Question 1

How much does carpet cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost of carpeting a room can vary greatly and will depend on a number of variable factors. First and foremost you will need to identify if you are purchasing wall-to-wall carpeting that will require professional installation, or merely an area rug which does not require professional installation. Typically a full-service wall-to-wall carpet project (one that includes delivery and installation) will include 4 primary price components:

The cost of the carpet material itself
The cost of the cushion that goes below the carpet
The cost of Labor (delivery, installation and additional services such as furniture moving)
The cost of transitions, trim or other accent pieces

Question 2

How do I measure for carpet?

Accepted Answer

One of the many services that separate Flooring America/Flooring Canada from the competition is our complimentary home-measuring service. There are many factors that can influence how much carpet you will need for your space and which product is right for you, so avoid the headache and let us measure and assess your space for free!

Question 3

How long does carpet last?

Accepted Answer

How long a carpet will last depends on the quality of the product, the amount of traffic/use it experiences, and how well it is maintained.

Almost every product found in a Flooring America/Flooring Canada showroom will have a star-level warranty that will indicate how long the carpet is warrantied against wear & texture loss if it is properly maintained under normal traffic.

Question 4

Why is my new carpet shedding?

Accepted Answer

The balls of fluff, or loose fibers, found on carpet or in the vacuum cleaner bag are the normal result of fiber left in the carpet from the manufacturing process. Removing these loose fibers does not affect carpet life or appearance. Because of their large size, these fibers are too big to become airborne or to be breathed in. With proper vacuuming and using a quality vacuum cleaner, most shedding gradually disappears within the first year after installation.

Question 5

Why does my carpet change color when I look at it from different directions?

Accepted Answer

Light reflects differently as the pile is pushed in different directions. Foot traffic generally causes this, and the best solution is to sweep or vacuum the pile in a uniform direction.

Question 6

Some tufts are longer than others. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Just snip the end to even the carpet surface. Never pull out long or loose ends as this can permanently damage your carpet. If a tuft becomes snagged or works loose, simply cut it off and let the surrounding yarn fill in the space.

Question 7

What can I do about static shock?

Accepted Answer

When a room’s relative humidity is very low, a static charge can build up in your carpet as you walk across it. If this occurs, a humidifier or other commercially available products can help.

Question 8

How can I avoid permanent indentations?

Accepted Answer

Your carpet pile may compress due to heavy foot traffic or weight of furniture. Rotating furniture may help reduce indentations. You can work the pile back into place with the edge of a coin. Sometimes, passing a hot steam iron over the spot can also help, but keep the iron at least four inches above the carpet.

Question 9

What is the difference between high pile and low pile carpet?

Accepted Answer

If you examine a carpet carefully, you’ll notice that the surface is comprised of many individual fibers. These fibers are sewn into the carpet’s backing at both ends, creating a sturdy hoop or loop shape. Depending on the carpet, these loops can vary in height, density, and texture. In carpet industry terminology, this is known as “pile” or “rug pile.” The fibers of a high pile carpet are tall and elongated, with a lower density. Shag carpeting is a classic example. By comparison, the fibers that make up a low pile carpet are shorter and more tightly packed together, creating a smoother, flatter appearance.

Question 10

What is low pile carpet?

Accepted Answer

The “pile” of a carpet refers to the height and density of its individual fibers. The term “low pile carpet” describes any carpet made from short fibers that are sewn together in tight, dense rows. This creates a uniform, even appearance, with a texture that is smooth to both the eye and the touch. Low pile carpet is often recommended for children’s rooms, rooms with heavy foot traffic, and hallways.

Question 11

What is high pile carpet?

Accepted Answer

Every carpet consists of fibers sewn into a sturdy backing, creating a series of loops that, together, form the carpet’s surface. Some of these loops may be cut at the top. The height, texture, and density of these loops is described using the term “pile.” For example, a “high pile” carpet is a carpet made using long fibers. This tends to create a deeper, more plush, and more irregular or dynamic appearance. Shag carpet is a timeless example of high pile carpeting, which is ideal for contrasting with wood floors or using as a cozy accent in bedrooms and living rooms.

