Saturday 30 May 2009

Choosing And Applying Wood Floor Finishes

Give your wood floor a makeover by giving it a new finish. It might be a little tricky at first, but apply the finish yourself is something you can do. At http://www.floormakeover.com you will find detailed application tips. There are four major types of wood floor finishes you can use.

Oil Finishes

Oil finishes are easy to apply and generally the most used. They are solvent base polyurethane and most dry in about 8 hours. You need to work in a well ventilated area and know these finished grow slightly darker with age.

Water Based Finishes

Water urethane finishes are clear when they dry. They are fairly expensive but dry completely in under 2 hours.

Moisture Cure Finishes

These are another solvent base polyurethane like oil based but moisture cure finishes are more durable and moisture resistant than any other type of finish. You can usually find these in satin or glossy to have more control over the appearance of your wood floor after you refinish. This types of finish is very difficult to apply properly without experience.

Penetrating Stain or Wax

This type of wood floor finish works by penetrating into the wood and hardening into a protective coating. Wax finishes are great because they wear only as the wood wears. Wax will not scratch or chip either. The only real drawback is the maintenance is a bit higher than other finishes.

Aluminum Oxide

This is the newest type of wood flooring finish available. It provides a very durable coating that lasts longer than other floor finishers.

It is best to educate yourself about the type of wood flooring you have before choosing a finish as some work better depending on the type of wood they are applies to. You should be able to go to the website of the manufacturer of your wood flooring to find out any specifics you need.

Wednesday 27 May 2009

The Dangers of Flooring Surfaces

Every day, we spend at least an hour in the bathroom. That fact highlights the importance of spending some time to make your bathroom flooring not only functional but also safe. Many people do not realize that bathroom flooring can be very dangerous when wet. According to the National Safety Council, slips and falls are the single largest cause of Emergency Room visits. A high-risk environment can be created when a floor becomes wet, especially in an environment such as a bathroom which is subject to excess water. Because such risk exists, steps should be taken to ensure floors are treated to reduce risk of slips or falls.

A safer floor for your bathroom does not necessarily mean few types of flooring available to you. Most flooring surfaces can be treated to ensure slip and fall resistance despite texture and material choices. There are a variety of styles available in the market and to make the right choice you need to know the options available to you. Choosing your ideal flooring will also depend on the kind of look you want to give to your bathroom. Let's discuss some of the types of bathroom flooring available so that you can match them with your preferences.

Marble Floors

Marble flooring has undoubtedly become very popular primarily because of its beauty. It has an elegant appearance and a generally tough resistant surface. Marble flooring, however, does run on the expensive side and while durable, its sheen does not hold up well in heavily trafficked areas. Moreover, its feel is generally harder and colder than other flooring options. Ultimately, marble floors can be extremely dangerous when wet, but there are solutions.

Quarry Floors

Quarry flooring is one of the most in-demand floor types due to its elegant appearance and durability. In addition to being durable, Quarry is relatively inexpensive, and easy to clean and maintain. Quarry tile is made of clay and usually has a rougher finish than most pressed out ceramic tiles. Because quarry is unglazed, it must be sealed to resist against stains and moisture. Predominant colors of quarry are earth shades of red and orange. Again, quarry floors can be a real hazard when wet.

Ceramic Floors

Ceramic floors have become one of the most popular choices for bathrooms just like other rooms in the house. Ceramic is long-lasting, comes in a wide variety of designs and stands up well to high traffic. Some downsides, however, are that ceramic is difficult to install, it is susceptible to chipping and cracking, and it is generally harder and cooler to the touch than other floor types. Additionally, ceramic tile is highly slippery when wet.

While each of the flooring types mentioned above has varying levels of moisture resistance, none of them are slip-resistant and pose a real danger when wet. As an alternative, you may also want to consider going for a surface treatment for your flooring to prevent it from being slippery. SURE STEP, a floor and tub treatment by Interlake Chemicals is an excellent solution. No matter the material you choose for your bathroom flooring, it is important to remember that a wet floor presents a hazardous environment. To increase the safety of your bathroom, a surface treatment can be a life saver.

Interlake Chemicals offers the most comprehensive line of safety chemicals. SURE STEP treatment by Interlake Chemicals International Limited makes the treated floor absolutely non-slip, and thus extremely safe. SURE STEP by Interlake Chemicals works in dry AND wet floor conditions, and is backed by a company guarantee of up to 5 years.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keshav_Patil

Tuesday 26 May 2009

Concrete Floor Paint And Vital Preparation


Preparation is important when applying floor paint. You can only expect a surface to stay in place, if its substrate is permanent. If the substrate crumbles or moves, your surface and floor paint will move with it. After 40 years of application practice, flooring experts have developed application preparation procedures that minimize the risk of substrates moving. Floors that are new are especially vulnerable and require extra preparation before painting the floor. While a new concrete floor is dusty for the first couple of years while the latent of concrete on the surface are kicked, walked, or driven off. The latent must be removed before quality topcoats are applied; or the topcoats will move with the latent as they break free from the substrate.

Cleaning first with a high pH or alkaline degreaser attacks oil and grease contaminants while moving the floor pH higher will do wonders for the floor paint finish. And afterwards you put on a low pH acidic cleaner that attacks minerals, rust and other particles. That makes your pH jump 10 points or better to shock contaminants loose from substrates. An acidic cleaner should have detergents, rinse agents and water softeners blended into it so that it is formulated to do the best job possible. It is very important to bring the pH back to normal 6.5 or 7 pH after cleaning, using a scrub rinse.

