Hardwood floors do not come cheap. In fact, compared to concrete and synthetic materials, pure hardwood floors are more expensive, primarily because it comes from an exhaustible resource. It takes years for a tree to be fully grown and ready to become building material, but it only takes a few hours to mix concrete.
Thus, the concept of buying discount hardwood floors is a little far off. However, it would comfort you to know that it is not impossible. You can actually purchase pure hardwood flooring materials for a lower price, granted that you know where to find them.
The Internet is a haven for discount hardwood flooring resources. There are online hardware and woodwork stores that also offer lower-priced hardwood flooring. Placed against the regular hardwood floors that are available in the market today, these materials are around 30% to 40% cheaper. Thus, if you're working under a tight budget, you can scour the Internet for them.
You may also want to check out local hardware stores to see if they are puting some of their older hardwood flooring stocks on sale. Since the production of hardwood flooring is a continuous process, new stocks regularly come in. And when these new stocks arrive, the existing stocks will naturally be pushed back and, eventually, sold on discount.
Are you amenable to buying used hardwood flooring materials? See, there are establishments that renovate and shift to concrete, rendering their hardwood floors, although still very much sturdy, useless. But instead of throwing them out, some owners choose to sell them at a discount. These may be a little difficult to find but, hey, who knows, someone in your neighborhood could be doing this.
Buying hardwood floors on discount does not mean that you are settling for lower quality. The quality of these materials remains the same, only that their seller probably has something newer or would like to shift to some other kind of building material. So, if you chance upon discount hardwood flooring, jump at the opportunity at once. Of course, before you make any purchases, check the material's history first and scrutinize for any signs of decay and wear.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Designing With Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are suited to both casual and formal environments; they feel at home with modern or traditional and will compliment the decor of both minimalist and eclectic designs. Hardwood can be classic, rock, jazz, country, or hip hop. Today’s State-of-the-art technology coupled with an almost limitless choice of stains, finishes, styles and designs makes hardwood flooring one of the most practical and versatile floor coverings available. Their beauty is enduring and like a fine wine, they mature with age.
Nature provides the inspiration when designing with hardwood floors. The abundance of natural hardwood species provides a plethora of wood grain structures, each unique and each matching a particular décor. Oak woods contain a lot of growth ring patterns and knots, and are best suited to traditional and rustic decors. However, adding a high gloss finish can make them elegant enough for any formal dining room. Woods such as Maple, Walnut and Birch contain very little graining and lend themselves well to contemporary and modern designs.
The aesthetic appeal of hardwood is also influenced to a large extent by mineral streaking, the presence of knots and shade and color variation. These features are also used in the classification of hardwoods.
Clear - This grade of hardwood is free of defects though it may have minor imperfections. Flooring in this category tends to be very consistent with little mineral streaking and knots, also making it the most expensive grade. Select - This grade is almost clear, but contains more natural characteristics such as knots and color variations.
Common grades (No. 1 and No. 2) have more markings than either clear or select and are often chosen because of these natural features and the character they bring to a room.
No.1 Common has a variegated appearance, light and dark colors, knots, flags and worm holes. No.2 Common is rustic in appearance and will show all wood characteristics of the species. These grades have always been the least expensive, but the recent revival of the antique rustic look has resulted in prices skyrocketing.
Performance is a very important aspect when selecting a hardwood floor. Some hardwood species are less porous than others, making them harder and less susceptible to staining. The Janka Hardness Test provides the relative hardness of numerous wood species used in flooring. This rating should only be used as a general guide, as the hardness is also affected by growth region.
Plank construction and finish are also important factors when determining the durability of any wood floor. Plank construction comes in two forms, solid and engineered. Factors such as type of existing subfloor and relative air humidity will determine which floor is best suited to your needs.
Great advancements in finish technology have resulted in floors that are less susceptible to scratching, denting, fading, and are easier to maintain. The addition of Aluminum Oxide to the surface finish has added a measure of performance resulting in a hardwood floor that, maintained properly, should never have to be replaced.
Nature provides the inspiration when designing with hardwood floors. The abundance of natural hardwood species provides a plethora of wood grain structures, each unique and each matching a particular décor. Oak woods contain a lot of growth ring patterns and knots, and are best suited to traditional and rustic decors. However, adding a high gloss finish can make them elegant enough for any formal dining room. Woods such as Maple, Walnut and Birch contain very little graining and lend themselves well to contemporary and modern designs.
The aesthetic appeal of hardwood is also influenced to a large extent by mineral streaking, the presence of knots and shade and color variation. These features are also used in the classification of hardwoods.
Clear - This grade of hardwood is free of defects though it may have minor imperfections. Flooring in this category tends to be very consistent with little mineral streaking and knots, also making it the most expensive grade. Select - This grade is almost clear, but contains more natural characteristics such as knots and color variations.
Common grades (No. 1 and No. 2) have more markings than either clear or select and are often chosen because of these natural features and the character they bring to a room.
No.1 Common has a variegated appearance, light and dark colors, knots, flags and worm holes. No.2 Common is rustic in appearance and will show all wood characteristics of the species. These grades have always been the least expensive, but the recent revival of the antique rustic look has resulted in prices skyrocketing.
Performance is a very important aspect when selecting a hardwood floor. Some hardwood species are less porous than others, making them harder and less susceptible to staining. The Janka Hardness Test provides the relative hardness of numerous wood species used in flooring. This rating should only be used as a general guide, as the hardness is also affected by growth region.
Plank construction and finish are also important factors when determining the durability of any wood floor. Plank construction comes in two forms, solid and engineered. Factors such as type of existing subfloor and relative air humidity will determine which floor is best suited to your needs.
Great advancements in finish technology have resulted in floors that are less susceptible to scratching, denting, fading, and are easier to maintain. The addition of Aluminum Oxide to the surface finish has added a measure of performance resulting in a hardwood floor that, maintained properly, should never have to be replaced.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Bruce Hardwood Floors - How To Care For Them And Maintain Them
Bruce hardwood floors are among the best floors in the world and are available at flooring retailers all over the world. There is a difference in the quality of Bruce hardwood as good, better and best. This is simply the allowable character of the flooring. The good collection has the largest amount of character knots, mineral streaks and pinholes. Wood is a natural product so you will see differences in boards of every category, no matter quality of Bruce hardwood floors you have.
Whether you have Bruce hardwood floors or Bruce laminate flooring, you still have to give them the same amount of care. When you are washing Bruce wood floors, you can sweep or vacuum them. When washing them, make sure you use a damp mop and don’t use excessive amounts of water. The water could stain the Bruce hardwood and even with the durable laminate floors, using a lot of water could make the planks become uneven on the floor. Use a soft cloth to dry the floors and make sure that you do dry them thoroughly.
