand at real tiles, why not give this Quick Step product a go? It is so easy to install, and looks simply stunning. What's more, you won't have a shortage of ranges to chose from. Quick Step Laminate Flooring offer from earthy tiles to country hardwood:
Country Quick Step Laminate Flooring
You will almost believe that yesteryear's artisans toiled for weeks over your realistic looking hardwood floors, rather than hubby clicking them into place in the space of a few hours! The texture of the real thing is accurately portrayed, to such an extent that the warmth is palpable. You will experience the ambience unique to real wood flooring, down to the last recessed edge. With a thickness of 9.5mm, you can be sure of adequately dampened sound and comfort underfoot. Choose from dark varnished oak, to autumn maple or walnut.
Perspective Quick Step Laminate Floor
Invite nature into your home with the diversity of the Perspective Quick Step Laminate Flooring range. Authentic real wood patterns are displayed with v-grooves to expand your interior spaces luxuriously. From the lightness of natural varnished maple planks, to the homey feel of vintage oak natural varnished planks or rich oiled walnut planks will add warmth and beauty to your decor, complementing your furnishings with finesse.
Elegance Quick Step Laminate Flooring
For more contemporary flooring, Laminate Quick Step offers the refined Elegance range. Again the v-groove has been used to add to a roomy feel. Stylish natural varnished maple, rich dark varnished oak, lively honey red oak and a unique cinnamon red oak are among your tempting color options.
Quadra Quick Step Laminate Flooring
Having stone tiles as your flooring choice has never been so easy! The Quadra Quick Step Laminate Flooring range with Uniclic technology is a unique, low-maintenance interior design idea, made for working parents in a hurry. This range includes both ceramic and natural stone options. Installation can be done in an interesting cross pattern, a half-half motif, or a chessboard design. No grout messes. Just perfectly aligned tiles. The color palette is classic and varied. Decide between the delicate hues of Palermo, Verona or Como, or opt for a bold statement with Trento or a Black Opal Quick Step floor.
Eligna Quick Step Uniclic Flooring
If you long for a warm vibe, you will bond easily with the palette of Eligna Quick Step Laminate Flooring. The only difficulty you are likely to have, is making a decision about which one of the almost 20 realistic looking real wood tints and textures to use. If you are looking for richness, choose the santos mahogany planks. If you need a lighter, more airy decor look, opt for vintage oak natural varnished planks. There is something for every preference and every interior design style.
Classic Quick Step Laminate Flooring
If your decor leans towards contemporary styling, you will love the Classic range. These single and three plank options are style, quality and durability personified. Venetian walnut, select cherry or red oak gunstock double plank are three of the possible choices in a range of 11.
Always make sure that you follow installation and maintenance guidelines to the letter. Any deviation will void your valuable Quick Step floor warranty. If handled with care, Quick Step Laminate Flooring withstands the hustle and bustle of an active household remarkably well. Enjoy your flooring face-lift!
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Don't start your laminate flooring installation before reading the Five Laminate Flooring Installation Secrets by Rika Susan, and viewing the laminate flooring articles at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Wilsonart Laminate Flooring - 5 Click-With-Client Secrets Of Wilsonart Flooring
Wilsonart Laminate Flooring's Tap-N-Lock innovation has locked in the loyalty of an impressive segment of the working parents market. The low maintenance level required by this flooring product makes it ideal for a busy household ruled by kids and pets. A Wilsonart laminate flooring installation comes with a long list of quality home remodeling qualifications. Let's take a closer look at five of these:
1. Wilsonart Laminate Flooring Tops With Tap-N-Lock Installation
In an innovative move away from the hinged installation methods of many other flooring manufacturers, Wilsonart Floor's Tap-N-Lock technology allows for a less complicated, time-saving flat installation. No glue is necessary during general installation. Areas around doors and kick-plates of cabinets are easily navigated with a pull bar. A hammer and a tapping block is used to gently ease the flat tongue and groove planks together to form a tight, smooth joint. Don't use too much elbow grease, or you will have problems with chipping. Wilsonart Laminate Flooring requires a gentle touch. This is not the time or place to show off your muscle power!
2. Wilsonart Red Label Hand Scraped Collection Invites Nature Into Your Home
The days of smooth, plastic-looking, unrealistic laminate finishes are long gone. Wilsonart Laminate Flooring has developed into a copycat creator extraordinaire. Their innovative Red Label Hand Scraped range brings the texture and tints of real wood to life in an unmistakable way. The casual, slightly worn appearance is rich in natural variation and random patterning. Five woods have been selected for the Red Label Hand Scraped Wilsonart Laminate Flooring look.
You can almost imagine the weathering process Olde Oak Wilson Laminate Flooring has been through. Subtle cathedrals add realistic appeal. If you love reddish tinted woods, you will fall head over heels in love with the rustic Hickory Plank line. The dramatic tan and red hues are softened with white to cream sapwood and fine brown lines. All the characteristic burls and streaks are visible in a Wilsonart Laminate Floor.
Alternatively opt for richly textured Spanish Maple with its interesting 'line drawings'. You will never tire of looking at this version of Wilsonart Laminate Flooring. For a true old-world look, choose Aged Timberwood. An open-pore structure richly textured with knots takes you back to yesteryear and happy childhood memories. Add stylish elegance with Burnished Maple with beautiful golden tones, creating a warm atmosphere.
3. High Pressure Lives Deserve Wilsonart Laminate Flooring
Choose durability during your home remodeling efforts by opting for high pressure Wilsonart Laminate Flooring. Whereas direct pressure flooring undergoes 300 to 500 pounds of pressure per square inch, the high pressure versions are made using a massive 1400 pounds of pressure per square inch. The benefits of opting for a higher pressure flooring product are noticeable. More pressure means triple the toughness. You will see improved wear resistance, meaning that scuffing and scratching will be minimized. The static load capacity increases, lessening dimpling. With high pressure Wilsonart Laminate Flooring you will notice higher impact resistance, which is very important in a home where there is a high level of activity. The sheen factor is upped in the process, giving you a clear, realistic looking design. You can also be sure that there will be far fewer factory damaged planks per package. Lastly, chipped corners will not be such a headache.
4. Wilsonart Laminate Flooring Accessories
No laminate floor installation will have a professional finish without quality accessories and moldings. Wilsonart Laminate Flooring has this aspect down to a fine art, due to more than 50 years in the industry. The decorative moldings tone in with the coloring of the flooring.
The classy T-Moldings will give you a smooth transition between rooms, finishing doorways in style. Where you go from laminate flooring to thick ceramic tiles or carpeting, use a Carpet Reducer. These also come in handy at exterior doorways. On stairs you will utilize the Step Down Stairnose. An elegant Wilsonart Laminate Flooring Wall Base molding can be used as a wall border, or to cover unsightly toe kicks at the base of cabinets.
5. Maintaining The Gleaming Face Of Your Wilsonart Laminate Flooring
Busy moms fall in love with Wilsonart because of the low maintenance level. Gone are the days of costly carpet replacements after a staining spill, or yelling at the kids because of a mess on the floor. Cleaning up is so simple with Wilsonart Laminate Flooring. It is robust enough to literally repel dirt. A range of easy to use products ensures the right treatment for any kind of flooring fiasco.
General cleaning is done with a mop and a bucket of water with a dash of Wilsonart Flooring Cleaner. Wilsonart Flooring Spray Cleaner takes cares of specific spots that need tender loving care. If the kids have gone on a creative spree with colorful crayons, you don't have to worry. Mineral spirits, denatured alcohol or acetone takes care of this in a jiffy. Candle wax can simply be scraped off gently with the blunt edge of a blade. Just make sure that you always follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions to the letter. You don't want to do anything that can void your Wilsonart Laminate Flooring warranty.
Once you have Wilsonart Flooring in place, you may also want to investigate the possibility of a kitchen make-over with Wilsonart HD Laminate Counter Tops. The high definition HD Wilsonart Counter Tops have taken the domestic world by storm with its quality and creative designs. These solid surface products are accompanied by the solid backup of this reputable company.
So, join the home improvement do it yourself brigade by forging a friendship with Wilsonart Laminate Flooring.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Don't start your laminate flooring installation before reading the laminate flooring installation secrets article. The author, Rika Susan offers more laminate flooring information in the kronotex laminate flooring article at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Laminate Flooring Installation - 10 Rules For Installing Laminates In Bathrooms
Laminate flooring installations have evolved to such an extent that even bathrooms and kitchens are no longer too much of a challenge for this interior design idea. Provided that you follow installation instructions closely, a do it yourself enthusiast can confidently create a brand new bathroom look in the space of a few hours. What should you keep in mind when doing a laminate flooring installation in a bathroom or kitchen?