If you have ever tried to run your fingers across your car after pressure washing it; you know that it still has a thin layer of road film on it. That is because surface tension holds even high pressure from penetrating the road film. You must break the surface tension with contact during all three steps of cleaning. The more aggressive the contact the better for removing concrete latent, small particles of concrete that are ready to break of to become that endless dust coming off unquoted concrete floors.

You should be careful relying on retail store clerks alone, to help you with a floor that will be used for the next 10 to 20 years. Now a day’s factory-direct kit of materials including step-by-step instructions and a 24/7 online help are now on hand. With these resources, you can put quality floor paint down in your garage that will last for many years. Like with a car finish, you may get some scratches and marks, but likewise a car finish, a little touching up can keep the floor paint looking good for many years.

Sunday 24 May 2009

Rubber Garage Flooring - What is it For?

Installing rubber garage flooring can make your place look fabulous. Floors are usually the most neglected part of the house. However, with options now available in the market, people now have a choice to make them look better. They can even protect the floor!

The design of the ground can add expediency and value to any place. They have many advantages and they are reasonably easy to install. By choosing to install a rubber type in your garage floors, this will decrease the dirt in your home. They prevent debris that adhere to the tires and then to the bottom of the shoes.

They also provide a padded surface that does not tire your legs. Using rubber garage flooring can also diminish noise and provide some level of insulation against the cold and hot temperatures. They help protect the underlying concrete facade from grease, chemicals, oil spills and other damaging materials.

However, using this type of material can also have a few limitations. One is that they have a low resistance to petroleum products, which can be a problem if the place is used to park your car. Very high temperatures during the summer can also be a problem with this type. The heat might cause it to adhere to the tires. This type has a very low melting point. Thus in extreme circumstances, it can melt the tires into the mat. Using this type of product is best if the place is only used for additional living space.

Using rubber garage flooring is an inexpensive option for general purposes. Nowadays, garages can be converted into different usages. It can be used as a storage area for unusable items or other purposes.

This part of the house can now be transformed from a simple parking space for the car to a magnificent place for leisure, entertainment, dining, office and workshop. They can also be transformed into a gaming area when there is no car. You can put in a tennis table and play some games as well. Alternatively, you can turn it into a computer gaming place. Some people even put their offices in their garage.

If you plan to convert it into a doghouse, then rubber flooring is good. This can provide insulation against extreme temperatures of the cement as well as extra cushioning. This is also good for converting it into home theater. For this will help reduce noise transmission.

However, installing rubber garage flooring also has an advantage for car parking in that they have a super grip non-slip texture. A design on the floors can help improve your place but before deciding to buy what type to use, it is best that you know what the primary function is.

Our site provides information on garage floor sealers, garage floor treatment and other useful information on protecting your garage floor.
By Naomi Smith

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Naomi_Smith

Thursday 21 May 2009

Laminate Flooring - Easy Maintenance Option

If you are looking for an easy maintenance option in flooring, laminate flooring would be ideal. It adds beauty and style to your home and is preferred by a vast majority of homeowners. These flooring's provide the same kind of classy appearance that is offered by natural stone, tile and hardwood floors. In addition, compared to the natural products, it is more affordable.

Durable Flooring Requiring Minimal Maintenance

Right from the origin of laminate flooring, its ease of maintenance has been one of the contributing factors behind its popularity. This type of floor is designed with several different layers. The wear layer normally referred to as the overlay layer is made of special melamine resin saturated cellulose. Laminate floors can be cleaned without using any costly cleaning materials. It does not require frequent refinishing and replacements; it can maintain its freshness for several years.

Ideal for All Areas of Your Home

Laminate floor covering is resistant to stains, moisture, dents, twists and scratches. Therefore it can be used in almost all the areas of your home which are frequently accessed. You can use it as a safe and durable flooring option for your hallway, living room, kitchen, bathroom and other rooms.

Laminate floors come in a variety of textures, colors and patterns to match all kinds of home décor. At present laminate flooring designed using interlocking technology is available in the industry. This kind of floor completely avoids the use of glues and can be installed within a short span of time.

Recognized Dealers Offer Quality Products, Installation and Maintenance

Laminate flooring can be purchased from authorized dealers who take care to make available genuine products from leading manufacturers. These dealers also take care of flooring installation and maintenance, and offer hassle free services.

Worldwide Wholesale Floor Coverings - New Jersey Laminate Flooring - We offer easy to maintain and very affordable laminates that are a stylish way to create more look for less. Get premium quality NJ laminate flooring options from our store locations at Edison and Lawrenceville in New Jersey.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_A_Anderson

Tuesday 19 May 2009

7 Tips to Tile Floors Successfully

Building your new house and floor is something you want to be special? Just think of tiles. It is not impossible or really tough to get nice finish in tiles. You can achieve a great of floor with tiles completing a great look of your dream home. But this is not Child's play either, few things you need to follow to get a great finish in floors, and this article is going to describe you that.

Firstly you need to plan about the way you want the floor to be. You can take paper and scale and draw down the design you want. Note down the measurements of the room and also the tiles, and calculate how many tiles actually you need. This way you can avoid buying extra tiles and save money, but buy few extra as backup I case the tiles which are to be used get broken

You need to make sure that the floor surface is rock solid and even in nature. If the floor surface remains soft, a chance of tiles being broken will be there. And same may happen if the floor surface is not even. The tile may get cracked, and you will need to replace it, if you see the floor in not a good condition then first put cement on the floor to make it solid and even, so that your tiles remain safe.