Question 12

Do I have low or high pile carpet?

Accepted Answer

It makes sense to know whether you want high pile or low pile before you go carpet-shopping. But if you’ve already purchased the carpet, determining pile is important, because it can help you decide how to use the carpet. For example, if you determine that you have a high pile carpet, you’ll likely want to avoid placing it in a muddy or heavily-trafficked area, since the long, fluffy fibers can be a somewhat tougher to keep clean. For heavily-trafficked areas, low pile carpet is perfect. However, for a more plush, cozy feel -- in areas where you may read and relax -- high pile may be a better option.

Question 13

What vacuum should I use on low pile and high pile carpets?

Accepted Answer

Some high-tech vacuums can cost close to a thousand dollars (or more). Fortunately, you don’t need fancy bells and whistles to keep your low pile or high pile carpet looking great — just a few basic features. Look for a lightweight vacuum with wide, sturdy wheels. These features will allow you to maneuver the vacuum more easily. Ideally, we recommend using a model with adjustable height and motor speeds, though brush roll control is optional. Most vacuums have adjustable settings (such as “high” and “low”) that are designed for use on different floor or carpet types.

Question 14

How do I choose a high quality carpet?

Accepted Answer

To some extent, “quality” is about your personal style preferences — but there are also objective quality standards you should pay attention to when shopping for a carpet. For example, durability and performance. No longer is the quality identifier just the fiber type as technology and innovation has made yesterday’s fibers from ordinary to extraordinary. You should consider pile height, density, twist, weight, and ply of the fiber. Along with construction of carpet, you should also pay attention to carpet warranties. A good, quality carpet should offer a solid warranty coverage that protects against events such as spills, stains, and wear. A warranty lets you know that the manufacturers are quality-focused, and that the carpet was designed to withstand normal wear-and-tear while retaining most of its fibers. A Sales Professional at your local Flooring America can help you find a good quality carpet for your needs.

Question 15

How do I choose a carpet color

Accepted Answer

When it comes to choosing a carpet color, you have endless freedom. Thanks to modern dye methods, today’s carpets are available in any hue or pattern you could imagine -- in tones that range from eye-poppingly vivid to soothing pastel. While there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to use color, one of the best methods is to coordinate with your furniture or other rooms of your home, or to opt for a neutral shade (such as pale grey, beige, or tan) that can go with anything -- even if you change your decor. For example, many design experts recommend balancing one or two neutral colors with a handful of brighter accents, and avoiding clashing colors like purple with orange or red with green.

Question 16

How are carpets installed?

Accepted Answer

The answer to this question depends on factors like what types of carpets are being installed, what types of floors are underneath, and the shape and size of the room where the carpet is being installed. Regardless of these factors, installing carpets can be a big (and sometimes messy) job, so it’s best left to the professionals — especially if you’re redoing your home in order to show or sell it!

Question 17

How long should I wait to put furniture on new carpet?

Accepted Answer

Each home flooring project is unique. However, there is no waiting period to place furniture back on the new carpet! People can also walk on the carpet immediately after installation. Also, It would be helpful to walk around the newly carpeted room with your installer for a final inspection.

Question 18

Whats the best way to clean a white carpet?

Accepted Answer

White carpets have a bad reputation for being “difficult to keep clean.” That might have been true in the past — but thanks to modern technology, it’s easier than ever to keep white carpets looking bright and fresh. Certain products are specially designed to resist even the toughest stains, making them ideal for homeowners with pets or young children. The best way to keep it clean is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also look for products that come backed by robust stain and soil warranties, which vary from brand to brand. We can help you select the right carpeting, install it in any room of your home, and teach you how to maintain your new carpets for long-lasting results.

Question 19

How do I keep carpet clean?

Accepted Answer

Regardless of what sort of carpet you have, the best way to keep it clean is by following the manufacturer’s recommendations. These recommendations vary by brand and product line, depending on factors like the “pile” (height) of the carpet and what materials the carpet is made out of. If you have questions about how to keep your new carpets clean, just ask our knowledgeable flooring experts for tips.