Many suppliers are reluctant to recommend a laminate flooring installation in a bathroom, because of the moisture risk involved. However, most quality laminate flooring products are now highly resistant to water and warranted for use during bathroom and kitchen remodeling projects. The only caveat is that you don't deviate from the detailed installation instructions. This is one area where you may want to consider calling in professional help.
1. Shower Floor No-No: Never attempt a laminate flooring installation in an area with a floor drain, such as a shower floor. This type of flooring also isn't recommended for use in a steam room, due to the extremely high humidity level.
2. Water Woes: The main culprit that leads to floor damage such as buckling or blistering, is standing water. If there is any spillage or overflow, it is vital that you dry the floor immediately. Cleaning a laminate floor should never involve more than a damp mop. A wet wash is a straight road to trouble.
3. Ultimate Underlay: In a bathroom or kitchen you need to cut the underlayment even with the top of the flooring after installation, so that it can be sealed with the floor.
4. Joint Joinery: The tighter the joints lock during a laminate flooring installation, the better their ability to resist moisture. Don't manipulate the joints too much. Every time they are loosened and re-locked, they will have a looser fit. This has to be avoided at all costs during bathroom and kitchen installations.
5. Glued To The Task: You may not need to do this in the rest of the house, but manufacturers recommend that in bathrooms and kitchens you glue the joints to seal them properly. Apply the glue to the top of the tongue only. As you click the joints together, a thin bead of glue will show on the surface. This must be wiped off with a damp cloth, before the glue dries. This procedure is only necessary during a bathroom or kitchen laminate flooring installation.
6. Setting The Seal: Around the perimeter of the room you will use 100% mildew-resistant silicone caulk or a product such as Pergo sealant according to the manufacturer's directions. One tip that is often given is to apply masking tape parallel to and just off the edge of the laminate plank. You can then fill the expansion space, remove any overflow carefully with a putty knife and gently remove the tape. Every joint and expansion space must be protected in this way to prevent moisture and humidity from seeping into the core of the planks used during the laminate flooring installation.
7. Trimming The Tub: A variety of decorative color-coordinated molding options are available for use around tubs and basins. The expansion space first needs to be filled with caulk. The molding trim can then be placed in the caulk while it is still wet. The joint between the tub or basin also needs to be treated with caulk.
8. Mind The Moldings: Always use a T-molding between the bathroom and the adjoining area. This will also be sealed with caulk.
9. Do A Dry Run: A bathroom laminate flooring installation is slightly different due to the use of caulk and glue. Manufacturers therefore recommend that you leave the room to dry for up to 24 hours before using it.
10. Cabinets Come First: Install any bathroom of kitchen cabinets before doing the laminate flooring installation.
Remember that any laminate flooring that is damp or wet becomes extremely slippery. Be extra careful in a bathroom. All in all, if done with care and the requisite sealants, a bathroom laminate flooring installation can be most successful and durable.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Don't start your laminate flooring installation before reading the laminate hardwood flooring installation secrets article. The author, Rika Susan also offers more flooring information in the Harmonics Glueless Laminate Flooring article at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Laminate Flooring Installation - Learn Why Laminates Lead DIY Interior Design
Laminate flooring installations are creating a buzz among home remodeling rookies. This flooring phenomenon is building a do it yourself following that is unheard of in the industry. Overnight a tattered, carpeted home can be transformed into an elegant mansion with gleaming, stylish floors brandishing every real wood grain imaginable. If a homeowner qualifies for a home improvement loan or home equity loan, this is one sure way of spending it sensibly while adding impressive value to the property. What exactly is a laminate flooring installation and why the home improvement hype?
A laminate flooring installation is a flooring project done with tongue and groove planks that click together to form a stable, floating floor. No adhesive or nails are used to fix the planks to the sub-floor. The planks can have the appearance and texture of real wood, ceramic tiles or stone tiles and the latest technology is such that the look created is extremely authentic.
You won't necessarily need to rip out existing floors if you plan a laminate flooring installation. Laminate planks will be quite at home if installed over vinyl, tiles, or real wood. Just make sure that the sub-floor is perfectly smooth and even and follow the manufacturer's detailed guidance in every respect. Carpeting and real wood on concrete floors will have to be taken out before installing laminate flooring.
The planks used during a laminate flooring installation usually consist of four fused layers. The bottom layer is mostly reinforced with melamine. This substance provides stability and protects the upper layers from moisture. The most important layer is the inner core made of a medium density fiberboard, treated and impregnated with edge sealing substances. The third layer is the decorative part of the plank. This is nothing more than a photograph that gives the flooring plank the authentic wood or tile looks. Covering the decorative layer is the wear layer, usually consisting of cellulose paper, combined with melamine plastic resins and an aluminum oxide coating. The best wear layers resist staining, moisture, scratching, fading and other signs of wear, protecting the laminate flooring installation for years to come.
In the case of Alloc Flooring, an additional thick Kraft paper layer has been added between the design layer and the core. The Alloc Laminate Flooring core consists of a unique Aqua Resist fiber board which has been engineered to minimize the risk of fluid absorption. Alloc floors are in the company of other classy manufacturers such as Pergo Flooring, Quick Step Flooring, Wilsonart Flooring, and Trafficmaster Allure Flooring.
The budget sections of laminate flooring installation ranges are often manufactured with a direct pressure method. The four layers are assembled, heated and pressed to form the fused flooring plank. The pressure exerted is around 300 pounds per square inch at 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
More expensive laminate flooring installations consist of high pressure planks. The top and bottom layers of the planks are treated separately and Phenol impregnated Kraft paper is added. This is all fused to the core layer. Extreme pressure of around 1300 pounds per square inch is used at 300 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures a more stable, durable end product with less chipping and a higher degree of moisture resistance.
As a laminated flooring installation isn't affixed to the sub-floor, you need a good quality padded underlayment to dampen sound, add to the stability of the floor, give warmth and add a more comfortable feel underfoot. Some manufacturers pre-attach this underlayment to the planks. While this is a convenient option, some experts view attached padding as slightly less effective than a separate underlayment. The underlayment usually consists of cork, felt or foam.
In the case of an Alloc Laminate Flooring installation, the underlayment is pre-affixed to the planks. This Alloc Silent System padding claims to dampen sound to a higher degree than other comparable padding products. The Alloc Flooring system can even be ordered to include under-floor heating that is incorporated into the underlayment.
In addition to the underlayment, a plastic moisture or vapor barrier is placed between the planks and the underlayment to give additional protection against moisture. Any contact with fluids may cause the core to swell, leading to buckling or blistering of the floor. This level is usually a polyethylene material. It isn't used in a laminate flooring installation where the sub-floor is real wood.
What makes a laminate flooring installation so popular, is the fact that it is an easy, glueless operation that can be attempted by any do it yourself novice. This is a home remodeling option that gives highly gratifying results within a few hours and can be used immediately in most cases. The tongue and groove designs of the laminate flooring installation planks simply snap or click together, creating tight-fitting, almost invisible joints.
If done correctly using a high grade product, these installations will retain their immaculate appearance for many years. Most ranges are warranted for between 15 and 30 years, giving an indication of the robustness of a laminate flooring installation. It can be used in virtual any interior space, and even does well in bathrooms and kitchens, as long as the laminate flooring installation instructions are followed carefully.
To recap, here are the 10 main benefits of a laminate flooring installation:
1. A laminate flooring installation is a low-maintenance flooring solution.
2. A wise decor choice will give you long-lasting quality.
3. A laminate floor is stain resistant.
4. Laminate flooring installations are usually fade resistant to a large degree.
5. Laminate floors can be installed over most existing floors.
6. This type of flooring can be installed on all grade levels.
7. A top-rated laminate flooring installation will offer superb impact resistance.
8. Laminate floors mimic the warmth and texture of real hardwood accurately at a fraction of the cost.
9. The new, glueless laminate flooring click together designs are a terrific home improvement project for a do it yourself novice.
10. These floors can be lifted and replaced easily, partly or room-wise. This is of particular importance in case of a serious mishap. This is also why you always need to store a few planks.