Before setting up the tiles clean up the whole floor, make sure that there is no water or oil or anything that may cause problem while you try to set tiles on the floor with adhesive.

Start from the center and go forward towards the wall. Whatever design you want to make it in center, and use those cut tiles o the edge near the wall.

First you can do the laying of whole tiles, when the time to set the cut tiles comes, go and call to a professional tile cutter, it will save your time and give your work more perfection. Fewer amounts of tiles will be wasted with a smoother finish. You can first test your floor first if it is safe for your tiles.

You can try with plywood, and check if it is even and the tiles will not break after you lay them on the floor.

Do not forget to seal the joints, otherwise dirt and water will go inside and make the tiles loose.

Rahul Arora has been a Web Developer for the last 4 years and is an expert in onpage SEO and creating web apps. You could always follow his blog at http://blog.dir.vc/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rahul_Arora

Monday 18 May 2009

A Brief Guide to Floor Cleaning.

Cleaning floors is one of the most important aspects of any cleaning programme and an essential element of any property, also depending on what kind of surface you have in your house; it will require different specialist equipment and techniques. Some general tips for keeping floors clean are to employ a proper selection of mats at doorways, often an entrance area with easy to clean floors (for example laminate flooring) and a dedicated area to store shoes. Just some of these simple techniques can make a dramatic impact on the cleanliness of a house that doesn’t have these ideas properly implemented.

Carpet Cleaning & Care

It is always a good idea to regularly vacuum the surface of carpets, this helps remove dirt that can cause permanent damage to fibres and also try to deal with spillages as soon as you can, the longer a spillage stays on a surface the more damage it can do. Often people look to get carpets or rugs cleaned professionally but there are various ways in which carpets can be cleaned to a very high standard without hiring professionals. Always use recommended or qualified products that are specified for use on the surface that you want to clean and so it is a bad idea to use generic cleaning products such as soap or dish washing liquids, these will often damage the surface far more then they clean it (for example the colour will bleed). It is a good idea before any new cleaning is done to a carpet to test the quality of the finish in inconspicuous areas, but always make sure you use a quality carpet cleaning machine.

When it comes to specific floor types, each different surface requires different cleaning techniques and products, some of these include,

Marble Floors

Marble and limestone flooring is surprisingly delicate to clean, these surfaces are very tough and will last for a very long time but in order to keep the best possible surface there are some techniques that can be employed to ensure its lasting quality. Due to the nature of the surface it is a bad idea to use strong acids or alkalis that are often used to attack dirt as this often damages the quality of the surface. It is also a good idea to not scrub the surface of marble or limestone floors, especially with coarser cleaning equipment such as scouring pads, this also includes buffing or scrubbing machines as these can leave visible marks on the surface which can only be removed with polishing. Marble surfaces will clean efficiently with dilute detergent solutions and should be well rinsed after washing and left to dry, often surfaces such as marble are polished professionally but can be polished with a dry cloth.

Wood Floors

Often wooden floors are polished so this has to be taken into account when cleaning; it isn’t a good idea to use detergents, bleach, vinegar and ammonia. It is always a good idea to purchase wax based detergents to maintain wax flooring, and use a damp cloth to remove scuff marks, which should be removed quite easily with a bit of water and some scrubbing. You should always remember that the majority of normal detergents remove wax from flooring, always be careful when cleaning waxed floors as water can make them very difficult to stand on. After wooden floors have been cleaned it is a good idea to fully buff the finished floor, and it always a good idea to regularly re-wax wooden flooring to ensure that it keeps the quality of shine that it had to start with.

Laminate Flooring

Often a good idea for houses that want a low maintenance solution, it is often considered as an alternative to genuine wood or stone surfaces. Often have a greater adaptability then genuine surfaces such as wood and stone, for example they react far better to water so can be used in kitchens and bathrooms. The first cleaning required on laminate flooring is the simple sweeping and vacuuming of the entire area, always clean the flooring with solutions specified by the manufacturers and use a simple flat mop and use smaller quantities of cleaning solutions then perhaps you would use on normal carpets. It is a good idea to never polish or wax laminate floors; these will damage the current finishes and make the flooring appear patchy, and also never clean with abrasive cleaning products such as scouring pads or steel wool.

Concrete Flooring

Often cleaned using mild cleaner or dish soap, never using ammonia or vinegar, concrete floors are often quite easy to maintain and obviously have a high resistance to stains and ware. Always make sure to remove any remaining soap residue with warm water after the area has been cleaned and always wring the mop thoroughly during cleaning, too much cleaning solution or water may degrade the finish and generally only small amounts of water are needed to clean concrete.

Sunday 17 May 2009

Laminate Flooring - Attractive and Economical Alternative

When you are building a new home or remodeling your existing home, it is important to select the best flooring option. Laminate flooring is an attractive, stylish and economical alternative for hardwood. Due to its exceptional features, it is preferred by a large number of homeowners, builders and architects.

Extremely Durable and Stain Resistant

Laminate flooring features several different layers. The wear layer, normally referred as the overlay, is finished with special melamine resin saturated cellulose. This makes the flooring more durable and extremely resistant to stains, moisture, dents and scratches. This type of floorings can be used in high traffic area of your home like - the hallways, kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms.