You cannot use scoring pads or abrasive cleaners on either Bruce hardwood floors or Bruce laminate flooring. This will mar the finish of the floor. The Bruce wood floors do have the coating needed to give the floors an exceptional shine, especially if you buy prefinished hardwood. If you use wax on these floors, instead of getting a better shine, you will mar the polyurethane coating. In the case of unfinished Bruce hardwood, once you have the floors installed then you do have to give them several coats of this protective coating, which dries to a gleaming shine.
Even with Bruce hardwood floors, you may notice dents occurring in the wood, especially in areas where you have heavy furniture. Even though hardwood does have a cell structure, like everything, if there is enough pressure, the hardwood will dent. Bruce wood floors also go through an aging process, which means the color will darken with age. If you have mats or rugs on the Bruce laminate flooring or the Bruce hardwood, you need to move it from time to time. Leaving the covering in place means that when you do move it, the area under the rug or mat will be lighter than the rest of the floor.
Simple everyday cleaning will keep your Bruce hardwood floors looking like new for a lifetime. If you accidentally spill something on the floors, you do have to wipe it up immediately. If you don’t, it will stain the floor and then you will have to find something to help you remove the stains from your Bruce hardwood floors. You don’t have to worry about this as much with Bruce laminate flooring, but if you have hardwood, you certainly do.
Whether you have Bruce hardwood floors or Bruce laminate flooring, you still have to give them the same amount of care. When you are washing Bruce wood floors, you can sweep or vacuum them. When washing them, make sure you use a damp mop and don’t use excessive amounts of water. The water could stain the Bruce hardwood and even with the durable laminate floors, using a lot of water could make the planks become uneven on the floor. Use a soft cloth to dry the floors and make sure that you do dry them thoroughly.
You cannot use scoring pads or abrasive cleaners on either Bruce hardwood floors or Bruce laminate flooring. This will mar the finish of the floor. The Bruce wood floors do have the coating needed to give the floors an exceptional shine, especially if you buy prefinished hardwood. If you use wax on these floors, instead of getting a better shine, you will mar the polyurethane coating. In the case of unfinished Bruce hardwood, once you have the floors installed then you do have to give them several coats of this protective coating, which dries to a gleaming shine.
Even with Bruce hardwood floors, you may notice dents occurring in the wood, especially in areas where you have heavy furniture. Even though hardwood does have a cell structure, like everything, if there is enough pressure, the hardwood will dent. Bruce wood floors also go through an aging process, which means the color will darken with age. If you have mats or rugs on the Bruce laminate flooring or the Bruce hardwood, you need to move it from time to time. Leaving the covering in place means that when you do move it, the area under the rug or mat will be lighter than the rest of the floor.
Simple everyday cleaning will keep your Bruce hardwood floors looking like new for a lifetime. If you accidentally spill something on the floors, you do have to wipe it up immediately. If you don’t, it will stain the floor and then you will have to find something to help you remove the stains from your Bruce hardwood floors. You don’t have to worry about this as much with Bruce laminate flooring, but if you have hardwood, you certainly do.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Benefits of Hardwood Floors
You'd be hard-pressed to find a homeowner who doesn't want hardwood floors. Wall-to-wall carpeting is out, and hardwood floors are in. But are they worth the price? Let's face it: at $8-$10 per square foot (installed), wood flooring is more expensive than carpeting or the increasingly common laminates that offer a similar look.
If you're on the fence and can't decide whether to install hardwood floors (or maybe peel back your old carpeting and refinish the wood underneath), this list may be able to help. We're going to take a look at some of the benefits of hardwoods:
1. Longevity
Thanks to durable finishes that are easy to repair, solid-wood floors can last for a hundred years or more. There are very few flooring materials that have been around as long as wood. Over the centuries, it has shown itself to be a lovely and durable floor choice. Other newer materials have yet to prove themselves.
2. Coziness and Warmth
Not only is hardwood more pleasant to walk on than laminate (which always feel cold and a little "plastic" underfoot), but it is naturally warm. Wood is an excellent insulator, thanks to its thousands of tiny air chambers per cubic inch, which hold in heat.
3. Hypoallergenic
Got allergies? Unlike carpets (read: breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and dust mites, all of which can be tough on anyone with allergies), wood floors don't give pollen, animal dander, mold, etc. any place to hide and thrive. Even when you steam clean carpets, it's impossible to get them entirely clean. In fact, getting them wet just makes things worse. Hardwood flooring is an excellent choice for anyone with any kind of environmental allergies. (And it makes good sense for everyone else too--who wants to lie down on a floor that's hiding mold?)
4. Easy to Clean
A little sweeping and a little mopping, and your hardwood floors will keep looking nice for a long time to come. Even families with dogs and kids are realizing that it's easier to mop a hardwood floor than try to spray/scrub/wash grape Kool-Aid out of a carpet. Another perk is that a scratch here or a gouge there really just adds character to wood floors (of course, you can always have them refinished if you prefer perfection).
5. Increase Home Value
Unless you're going to be living in the same house for the rest of your life, you should think about how the flooring choices you make today will affect the price you can get for your home when you sell it. Carpet will look old and used in just a few years, whereas wood floors last a long time and add value to a home (if you've ever watched those house hunter shows on television, you've doubtlessly seen just about every potential buyer looking around hopefully for hardwood floors). Even laminate flooring, which looks like wood flooring, is a distant second choice for homebuyers. It just doesn't have the same warmth and feel.
These are just a few of the benefits of hardwood floors. We didn't even mention the aesthetic value: at the end of the day, they just look better than the alternatives. If you can afford to pay an extra couple dollars per square foot, go with hardwood. If you have hardwoods hiding under your existing carpets, tear those suckers up and get the wood refinished.
If you settle for laminate or just replacing the carpeting, you may regret it down the road.
If you're on the fence and can't decide whether to install hardwood floors (or maybe peel back your old carpeting and refinish the wood underneath), this list may be able to help. We're going to take a look at some of the benefits of hardwoods:
1. Longevity
Thanks to durable finishes that are easy to repair, solid-wood floors can last for a hundred years or more. There are very few flooring materials that have been around as long as wood. Over the centuries, it has shown itself to be a lovely and durable floor choice. Other newer materials have yet to prove themselves.
2. Coziness and Warmth
Not only is hardwood more pleasant to walk on than laminate (which always feel cold and a little "plastic" underfoot), but it is naturally warm. Wood is an excellent insulator, thanks to its thousands of tiny air chambers per cubic inch, which hold in heat.