Question 20

How often should I clean my carpet?

Accepted Answer

It’s not just how you clean your carpet that’s important, but how often. As always, it’s best to refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations, which might suggest cleaning daily, weekly, or every few weeks. (Of course, you might need to spot-clean more frequently if you have accidental spills.) Some types of carpeting are more “high-maintenance” than others, but most are a breeze to keep clean thanks to technological innovations in the home flooring industry. For many products, the occasional vacuum and a touch of soapy water is more than enough.

Question 21

How do I deep clean carpet?

Accepted Answer

When it comes to any question about carpet cleaning and maintenance, we always recommend that homeowners follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Depending on the brand, product line, and other factors, there are different ways to deep clean carpets properly for best results. But you don’t have to dig through any boring technical manuals — instead, simply ask one of our team members for help. With trusted expertise on thousands of products, our home flooring experts can guide you in the right direction.

Question 22

Should I steam clean or chemical clean my carpet?

Accepted Answer

Steam cleaning or chemical cleaning may be more appropriate for your carpet, depending on the product. Due to product variations, we strongly suggest that homeowners always refer to manufacturer guidelines. The basic difference between these approaches is that chemical cleaning uses specially formulated solutions to help dissolve and break down substances that cause staining, while steam cleaning uses heated water vapor.

Question 23

What are carpet squares?

Accepted Answer

Carpet squares, also known as “modular carpet,” are exactly what they sound like: small squares of carpeting, usually with dimensions of 18” x 18” or 24” x 24”. Carpet squares were designed to provide a lightweight alternative to traditional carpet rolls, which are considerably larger and heavier. Carpet squares have unique pros and cons, so it’s a good idea to weigh the benefits and drawbacks with an experienced professional. Our team can help you decide whether traditional carpets or carpet tiles are better for your home flooring project.

Question 24

Whats the difference between rugs and carpets?

Accepted Answer

Choosing between carpet vs rugs may seem like a simple decision, but the implications for your living space are anything but. The words "rug" and "carpet" are often used to describe soft surface floor coverings, and understanding their differences is essential for creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing space. In this flooring decision guide, we'll explore the discrepancies between each floor covering along with carpet and rug placement tips and upkeep requirements so that you can choose the perfect floors to fit your lifestyle.

Question 25

What is carpet face weight?

Accepted Answer

Face weight is the carpet pile per square yard of carpet, measured in ounces. The face weight does not include the backing materials, only the weight of the carpet fibers. This is important to understand because different types of fibers will have different weights, and comparing two carpets made of different materials will not paint you a full picture of carpet quality. In addition, face weight should not be confused with a carpet’s total weight, which includes the weight of the backing and the carpet fibers.

Question 26

How is carpet made?

Accepted Answer

Making carpet dates all the way back to 2,000 thousand years ago when nomadic Middle Eastern tribes laid carpet-like woven fibers on the floors of their homes. Today, the United States produces more than a billion square feet of carpet each year. And most of that carpet is produced in “the carpet capital of the world,” Dalton, Georgia.

Question 27

Does carpet manufacturer matter?

Accepted Answer

ifty years ago, there were around 100 carpet manufacturers. Today there are less than 20. Mohawk and Shaw Industries are the two largest United States manufacturers and control about 70% of the North American market. This fact alone should be a good indicator that the quality of a carpet isn’t necessarily impacted by the manufacturer. Over the last five decades, Mohawk and Shaw Industries have either acquired their competitors or run them out of business, leaving them as North American industry leaders.

Question 28

Can you put carpet over carpet?

Accepted Answer

In short, it is possible to place carpet over carpet without sacrificing style or the resale value of your home. Doing so can be an inexpensive way to update your room and add a fresh pop of color, but there are some factors to consider before doing so.

Question 29

What is tufted carpet?