The major advantage of laminate floors is that it adds an extra amount of elegance and value to your home. In addition, it provides warmth similar to that offered by products made from natural wood. In order to match with your home decorations, these flooring materials are available in a variety of tones and patterns.

Trouble-free Installation and Maintenance

The installation procedure of these floorings is simple. Do it yourself installation is common which helps saves cost for the homeowner. Currently, laminate flooring utilizing interlocking technology is available in the industry. These products completely avoid the use of glue and can therefore be laid easily. Regarding cleaning, laminate flooring is easy to maintain. Expensive cleaning materials are not required. Above all, it is an extremely economic flooring alternative that does not require frequent refinishing and replacements.

Worldwide Wholesale Floor Coverings -
New Jersey Laminate Flooring - We offer easy to maintain and very affordable laminates that are a stylish way to create more look for less.
Get premium quality NJ laminate flooring options from our store locations at Edison and Lawrenceville in New Jersey.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_A_Anderson

Saturday 16 May 2009

Pergo Accolade Flooring - Premium Features That Add Value and Style to Your Home

Pergo is the most trusted name in laminate flooring. Since it first introduced its products to North America in 1994, Pergo has remained one of the leading brands and the laminate flooring of choice for tens of thousands of consumers. Their Accolade line reflects the best technology and features available in laminate, and is becoming a favorite among homeowners.

Pergo Accolade Flooring- The Advantage of Premium Features and Durable Beauty

Pergo Accolade flooring has many premium features that make it an attractive option for do-it-yourselfers. Its attached underlayment makes installation a one-step process by eliminating the need to put down a foam pad under the planks or tiles. It also provides cushioning and minimizes the hollow sound that sometimes accompanies floating floors. Accolade can be installed over plywood, concrete, or floor coverings. Its snap-and-lock assembly makes it ideal for quick and easy installation.

Pieces fit together seamlessly, so that dirt and dust do not collect in grooves and water can't get underneath and swell the inner core. Pergo Accolade flooring is also resistant to fading, scratches, dents and heat. The 8mm high density inner core is made of an HDF material for superior durability. With its combination of premium features, Accolade offers the best in laminate flooring for today's homeowner.

Another advantage to purchasing Pergo Accolade is the value for the money. Accolade is guaranteed not to fade over time, so you will never be able to tell where the rug was or worry about pulling the shades when the sun gets bright. Since it maintains its good looks for years, Accolade, unlike its cheaper counterparts, will most likely be the last floor you ever have to install.

Pergo Accolade Flooring Adds Value To Your Home

Since it is a premium laminate, made using high pressure construction and quality materials, Pergo Accolade flooring holds up to serious wear and tear. Its special Lustergard surface protects its shine and keeps it looking new for years. When you choose this high-quality laminate floor, you are truly making an investment in your home. This adds value, beauty and function that guests and potential buyers will appreciate.

The investment in Pergo Accolade flooring is a wise one, as it ultimately saves time and money over the long run. These durable floors stand up to even heavy traffic and provide lasting beauty for years. Unlike cheaper laminate flooring, Accolade will not need to be replaced often (if at all) because its features are made to extend the life of the floor. With a wide variety of styles and patterns to choose from, Pergo Accolade flooring combine function with timeless beauty.


Thursday 14 May 2009

Five Tips To Help Choose The Proper Hardwood Floor

Ageless beauty, durability, and ease of installation and maintenance make hardwood floors the perfect choice for remodeling your home floors.

There are a multitude of choices when it comes to floor replacements. Hardwood and laminate floors come in an overwhelming variety of shades, sizes and installation methods. Here are some pointers to help you make a decision.

First and foremost, always set a budget for your project. With the wide variety of designs and materials available, spending beyond your budget is very easily done.

1.Style and color should be your first criteria for the area in which you are updating. Is this an elegant area, like a living room, or is this the family room where the kids and pets might be present? You might want a laminate substitute in the family room, and luscious cherry finished rosewood in the living area.

2.Selecting the shades of the room is important as well. The setting of the design will dictate what shades you will use. A dark shade for the entertainment area to help hide dirt and keep the light level down for the big screen TV might be what you’re looking for.

3.Don’t try to put hardwood flooring in the powder room or bathroom. A laminate substitute can be used, but it must be impervious to moisture.

4.Proper installation of the floor must be your highest priority. Even if you’re a great “do-it-yourselfer”, hardwood floor installation requires professional tools and knowledge of angle cutting that most home owners don’t have. If you decide to try it, be sure to do the research first. Take a look at the angles and corners that might be required to cut.

5.Be sure the area, on which you will be installing your new floor on top of, is smooth and even. You will want to select an underlayment that will provide cushioning, soundproofing and additional insulation for your new floor.

http://www.woodfloorsworld.com

Tuesday 12 May 2009

Radiant Heat And Ceramic Floor Tile

If you have radiant heat and are planning a ceramic floor tile installation, then understanding the function of membranes will certain be beneficial. This article will teach you about various membranes in conjunction with radiant heat, so that your floor tile installation will be done properly.

There have been many tragic ceramic floor tile installation disasters by using the wrong membranes or none at all. If the membranes and/or bonding mortars are not compatible your bond will be lost and problems will occur.

With a floor tile installation make sure your membranes meet current ANSI standards and that manufacturers instructions are followed properly.

With floor tile installations, membranes are used for a variety of reasons, each having a specific purpose, such as moisture vapor emission membranes, cork underlay, peel and stick membranes and liquid or trowel applied membranes.