3. Hypoallergenic
Got allergies? Unlike carpets (read: breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and dust mites, all of which can be tough on anyone with allergies), wood floors don't give pollen, animal dander, mold, etc. any place to hide and thrive. Even when you steam clean carpets, it's impossible to get them entirely clean. In fact, getting them wet just makes things worse. Hardwood flooring is an excellent choice for anyone with any kind of environmental allergies. (And it makes good sense for everyone else too--who wants to lie down on a floor that's hiding mold?)
4. Easy to Clean
A little sweeping and a little mopping, and your hardwood floors will keep looking nice for a long time to come. Even families with dogs and kids are realizing that it's easier to mop a hardwood floor than try to spray/scrub/wash grape Kool-Aid out of a carpet. Another perk is that a scratch here or a gouge there really just adds character to wood floors (of course, you can always have them refinished if you prefer perfection).
5. Increase Home Value
Unless you're going to be living in the same house for the rest of your life, you should think about how the flooring choices you make today will affect the price you can get for your home when you sell it. Carpet will look old and used in just a few years, whereas wood floors last a long time and add value to a home (if you've ever watched those house hunter shows on television, you've doubtlessly seen just about every potential buyer looking around hopefully for hardwood floors). Even laminate flooring, which looks like wood flooring, is a distant second choice for homebuyers. It just doesn't have the same warmth and feel.
These are just a few of the benefits of hardwood floors. We didn't even mention the aesthetic value: at the end of the day, they just look better than the alternatives. If you can afford to pay an extra couple dollars per square foot, go with hardwood. If you have hardwoods hiding under your existing carpets, tear those suckers up and get the wood refinished.
If you settle for laminate or just replacing the carpeting, you may regret it down the road.
Friday, August 27, 2010
All About Bamboo Floors
Bamboo is a type of grass. Being so, you might think that it is as soft and brittle as the typical grass species we know and can no way be used as building material. However, bamboo has proven itself very resilient and flexible, making it the material of choice for many structure builders.
The cost of bamboo flooring averages at between $2 and $4 for every square foot, which is just about the same price as oak. This is a fair price considering the many benefits it offers.
Installing bamboo flooring does not require any special and specific technique. In fact, there are several ways you can lay them on: You can float them, nail them down, or glue them on. Bamboo is also easier to get than oak because it only takes around 3 years for it to mature, as opposed to oak which can take up to a hundred years to be fully mature.
It is important to note that that bamboo is not a wood -- it's a grass, so we cannot call it hardwood. However, it can last as long as the standard hardwoods we have around, so that's probably why most people mistake it as such.
To make a flat, solid floor, the bamboo tubes are cut into strips. These are then these are boiled to strip the starch away. The boiled strips proceed to the drying and lamination process, and then milled to become strip floor boards. This is the same process that hardwoods like maple or oak go through. Finally, the strips are treated using a preservative to slow down decay.
There is something about bamboo floors that gives a room an ethnic and earthy feel. Because hardwoods like oak are rather dark and, thus, look too rich and heavy, using bamboo as your flooring makes your space appear lighter, airier, and less contrived.
But perhaps the best thing about bamboo floors is that they are easy to acquire and install. Bamboo floor strips are sold at all building materials stores. You don't have to search far and wide to get your hands on them.
The cost of bamboo flooring averages at between $2 and $4 for every square foot, which is just about the same price as oak. This is a fair price considering the many benefits it offers.
Installing bamboo flooring does not require any special and specific technique. In fact, there are several ways you can lay them on: You can float them, nail them down, or glue them on. Bamboo is also easier to get than oak because it only takes around 3 years for it to mature, as opposed to oak which can take up to a hundred years to be fully mature.
It is important to note that that bamboo is not a wood -- it's a grass, so we cannot call it hardwood. However, it can last as long as the standard hardwoods we have around, so that's probably why most people mistake it as such.
To make a flat, solid floor, the bamboo tubes are cut into strips. These are then these are boiled to strip the starch away. The boiled strips proceed to the drying and lamination process, and then milled to become strip floor boards. This is the same process that hardwoods like maple or oak go through. Finally, the strips are treated using a preservative to slow down decay.
There is something about bamboo floors that gives a room an ethnic and earthy feel. Because hardwoods like oak are rather dark and, thus, look too rich and heavy, using bamboo as your flooring makes your space appear lighter, airier, and less contrived.
But perhaps the best thing about bamboo floors is that they are easy to acquire and install. Bamboo floor strips are sold at all building materials stores. You don't have to search far and wide to get your hands on them.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Add Some Extra With Laminate Floors
Laminate floors add a touch of class and sophistication to a room. Laminate floors are available in innumerable designs and finishes. Any room of the house can have laminate floors, it's very easy to maintain.
These floors have three layers, the backing layer, the core layer, and the wear layer. The first layer, that is, the backing layer allows the other layers to have strength and durability. The core layer has high density fiber board and the last layer, that is, the wear layer provides surface protection with aluminum oxide. This ingredient provides the protection to the outer layer.
Nowadays, most of the designs are computer generated, and some of the most stylish, modern designs have come in the market this way. Laminate floors are available in different plank widths. Various square tile sizes are available too.
As mentioned earlier laminate floors are ideal for those who want the style and look of hard wood floors but cannot afford the price. Real wood floors are expensive and most will not be able to afford it. These floors are very durable, and they have a hard surface that is resistant to scratch or other types of damage. The laminated designs do not fade with usage and are resistant to burns as well.
Laminated floors are quite easy to install in the house. It does not take too much time either. These floors can simply be "glued" over the concrete or vinyl floor. Some laminate floors require very little or no glue. Most laminate floorings use the tongue and groove edges. This allows the installation to be a very easy process. The owner can do it himself, if he is handy with tools and measurements.
The planks have to be cut according to the size of the room, or according to the size required. A couple of tools like clamp straps, cut saw, tapping blocks, measuring tape is required. Measurement has to be accurate, other the laminated strip will be ruined apart from ending up with a very uneven and uncouth floor. Patience comes in handy when installing laminate floorings, as small details can test one's patience.
Cleaning and maintenance of the laminated floors are not at all difficult. It can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth or mop. Vinegar and water solution is very effective for cleaning, one can also use the solution recommended by the manufacturer. Detergents are not recommended. Vacuum cleaning on a regular basis keeps the floors in a spick and span condition all round the year.
These floors have three layers, the backing layer, the core layer, and the wear layer. The first layer, that is, the backing layer allows the other layers to have strength and durability. The core layer has high density fiber board and the last layer, that is, the wear layer provides surface protection with aluminum oxide. This ingredient provides the protection to the outer layer.
Nowadays, most of the designs are computer generated, and some of the most stylish, modern designs have come in the market this way. Laminate floors are available in different plank widths. Various square tile sizes are available too.