Accepted Answer

In short, tufted carpet is when cut or looped carpet fibers poke through the carpet backing. The majority of wall-to-wall carpets on the market, or around 95%, are tufted carpets. Tufted style carpets are popular because they are cost-effective, have a fast production time, are durable, and are available in various styles.

Question 30

Is carpet good for pets?

Accepted Answer

If you are a pet owner, you don’t have to shy away from installing carpet inside your home. In fact, many pets enjoy lounging on the soft plush surface that carpet provides as opposed to harder surfaces like hardwood or tile.

Question 31

What is carpet density?

Accepted Answer

In short, carpet density is measured by how close each carpet fiber is tufted into the carpet backing. It is also important to note that carpet density and face weight are not the same and should not be used interchangeably. Additionally, carpet face weight and carpet pile height are both needed to calculate the carpet density.

Question 32

What is standard carpet width?

Accepted Answer

Wall-to-wall carpeting is commonly available in rolls, typically measuring around 12 feet in width. However, the carpet widths may vary based on the carpet manufacturer. Some manufacturers might offer wider carpet options, providing more flexibility in carpet dimensions to suit various room sizes or design preferences.

Question 33

What is hardwood flooring?

Accepted Answer

Hardwood flooring is any flooring product made of real wood sawn from timber and manufactured for use as a floor. Hardwood is available in a wide variety of different tree species and can be manufactured as solid hardwood (the planks consist of one solid piece of wood sawn from a single timber) or as engineered hardwood (a planks are made from multiple layers of wood adhered together). Hardwood flooring can come in planks, strips, parquet patterns and other shapes. Generally hardwood products come prefinished from the factory with stain and a wear layer to protect it, but in some cases the wood is installed without a factory finish and the finish is applied onsite. Some hardwood floors can be sanded or screened and refinished overtime to return a more pristine look and feel, however this process can be expensive, time consuming and messing. As a result the practice of sanding/screening and refinishing is becoming less common as consumers more often opt to replace older and worn out hardwood floors with entirely new ones.

Hardwood floors typically feature a tongue and groove construction so that the planks lock together. Hardwood floors are often nailed or stapled into the subfloor for installation. In some cases engineered wood may be glued to the subfloor. Before installing any hardwood floor a moisture test must be done to ensure the moisture rising from the subfloor does not warp or damage the floor after installation.

Question 34

How long do hardwood floors need to acclimate?

Accepted Answer

Most manufacturers recommend that any hardwood product be acclimated in the space that it will be installed for no less than 72 hours. It is also important to arrange the hardwood boxes for acclimation in a way that would give equal airflow to all of the boxes, ensuring each box of wood gets the same level of acclimation. Generally stacking the boxes no more than 4 high and with at least 6” of space around all sides will suffice.

Question 35

Can I steam clean hardwood floors?

Accepted Answer

No, you should not steam clean hardwood floors. Cleaning your hardwood floors with a steam cleaner or with excess moisture will damage your floors and cause them to warp. In many cases using a steam cleaner on your floors will void their warranty. Always consult the warranty guide for your floor before using any cleaning products. Some steam cleaner manufacturers may boast that their products are safe to use on hardwood floors (with the disclaimer that the floors must be properly sealed) but both the Wood Floor Covering Association and the National Wood Floor Covering Association do not recommend using steam cleaning products on hardwood. There are also no major hardwood floor manufacturers that recommend using steam cleaners on hardwood floors. Refer to the manufacturer of your floor or to your local Flooring America/Flooring Canada for other cleaning options that would be appropriate for your floor.

Question 36

How do I protect my hardwood floors from furniture scratches?

Accepted Answer

Hardwood floors are naturally resistant to damage and scratches from furniture, which is one of the factors that has contributed to their enduring popularity. Nonetheless, there are steps you can (and should) take to help prevent furniture scratches. For example, you can purchase small felt pads, which are placed on the ends of chair and table legs, to help furniture glide more easily over your floors. You might also consider using an area rug, which offers cushioning and protection while still leaving most of your gorgeous hardwood flooring exposed.

Question 37

What can I use to clean my hardwood floors?