A load bearing, bonded, uncoupling membrane is also a full coverage membrane, but it’s made of thicker material than the anti-fracture membrane. The air cavities that are pressed into its surface allow for lateral movement.

A cleavage membrane is not bonded to the concrete. The function of this membrane is to separate the tile assembly from the concrete and isolate the wire-reinforced mortar bed and the ceramic floor tile installation from any instability in the wood or concrete sub-floor.

A crack isolation membrane is bonded to the sub-floor to cover existing shrinkage cracks and must cover three times the width of the floor tile used, with a minimum width of 6 inches.

An anti-fracture membrane is also bonded to the sub-floor, but this membrane needs to fully cover the sub-floor in order to protect against shrinkage, moisture and expansion and/or contraction of the concrete.

With a radiant heat system a moisture barrier is important in controling moisture and stoping liquid from passing through. Always consider all of the options, because the improper use of a membrane may trap moisture and cuase condensation.

Just remember that when you’re doing a ceramic floor tile installation make sure that you use the correct membrane especially if you have in-floor radiant heating otherwise you could end up with cracked tile and grout and an expensive repair bill.

Sunday 10 May 2009

Two Classifications of Floor Tiles

You can be like an expert home designer and Raleigh home improvement professional with proper designing and effective planning. When you are properly informed of the functional and practical considerations about home improvement, you will easily turn your home into a most beautiful piece of property.

One of the more important aspects of Raleigh home improvement is the flooring of your home. There are many design and material options to choose from when deciding on the final finish and look of the floor and the home interiors. Are you going for the rustic or rugged finish with stone cladding or do you prefer the smooth finish of a ceramic or porcelain tile Raleigh. There are still quite a number people who can't distinguish ceramic from porcelain tiles. If you are serious about sprucing up your home interiors, then the types of tiles and other equally important aspects of home improvement must be adequately understood.

There are two major classifications of floor tiles. These are porcelain tiles and non-porcelain tiles. Non-porcelain tiles are also known as ceramic tiles. Under the porcelain tile main category, there are three sub-types, namely, glazed porcelain, natural porcelain and polished porcelain. The natural porcelain types are generally known as unpolished and unglazed. These dense tiles have 0.5% and less absorption rate making them extremely resistant to frost. Further, porcelain tiles also come in 3 common finishes; high polished, unglazed and matted finish.

The natural porcelain tile Raleigh has less than 1% absorption rate. However, the absorption rate has no relation to the tile surface as this type of porcelain tiles is referred to as through body tiles. This type of porcelain tiles follows different design and texture between the top half and the bottom half thus being referred to as double loaded tiles.

On the other hand, glazed tiles can be completely glazed or partially glazed. The degree is achieved by altering the process of tile manufacturing. The overall absorption rate of glazed tiles is 0.50%. However, there are a few glazed tiles whose absorption can go as low as .10% especially when the top layer of tile is made of pure clay. What is great about glazed tiles is that you can do further polishing.

Polished porcelain tile Raleigh comes with a near granite finish with an unglazed tile surface. This type of porcelain tiles are actually natural porcelain tiles that went through an extensive surfacing polishing process. They undergo additional process during the manufacturing of the tiles to increase their resistance. The manufacturing process creates pores on the surface. Thus, it is important that the prescribed sealer is used while doing the grouting work and tile setting. Failure to do the necessary sealing would lead to the staining of the tiles.

When deciding on the specific type of porcelain tiles for your home improvement projects, it is important that you consider the overall look that you want to achieve and the specific needs and requirements of the floor surface you are working on. In cases where the situation warrants expert advice, you may consider to get technical advice from interior design experts.

Chuck R. Stewart was very impressed with some porcelain tile Raleigh installation he had done in his home. He also was very impressed with some of the Raleigh home improvement firms he saw at the home improvement convention.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chuck_R_Stewart

How To Install Bamboo Flooring Over A Wood Sub-Floor

Please note, because of the differences in installation methods, this article covers installation over a wood sub-floor. This article also assumes you have selected your grain and color of flooring.

Tools Required:

1. Chalk Line


2. Rubber Mallet


3. Hand Saw


4. Plastic or Wooden Spacers (1/4”)


5. Pneumatic Flooring Package (air compressor and hose, gun mallet and staples)

Note: This package can be rented at most rental centers. Make sure you get the correct staples for the gun. The staples may look alike, but it is important to get the proper gauge that fits the gun.

Preparation:

Remove shoe moldings and make sure the sub-floor is even, clean, dry and smooth. Sanding may be necessary in order to obtain smooth, even surface. If sanding is needed, make sure the floor is completely cleaned of dust and debris afterward. Also, if you notice any floor squeaks, correct them now by securing the sub-floor to the joists as needed. Door jambs may also need to be cut so planks will fit under them to create a finished look. Simply place a piece of flooring against the jamb, mark it and cut the jamb at the line.

Once you have received your flooring, it must first be allowed to acclimate itself in the room in which it will be installed. Flooring should be removed from its boxes and stored in the room it will be installed in for a minimum of two days, preferably three to five days before installation. This will let the floor adjust to the room’s humidity and temperature. Because of natural variations in the flooring, it is recommended you layout the planks to get an idea of how you want them arranged before making any cuts or nailing any boards down.