As mentioned earlier laminate floors are ideal for those who want the style and look of hard wood floors but cannot afford the price. Real wood floors are expensive and most will not be able to afford it. These floors are very durable, and they have a hard surface that is resistant to scratch or other types of damage. The laminated designs do not fade with usage and are resistant to burns as well.
Laminated floors are quite easy to install in the house. It does not take too much time either. These floors can simply be "glued" over the concrete or vinyl floor. Some laminate floors require very little or no glue. Most laminate floorings use the tongue and groove edges. This allows the installation to be a very easy process. The owner can do it himself, if he is handy with tools and measurements.
The planks have to be cut according to the size of the room, or according to the size required. A couple of tools like clamp straps, cut saw, tapping blocks, measuring tape is required. Measurement has to be accurate, other the laminated strip will be ruined apart from ending up with a very uneven and uncouth floor. Patience comes in handy when installing laminate floorings, as small details can test one's patience.
Cleaning and maintenance of the laminated floors are not at all difficult. It can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth or mop. Vinegar and water solution is very effective for cleaning, one can also use the solution recommended by the manufacturer. Detergents are not recommended. Vacuum cleaning on a regular basis keeps the floors in a spick and span condition all round the year.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
A Look at Solid Hardwood Floors
Solid hardwood floors should neither be installed over a concrete slab nor below ground level because of high moisture sensitivity. Unsightly gaps appear when moisture dries and the floors contract in the winter heating months. The floors expand and gaps disappear during summers. The wood planks may buckle or cup because of excessive moisture. In view of these facts, enough space should be left for expansion and wood should be acclimated. Nail-down installations are most appropriate for these floors. The possibility of re-coating and refinishing increases the life and appearance of solid hardwood floors. Generally solid hardwood floors are made up of ash, maple, red oak and white oak.
Solid wood floorings are divided into three sub categories: strip flooring, plank flooring and parquet flooring. Thickness of strip flooring varies between 5/16 inch and ¾ inch. Available widths are 1 ½ inch, 2 inch and 2 ¼ inch. Though plank flooring is sold in two thicknesses, width can range between 3 inches and 8 inches. Parquet flooring has geometrical patterns that are created with wood slats.
Hand-scraped hardwood floors are hand crafted. Character markings on handscraped hardwood floors (hand sculptured floors) are a unique feature. These floors offer the best finishes for either the modern world look or the old reclaimed wood floor look. Both engineered and solid hand sculpted floors are sold. Beautiful handscraped hardwood floors are very expensive. Engineered handscraped hardwood floors are best suited for a structure erected on a concrete slab and in high humidity conditions. A few companies also market distressed hardwood flooring that has machine made markings unlike hand made markings in handscraped hardwood floor. Handscraped floor is costlier than distressed version, but both floorings offer a rich look.
Hardwood floors should be cleaned with products recommended by the manufacturer. Regular use of a vacuum cleaner will clean dirt, mud, grit and small stones that may spoil the finish. Welcome mats at the entrance for wiping feet before walking on the floor are of great help in protecting the finish. When choosing furniture for you home, do not buy products with sharp metal or wooden legs to prevent denting and scratching. Use of furniture coasters or felt protectors for all legs will prevent scratching. Non-staining and wide rubber cups are a must for heavy items like piano. The use of a paste wax on the hardwood floor with a polyurethane finish damages the finish. Spills on hardwood floors need immediate attention. Clean them with a paper towel or damp white cloth and dry the area.
Solid wood floorings are divided into three sub categories: strip flooring, plank flooring and parquet flooring. Thickness of strip flooring varies between 5/16 inch and ¾ inch. Available widths are 1 ½ inch, 2 inch and 2 ¼ inch. Though plank flooring is sold in two thicknesses, width can range between 3 inches and 8 inches. Parquet flooring has geometrical patterns that are created with wood slats.
Hand-scraped hardwood floors are hand crafted. Character markings on handscraped hardwood floors (hand sculptured floors) are a unique feature. These floors offer the best finishes for either the modern world look or the old reclaimed wood floor look. Both engineered and solid hand sculpted floors are sold. Beautiful handscraped hardwood floors are very expensive. Engineered handscraped hardwood floors are best suited for a structure erected on a concrete slab and in high humidity conditions. A few companies also market distressed hardwood flooring that has machine made markings unlike hand made markings in handscraped hardwood floor. Handscraped floor is costlier than distressed version, but both floorings offer a rich look.
Hardwood floors should be cleaned with products recommended by the manufacturer. Regular use of a vacuum cleaner will clean dirt, mud, grit and small stones that may spoil the finish. Welcome mats at the entrance for wiping feet before walking on the floor are of great help in protecting the finish. When choosing furniture for you home, do not buy products with sharp metal or wooden legs to prevent denting and scratching. Use of furniture coasters or felt protectors for all legs will prevent scratching. Non-staining and wide rubber cups are a must for heavy items like piano. The use of a paste wax on the hardwood floor with a polyurethane finish damages the finish. Spills on hardwood floors need immediate attention. Clean them with a paper towel or damp white cloth and dry the area.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
How to Evaluate and Care for Hard Wood Floors
Copyright 2006 The Janitorial Store
Hardwood floors can create a feeling of warmth and elegance in a home or business. However, hardwood floors can also be a nightmare for your cleaning company to keep looking good. Knowing what to do and when to do it will help you to keep hardwood floors in prime condition.
Before beginning a maintenance program on a hardwood floor it's a good idea to ask questions about the background of the floor (finish used, when it was last sanded, etc.). If that information isn't available, then you'll need to assess the floor to determine the condition of the floor. Some basic observations of the wood and the finish will help to determine what type of cleaning or refinishing is needed.
Begin by evaluating the condition of the wood. If the floor has extensive damage, warped boards and a lot of wear, the entire floor may need to be replaced. But that is the worst case scenario. Inspect the entire floor, including the edges, and look for differences in the level of the floor. Following are categories you can assign to the floor:
A. Overall very good condition. The hardwood floor looks good or may even be new. The floor may just need a good cleaning to get its luster back.
B. Slight scuffed. The floor is in fairly good condition, however, has a few scuffs and scratches, especially in high traffic areas.
C. Heavy wear. The floor has quite a few scratches, scrapes and dents and looks worn in places. It may even have a few expansion cracks.
D. Warped appearance. The boards in the floor have some minor warping, uneven boards, and many scratches and scrapes.
Next decide the condition of the finish. The condition of the finish may be related to the condition of the wood. For instance if there are deep cuts, scratches or chips in the finish they may go through the finish and into the wood itself. Look at the finish decide what categories are applicable:
A. The floor has a finish, but it looks dirty. The floor most likely just needs a good cleaning to get back that glossy luster.