Accepted Answer

Hardwood floors are easy to clean, but there are still some basic rules you should follow to keep them looking their best. Based on many years of experience in the flooring industry, we generally recommend that you do a quick daily sweep with a soft bristle broom. This will remove any fine particles of dirt or grit that could otherwise wear down your flooring over time. For spills, we recommend using a soft cloth to wipe the soiled area. Together with the cloth, we recommend using a cleaning product designed for use on hardwood floors to avoid further discoloration or damage. As an extra protective measure, you might wish to consider using humidifiers, which help to prevent warping and shrinkage.

Question 38

What's the difference between painting, staining and refinishing my hardwood floor?

Accepted Answer

If you’ve ever looked up hardwood flooring online, you probably bumped into three terms: “painting,” “staining,” and “refinishing.” “Painting” is straightforward; but what about the other two? “Staining” is the process of changing the wood to a darker color, usually by hand-applying a liquid wood stain product. “Finishing” is the process of applying a varnish, which, along with a coating of sealant, helps to protect the wood while giving it a glossier look. “Refinishing” involves redoing the current finish on your flooring, which revitalizes and restores its appearance. These procedures can be messy and difficult (especially if you’ve never done them before), which makes it a good idea to let the professionals handle the job.

Question 39

What are the different types of hardwood flooring?

Accepted Answer

Hardwood flooring comes in many different varieties, offering a huge range of colors and grain patterns to choose from. Some examples of popular hardwood flooring species include walnut, cherry, red oak, white oak, maple, hickory, ash, birch, beech, teak, and bamboo. Some of these species are native to the U.S., while others must be imported from abroad, potentially impacting the cost. They also vary in hardness, which is ranked using a scale called the “Janka Hardness Rating.” For example, walnut has a Janka Hardness Rating of 1010, making it slightly softer than birch, which has a Janka Hardness Rating of 1260.

Question 40

What are the different styles of hardwood flooring?

Accepted Answer

Today’s hardwood floors are available in more varieties than ever before. Modern hardwood flooring is available in a wide assortment of colors, grain patterns, finishes, and styles, ranging from pale and glossy to dark and weathered. These variations depend partially on whether the floor is hand-scraped, wire-brushed, or smooth. The opposite of smooth floors, hand-scraped floors deliberately feature markings that show off craftsmanship, creating a more artisanal and old-fashioned look. Wire-brushed flooring is somewhere in the middle, striking a balance between chic polished floors and rustic distressed floors.

Question 41

How to select hardwood flooring?

Accepted Answer

When you’re choosing hardwood flooring for your home, you have quite a few decisions to make. Engineered, or solid hardwood? Hand-scraped, smooth, or wire-brushed? Stained or unstained? Prominent grain pattern, or one that’s barely noticeable? Creamy yellow, deep mahogany, or somewhere in between? We’ll help you select the right products for any room in your home, breaking down key factors like your budget, your timeline, your design preferences, your lifestyle, and the amount of flooring you need installed.

Question 42

How long does it take to install hardwood flooring?

Accepted Answer

Just like people, hardwood floors need time to “acclimate” to new environments. Acclimation, which is a critical stage of the floor installation process, is defined by the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) as “the process of adjusting (conditioning) the moisture content of wood flooring to the environment in which it is expected to perform.” This process generally requires at least 72 hours. It also takes additional time to complete the physical installation process, depending on factors like the size of the room and the condition of the existing floor. Due to the complexity of the process, it’s strongly recommended that you let an experienced professional handle the work, like the experts at Flooring America.

Question 43

How long before you can walk on hardwood flooring?

Accepted Answer

Each installation varies depending on whether your new hardwood is prefinished or unfinished. If the new material is unfinished, you will need to wait 24 hours after installation. This will ensure that the final coat of varnish has adequate time to dry and set. If the new hardwood is pre-finished, you can walk on the floor after installation is complete.

Question 44

Is it hard to install hardwood flooring?