Installation:

It is recommended that you install flooring parallel with the longest wall of the room for the best visual effect. Measure the width of a plank from this wall and add 1/4” to the measurement. Next, at this spot, snap a chalk line across the room to mark where you will begin flooring. This 1/4” is important to provide expansion/contraction room for the flooring.

Arrange the first row with the groove for the flooring facing the wall. Also, begin placing spacers between the flooring and the wall. Spacers should be inserted approximately every 12 inches and at each joist. This gives you a firm base to install against, but ensures you maintain your 1/4” gap. This starter row should be nailed to the flooring joists underneath the sub-floor. The edge of the flooring which faces the wall (groove edge) may be face nailed since it will be covered by shoe molding after installation. The other edge should be secured by blind nailing with the pneumatic gun approximately every ten inches, no closer than 6 inches. Also avoid nailing to close to the end of a board to avoid splitting the board.

As you begin your next row, make sure your board joints are staggered. In other words, no two ends of adjacent rows should meet. You can achieve this by cutting off 6-8 inches of the first board in your next row. This varying board length is not only for visual effect, but is also essential so as not to weaken the floor.

Tip: Make sure you match tongue to groove as you lay each row. Otherwise you will create very unsightly gaps and an uneven floor. Also, use a scrap piece of floor braced against the piece you are installing and tap against the scrap piece with the rubber mallet to work the flooring into place.

On the last row, blind nailing by hand will be necessary since the pneumatic gun will not fit. As a last resort, the last row can be face nailed in lieu of blind nailing.

Finishing Up:

Once all the flooring is has been laid, replace the shoe moldings and give the floor a final sweep up. Now it’s time to bring back in furniture, rugs, etc. and your room remodel is complete.

Saturday 9 May 2009

Choosing the Right Flooring For Your Home - Rubber Flooring - The Choice For the Future?

There are many new flooring options today. In the past your choices were limited; now you can even get rubber flooring. It is a long-lasting choice that may be the right one for your home.

What is Rubber Flooring?

Rubber flooring can either be made from natural rubber or from petroleum-based synthetic. It comes in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. For large rooms, you may want to use sheet flooring; for smaller rooms consider interlocking tiles. You can either start with a bare floor or install it over pre-existing floors.

Benefits of Rubber Flooring

The main benefit of rubber flooring is that the floor is springy and quite durable. It can help reduce the possibility of injuries from standing in one place for long periods. It also reduces static electricity and bacteria, which makes it a great choice if you have small children. Because of its springiness, they won't be injured as easily if they fall.

Which Type Do I Get?

The basic choices for rubber flooring are large sheets of rolled rubber or smaller, interlocking tiles. Tiles can be used to create a one-of-a-kind design that matches your home and decor. Another thing to consider is whether or not you want to use an adhesive; it's required for sheet flooring.

Where Can I Find Rubber Flooring?

If you're considering rubber flooring, you may have to do a bit of research. Start with the local flooring stores and ask them if they have any. If not, ask them if they know where you can find it. Online is also another place to look when searching.

How Much Is It?

The initial outlay needed to buy and install rubber flooring may seem a little steep, between $3 and $10 per square foot. The cost over the life of the flooring more than makes up for the initial price paid. It is extremely durable and easy to care for.

Can I Install It Myself?

If you are reasonably competent at do-it-your-self projects, there shouldn't be any problem in completing this one. You'll want to start with a perfectly smooth sub-floor finish, or the adhesive won't work. Most manufacturers provide a fitting guide to make installing it easier for homeowners.

How Do I Care for It?

One of the benefits of rubber flooring is its ease of care. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using cleansers. Regular sweeping is also recommended. See - it really is easy!

Rubber flooring can be a great choice for any homeowner. It is easy to maintain and can last 30 years or more with proper care. It may just be the perfect flooring choice for you.

Would you like to install quality flooring, but have a limited budget? Ezra's website on cheap flooring will help you to locate good discount flooring for your home. Find out where to buy quality rubber flooring at the lowest price.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ezra_Plank

Thursday 7 May 2009

Modern Floor Lamp Considerations

Decorating a new home or apartment is a fun and exciting experience for most but the vast options are occasionally overwhelming. Before setting out to accent your home with everything from modern floor lamps, desk lamps, pictures and other decor a little preparation will go a long way. Many people choose to focus on lighting as the first step in house warming.

Modern Floor Lamp Prep

First you want to decide where you want to put lights and what kind of lighting you will utilize. There are modern floor lamps, desk lamps, accent lamps and more to choose from. Space and light brightness are the two biggest functional factors when picking a great modern lamp. Depending on the intended use for the lamp will decide if a modern accent lamp with low light for decoration will be suitable or if a bright contemporary desk lamp or floor lamp is needed for reading. Another important factor is the power consumption of the contemporary lamp. Energy costs are rising and finding a modern lamp with a good wattage range will help reduce your electric bill. Reading lights usually need to have at least 100 watts where accent lamps are fine to be 100 watts or lower. You may opt to go with modern lamps that allow compact fluorescent bulbs since these are much more efficient. Picking a light with more wattage is not really necessary for home use; but do not pick such a dim light that causes eye strain then reading or other activities.

Next you want to take note of the colors in the room you will add the modern floor lamp. Matching the colors exactly is not necessary but you definitely want similar colors or colors that complement each other. Also keep in mind the footprint size of the base of the modern floor lamp along with the height. If you have ceilings that are low then you need to keep this in mind when shopping for your lamps so they will fit. The height of the lamp shade is another important factor whether the lamp will be on the floor or on top of a table, dresser or other furniture. Usually you want the lamp shade to be at the same height as your head as a general rule of thumb. Picking a modern floor lamp out online and having it delivered is a great way to save money but also requires you review the measurements in the product description. Check the size with the future location of the modern lamp to eliminate size concerns.