Virtually every wood grain and texture is catered for in laminate flooring collections. By extending the ranges to include ceramic tile and stone tile options, there is no end to interior design ideas in the flooring realm. Any decor style and architecture can get a speedy face-lift with a laminate flooring installation.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Don't start your laminate flooring installation before reading the Five Laminate Flooring Installation Secrets by Rika Susan, and viewing the many other laminate floor installation articles at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Mohawk Flooring - 10 Reasons To Invite Mohawk Laminate Flooring Into Your Home
Mohawk Flooring's flooring core strength is its phenomenal flooring expertise built up over more than a century. What these guys don't know about flooring, isn't worth knowing. Mohawk flooring covers from laminates to ranges of Mohawk carpets and rugs. Just follow your feet to Mohawk comfort and style.
Why is Mohawk Flooring found in thousands of upper-class homes? Why do interior designers keep the Mohawk laminate flooring number handy? Why are do it yourself novices smiling when they hear the Mohawk Industry name? Why does many a dynamite decor diva pledge loyalty to Mohawk Flooring? Ten reasons for choosing Mohawk laminate flooring come to mind.
1. InstaClic Installation By Mohawk Flooring
When glueless laminate flooring installation was invented, it changed the face of home improvement all over the world. Every manufacturer has its own unique tongue and groove system. Mohawk Flooring uses the patented Instaclic glueless system for super-fast fitting. Boards can be joined at an angle, or simply slide together and snap firmly into place. With Mohawk laminate floors you never get into too tight a spot.
2. Interior Decorating Delights From Mohawk
Whether you are into rustic comfort or contemporary minimalism, you will find a color, style and texture perfect for both your taste and your budget in the vast Mohawk Flooring collection. From real wood, to tile or stone are introduced with grace and finesse. The embossing emulates the natural textures for a highly realistic, warm vibe.
3. Mohawk Flooring Effortlessly Fits Into Every Nook And Cranny Of Your Home
With innovation and classy finishes, Mohawk ensures that its products will happily adapt in every room of your home. Cover up old, dry concrete slabs, give wooden sub-floors a new life, or practice plastic surgery on vinyl or tiles. With proper preparation, installation and maintenance Mohawk will flourish anywhere. Follow installation instructions closely for the best results.
4. The Mohawk Mentality Is Lean And Mean
Tough as nails Mohawk Flooring has been designed to laugh off high heels, cigarette ash, and kiddy calamities. Scuffs and scratches will encounter well-muscled resistance, although it is recommended that you keep pet claws trimmed to be on the safe side. There is very little inclination to allow indentations. However, use common sense to extend the life of your flooring, for example make sure you have felt pads under furniture feet.
5. High Level Mohawk Flooring Glamour With Low Level Maintenance
No overloaded, working parent has time for finicky flooring. The Mohawk Flooring industry understands this. No messy waxes are necessary. A damp mop is just about all you need. Dedicated laminate flooring cleaners are available and stains are often tackled with good old nail polish remover. Always check with your supplier to ensure that you use the recommended cleaners, otherwise you may be voiding your warranty.
6. Mohawk Isn't Super-Sensitive To Sunlight
Mohawk Flooring's technology is such that the finish is fade-resistant. You will never have to worry about color changes due to sunlight. There will not be tell-tale faded spots when you move furniture.
7. Minimal Moisture Menace With Mohawk Laminate Flooring
A moisture resistant core if vital if you want durable laminate flooring. Mohawk Flooring has a superb reputation in this regard. Use it with the Mohawk Silentgard or Moisturegard underlayment or padding, and you can count on the 25 year moisture warranty.
8. Cover Mohawk Flooring With A Lifetime Structural Warranty
A Lifetime Structural Warranty (33 years) accompanies the Mohawk Flooring residential collections. To make the most of the warranty, follow installation instructions to the letter. The warranty refers to factors such as wearability, staining, fading and moisture resistance.
9. Mohawk Flooring Comes With Padding In Place
Some Mohawk lines even come with a pre-attached underlayment. This is a tremendous time-saving treat. With an underlayment such as Silentgard, the irritating hollow sound of laminate flooring is diminished significantly. The padding also makes the floor more comfortable, especially in areas where you will be spending hours on your feet, such as in the kitchen. This vital layer also adds warmth.
10. Mohawk Flooring Becomes A Complete Interior Design Solution
Mohawk now offers such a wide range of products, that it is on its way to become a one-stop interior design supplier. It covers every type of floor with a diverse range of flooring decor. Mohawk Laminate Flooring now also treats their loyal customers to ranges of Mohawk Tiles, Mohawk carpet creations, woven bedspreads, a variety of colorful tapestries, pillows and throws to cozy up to, and even window blinds. What is more, the products are available from all major retailers, such as Home Depot, Bloomingdales, Lowe's and Macy's.
Mohawk Flooring has grown up to become a home remodeling and decor giant.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Don't start your laminate flooring installation before reading the laminate flooring installation secrets article.
The author, Rika Susan also offers more flooring information in the Milliken Legato Carpet Tile article at http://Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Kronotex Laminate Flooring - Getting The Knack Of The Kronotex Flooring Click
Kronotex Laminate Flooring caters equally for the robustness of young families where kids and pets rule the roost with crayons and claws, and the glamour of contemporary styling. Kronotex flooring hones in on the low maintenance required by working parents, the durability needed in bustling households and the stylish finishes demanded by upper-class home-owners.
The Clic2Clic design of Kronotex Laminate Flooring makes it accessible to even an all-thumbs do it yourself novice. According to the company, they know how to 'click' with their clients. They know that you need a product that is easy and fun to install, and gives spectacular results. Kronotex Laminate Flooring needs to be acclimated for up to 48 hours before installation, by storing the unopened boxes horizontally in the room where they will be used.
Kronotex Flooring's engineering and designing allow for all budgets and tastes. The economical Basic range is 6mm thick, easy to install and durable. It is suitable for residential areas with a normal amount of traffic. The wood finishes vary from light to the richness of Merbau PR. The next level of Kronotex Laminate Flooring is the Smart Range. The 7mm thickness allows for moderate to intensive use, and can even be utilized in small office areas. Eight attractive color options are available.
A massive array of colors introduce the 8mm thick Dynamic range. If you want to move away from natural hues, you can even opt for the Alder Blue BS planks. This solidly interlocking Kronotex Laminate Flooring product is often seen in hotels. It can even be lifted again to be used elsewhere.
Up the decor ante with sound-design noise insulated Exquisit. This Kronotex Laminate Flooring option with its authentic wood looks has been designed to add atmosphere, warmth and elegance. It even stands up to light industrial use. This textured flooring product comes with beveled edges that add to the real wood appearance.
Robusto is super-durable due to high density fiberboard of 12mm and a wear-resistant surface. Kronotex recommends this flooring solution for use in department stores. For the floor of all floors, choose the Amazone Kronotex range. With its slim planks sporting a width of just 113mm, but a length of 1380mm, the effect created with the Amazone line is strikingly unique. If you aim for individuality, this is your range. You can cut and fit to your heart's content, living your creativity.
Move to the other end of the spectrum with the extra large panels of the Mega Kronotex Laminate Flooring line. Stone tiling gets new meaning with traditional coloring in a new wrapping. Indulge in wonderful colors and day-dream creating names such as Varese and Sargasso. Finish your flooring job in double-quick time, complete with grout lines but no sign of grout messes. Alternatively, get as close as possible to the real thing with the 1845mm Mammut planks, mimicking wood grain and texture perfectly.
A sick-of-the-mess mom will be stopped in her tracks by Kronotex Laminate Flooring and its easy-going maintenance schedule.
Click here to download your free copy of the ebook: Kronotex Laminate Flooring - High On The Wish-Lists Of Home Remodeling DIY's.
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Pergo Flooring - How To Perk Up Interior Design With Pergo Laminates
Pergo Flooring features authentic-looking floating laminate floors, impregnated with thirty years worth of design experience. Pergo is the plastic surgery for properties pro. Learn how to bring the warmth and texture of natural real wood into your home with Pergo Flooring.
Real hardwood is in many cases no longer a home improvement option, due to the cost and maintenance involved. Hardwood laminate flooring installations come to the rescue in these instances. The latest innovative technology enables manufacturers such as Pergo Flooring to create products so closely resembling the real thing, that it is difficult to distinguish the two once the flooring has been installed. Your friends are likely to assume that you had a team of yesteryear's artisans toiling away in your home! You may very well choose not to enlighten them about the easy Pergo laminate snap-'n-click job you and hubby did yourselves...
Pergo Flooring's innovative dual-lock installation system makes it one of the most popular choices of do it yourself enthusiasts. The click-together tongue and groove Pergo Flooring designs lead to fast-paced flooring installations. With Pergo's interactive room planner, you can dream decorating and interior design dreams to your heart's content. The transformation can be meticulously planned, down to the last cabinet and transition molding.