B. The finish has light scratches, dings and chips and is worn (or is dull) in heavy traffic areas.
C. The finish is chipped in many places. Although the floor definitely has a finish, there are light scrapes, scratches and dings throughout the finish.
D. Finish is worn. There is little or no finish on the floor. The finish may appear to have deep gouges from dragging furniture across it.
E. No finish. The finish is gone or chipped and has a poor appearance.
If the wood and the finish are in good or reasonably good condition, a good cleaning and starting up a routine maintenance program is the next step. If the wood (category C, D or E) or finish (C, D or E) is in bad shape, you may need to do more research or consult a professional on the best way to proceed.
Properly maintaining hardwood floors is important to keep them looking good and extend their lifespan. It is extremely important to remove all the dirt, dropped food, grit and other debris that can end up on and ground into hardwood floors. Dirt that is not removed quickly can be "camouflaged" in the pattern or color of the wood making it not only difficult to see, but easy to ignore. There are several tools that you can use to remove dirt:
1. Brooms- make sure to use a broom that has "exploded" ends that can sweep up dust and fine grit.
2. Vacuums - Any type except an upright vacuum with a beater bar and brushes. These can cause damage to the floor.
3. Dust mop. Dust mopping and vacuuming are the most effective methods of removing debris from floors. If using a dust mop, buy a high quality mop with an eighteen inch head. Treat the mop with a dust mop treatment so it grabs the dirt and doesn't just push it around.
Sweeping, vacuuming or dust mopping regularly is great for getting rid of the dirt, but you will still need to clean the floor. The best method to use is to mop the floor. Use a neutral cleaner (pH of 7) that is for use on hardwood floors and follow the product's directions. Following are a few tips that will help to protect any hardwood floors that you care for:
Good matting is the best way to keep damaging soil and grit from getting onto and ground into the floor. Mats on the outside entryway will help to remove some soils. Make sure any mat(s) used inside (and on the floor) is a good quality rug that does not have a rubber coating. Plasticizers used on some rugs can "migrate" or move from the rug and into the finish of the wood floor.
High heels can cause permanent damage to hardwood floors. The spikes on heels can create dimples in hardwood floors. In a business it may not be possible to keep high heels off the hardwood floors, but if you are cleaning a residential floor, you can let the homeowner know of the problems associated with high heels.
Dragging furniture across the floor. This can cause scratches and dents in the floor. Anytime furniture needs to be moved it should be lifted and carried. Furniture legs need to be in good shape. A loose leg on a chair can dig into the floor's finish anytime someone sits down in the chair.
Spills (food, cleaners, alcohol, oils) can damage the finish and the wood. Clean up spills as soon as possible.
Bright sunlight can bleach, darken or dry out wood. It may be necessary to cover windows with drapes or blinds to keep the ultraviolet rays off the wood.
Harsh cleaners can damage a floor's finish. When cleaning floors use a neutral cleaner that is designed for use on wood floors. A beautiful looking hardwood floor will get noticed. Keeping the floors properly maintenance will keep the floor looking lustrous, your customers happy, and your cash flowing!
Hardwood floors can create a feeling of warmth and elegance in a home or business. However, hardwood floors can also be a nightmare for your cleaning company to keep looking good. Knowing what to do and when to do it will help you to keep hardwood floors in prime condition.
Before beginning a maintenance program on a hardwood floor it's a good idea to ask questions about the background of the floor (finish used, when it was last sanded, etc.). If that information isn't available, then you'll need to assess the floor to determine the condition of the floor. Some basic observations of the wood and the finish will help to determine what type of cleaning or refinishing is needed.
Begin by evaluating the condition of the wood. If the floor has extensive damage, warped boards and a lot of wear, the entire floor may need to be replaced. But that is the worst case scenario. Inspect the entire floor, including the edges, and look for differences in the level of the floor. Following are categories you can assign to the floor:
A. Overall very good condition. The hardwood floor looks good or may even be new. The floor may just need a good cleaning to get its luster back.
B. Slight scuffed. The floor is in fairly good condition, however, has a few scuffs and scratches, especially in high traffic areas.
C. Heavy wear. The floor has quite a few scratches, scrapes and dents and looks worn in places. It may even have a few expansion cracks.
D. Warped appearance. The boards in the floor have some minor warping, uneven boards, and many scratches and scrapes.
Next decide the condition of the finish. The condition of the finish may be related to the condition of the wood. For instance if there are deep cuts, scratches or chips in the finish they may go through the finish and into the wood itself. Look at the finish decide what categories are applicable:
A. The floor has a finish, but it looks dirty. The floor most likely just needs a good cleaning to get back that glossy luster.
B. The finish has light scratches, dings and chips and is worn (or is dull) in heavy traffic areas.
C. The finish is chipped in many places. Although the floor definitely has a finish, there are light scrapes, scratches and dings throughout the finish.
D. Finish is worn. There is little or no finish on the floor. The finish may appear to have deep gouges from dragging furniture across it.
E. No finish. The finish is gone or chipped and has a poor appearance.
If the wood and the finish are in good or reasonably good condition, a good cleaning and starting up a routine maintenance program is the next step. If the wood (category C, D or E) or finish (C, D or E) is in bad shape, you may need to do more research or consult a professional on the best way to proceed.
Properly maintaining hardwood floors is important to keep them looking good and extend their lifespan. It is extremely important to remove all the dirt, dropped food, grit and other debris that can end up on and ground into hardwood floors. Dirt that is not removed quickly can be "camouflaged" in the pattern or color of the wood making it not only difficult to see, but easy to ignore. There are several tools that you can use to remove dirt:
1. Brooms- make sure to use a broom that has "exploded" ends that can sweep up dust and fine grit.
2. Vacuums - Any type except an upright vacuum with a beater bar and brushes. These can cause damage to the floor.
3. Dust mop. Dust mopping and vacuuming are the most effective methods of removing debris from floors. If using a dust mop, buy a high quality mop with an eighteen inch head. Treat the mop with a dust mop treatment so it grabs the dirt and doesn't just push it around.
Sweeping, vacuuming or dust mopping regularly is great for getting rid of the dirt, but you will still need to clean the floor. The best method to use is to mop the floor. Use a neutral cleaner (pH of 7) that is for use on hardwood floors and follow the product's directions. Following are a few tips that will help to protect any hardwood floors that you care for:
Good matting is the best way to keep damaging soil and grit from getting onto and ground into the floor. Mats on the outside entryway will help to remove some soils. Make sure any mat(s) used inside (and on the floor) is a good quality rug that does not have a rubber coating. Plasticizers used on some rugs can "migrate" or move from the rug and into the finish of the wood floor.