Accepted Answer

Some flooring projects are more complex than others, but all should be handled by qualified professionals. Even a tiny mistake could radically change the finished look of your floors (or the associated price tags), leaving you with a nasty surprise after all your hours of work and planning. When you let a team of experts handle the job for you, you can expect work that’s done right the first time, without any stress or mess. If you need help installing hardwood floors, contact us online, or simply walk into any one of our conveniently located retail stores.

Question 45

How much does it cost to install hardwood floors?

Accepted Answer

The cost to install hardwood flooring is different for every homeowner, depending on factors like the type of wood you choose, the size of the area you are covering, and how much maintenance you need to perform over time. But, thanks to innovations like engineered hardwood, beautiful wood flooring is more affordable than you think — even in large spaces! To compare prices and browse great deals, visit one of our conveniently located retail stores, or take a tour of our virtual showroom. No matter your budget, we can help you find hardwood floors (or stunning lookalikes) that work for your wallet.

Question 46

What are parquet floors?

Accepted Answer

Parquet floors are a specific type of wood flooring. This type of flooring is unique because of its geometric patterns composed of small pieces of wood.

Question 47

Are wood floors pourous?

Accepted Answer

Well that depends on what kind of finish the wood floors have. Softwoods like pine, cedar and redwood are more non-porous than other woods, making them great choices for hardwood flooring materials. In addition to softwoods’ non-porous nature, when applied as floors they are almost always treated or coated with some sort of finish to keep moisture out and increase their lifespan.

Hardwood floors can either be sealed on the surface or treated. A surface seal does just what it sounds like. It sits on top of the wood and helps prevent water and other stains from being absorbed into the wood. Most hardwood floors are finished this way because it makes them easier to clean and maintain. Alternatively, hardwood floors can also be finished with an oil that penetrates and is absorbed into the wood. This finish mimics the look of bare wood for a more natural effect, but in doing so, also leaves the wood more porous and vulnerable to water and other stains.

Overall, wood floors are more porous than alternative flooring options like luxury vinyl and laminate, but with the right finish and upkeep, they can hold off damage from water or air for decades. Because hardwood floors range in how porous they are, it is always smart to consult a flooring expert and to examine your warranty to learn about the proper maintenance for your floors.

Question 48

Is laminate flooring waterproof?

Accepted Answer

In some cases yes, but not always. Some laminate products on the market that advertise themselves as waterproof but typically laminate floors are not. With more common laminate water can cause major damage, especially if the water soaks into the wood pulp core causing it to expand and damage the rest of the plank and those planks around it. There are many waterproof vinyl plank alternatives to laminate that will perform similar or better than laminate, and resist water damage, at a similar price point.

Question 49

What is laminate flooring?

Accepted Answer

Laminate is an affordable, multilayered flooring product made from tightly compressed wood fiber and designed to look like wood, tile or stone. Laminate flooring products typically have four layers: the backing layer, the core layer, the image layer, and the wear layer. The backing can vary depending on the product but is often made of cork, felt or another soft product to allow the laminate to sit comfortably on the floor. The core layer is typically comprised of recycled wood fibers tightly compressed into a dense wood-like core, sometimes referred to as a high-density fiber (HDF) core. The image layer is where the desired look (e.g. wood, stone) is printed onto the product and texture is added through a process called ‘embossing’ to make it feel similar to the material it is made to look like. The wear layer is a clear protective layer manufactured on top of the image layer. The wear layer is often made from aluminum oxide and designed to prevent the floor from scratching or showing excessive wear over time. Higher quality laminate products often boast an extra resilient wear layer that makes the product scratch, dent and fade resistant.

Question 50

How is laminate flooring made?

Accepted Answer

Laminate flooring is made of multiple layers adhered together and heated in factory settings. Most laminate flooring consists of 4 layers: the backing layer, the core layer, the image layer, and the wear layer. The backing can vary depending on the product but is often made of melamine, cork, felt or another soft product to allow the laminate to sit comfortably on the floor. The core layer is typically comprised of recycled wood fibers tightly compressed into a dense wood-like core, sometimes referred to as a high-density fiber (HDF) core. The image layer is where the desired look (e.g. wood, stone) is printed onto the product and texture is added through a process called ‘embossing’ to make it feel similar to the material it is made to look like. The wear layer is a clear protective layer manufactured on top of the image layer. The wear layer is often made from aluminum oxide and designed to prevent the floor from scratching or showing excessive wear over time. Higher quality laminate products often boast an extra resilient wear layer that makes the product scratch, dent and fade resistant.