One of the benefits of a flooring solution such as Pergo Laminate Flooring, is that it can be installed over virtually any existing floor. The only two no-no's are carpeting and real wood on concrete. As a rule, you need to install cabinets first, before tackling the flooring. The manufacturer's residential lines usually comes with an AC Rating of three, which is high enough to ensure durability. Many Pergo laminate flooring installation ranges will even do well in bathrooms or kitchens.
Pergo Flooring has refined replicating real wood to such an extent that you are virtually guaranteed a rare hardwood home renovation, complete with beveled edges and an elegant satin gloss finish. Your flooring will look as if it has been buffed for years! When installing Pergo laminate flooring, the LusterGard Plus wear layer is your promise of lasting good looks.
If you fancy stone tiles, Pergo Flooring is at your service again. These days you are not limited to choosing a hardwood appearance. The planks also come with the most beautiful, dual-toned tile finishes. In the Pergo Accolade Laminate Flooring line, you can choose totally realistic ceramic tile designs with grout lines. With careful installation and adequate sealing, you can have a tiled bathroom ready to use within a few hours. No more messy, cracking, moldy grout. Just a smooth, easy to clean surface in stylish hues.
A range of color-coordinated decorative transition moldings enable you to create the professional finish you desire. From doorways to the areas around tubs and basins are neatly finished with Pergo Carpet Transitions, Pergo Hard Surface Reducers, or Pergo End Moldings.
Pergo Flooring also supplies the underlayment you will need to dampen sound, create warmth and improve walking comfort. Pergo Soundbloc Foam is one option, and is seen as a cost effective padding solution. Alternatively look at Pergo Flooring SilentStep Premium Underlayment. Enjoy a two-in-one product by opting for the Pergo Flooring SoftSeal Foam/Film combination. Here you have the vital moisture barrier incorporated into your sound dampening underlayment.
When you've done your bit, use the Pergo Flooring After Installation Cleaner to remove excess glue and dust residue. For day to day cleaning, you need only a damp mop and a brushless vacuum. Pergo also supplies a full floor cleaning kit complete with mop and cleaning solutions. The Pergo Floor Cleaner makes short shrift of spots. Spray it on and wipe it off. That's all there is to maintaining the good looks of your new Pergo Flooring planks.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Don't start your laminate flooring installation before reading the laminate hardwood flooring installation secrets article. The author, Rika Susan also offers more flooring information in the Costco Harmonics Glueless Laminate Flooring article at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Decorating Or Interior Design With Laminate Flooring - Ultimate Laid-Back Decor
Decorating or interior design with laminate flooring is taking the home improvement world by storm. Laminate flooring is one the fastest growing areas in the renovation industry. These glueless, floating creations are toted as the best low-maintenance decorating or interior design idea in decades. It has become one of the most popular ways to spend a home remodeling loan. Why is laminate flooring so much in vogue and how can it be incorporated into your decor?
No schedule-juggling homeowner has time for finicky house cleaning chores these days. Laminate flooring solutions are so easy to maintain, that it is turning into serious competition for Milliken Legato carpet tiles and other carpeting ranges. Decorating or interior design with laminate flooring allows you to install your new floor over almost any existing floor. Two exceptions are carpeting and real wood on concrete.
A laminate floor consists of planks with a tongue and groove design. This decorating and interior design solution simply clicks together to form a stable floating floor. Four to five layers are fused together under pressure to form the planks. The most important layers are the high density fiberboard core and the wear layer that is usually covered with tough-as-nails aluminum oxide. This is the layer that prevents staining, scuffing and fading. The decorating or interior design layer resides between the wear layer and the core. This resembles real wood, ceramic tile, or stone tile. The engineering is such that the appearance is absolutely authentic. No more fake or plastic-looking laminates!
It is vital that you match your choice of laminate flooring close to the traffic flow of each area. You will also need to take special precautions in bathrooms and kitchens where water is likely to be a factor. Your general decorating and interior design also has to be taken into account when choosing the coloring and texture of the laminate flooring.
One of the main reasons for the popularity of laminate flooring is the fact that the latest designs emulate real wood floors closely, but at a fraction of the cost. The wood grains are copied carefully and the textures give the floors a highly authentic and realistic appearance. By choosing this decorating and interior design option, you are virtually assured of the warmth and atmosphere of a real hardwood floor without any of the maintenance and warping woes.
The timelessness of wood is replicated to the last detail. Laminate flooring planks are now beveled to give an even more realistic look. In addition, you can opt for a weathered appearance if you prefer. The glueless, click together designs are a snap for do it yourself enthusiasts, ready to use immediately upon completion. The engineering behind this decorating and interior design idea is so innovative that joints are almost invisible. The best ranges come with warranties of up to thirty years.
While choosing a finish, aim to create continuity and balance with the decorating and interior design. Keep in mind that a lighter finish will create a spacious impression, while darker hues are warm and lead to a more intimate atmosphere. If you want to install a dark floor, you will need lots of natural light. If your furniture is dark and heavy, contrast this with a lighter flooring hue for a striking effect.
The diverse ranges allow you to choose a finish and texture to compliment a rustic decorating and interior design style, or a more contemporary feel. A strip floor will expand a room significantly, making this suitable for use in a smaller area. The wider planks do well in a more roomy area. You can even opt to create a unique decorating and interior design style, by combining a variety of plank widths.
If you need to replace a kitchen floor, remember that this is a high traffic, often messy environment, where accidents are likely. A lot of dirt will be trudged in over time. When choosing your decorating or interior design style for this area, you need to make sure that the flooring is hard-wearing, non-slip and comfortable to stand on for long hours. Both vinyl such as Allure Trafficmaster flooring, and laminate flooring are good options here. Be kind to your feet by choosing the best underlayment you can find. Consider a similar flooring choice for bathrooms, as long as installation instructions regarding sealing and the use of glue are followed to the letter.
If you have kids and pets, your living room decorating and interior design will also benefit from a laminate flooring installation. These floors are easy to keep clean and the wear layers are made to be stain resistant. Just make sure that you keep pet nails trimmed to prevent scratches. Extend the living room flooring choice to the dining room. Laminate flooring here is a far more sensible choice than carpeting, due to the danger of staining.
Laminate flooring can also be your decorating and interior design choice in bedrooms. Here traffic flow is usually fairly minimal, so the AC rating can be lower. Remember that your flooring is there for the long haul. Opt for a neutral flooring shade that will tone in with a change of decor at a later stage. Add color and warmth with area rugs if you feel the need to do so.
If you want to create a touch of drama in your decorating and interior design, choose the entry hall for this purpose. Intricate patterns can be created with laminate flooring if you are so inclined.
Before installing laminate flooring in a basement, get professional input to ensure that moisture won't be a problem. If any of the floors are heated, check with the laminate flooring supplier if this is in order. Not all laminate flooring ranges can be used if subfloor heating is part of the decorating or interior design.
If one of your family members has allergies or asthma, a laminate floor is an excellent decorating or interior design solution. This is one of the best ways to limit exposure to dust-mites. No matter how conscientious you are with cleaning, carpeting remains a dust-trap.
All the manufacturers supply ranges of decorative transition moldings with which you can give your flooring a professional finish. Match the moldings closely with the flooring tones. Where you install baseboards against a wall, these can be of a contrasting color.
Plan your laminate flooring project with care. Create flowing transitions between the different rooms. With a bit of care and forethought, your flooring will become a focal point in your decorating and interior design endeavors.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - where you can grab your free copy of the Ultimate Laminate Flooring Buyer's Guide ebook. The author, Rika Susan also offers more info on flooring, awnings, blinds and other home remodeling issues in the Harmonics Glueless Laminate Flooring and many other articles at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Laminate Flooring Maintenance - The Ultimate Working Parent Flooring Solution
Overloaded, working parents love laminate flooring. These innovative click-together lines offer the low-maintenance cleaning solution desperate housewives and schedule-juggling job-holders dream about. A Pergo Laminate Flooring installation, Armstrong Flooring line, or Bruce Flooring face-lift will remove much of the tedium of keeping floors spotless.
Your kids are also likely to heave a sigh of relief if you opt for installing laminate flooring. Where a toddler mishap previously turned into a carpet calamity, you will now be able to handle flooring fiasco's with a smile. With a laminate flooring installation, you will be able to use a damp mop or cloth to blot up any spill as soon as it occurs. Your flooring should be none the worse for wearing. Just make sure that the cloth is light-colored or color fast. For everyday dust, a quick sweep or brushless vacuum is all you need. Get rid of dust or grit as soon as possible, as it is likely to scratch your floor or dull the wear layer.