High heels can cause permanent damage to hardwood floors. The spikes on heels can create dimples in hardwood floors. In a business it may not be possible to keep high heels off the hardwood floors, but if you are cleaning a residential floor, you can let the homeowner know of the problems associated with high heels.
Dragging furniture across the floor. This can cause scratches and dents in the floor. Anytime furniture needs to be moved it should be lifted and carried. Furniture legs need to be in good shape. A loose leg on a chair can dig into the floor's finish anytime someone sits down in the chair.
Spills (food, cleaners, alcohol, oils) can damage the finish and the wood. Clean up spills as soon as possible.
Bright sunlight can bleach, darken or dry out wood. It may be necessary to cover windows with drapes or blinds to keep the ultraviolet rays off the wood.
Harsh cleaners can damage a floor's finish. When cleaning floors use a neutral cleaner that is designed for use on wood floors. A beautiful looking hardwood floor will get noticed. Keeping the floors properly maintenance will keep the floor looking lustrous, your customers happy, and your cash flowing!
Monday, August 23, 2010
The Rosco Ballet Dance Floors
Ballet dancing is not complete without the dance floor. How can you perform the ballet steps without the proper dance floor? Just think about it! Indeed the two are inseparable, the reason that even ballet dance floors are marketed these days.
Yes, you heard me right. A lot of suppliers and manufacturers of ballet equipments and accessories out there are currently adding ballet dance floors as part of their products. The floors are of course portable, and can be assembled for an ultimate ballet dancing experience.
Now, if you are wondering what existing companies are currently offering ballet dance floors for purchase, then I would like to tell you that there are a lot of them. But so far, one of the most acclaimed brands is Rosco. So, instead of looking for some stores that offer dance floors for ballet, just try to consider the Rosco dance floors for I know that this provider can give you the best in quality ballet dance floors you've never imagined before.
The Rosco ballet dance floors generally come in different kinds. As far as I know, there are about eleven floors available for ballet dancers. A few of those floors are mentioned below, so please read on.
Adagio(TM) Floors
The Adagio(TM) ballet dance floors offered by Rosco Canada are particularly noted for being an excellent type of floor. Several reviews have claimed that these dance floors are perfect for all forms of dance and dance instruction. It is made from a heavy duty material, with a slip vinyl surface that is durable and tough enough to carry weights and taps. Also, this product is supple enough to be perfect for ballet and modern styles of dancing as it is capable of handling any form of hard shoe dance styles. The Adagio(TM) floors are also portable, making them ideal for touring.
Performance Floors
This line of ballet dance floors is but another durable product of Rosco Canada. Claims have it that the Performance floors are highly durable and were built with all purpose vinyl. Also, they can be easily installed, either permanent or semi-permanent, in dancing studios, stages, multipurpose rooms, and even in showrooms.
Arabesque Floors
As the name implies, the Arabesque dance floors are no doubt perfect for ballet. It is highly considered as a remarkable product as it requires no compromise on quality. Aside from that, the Arabesques ballet dance floors of Rosco Canada have a good surface that is tough enough to handle all the dance steps and dance forms. It is also deemed ideal for permanent installations, and according to some customer reviews, it is this line of Rosco's ballet dance floors that carries in its name the concept of affordability. Given this fact, I would not wonder if you'll consider the Arabesque ballet dance floors as your first choice.
Cabriole(TM) Floors
The Cabriole(TM) line of ballet dance floors is finally here. Well, as Rosco and its customers have claimed, this line of ballet dance floors is the major breakthrough in stage and studio flooring. The reason? The Cabriole(TM) floors feature cushioning between two reversible sides. Also, they are double sized with black on one side and grey on the other. It also has a matte finish that helps prevent any distracting reflections to occur. With this product, dancers of ballet can no doubt have cushioned comfort in the studio and even while on tour.
Yes, you heard me right. A lot of suppliers and manufacturers of ballet equipments and accessories out there are currently adding ballet dance floors as part of their products. The floors are of course portable, and can be assembled for an ultimate ballet dancing experience.
Now, if you are wondering what existing companies are currently offering ballet dance floors for purchase, then I would like to tell you that there are a lot of them. But so far, one of the most acclaimed brands is Rosco. So, instead of looking for some stores that offer dance floors for ballet, just try to consider the Rosco dance floors for I know that this provider can give you the best in quality ballet dance floors you've never imagined before.
The Rosco ballet dance floors generally come in different kinds. As far as I know, there are about eleven floors available for ballet dancers. A few of those floors are mentioned below, so please read on.
Adagio(TM) Floors
The Adagio(TM) ballet dance floors offered by Rosco Canada are particularly noted for being an excellent type of floor. Several reviews have claimed that these dance floors are perfect for all forms of dance and dance instruction. It is made from a heavy duty material, with a slip vinyl surface that is durable and tough enough to carry weights and taps. Also, this product is supple enough to be perfect for ballet and modern styles of dancing as it is capable of handling any form of hard shoe dance styles. The Adagio(TM) floors are also portable, making them ideal for touring.
Performance Floors
This line of ballet dance floors is but another durable product of Rosco Canada. Claims have it that the Performance floors are highly durable and were built with all purpose vinyl. Also, they can be easily installed, either permanent or semi-permanent, in dancing studios, stages, multipurpose rooms, and even in showrooms.
Arabesque Floors
As the name implies, the Arabesque dance floors are no doubt perfect for ballet. It is highly considered as a remarkable product as it requires no compromise on quality. Aside from that, the Arabesques ballet dance floors of Rosco Canada have a good surface that is tough enough to handle all the dance steps and dance forms. It is also deemed ideal for permanent installations, and according to some customer reviews, it is this line of Rosco's ballet dance floors that carries in its name the concept of affordability. Given this fact, I would not wonder if you'll consider the Arabesque ballet dance floors as your first choice.
Cabriole(TM) Floors
The Cabriole(TM) line of ballet dance floors is finally here. Well, as Rosco and its customers have claimed, this line of ballet dance floors is the major breakthrough in stage and studio flooring. The reason? The Cabriole(TM) floors feature cushioning between two reversible sides. Also, they are double sized with black on one side and grey on the other. It also has a matte finish that helps prevent any distracting reflections to occur. With this product, dancers of ballet can no doubt have cushioned comfort in the studio and even while on tour.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Carpet, Wood or Tile Floors?
Nice, well-maintained flooring adds great value to a home. For homeowners, it is a challenge to select the kind of flooring that will work best for their homes. The various types of floors come with their own advantages and disadvantages, and in choosing the perfect flooring, homeowners have to consider the following factors: budget, practicality, taste, and aesthetics.
