Although carpet and hardwood are two of the most popular choices when it comes to flooring, they are sometimes inadequate. Certain areas of the home like the kitchen, or garage, typically demand a higher degree of toughness and resilience. Carpet absorbs stains and moisture too easily, leading to a dirty looking surface that may also attract odors. Hardwood offers a great deal more durability than carpet, but it also suffers from problems with moisture. A damp hardwood eventually warps and cracks. After several years of expansion and contraction, moisture damage can become very apparent with a hardwood floor.

Places in which spills and accidents are frequent can result in scratching or gouging in the flooring as well. Laminate flooring is a great answer to all these problems and more. With a laminate floor, designers can have the aesthetic allure of hardwood, while avoiding many of the typical problems. Laminate flooring is largely impervious to moisture problems and will not absorb water. Stains are not an issue, and as long as they are cleaned up promptly, should not leave a mark at all.
Best of all, laminate flooring is very affordable, and can be found in a great range of shades, colors, and styles.

Laying down laminate flooring is also relatively easy. When first purchasing a set of laminate flooring tiles, check each to ensure that each tile is intact. Once sure that the entire package is intact, give the tiles a few days to adjust to their new atmosphere. There may be some contraction or expansion involved when the laminate flooring tiles change environment.

Make certain to follow all manufacturer instructions that are included with the tile packaging. Specific instructions on how to glue the tiles are critical, and can affect the overall aesthetic quality and durability of the end product. It is also important to give the tile a quarter inch between wall and flooring. Although a great deal of tools isn't required for in home installation, you may need something to cut the tile around corners, fireplaces, stairs, etc. A wet tile saw would provide all the cutting power needed for laminate flooring.

Having a level surface for laying down tiles is also important. Be sure to fill any holes in the subflooring, or sand away any protruding areas that might stick up afterward.

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Wood flooring can add a great traditional touch to any home. For an addition of elegance and time tested quality, hardwood flooring is a great option. A high quality maple or oak wood flooring can really put a new face on a home, while also creating an elegance that is hard to equal. Hardwood flooring is available in a wide variety of shades, colors, patterns, and finishes. Finding the right wood flooring for your home can be a little overwhelming, but the process is always rewarding in the end. Although carpet is definitely an alternative, wood flooring has a traditional appeal that is hard to deny.

The first step to take is to assess the value that hardwood can add to the home. When in climates that change temperature extremes every season, hardwood may be prone to suffering buckling and warping. High humidity is also a real issue when it comes to hardwoods. Excess moisture can wick up from the subfloor and into the wood through spills, leading to warping and buckling as the years pass. Crowning and cupping are common problems for wood flooring exposed to moisture. When a floor crowns or cups, it bows out of shape, most frequently in the middle of the floor. This can result in a floor that must be replaced or sanded down to restore its level surface.

Once you have done the research and concluded that hardwood is the right choice for you as a homeowner, there are many options from which to choose. Maple and oak are typically seen in older homes, while cedar is a species that provides a more relaxed feel. A higher gloss finish will produce a shinier surface, while a lower gloss fits in with a more subdued atmosphere. The thickness of the boards is also crucial when determining the best hardwood. Thicker boards will be more durable and more resistant to moisture.

Moisture is a big problem for hardwood flooring. Avoid exposing wood flooring to moisture as much as possible. If storing wood flooring outdoors before installation, be sure to cover it with a tarp in case of any precipitation. Clean up spills on the wood flooring as quickly as possible to prevent permanent damage. If water beads up on the surface of the flooring, the finish of the flooring needs to be redone. Protect your investment, and wood flooring can last for generations.

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Finding the right type of flooring for your home is a very important process that requires a decent amount of time and money. There is no single answer as to what kind of flooring is best, as each type caters to a unique need. Hardwood can help to provide a sturdy and elegant appearance, while carpet provides a warmer feel.
Tile and stone flooring provides the home with a greater degree of durability in flooring. Deciding which kind of flooring is right for your home requires knowing what the flooring must withstand.

When children and pets are involved, a more rugged type of flooring may be in order for the home. While carpet provides a great surface that retains warmth and comfort, it does not work as well when children and pets are present. A laminate or tile surface works better when put under these circumstances. Carpet, although it provides warmth and comfort, also absorbs moisture and dirt. Without regular cleaning, carpet has a tendency to become very dirty. Carpet may also take on an odor after a while if it is not given regular maintenance. With appropriate cleaning, however, carpet can be a great choice.

Should you settle on carpet, be certain to select one that has a deep pile. Deep pile carpets are far more resilient, and resist stains more effectively. Carpet has the benefit of comfort over hardwood, which can be rough and cold. Hardwood can provide a great surface that is both aesthetically pleasing and durable. Although not as diverse as carpet, hardwood is available in a range of species and shades. Maple and oak are more traditional, while cedar provides a rustic feeling that is great in some homes.

Moisture is a big problem for hardwoods, although some are designed specifically to provide greater resiliency against this. With a hardwood floor, it is critical to prevent excessive water exposure. Doing so will make the hardwood last much longer, and prevent warping and buckling that can occur otherwise. Regular cleaning is an important part of hardwood maintenance, but rough chemicals and excessive amounts of water should not be used. Professional cleaning services must usually be contracted to deal with cleaning carpets.

Tile and stone flooring are a great choice for garages or kitchens. Water, spills, and scuffing are not a problem with these tough surfaces.

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