Modern floor lamps are made from a variety of materials and it is a good idea to get a light that will complement your current furnishings. Sometimes this means picking a floor lamp that uses the same materials as your furniture while other decors give great flexibility in the material that matches. Remember that shopping for a modern floor lamp or any other home décor should be a rewarding & exciting experience, you just need to take your time.

Wednesday 6 May 2009

Installing Ceramic Tile Floor

While carpets, vinyl and laminates are fine, for a beautiful looking floor you should consider installing a ceramic tile floor. Learning how to install ceramic floor tile can be a fun project, especially for people who love the do it yourself jobs at home. The history of ceramic goes back over thousands of years and it is a very old craft that humans have been doing for a centuries.

Installing a ceramic tile floor does not take a very long time and if you ask a professional ceramic layer, they can tell you that the process of preparing an area is very important, which is why it is the longest part of the project. Make a plan and cut the pieces before you begin the task of installing ceramic tile floor. It can be frustrating at times but after you learn how to install ceramic floor tile, the job will be much easier and the finished results will look spectacular.

The first thing that you should do before installing ceramic tile floor is to remove every item and furniture that you possibly can. You want the room cleared completely so that you can have access to the entire floor. If you are tiling the kitchen floor, all of the standing appliances will need to go and this includes the stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and oven. For a bathroom you will need to take out the wall molding, toilets and sinks. You want the tile to fit every where in one seamless motion.

If your floor already has vinyl on it, you will need to have it cut up and tossed away. The adhesive of the vinyl will also need to be removed and you can scrape it or give it a good sanding to make the floor level and even. A great substrate to use for a tile laying project is sheetrock but when tiling a kitchen or bathroom, you should consider using backer boards because it will last longer in moist areas.

The center of any room is the best spot for a spectacular layout, so you should begin to measure and create your floor plan. Try not to have cuts that are too thin around the rooms' border. Be aware that you need to leave room and spaces for the grout when it is added later on.

The process of laying down tiles can be the most time consuming. You should have a space holder that is made of rubbed so that it can show where the grout will be added. A pattern should begin to form once you have laid down a few tiles. Check the height and width of the area so that you can see if you will need to add a little more space for any grout and mastic.

As you complete the tile cutting, feel free to waste a few tiles if necessary while you trim a few of the pieces. You want the layout to be perfect before you start to add the mortar, so everything should look the way you want it to before you move on.

Pick up a few tiles at a time and evenly smooth the mortar onto the backs of them. Use a bit of pressure to lay the tiles in place is you take away the rubber spacers. Repeat this process until all of the tiles have been put into place. Move as quickly as you can because you do not want the mortar to dry while you are still working.

When everything is fit into place and you are happy with the design, you will need to get grout into the spaces around the tiles. Use as much force as you can to get all of the gaps and spaces filled. Using a sponge that can remove grout and adding some water, you can then clean the tops of the tiles. It will take roughly an hour and it should be done quickly before the mortar has time to harden.

Using caulk, move around the edge of the room to seal the outer areas between the tiles and the wall. If everything is as it should be, furniture and items can be put back into the room.

Tuesday 5 May 2009

These Stunning Floor Clocks Are Worth Your While

Time will tell, and floor clocks will always tell it with panache. These clocks come in styles that can belong in any modern home with all your innovative furniture and knickknacks. If anybody says that these clocks are a waste of time, they are dead wrong.

Look Up or Down at these Clocks

To differentiate floor clocks from the traditional grandfather clocks is easy - it has to do with the styling and the absence of mechanical movements and chains. So when you see tall clocks that have a pendulum, quartz movement, and hear the familiar chimes but look disparate from your mom's tall clock because these don't have wooden cases and weights, you're looking at a floor clock.

Not all floor clocks are statuesque. You can find one styled like a round table with sculpted metal legs. You can sit around it with your friends and enjoy the clock's features at a closer range while chatting about politics and business opportunities. So there's no quarrel about these clocks being uninteresting time pieces, right?

As to colors, you'll be astounded to learn that there is a white floor clock, which you will find compatible to most of your existing furniture or your interiors. There are also clocks with cases fashioned with quality wrought-iron and finished to create that aged effect, or designed with iron leaves and rosettes. If you are getting one of these clocks, go for the unusual design to make it your while.

The Clocks To Beat

Floor clocks coming from Howard Miller, Ridgeway, Henstchel, and Bulova are exquisite creations that fuse technology and modern design. There are several standard bearers you can choose from when shopping for a floor clock for your home, business establishment, or for a client, if you’re an interior designer.

The seductive curves of the Alison clock from Howard Miller would brighten a gloomy corner in your living room. In white finish to simulate a distressed antique look, this clock has a casing treated with the best hardwoods and polish. A convex glass protects the dial and the big, black Arabic numerals. It also has volume control and night sound shut-off for the Westminster and Ave Maria chimes.

The imposing La Rochelle from Howard Miller in Americana cherry has a removable crown overlay. At the base are raised panels with a cut-out graced with a lovely shell overlay. The Kieninger movement provides an automatic chime switch-off option. This clock has a locking door to prevent tampering. The black Roman numerals on the white clock face are protected by a convex crystal glass.