The number one rule with laminate flooring is never to allow fluids to remain on the floor for any length of time. Any spill needs to be taken care of immediately. Moisture is the main enemy of laminate flooring, as it may seep into the joints, causing the core of the planks to swell. This unfortunate eventuality will lead to unsightly buckling, warping or blistering of the flooring. This is why a laminate flooring installation in a bathroom or kitchen needs to be done with great care. Every joint or expansion space has to be glued or sealed diligently.
In most cases, an acetone nail polish remover takes care of spots such as heel marks, oil, paint or lipstick. The residue can be wiped away with a damp cloth. Never use a wet cloth or water to clean your floor. By limiting the exposure to fluids as much as possible, you will extend the durability of the floor significantly.
Never use an abrasive cleaner on laminate flooring. A scouring pad and steel wool are other no-no's. Ordinary detergents and ammonia are also not recommended in most instances. Any of these may damage the wear layer, voiding your warranty. The use of buffing or polishing machines are also against warranty conditions. If you have candle wax or chewing gum on the floor, you can use ice to harden the spot and then utilize a credit card or soft plastic scraper to remove the residue. Work with care so as not to damage the wear layer of the floor.
Most laminate flooring manufacturers supply a range of dedicated cleaners that are safe to use. Always check with your flooring supplier to ensure that you use the correct means to maintain the good looks of your floor. If you deviate from the warranty conditions, you will lose all the protection the guarantee offers.
Your home improvement efforts with a laminate flooring installation necessitates the use of ordinary common sense. Incorporating Trafficmaster Flooring or Pergo Laminate Flooring in your decorating and interior design is of little use if you don't take proper care of it. A few basic steps will ease your cleaning chores significantly, contributing to retaining a gleaming, elegant floor for years to come. Non-slip area rugs help to catch grit and dirt that can scratch the wear layer of your laminate flooring. Just make sure that the backing of the rug won't discolor your floor. The best option is an approved vinyl rug underlayment.
All the major laminate flooring manufacturers supply felt pads to place underneath furniture feat. Wide-load bearing leg bases or rollers are also available. Casters should be plastic, and even then you need to be careful with these. It is preferable to use a rug when moving furniture with casters. Sliding heavy objects across the floor will damage or dent your laminate flooring. If you have pets, keep their nails trimmed to prevent scratches. Stiletto heels or spiked sports shoes are also detrimental to the flooring finish.
If your family suffers from allergies, you should see an improvement when you replace carpeting with laminate flooring. It is much easier to keep these clean. Ultimately, no matter how conscientious you are, carpets are dust-traps. Opting for decorating or interior design with laminate flooring isn't just great for time-management. It also benefits family health.
A variety of color-coordinated fill pens are available from laminate flooring manufacturers. These can be used for minor scratches and hold up well to wear. Filling putty is also available for more pronounced problems. In this case you simply neaten the edge of a hole with a knife, fill it and smooth the area with a plastic scraper. Excess putty can be wiped away. Of course, one of the benefits of laminate flooring is that you have the option of replacing an area of flooring if there is a serious mishap.
A laminate flooring installation will lighten your load and give you more time to enjoy your beautiful home with your family.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - where you can grab your free copy of the Ultimate Laminate Flooring Buyer's Guide ebook. The author, Rika Susan also offers more info on flooring, awnings, blinds and other home remodeling issues in Pergo Flooring and many other articles at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Pergo Laminate Flooring - How To Maintain Pergo Flooring's Upper-Class Looks
With Pergo Laminate Flooring in your home, your tedious polishing days are over. Once you have done your do-it-yourself installation duty, you will discover that you have a low-maintenance, easy-care floor that doesn't lend itself to flooring fiasco's. So, how exactly do you take care of this gleaming new baby in the home? With a bit of Pergo Laminate Flooring know-how, you are sure to click with the newest member of the family home...
With Pergo Laminate Flooring, your first rule is to view water and other fluids as enemy number one. Any standing fluids may leak into the joints of the flooring, causing the all-important inner core to swell. In next to no time, you will have an unsightly buckling, warping, blistering floor. In bathrooms and kitchens you need to be diligent about sealing and the use of glue. Every nook and cranny needs to be treated with your caulking gun if you are to preserve the good looks of your Pergo Laminate Flooring.
Immediately after installing the Pergo Laminate Flooring, you may wish to try the After Installation Cleaner that will take care of glue residue and the dust caused by the cutting of planks.
Pergo Laminate Flooring's texture doesn't have an affinity for dirt and dust. Therefore, keeping the floor spotless is a snap. For day to day dirt, a dust mop or brushless vacuum is all you need. From time to time, a wipe with a damp mop will suffice.
The major laminate flooring manufacturers all have their own dedicated cleaning products. Pergo Laminate Flooring has a Laminate and Hard Surface Cleaner. This product is simply sprayed on and wiped off. It should take care of spots such as wine, juice or grease. Alternatively, a mixture of 1 cup vinegar to a gallon warm water can be used, but never make this a wet, watery wash. Always dry the mop thoroughly before going near the flooring.
Pergo Laminate Flooring has an aversion to detergent-based cleaners, waxes, polish, abrasive cleaners and scouring pads. Don't touch your floor with any of these. The waxes leave a dull film and the cleaners may damage the protective wear layer. You need to take great care to follow the warranty maintenance conditions closely. Any deviation from these may void your guarantee.
If you wish, you may opt for the complete Pergo Laminate Flooring cleaning kit. This will equip you with an aluminum mop with 3-part handle, a mop cloth with velcro fasteners, a spray bottle with cleaner, as well as the After Installation Cleaner.
Ordinary acetone nail polish remover takes care of tough spots such as lipstick, crayon, paint or cigarette burns on your Pergo Laminate Flooring. Don't use the remover on the moldings. Candle wax or chewing gum can be hardened with ice and then gently scraped off with a blunt plastic scraper. Do this with great care.
Apart from general cleaning, you simply need to use a bit of common sense to retain your Pergo Laminate Flooring's shine and style for years to come. One of the best things you can do, is to place non-slip rugs in doorways. This precaution will trap much of the gravel and grit that would otherwise be trudged all over your floors, causing scratches and scuff marks. Just ensure that the backing of the rugs is safe and that it won't discolor your flooring.
Felt pads can be placed underneath furniture legs. Casters need to be rubber-based. Even then, it is safer to lift a piece of furniture, rather than slide it over the floor. Alternatively place a rug underneath to protect the Pergo Laminate Flooring. Keep pet nails trimmed to prevent scratches.
You have to accept that at some point there will be the inevitable mishap. Small dents or cracks can be repaired with Finishing Putty for Pergo Laminate Flooring. The edges of the damaged area can be neatened with a small knife. You can then fill the area with putty, smooth it gently with a plastic scraper and wipe any excess away.
The main benefit of Pergo Laminate Flooring is that a major accident doesn't have to turn into a flooring fiasco. If you managed to put away a box of spare planks as recommended, you will be able to replace the damaged area with ease. If you are unsure about attempting this task yourself, ask for professional help. Always double check with your supplier about any steps you take with regards to maintenance and cleaning solutions.
Give your Pergo Laminate Flooring tender loving care, and it will be a decorating and interior design asset for many years.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - where you can grab your free copy of the Ultimate Laminate Flooring Buyer's Guide ebook. The author, Rika Susan also offers more info on flooring, awnings, blinds and other home remodeling issues in Installing Laminate Flooring Tips and many other articles at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Laminate Hardwood Floor Installation - Real Wood Decor Without The Drawbacks
Laminate hardwood floor installations enjoy strutting their stuff equally in upper-class homes and snazzy decorating and interior design magazines. Home renovating companies such as Trafficmaster Flooring and Pergo Flooring are doing everything in their power to stake their claim as being the masters of real hardwood replicating. What exactly is the allure of a laminate hardwood floor installation?
Opting for a hardwood floor such as Trafficmaster, rewards you with hues such as Brazilian Cherry and African Chestnut and their Thick Sawn Face Wear Surface that allows for up to 3 sandings. In this case, the phenolic plantation pine plywood core is manufactured to provide a superb level of stability and moisture resistance. With accurate milling, Trafficmaster Flooring claims a smooth, tight-fitting glueless clicking system.
As in other related ranges, these floors feature an Aluminum Oxide Protection wear layer that is exceedingly strong. This is one of the secrets behind the durability of a laminate hardwood floor installation. By opting for a tough as nails wear layer, scratching, staining, denting and fading are minimized.