Question 51

How much is laminate flooring?

Accepted Answer

When planning a significant home improvement project like installing new flooring, one of the most important factors that's probably top of mind is budgeting. Understanding the costs associated with your project can help you make well-informed decisions and ensure you get your dream flooring without breaking the bank. In this article, we'll explore the costs of laminate flooring (and why it works so well on a budget) and offer budgeting tips, all while providing you with the best laminate flooring prices here at Flooring America.

Question 52

How thick is laminate flooring?

Accepted Answer

When shopping for laminate flooring, you will notice that laminate comes in different thicknesses, ranging from 6 to 12 millimeters (mm). Laminate flooring gets its name from the lamination process it undergoes, sealing multiple layers of synthetic material together. This hardwood floor lookalike is durable and affordable.

Question 53

Is Pergo laminate?

Accepted Answer

Pergo is the flooring brand that invented laminate flooring. Founded in 1977, has since expanded its offerings to sell hardwood flooring, engineered hardwood flooring, and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring in addition to laminate.

Question 54

Can you match hardwood floors to laminate?

Accepted Answer

In short, no, you shouldn’t try to match hardwood floors to laminate. Understanding which flooring material you can and can’t mix is important to achieving your best-designed home.

Question 55

What does laminate make flooring look like?

Accepted Answer

Laminate flooring comes in tons of different style, but most of the time it mimics the look of hardwood and tile flooring. The top layer of laminate flooring, known as the wear layer, is a protective layer that helps reduce damage like scratches and stains. Under the wear layer is the design layer which is a high-resolution photograph. This is the part of the laminate that determines what the flooring will look like. Often higher-quality and more expensive types of laminate look more like the flooring material they are mimicking.

There are additional layers that don’t affect the look but are also important to consider when buying laminate flooring. Beneath the design layer is the core layer that protects from indentations and moisture. Finally, under that is the back layer that further protects the plank against moisture and balances the floor.

Question 56

What is tongue and groove laminate?

Accepted Answer

Tongue and groove laminate is a type of flooring that allows for each plank to easily interlock with one another. On each individual laminate plank, one side has a small flat edge, or the tongue, while the other side has a larger grooved edge that will hold the tongue in place, so your floors fit snuggly. Tongue and groove flooring makes for super simple installation.

If you’re looking to save some money and install the floors yourself, tongue and groove laminate floors are a great option. Although most tongue and groove style laminates are simple, some take a little bit more effort to get that perfectly gap-less lock. Overall, tongue and groove laminate is a great alternative to other types of laminate flooring that may require floors to be glued to the subfloor, which can get messy.

Unless the tongue or groove is damaged, each plank will fit seamlessly one after another to create a beautiful floor. If there is any damage to either the tongue or the groove and they are installed improperly, it could lead to an unstable floor. Because of the locking mechanism between planks, there is also an opportunity for moisture to creep in if the floor isn’t installed properly. Moisture between the boards can cause the laminate to shrink and expand throughout the year, which can also create an unstable floor. Understanding the humidity in your area is an important factor when deciding whether or not tongue and groove laminate is right for your home. We recommend consulting with a professional sales associate at Flooring America to find the best laminate for your space.

Question 57

How to clean ceramic tile?