The Metropolitan from Howard Miller shows crisp, clean, lean lines in black casing that accentuate the white dial face with its black hands and hour markers. The pendulum, in spun nickel, again highlights the length of the black case. The entire effect of the design gives that very contemporary look. This clock has the same convenient night sound shut-off and volume control.

These are just a few samples of the floor clocks you can find online or at the downtown clock shops. You can be sure that all the designs are worth your while. There will one that will comfortably fill up the missing link in your search for the best floor clock. So you say that these clocks aren't worth your while?

Sunday 3 May 2009

Eco Flooring Options - Where to Start

What are the available solutions for Eco Flooring and how are they different? There are several, proven floor covering options for Eco Friendly conscious consumers. Some you may be aware of, some you may not. There is a lot of information available on Green and Eco floors. The basic types can be considered as hard surface and soft surface textile.

Hard surface Eco flooring products are the most commonly heard about. Bamboo has gained a lot of popularity in recent years due to it's great sustainability factor. It grows very quick and can be processed into a very nice wood looking floor. One thing to keep in mind is that lower priced Bamboo floors tend to have fairly significant levels of chemicals, including formaldehyde, so off gasing can be an issue after installation and over time. If considering Bamboo, get a better quality product and stay away from the cheap stuff.

Another, rapidly growing hard surface Eco floor type is Cork. Cork is harvested from the outer part of the tree, so the tree itself is not killed in the process and more Cork can be taken from the same tree years later. This makes Cork a great Eco floocovering option as it is very sustainable. Cork is very durable, provides a great insulation factor for temperature and noise and is even hypo allergenic in some forms. It also can give a very unique look to a room.

Some actually consider true, solid, hardwood floors as an Eco option. True, trees are harvested for the final product. However, the thought is that the floor that comes as an end result is a floor that will last in most cases the life of the home, without need for replacing with other flooring. This eliminates product going to the landfill. When the hardwood floor is no longer needed, it is very landfill friendly as it is a natural product and not synthetic.

There are soft surface textile options as well for purchasing Green/Eco flooring. One very popular carpet is called P.E.T Carpet (Polyethylene terephthalate). This carpet style's yarn is manufactured from 100% recycled plastic bottles. Typically these bottles cannot be used for recycling back into use for human liquid consumption so a large amount annually of this waste is used back into the process for Carpet. This type of carpet does has a great wear factor and is very resistant to most forms of stains.

A second option is a recent breakthrough in Eco Carpet as a yarn made from a fiber from DuPont called Sorona. This fiber is partially manufactured from Corn Syrup which is an extremely sustainable product and also biodegradable.

There are many choices available in flooring for an Eco friendly floor. Once you decide if you want a hard surface or soft surface, you can then decide which of the options best fit your budget.

For great floor covering deals on P.E.T carpet and other Eco flooring, be sure to check out Owen Carpet Company for your Discount Carpet needs.

The author, Eric Dyer is an Owner of Owen Carpet based in Dalton, Ga. Owen Carpet was featured by NBC's Today show as the #1 place in America to buy Floorcovering.
For more information you can visit, http://www.owencarpet.com or call Owen Carpet at 1-800-626-6936.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_M_Dyer

Saturday 2 May 2009

How To Apply A Garage Floor Sealer

A good garage floor sealer protects it from road salt, dirt, grime and dust. It also makes it easier to sweep and prevent stains. If you want to paint the floor then it acts as an excellent primer as well. There are some supplies that you will need if tackling this job yourself. You will need a garden hose with a nozzle, a large paint tray, a good paintbrush, a stiff bristled brush and a bucket, a concrete degreaser and cleaner, a long handled paint roller and painters tape.

Your first step in applying the garage floor sealer is to scrub the floor with a commercial concrete cleaner and a degreaser. Then hose it down so there is no cleaner remaining. If there are any areas that are stained then you will need to allow the cleaner to soak for as long as thirty minutes. For areas that have tougher to remove stains, you will need to repeat these steps.

Once it has dried, put the garage floor sealer in your large paint tray. Cut in along the perimeter by brush and then the remainder of the floor is rolled with a paint roller and a medium nap roller is best for this job. Work your way backwards out the garage so you are not trapped in a corner. Do not leave any puddles; however make sure you apply the sealer quite generously. This type of product will stain so make sure you apply it carefully and avoid getting it on other areas.

As the garage floor sealer is drying, it is a good idea to clean your tools with warm soapy water so they do not harden. You do not need to apply a second coat. A floor without a proper sealant will deteriorate quite rapidly because things like road salt and grease and oil can cause damage within a couple of years. Waterproofing is another good piece of preventive maintenance.

A garage floor sealer cannot be applied over top of any other type of coating. If you want to paint the floor then do so after the application of the protective coating because it acts as a primer. Some people like to use a simple grey paint but others prefer brighter colors. One thing to note is that you must make sure product used is suitable to be painted over. Once all the coats are applied, you will have a well-protected floor.

The best garage floor sealer is an acrylic based substance however, there are others that may contain chemicals, which, could be harmful if they have been exposed to your skin or even vapors that are hazardous to inhale. It is best to wear protective clothing such as Kevlar gloves, eye protection and a face mask. Read the label directions carefully. Wait twenty-four hours after applying before painting. Most hardware or home centers offer different types of products to give you what you are looking for at different price levels. Anyone who has a garage or concrete floored workshop should protect it properly.