When deciding on the right kind of flooring for the home, the lifestyle of the homeowners should be considered. Plush carpets in light colors will not be appropriate for rooms which are inhabited by children and pets, especially if there will be little time for taking special care of the flooring. Rooms that won't be used as much could have the lighter-colored carpets and tiles and wide-seamed tiles. It best to use carpet or tiles with dark colors and patterns for heavily used rooms.
The architectural features and the design of the rooms should also be taken into consideration. One should consider the following: Amount of humidity and water in the room, the possible presence of sunlight that can make certain colors in the area fade, and the presence of vents in the floors for heating and cooling. It is a must that the flooring chosen should work with the room's architectural features and systems. There are extensive choices available for all kinds of room features, so homeowners should not feel compromised by the restrictions brought about by other space features.
After deciding on the type of flooring that will be most suitable for the home, a homeowner should contemplate on the type of look for it. Options for design are limitless, so there will be no restrictions when it comes to nailing down the preferred look. The most common looks that homeowners usually go for are either the warm and cozy look, or the cold, modern, and sterile style. Adventurous homeowners can get experimental and mix and match several design types to achieve a unique, distinctive impression.
Here are the different types of flooring that homeowners can choose from:
1. Hardwood
Hardwood floors are known for their strength and sturdiness. For those with more money to spare, they can opt to have engineered wood flooring, which is created by wood layers added with veneer. However, wooden floors are prone to scratching and gouges, and have the tendency to be discolored or cracked if exposed to a long period of maximum dryness or wetness. It is easy to maintain, though, it only requires dusting and vacuuming, and refinishing is required only every ten to fifteen years.
2. Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tile flooring adds value to homes because of its durability and wide decorative range. There are several varieties that can suit every need and budget. The bad side is that tile floors can feel cold for barefeet and it may be hard to clean light-colored tiles that have wide seams. But in general, it only requires sweeping and mopping on a regular basis to maintain this kind of flooring. Strength and style are the great qualities of ceramic tile floors and come in minimal costs for homeowners on a budget.
3. Laminates
They are produced to look like an exact copy of wood floors, and they come with a lower price tag. Laminates can be easily maintained, and are also known for their durability. House decorators and builders consider laminate floors as a great option aside from other floor types because of its price and versatility. Damp mopping is the only thing needed for maintenance, and replacement may be needed every ten years.
4. Vinyl
Floors made of vinyl material are affordable, durable and are resistant to wear and tear. There are a great variety availablity when it comes to choosing vinyl flooring, and you only need to sweep and mop to maintain them.
5. Carpets
Carpeting floors is less expensive than other floor types. Carpets comes in many sizes, shapes, fibers and colors, and are hassle-free to install. To maintain carpeted floors, you need to vacuum on a regular basis, and the carpets need thorough shampooing and cleaning once a year. Average cost of carpets range from one to fifteen dollars per square foot.
There will no shortage of options when it comes to choosing the perfect floor for a room. Homeowners will have no trouble getting the type of flooring that will suit their dream house.
When deciding on the right kind of flooring for the home, the lifestyle of the homeowners should be considered. Plush carpets in light colors will not be appropriate for rooms which are inhabited by children and pets, especially if there will be little time for taking special care of the flooring. Rooms that won't be used as much could have the lighter-colored carpets and tiles and wide-seamed tiles. It best to use carpet or tiles with dark colors and patterns for heavily used rooms.
The architectural features and the design of the rooms should also be taken into consideration. One should consider the following: Amount of humidity and water in the room, the possible presence of sunlight that can make certain colors in the area fade, and the presence of vents in the floors for heating and cooling. It is a must that the flooring chosen should work with the room's architectural features and systems. There are extensive choices available for all kinds of room features, so homeowners should not feel compromised by the restrictions brought about by other space features.
After deciding on the type of flooring that will be most suitable for the home, a homeowner should contemplate on the type of look for it. Options for design are limitless, so there will be no restrictions when it comes to nailing down the preferred look. The most common looks that homeowners usually go for are either the warm and cozy look, or the cold, modern, and sterile style. Adventurous homeowners can get experimental and mix and match several design types to achieve a unique, distinctive impression.
Here are the different types of flooring that homeowners can choose from:
1. Hardwood
Hardwood floors are known for their strength and sturdiness. For those with more money to spare, they can opt to have engineered wood flooring, which is created by wood layers added with veneer. However, wooden floors are prone to scratching and gouges, and have the tendency to be discolored or cracked if exposed to a long period of maximum dryness or wetness. It is easy to maintain, though, it only requires dusting and vacuuming, and refinishing is required only every ten to fifteen years.
2. Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tile flooring adds value to homes because of its durability and wide decorative range. There are several varieties that can suit every need and budget. The bad side is that tile floors can feel cold for barefeet and it may be hard to clean light-colored tiles that have wide seams. But in general, it only requires sweeping and mopping on a regular basis to maintain this kind of flooring. Strength and style are the great qualities of ceramic tile floors and come in minimal costs for homeowners on a budget.
3. Laminates
They are produced to look like an exact copy of wood floors, and they come with a lower price tag. Laminates can be easily maintained, and are also known for their durability. House decorators and builders consider laminate floors as a great option aside from other floor types because of its price and versatility. Damp mopping is the only thing needed for maintenance, and replacement may be needed every ten years.
4. Vinyl
Floors made of vinyl material are affordable, durable and are resistant to wear and tear. There are a great variety availablity when it comes to choosing vinyl flooring, and you only need to sweep and mop to maintain them.
5. Carpets
Carpeting floors is less expensive than other floor types. Carpets comes in many sizes, shapes, fibers and colors, and are hassle-free to install. To maintain carpeted floors, you need to vacuum on a regular basis, and the carpets need thorough shampooing and cleaning once a year. Average cost of carpets range from one to fifteen dollars per square foot.
There will no shortage of options when it comes to choosing the perfect floor for a room. Homeowners will have no trouble getting the type of flooring that will suit their dream house.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Hardwood floors - 7 secrets for selecting perfect flooring
SUMMARY
To create great looking hardwood floors in your home requires several important functional and design considerations to get it right. Whether you are considering natural hardwood floors, bamboo, or even laminate flooing - pay close attention to these 7 tips.
DESIGN STYLES
With thousands of colors and styles to select from today it can seem like a daunting task to make the right flooring choice. To narrow the field down it is recommended that you select a flooring style that complements your overall interior design style. Nothing will look worse that a glaring clash of styles, so make sure your new flooring complements your existing (of planned) interior design. Look here for a quick summary of matching hardwood floors and their design styles.