The snap-together designs of hardwood laminate flooring are sometimes hinged. This can be tricky to manage in doorways and around cabinets. The Uniclic system used by many manufacturers, can be handled without tough angles, making it easy and quick to install. Wastage is kept to a minimum.
One of the main benefits of a laminate hardwood floor installation is that it can be done over virtually any existing floor. Trafficmaster Flooring and Pergo Flooring are no different, and happily cohabit with concrete, vinyl or real wood. Carpeting of course has to be removed before the installation, and a subfloor of wood over concrete is a no-no.
Before you know it, you will have an authentic looking laminate hardwood floor installation in realistic, natural hues. Reputable manufacturers back their ranges with warranties of up to 30 years.
Another decorating or interior design option is the affordable Trafficmaster Allure Flooring. What are the benefits of this vinyl, click-together range? If you are looking for a real wood effect in your home, the authentic appearance of the Light Oak, Hickory and Cherry finishes won't disappoint you. The line can be installed without a time-consuming and costly effort to rip out the existing floor. Allure Trafficmaster is also waterproof, making it suitable for installation in a kitchen or bathroom.
This vinyl surface is fairly quiet to walk on. Every plank comes with a GripStrip that is simply laid onto the next plank and pressed together to form a floating floor surface. If you can't afford a real hardwood floor due to a tight budget, this is one alternative you will be wise to consider.
No expensive tools are necessary to finish your project. In fact, a razor knife will take care of most of the job. If you have a full schedule, you will love the low-maintenance aspect of this flooring. You will need little more than a damp mop and a brushless vacuum. In addition, Allure Trafficmaster flooring comes with a 25 year warranty, backed by a reputable company.
Take the tedium out of flooring chores with a laminate hardwood floor installation.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - where you can grab your free copy of the Ultimate Laminate Flooring Buyer's Guide ebook. The author, Rika Susan also offers more info on flooring, awnings, blinds and other home remodeling issues in Pergo Flooring and many other articles at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Laminate Hardwood Floor Installation - 7 Reasons For Laminate Floor Solutions
A laminate hardwood floor installation rips out all the high-maintenance management and warping woes that accompany real wood flooring projects. Flooring frustrations are replaced with easy-care, authentic wood looks and textures that are a snap to install. What are the seven main reasons behind the phenomenal growth in do-it-yourself laminate hardwood floor installations?
Reason 1. Laminate Hardwood Flooring Installations Happy Over Any Sub-Floor
There is no need for an expensive and time-consuming tearing up of the sub-floor. Glueless laminate hardwood floor installations can be done with confidence and success over virtually any existing type of flooring. This includes vinyl, tile, concrete and real wood strips. The only exceptions to the rule are carpeting and real hardwood on concrete.
Proper preparation of the sub-floor is vital, however. The surface needs to be absolutely smooth and even. Sand down all peaked joints and other bumps. Use a filler material for any holes or uneven areas. Make sure that the floor is spotless. Any bit of gravel trapped under your new floor, will eventually become an eyesore.
Reason 2. Laminate Hardwood Floor Installations A Long-Term Investment
With today's technology, the core and wear layers of laminate flooring are of a superb quality. Floors are treated to be highly moisture resistant. The aluminum oxide finish of the wear layer ensures maximum protection against scratches, fading, scuff marks, and stains. Many manufacturers include warranties of between 15 and 30 years. By choosing a quality decorating and interior design product for your floors, and following installation and maintenance instructions carefully, you will be ensured of stylish, elegant looks for years to come.
Reason 3. Care-Free, Calamity-Free Flooring For Your Family Home
No overloaded parent has time for finicky floor care day in and day out. With a laminate hardwood floor installation, you will lighten the cleaning load significantly. A mop and brushless vacuum take care of most chores. When necessary, a damp mop is used for a quick wipe. Flooring manufacturers supply dedicated cleaners for tougher spots. If there is a mishap with lipstick or paint, acetone nail polish remover should take care of it instantly. Always check with your flooring supplier to make sure that any cleaning process or solution complies with your warranty conditions. If you deviate from the guidelines, you may void your warranty.
Reason 4. Banish Allergies And Asthma With Laminate Flooring
If your kids suffer from dust-related allergies, new floors may offer the solution you are searching for. No matter how diligent you are with cleaning, carpeting remains a dust-trap. By replacing the flooring surfaces of your home with laminate hardwood floor installations, you will minimize your family's exposure to the offending, irritating particles. The hard, smooth surface is easy to keep spotless. There are no fibres that are reluctant to give up their share of dirt. A quick wipe with a damp mop takes care of the dust problem in a jiffy.
Reason 5. Easy-To-Install Project For Home Remodeling Rookies
Laminate hardwood floor installations are a snap with the latest click-'n-go engineering. No more sticky, messy, frustrating and apprehensive adhesive struggles. Even the most 'unhandy' amateur handyman can tackle these glueless flooring projects with confidence. There is no need to call in the services of a professional hardwood flooring contractor. You can successfully install a new, ready-to-use floor within about a day. As long as you make sure that you don't have problems with moisture in the sub-floor, and are able to follow the manufacturer's guidelines closely, you should be able to complete the installation on your own.
Reason 6. Tempting Authentic Real Hardwood Grains And Textures
From Pergo Flooring, to Armstrong Flooring and Bruce Hardwood Flooring now include every real wood grain under the sun. Shadings vary from light and airy to the rich, warm hues of the darker woods. Textures are as close to the real thing as possible. Planks are now even beveled to give the appearance of real wood planks. A laminate hardwood floor installation can now come with rustic, weathered looks.
Recently the ranges have been expanded to include a variety of realistic ceramic tile and stone tile finishes, complete with grout lines. Every type of decorating or interior design project is catered for, from old-world to contemporary. The flooring planks can be matte or may present a gleaming, shiny face to the world. Thanks to innovative technology, the days of plastic and fake-looking laminates are long gone.
Reason 7. Much To Do About Mishaps On Laminates
If you have kids and pets you will fall in love with laminates. No only will you have far fewer worries about crayon stains, puddles, and other potential flooring fiasco's, you will know that in the event of a major accident, a section of flooring can replaced with ease. As long as you keep an unopened box or two of flooring planks in storage, you will be equipped to re-do an area of flooring in no time. Whereas a damaged carpet has to be replaced completely, a laminate hardwood floor installation allows you to handle the inevitable family mishap with a smile.
Have a bit of decorating and interior design face-lift fun by joining the laminate hardwood floor installation crowd!
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - where you can grab your free copy of the Ultimate Laminate Flooring Buyer's Guide ebook. The author, Rika Susan also offers more info on flooring, awnings, blinds and other home remodeling issues in Harmonics Glueless Laminate Flooring and many other articles at http://www.Awnings-and-Blinds.com . Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
10 Laminate Flooring Installation Questions - Discover Hardwood Floor Solutions
A laminate flooring installation should fit extremely well into a busy household, where cleaning chores need to be simplified as much as possible. Provided that you follow the installation and maintenance instructions carefully, a laminate hardwood floor is likely to save you time, while adding elegance and style to your decor. Here are the answers to ten of the most frequently asked laminate flooring installation questions.
1. What Is Laminate Flooring And Can I Install It Myself?
If you have an affinity for real hardwood floors, but can't afford them and prefer not to have the maintenance misery associated with them, you will love laminate flooring. The quality of these floors are now such that it is difficult to distinguish between real wood and laminates. The grains of the different woods are emulated to perfection, with texture and weathering thrown in as a bonus.
Laminate flooring planks consist of four or five fused layers. The base layer is normally reinforced with melamine. This is followed with the core of high density fiberboard, impregnated with sealing substances. Then there is the design layer, followed by the tough wear layer and an aluminum oxide finish. The planks are resistant to stains, fading, scuffing and water.
Innovative engineering has led to the development of glueless laminate flooring installations, popular among do it yourself enthusiasts. The planks have a tongue and groove design that simply click or snap together for an amazingly simple and quick installation. Although professional flooring contractors can be involved, this isn't necessary. Even a novice can tackle this home remodeling task with confidence.
2. What Is An Expansion Space?
A laminate flooring installation is a floating floor that is not affixed to the sub-floor. These hardwood floors always contract and expand due to humidity and temperature changes. To make provision for these shifts, laminate floors are never installed with the planks fitting snugly against walls or cabinets. It is vital to leave a space right around the perimeter. If you neglect to do this, you will soon be confronted with a buckling floor.
Every manufacturer prescribes the exact expansion space needed for their particular product. You will be able to use spacers to ensure that this provision is accurate. The size of the floor you are tackling in your home improvement project, will also dictate the size of the expansion space. Make sure that you get this right if you want to retain the looks of your flooring.