Accepted Answer

Because there are many different types of ceramic tile it is always important to consult the warranty guide or manufacturer’s website of your specific product before cleaning. For most common forms of ceramic tile it is recommended that you sweep or vacuum (using only a vacuum with soft wheels) a few times per week to remove dirt and debris before it can scratch or grind into the tile. After removing loose material from on top of the tile the next step is to mop. It is recommended that you use a microfiber rag or chamois mop instead of a sponge mop. Sponge mops can push dirty water into the grout and stain it. You can use warm water mixed with a small amount of dish detergent for your cleaning solution, or a manufacturer recommended product. It is important to change your bucket of cleaning solution often so you won’t leave a film of dirt on the floor. If you do end up with a hazy film on your tile floor, remove with an all-purpose cleaner. Ensure the cleaner is non-abrasive so that it won’t scratch the floor. You can make your own all-purpose cleaner by mixing lemon juice or vinegar with hot water. Apply it to the floor and then buff dry with a clean cloth.

Question 58

What is ceramic tile?

Accepted Answer

Ceramic tiles are thin slabs of clay or other minerals tightly compressed and heated in an oven to create a hard and durable building material. Ceramic tiles can be glazed or unglazed and can come in many different colors, shapes, and sizes.

There are many different types of ceramic tiles, each manufactured in different ways with different material components for a wide array of applications. Ceramic tiles can be made to suit exterior and interior applications. There are ceramic tiles made for use on walls, floors, counter tops and more.

Question 59

Can ceramic tile be used outside?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it must be the right type of ceramic tile and it must be installed properly. One of the most important things to consider when selecting a ceramic tile for exterior application is the water absorption rate of that tile. It is generally recommended that you choose a tile with a water absorption rate of 3% or less, with less than 0.5% (porcelain) being ideal. If your tile absorbs too much water it may damage the tile, especially if the water freezes and expands which will cause the tile to crack. You may also want to consider a through-body unglazed porcelain tile, meaning that the top color runs throughout the tile, which makes chips and damage less noticeable in the event your outdoor tile sees some extra abuse.

Question 60

How do I choose floor tiles?

Accepted Answer

When it comes to choosing floor tiles for your home, there’s really no “right” or “wrong” answer. It all depends on what’s best for you, not only from a style and design perspective, but also in terms of your lifestyle and everyday needs. For example, you’ll probably want to choose a product that fits with your home’s paint scheme and doesn’t clash with the room where it’s being installed. You might also want to think about factors like moisture, foot-traffic, and maintenance. No matter what features are on your “must-have” list, we can steer you toward a good fit for your style and budget.

Question 61

How many types of ceramic floors are there?

Accepted Answer

If you’re looking for variety, tiling has it all. Modern floor tiles are highly customizable, with endless colors, patterns, materials, and textures for homeowners to choose from. There are more than a dozen types of floor tiles, with some popular options including ceramic tiles, cork tiles, glass tiles, stone tiles, and luxury vinyl tiles. When you start to switch up colors and patterns, the possibilities are truly endless.

Question 62

Which tiles are best for flooring?

Accepted Answer

The answer to this question all depends on you: your personal tastes and aesthetic style, your lifestyle, which room you’re re-flooring, and the environment where you live. For example, ceramic tiles might be ideal for a bathroom or humid environment because they are highly resistant to moisture. No matter what you have in mind, the experts at Flooring America can help you find competitive prices on gorgeous products that fit your needs, your budget, and your sense of style.

Question 63

What is the most durable floor tile?

Accepted Answer

Most people think of porcelain as a fragile material used to make dolls and fine china. But believe it or not, porcelain is also one of the toughest types of tile and is resistant to damage from water, staining, pet claws, and furniture. If durability is a high priority for you, porcelain tile floors might be a good option. Porcelain tiling is available in both glazed and unglazed varieties, depending on what sort of texture and surface you want to achieve. Porcelain tile also comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it both durable and attractive.

Question 64

Is porcelain or ceramic tile better?

Accepted Answer

Tile flooring can be made from several different materials. Two of the most popular are porcelain and other ceramics, such as terracotta. Neither product is objectively “better” than the other; it simply depends on what you’re looking for. For example, porcelain tile offers slightly more durability, while ceramic tile is typically the more budget-conscious option. Both are highly customizable, with a variety of patterns, textures, and colors to mix and match. You can also choose between a sleek glazed finish or an earthy unglazed finish, setting the perfect tone for any indoor or outdoor space.

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