SITUATIONAL FACTORS
Almost every install will have physical or functional requirements that will further narrow down the scope and selection of an appropriate hardwood or laminate flooring system. Here is a brief summary of factors to consider:
FLOOR TRAFFIC EXPECTATIONS
The quantity and type of traffic you expect on your floors will impact the flooring material you can choose. Laminates offer high durability, as well as wood species that have high "hardness rankings" on the Janka scale. Softer woods are generally not a good selection for high traffic areas.
SUB FLOORING
The quality of any new hardwood flooring installation can only be as good as the subfloor underneath. For the best outcomes, the subfloor should be dry, stable, and level. Concrete subfloors generally are only acceptable for laminate installations, but you should be mindful of installing a quality underlayment the provides an appropriate moisture barrier as well as good sound installation. Poor laminate installations will sound very hollow when walking on it.
HUMIDITY AND TEMPERATURE
To prevent warping and cupping of floors make sure there is adequate ventilation and regulated temperatures thought the year. Laminates work best in areas that experience higher humidity levels.
INSTALLATION
The time and cost of installation is an often overlooked factor in floor selection decisions. Glueless click-style floating laminate floor systems can be a weekend project for experienced do-it-yourselfers, and can save a lot of installation labor. Other flooring installation methods are generally more complex and will require professional installation in most cases.
WARRANTY
Making a successful claim under a flooring warranty often requires that you can demonstrate the product was installed exactly as per the manufactures recommendations and that the damage is not a product of wear and tear or poor workmanship. Hiring a professional installer and dealing with a large brand name product that has an established track record is your best protection.
To create great looking hardwood floors in your home requires several important functional and design considerations to get it right. Whether you are considering natural hardwood floors, bamboo, or even laminate flooing - pay close attention to these 7 tips.
DESIGN STYLES
With thousands of colors and styles to select from today it can seem like a daunting task to make the right flooring choice. To narrow the field down it is recommended that you select a flooring style that complements your overall interior design style. Nothing will look worse that a glaring clash of styles, so make sure your new flooring complements your existing (of planned) interior design. Look here for a quick summary of matching hardwood floors and their design styles.
SITUATIONAL FACTORS
Almost every install will have physical or functional requirements that will further narrow down the scope and selection of an appropriate hardwood or laminate flooring system. Here is a brief summary of factors to consider:
FLOOR TRAFFIC EXPECTATIONS
The quantity and type of traffic you expect on your floors will impact the flooring material you can choose. Laminates offer high durability, as well as wood species that have high "hardness rankings" on the Janka scale. Softer woods are generally not a good selection for high traffic areas.
SUB FLOORING
The quality of any new hardwood flooring installation can only be as good as the subfloor underneath. For the best outcomes, the subfloor should be dry, stable, and level. Concrete subfloors generally are only acceptable for laminate installations, but you should be mindful of installing a quality underlayment the provides an appropriate moisture barrier as well as good sound installation. Poor laminate installations will sound very hollow when walking on it.
HUMIDITY AND TEMPERATURE
To prevent warping and cupping of floors make sure there is adequate ventilation and regulated temperatures thought the year. Laminates work best in areas that experience higher humidity levels.
INSTALLATION
The time and cost of installation is an often overlooked factor in floor selection decisions. Glueless click-style floating laminate floor systems can be a weekend project for experienced do-it-yourselfers, and can save a lot of installation labor. Other flooring installation methods are generally more complex and will require professional installation in most cases.
WARRANTY
Making a successful claim under a flooring warranty often requires that you can demonstrate the product was installed exactly as per the manufactures recommendations and that the damage is not a product of wear and tear or poor workmanship. Hiring a professional installer and dealing with a large brand name product that has an established track record is your best protection.
Bamboo Floors
Although I have been growing bamboo plants for years, I never imagined that you could do anything useful with them. I guess I was pretty ignorant of it. They had seemed to be simple, decorative plants. Don't get me wrong - there are a few tricks that they are good for. You could, for example, use them for your vines to grow up once you pick them, twist them into novel shapes, and give them as presents. That was about all the bamboo plant was good for my opinion. I certainly didn't know about bamboo floors.
I stumbled onto bamboo hardwood floors while I was restoring my house. Sometimes, kitchen remodeling work is pretty stressful, and it is even more so when you are trying to save money. We are not poor by any means, but one of the ways that we stay well off is by not spending excess money when we don't have to. Most of the wooden floorboards seem to be more expensive than I wanted to pay. They were pretty good, but none of them were great. The really beautiful woods were out of my price range, and who wants to install a wood floor they don't really like?
I came across bamboo floors accidentally. I was going over to a friend's house - a new friend from work. He had just redone his house as well, and was anxious to show off the job he had done. Although he was more interested in telling me about the mantelpiece, the paint job, and a new deck, I couldn't get enough of his bamboo floors. They were awesome, and when he told me what they were, I was even more amazed. When he told me how affordable bamboo floors are, that clinched the deal!
Nowadays, bamboo has become one of my favorite building materials. Not only do I have bamboo floor, but I also have bamboo blinds. It is versatile, cheap, and extremely strong. It also has a very nice, deep color to it. Best of all, it seems to wear very well. Although bamboo can splinter when it is stressed along the grain, when you use it in the right way it tends to be extremely durable. It can be a bit more trouble to work with than some of the more popular woods, so you should consider having an expert install it instead of doing it all by yourself. Other than that, have fun with it. It is guaranteed to be as good as a building material as it is as a decoration.
I stumbled onto bamboo hardwood floors while I was restoring my house. Sometimes, kitchen remodeling work is pretty stressful, and it is even more so when you are trying to save money. We are not poor by any means, but one of the ways that we stay well off is by not spending excess money when we don't have to. Most of the wooden floorboards seem to be more expensive than I wanted to pay. They were pretty good, but none of them were great. The really beautiful woods were out of my price range, and who wants to install a wood floor they don't really like?
I came across bamboo floors accidentally. I was going over to a friend's house - a new friend from work. He had just redone his house as well, and was anxious to show off the job he had done. Although he was more interested in telling me about the mantelpiece, the paint job, and a new deck, I couldn't get enough of his bamboo floors. They were awesome, and when he told me what they were, I was even more amazed. When he told me how affordable bamboo floors are, that clinched the deal!
Nowadays, bamboo has become one of my favorite building materials. Not only do I have bamboo floor, but I also have bamboo blinds. It is versatile, cheap, and extremely strong. It also has a very nice, deep color to it. Best of all, it seems to wear very well. Although bamboo can splinter when it is stressed along the grain, when you use it in the right way it tends to be extremely durable. It can be a bit more trouble to work with than some of the more popular woods, so you should consider having an expert install it instead of doing it all by yourself. Other than that, have fun with it. It is guaranteed to be as good as a building material as it is as a decoration.
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