3. Will I Be Able To Install Laminate Flooring In A Bathroom?
Many laminate flooring products are suitable for use in bathrooms and kitchens, where there is always more of a moisture risk. Check with your supplier if you are unsure. The most important factor here is your diligence during the installation process. Every expansion space needs to be sealed perfectly with your caulking gun, to ensure that moisture can't seep into the core of the flooring. Once this happens, you will have problems with buckling, warping and blistering.
In the case of bathroom and kitchen flooring, the recommendation usually also is to use glue in the joints. This will act as an additional sealant, helping to protect your flooring.
4. How Do I Finish The Areas Around Doorways?
All the manufacturers supply ranges of color-coordinated decorative moldings for use in doorways, for transitions between different flooring finishes, and around cabinets, basins or tubs. These make it straightforward to ensure that your flooring has a professional finish. In a doorway, you will install a T-molding.
5. Is It Safe To Install Laminate Flooring On Stairs?
A laminate flooring installation can be done on stairs. In this case however, you don't need an underlayment. The flooring planks are adhered to the subfloor with glue. As a finish, stair noses are glued and nailed to the stairs. Just be very careful if you have been cleaning the flooring. Any dampness may cause the stairs to be extremely slippery.
6. What Is The AC Rating?
One of the most important aspects of a laminate hardwood floor installation, is matching the flooring to the traffic it will be bombarded with. Using a low quality, thin floor in a high traffic area will be disastrous. The AC Rating has been devised to help consumers when they have to make a buying decision.
The AC Rating of between 1 and 5 gives an indication of the suitability of the flooring planks for a particular area. In most residential situations, an AC Rating of 3 is high enough to ensure durability. Don't make the mistake of assuming that a higher rating will give your flooring a longer life. While this may be the case, a higher rating also comes with a rougher surface texture that can be tough on bare feet and socks.
7. I Love A Tiled Look. Is There A Laminate Flooring Option For Me?
A fairly recent development in the laminate flooring installation industry, is the introduction of planks with an extremely authentic ceramic or stone tile appearance, complete with realistic grout lines. Just imagine getting the tiled look you adore, without any of the grout messes. No more cracking, moldy, discolored grout to spoil your hard work. Just a smooth, multi-hued tiled look clicked together within a day. This truly is a decorating and interior design dream come true.
8. Doesn't Laminate Flooring Have A Plastic Look?
With the latest engineering, the days of plastic, fake-looking laminates are over. You will be amazed at the authenticity of the real wood or stone tile designs. Textures can be refined to be completely realistic. Planks are now beveled to come even closer to the real thing. In addition, weathering has been brought in to give that unique warm and rustic real hardwood appearance.
9. Do I Need To Acclimate My Laminate Flooring Planks?
Some manufacturers stipulate that the unopened boxes of flooring planks should be stored horizontally in the room where they will be installed, for a period of around 48 hours. This gives the planks a chance to acclimate. Your supplier should be able to give you the correct instructions. Alternatively, you can go to the manufacturer's website for more information. Make sure that you allow for this period when you do your planning. Don't rush into the installation. Follow the instructions to the letter if you don't want to void your warranty.
10. What Do I Do If There Is A Nasty Scratch On My Floor?
One of the main benefits of a laminate flooring installation, is that you can repair minor mishaps with ease, and replace a whole section of flooring in the event of a serious calamity. It is always better to try and prevent scratches by using felt pads under furniture, keeping pet nails trimmed, and avoiding spiked shoes. Entrance rugs are also a good idea, as they catch some of the gravel and grit before it gets onto the flooring. If there are scratches, color-coordinated pens are available to make them less conspicuous.
For more noticeable scratches, a filling putty can be used. Neaten the edges of the area with a small, sharp knife. Fill it with putty, and smooth the surface gently with a plastic scraper. Wipe excess away with a damp cloth and your floor should be as good as new.
Follow the laminate flooring installation guidelines to the letter, give your flooring the tender loving care it deserves, and you will enjoy its good looks for years to come.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - where you can grab your free copy of the Ultimate Laminate Flooring Buyer's Guide ebook. The author, Rika Susan also offers more info on flooring, awnings, blinds and other home remodeling issues in Laminate Flooring Installation Tips and many other articles at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Is Installing Laminate Flooring A Solution For Sidetracked Home Executives?
Installing laminate flooring may be just the chore-reducing solution a busy home executive, constantly sidetracked by a demanding schedule, needs. If your daily aggravations include messes and stains on expensive carpeting, and the wheezes and sneezes of kiddie allergies, you may do well to have installing laminate flooring on your home remodeling to-do list.
A laminate hardwood floor is a low-maintenance homecare option in many respects. If you have kids or pets, the daily mishaps seldom turn into calamities if you steer clear of carpeting. The smooth, hard surface of a laminate product is easy to clean thoroughly, and never becomes the dust-trap carpeting often is. Provided that you follow the instructions carefully during the installation process and adhere to the maintenance guidelines, your flooring should retain its good looks for years. If there really is a serious accident, you can even replace a flooring section.
Installing laminate hardwood flooring 'how-to's' are clearly detailed on every manufacturer's website. The information often includes laminate flooring installation videos. These show how simple it is for any do it yourself enthusiast to tackle this renovation project. With innovative engineering, this decor idea has evolved into an easy, glueless click-together concept. The tongue and groove planks simply snap together for a secure fit. A room can be done within a day, and the floor can be used immediately.
Installing glueless laminate flooring doesn't necessarily involve the time-consuming process of ripping out existing floors. Unless you are replacing carpeting, or have a real wood floor over concrete, you can install laminates over a well-prepared subfloor. Make sure that the floor is perfectly smooth and even. Sand down any peaked joints or bumpy areas. Fill up all dents. Check the floor for moisture, especially if you will be working in a basement.
Take your pre-installation measurements with great care and always allow for a 10% error margin. This leaves room for fitting mishaps, such as chipping. You are also likely to find a few factory flaws. Check with your supplier to find out if you need to acclimate the planks before installing the laminate flooring. This period can be between two and four days, so allow for this during your planning. It is also sensible to buy extra planks and keep them in storage, in case you need to re-do a section down the line.
When installing laminate flooring, you wind up with a floating surface. This means that no adhesive is used. As a result, the flooring will expand and contract due to changes in temperature and humidity levels. This is why it is absolutely vital that you follow the expansion space guidelines given by the manufacturer. Purchase the correct spacers to allow you to maintain an even distance between the flooring and the walls around the perimeter of the room. Make provision for the same expansion space between cupboards and the edge of the flooring. If you don't allow for movement in the flooring, you will soon be confronted with unsightly buckling.
Directions for installing laminate flooring on stairs are plentiful. A wide variety of stair nosings and other color-coordinated decorative moldings are available. These enable you to finish your flooring project with professional flair.
You can use some of the better flooring ranges during kitchen and bathroom remodeling. When installing laminate flooring here, extra care has to be taken to keep moisture away from the inner core of the floor. Expansion spaces need to be sealed with the help of a caulking gun and the joints should be glued together. If you have a quality product and you follow the installation instructions to the letter, simulated hardwood ranges can work well in these areas.
Cleaning a laminate floor is a pleasure. A mop and a brushless vacuum takes care of daily dirt and dust. Washing is done with a damp mop. You never want to give these floors a really wet wash. Dedicated laminate hardwood floor cleaners are available for tougher spots. An acetone-based nail polish remover usually takes care of scuff marks, paint or crayon creations. Filler pens can be used for unsightly scratches. Always make sure that you use the recommended tools and products. If you don't do this, you may void your warranty.
Keep pet nails trimmed and take care when wearing shoes with spiked heels. Make use of felt pads under furniture feet. Non-slip area rugs can be used in doorways to catch gravel and other dirt before it gets a chance to damage your floor.
Many homeowners successfully increase the value of their properties by installing laminate flooring. If you choose from the best ranges on the market and follow the directions for installation closely, laminates can be an elegant, stylish and durable home improvement solution.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - where you can grab your free copy of the Ultimate Laminate Flooring Buyer's Guide ebook. The author, Rika Susan also offers more info on flooring, awnings, blinds and other home remodeling issues in Five Laminate Flooring Installation Secrets and many other articles at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Quick Step Laminate Flooring - Discover 10 Secrets Behind This Success Story
Quick Step Laminate Flooring has changed the face of floors forever. The Quick Step Uniclic ranges are accessible to even the clumsiest laminate flooring installation novice. The real wood looks, textures and tints are so realistic, that the neighbors are likely to think that you had a team of yesteryear's artisans working their fingers to the bone on your new real wood floors. Instead, you will secretly know that it actually was a hubby and wife team toiling for little less than a day with the help of a few boxes of glueless planks.
What gives this line its unique looks? Why is this range proudly displayed in upper-class homes all over the world? Why is it first on many an interior designer's top-rated surfacing list? Apart from the quality inner core and the Uniclic design, the finishes spill the beans about the secrets behind this company's remarkable success.
1. Authentic
Have you ever seen two pieces of wood that are identical? Most likely not. Just as no two humans are exactly alike, every piece of wood comes with a uniquely patterned grain and texture. The Authentic Quick Step Laminate Flooring finish is a surface coating that highlights the motif of the wood pattern. You will see the effect in the grain lines of an oak finish, the matte looks of maple, and the gloss of a cherry laminate floor. This line brings the diversity of nature right into your home.
2. Contour Artisanal
With Contour Artisanal, the manufacturer brings the end-result of a laminate flooring installation even closer to the real thing. Each and every plank gets the recessed edge treatment that emulates hand-scraped floors. You can't get much closer to nature than this!
3. Natural Variation
What sets today's floor surfaces apart from the first efforts, is the variations incorporated into the designs. Previously the same patterns were repeated over and over again, giving a 'plastic' look to the floors. With Quick Step Laminate Flooring's Natural Variation patterning, this problem disappears. Each design comes with 18 or 54 wood grain patterns, combined with a diverse range of natural tints. This mimics the natural appearance of wood almost perfectly.
4. SML 3-Optic
These laminates take convenience and a real wood appearance one step further in the Elegance range. Here the clever home remodeling folks give you the perfect balance of three ready-cut plank lengths (small, medium and large) in each pack. What can be easier than this? By using this line, you are virtually guaranteed that the end result of your project will be as close as possible to the real thing. You can just click and go. No worries about producing the right number of each length.
5. Micro-Perspective 4
With Micro-Perspective 4 the Elegance small planks and the Quadra natural stone range get a further reality dose from the Quick Step Laminate Flooring guys. The finest grooves of the planks and tiles are treated to the same design process as the surface layer. The result is an extremely natural look.
6. Perspective 4
This technology subtly creates a v-groove as you click the planks together. In addition, the beveled sides add to the realistic finish. Again the color and design of the surface is repeated in the grooves, adding to the real wood appearance.
7. Country Surface
With the Country Surface finish, Quick Step floors manages to instill qualities in its planks previously associated with artisans and years of craftsmanship. The master touch is clear in each carefully constructed plank.
8. Living Surface
True to its name, this finish adds a wonderful woodgrain structure to the rustic designs. It is also responsible for the natural finish of the Uniclic ceramic tile ranges.
9. Natural Authentic
Innovation is a Quick Step Laminate Flooring trademark. Thanks to the unique Natural Authentic finish, you not only see real down-to-earth woodgrain in the designs, it also adds a more realistic texture to the planks. This is accomplished without doing away with the durability of the surface. If you were under the impression that laminates are not for you, touch a Natural Authentic finish plank and instantly experience a change of mind...
10. Accessories
The finishes are only as good as your final touches with the quality, decorative accessories and moldings Quick Step Laminate Flooring has available in abundance. Installation of the moldings is easy with the clip system. The color palette tones in with your interior design. Every conceivable area has been covered, such as moldings for doorways, around basins and baths, and sliding door moldings. Just make sure that you follow the installation instructions to the letter. You don't want to void your warranty by failing to take the suggested steps, This also applies to maintenance of the Quickstep Laminate floor after installation.
Uniclic as found in this range takes on a new life with all the innovative finishes dreamed up by the home improvement experts. You do the nurturing in your family. Now let Quick Step Laminate Flooring do the naturing with their real wood home remodeling and renovation remedy.
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Don't start your laminate flooring installation before reading the secrets of laminate flooring installation by Rika Susan, and taking a look at pergo american cottage laminate flooring at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Discover How Flooring Options From Cork To Bamboo Create Decor Make-Over Magic
Flooring options are no longer limited to humdrum tiles and carpeting. You can now select the perfect shade from vast ranges of cork flooring, bamboo flooring, laminates, engineered hardwood and stone, each with its unique benefits and qualities. Discover how you can bring out the best in your home with a flooring make-over.
Cork Flooring Puts A Spring In Your Step
Cork is one of the oldest surface solutions on the market. Portugal is known as one of the main suppliers. The raw material is hand harvested from the cork oak tree under strict regulations. Cork floors are suitable for residential and office areas, and even performs well in bathrooms. This environmentally friendly covering is comfortable underfoot, with a well-cushioned surface. Cork retains warmth well, is highly moisture resistant, and has anti-static properties. If you dislike the hollow sound of laminates, cork may be a viable option for you. It is equated with robustness and durability.
If you enjoy individualistic decor, you will relish the distinct patterning of each cork floor. With whorls and speckles, the floor surface makes an exclusive fashion statement rich in subtle color variations. Cork is a renewable and biodegradable resource, making it a popular choice among 'green' designers. This material is resistant to a wide range of microbes, molds and insects. This characteristic makes it ideal for a home where allergies and asthma abound. You should see an improvement in health when you replace existing carpeting with cork flooring.
Bamboo Flooring Banishes Cleaning Hassles
Another 'green' option is bamboo. This is a further example of a renewable resource, with harvesting doing no damage to the plant. In fact, harvesting can be repeated every six to eight years. This floor covering is often a more robust option than real hardwood. A diverse range of styles and shades are available. Make sure that you purchase from a supplier that supports ecologically monitored sources.
Choose between the wider strips of a horizontally cut style, or the narrow look of vertical cut bamboo. With the horizontal style you will also get the growth ring of the stalk, adding an extra, subtle decorative touch as well as improved durability. Another possibility is strand-woven bamboo. The coloring is determined by the manufacturing process, but is now enhanced with staining. Due to its moisture resistance, warping isn't a major concern with bamboo. These ranges are easy-care and low-maintenance.
Laminate Flooring For Low-Maintenance Living
If you have pets or kids, you will love the versatility of low-maintenance laminate flooring. This product has a firm grip on its position on the best-seller list in the home remodeling industry. Coming with warranties of between 15 and 30 years, these lines are robust and cost-effective. Almost any real wood is now simulated realistically in a laminate range, without the expense and upkeep. Laminates are a great substitute for carpeting if allergies are an issues.
The wear layer is manufactured to be scratch-resistant and moisture-resistant, and isn't prone to fading. The most popular brands are now designed to be a glueless product. The tongue and groove planks simply click together for a gratifying, fast-paced home improvement project. It can be installed in virtually any interior area. Laminates aren't limited to residential use. The more robust ranges are effective in high traffic commercial spaces.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring For Low-Cost Real Wood Looks
Similar to laminates, engineered hardwood flooring also emulates real wood without the high cost and drawbacks. These ranges can be installed in a variety of otherwise 'difficult' areas. It comes as a glue-down product, or a floating surface. Engineered hardwood is excellent for use where high humidity or moisture is a problem, as well as on below grade surfaces or over concrete.
This affordable floor covering brings the beauty of wood into your home, with added versatility. The top layer is any of a variety of hardwood species. You therefore get the color, finish and texture of real wood. The core layer is medium or high density fiberboard. As in the case of laminates, the planks have the ability to expand and contract according to temperature and humidity changes. Heat underneath will also not present a problem.
Stone Tile Flooring Features Slip-Resistant Slate
With stone tiling your selection can include granite, marble, limestone, slate, travertine and a variety of other tiling options. Here durability and robustness are the mainstay. With exotic patterning and a virtually unlimited shading choice, you are sure to find the perfect stone tile to complement your decor.
While stone tiles are fairly hard underfoot, they still remain one of the most popular interior design choices. The tiles serve remarkably well as kitchen backsplashes and on countertops. Granite creates a unique ambience in a kitchen or bathroom. Slate is a terrific down-to-earth option and has slip-resistant qualities. If your home is styled with a classical look, investigate marble or travertine. These tiles are all practical, with rich visual appeal.
Why not arrange for painless plastic surgery on your home with the help of cork, bamboo or laminate flooring?
Awnings-and-Blinds.com - where you can grab your free copy of the Ultimate Laminate Flooring Buyer's Guide ebook. The author, Rika Susan also offers more info on flooring, awnings, blinds and other home remodeling issues in Five Laminate Flooring Installation Secrets and many other articles at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
