The Best Tips for Choosing Flooring

Evaluate the Space in your home

When we talk about evaluating the space, it is a good idea to outline what spaces or rooms within your project that you will be choosing flooring for. Whether it is the bathroom, kitchen, or living room, it is important to know which room you will be looking for new flooring in because this will assist in determining what type of flooring will last longer based on certain factors. Those factors could be considerations of whether it will be subjected to spills or water often or the size of the room regarding echoes or extra sound that could be experienced.

Evaluate the Function before Choosing Flooring:

As part of evaluating the spaces for new flooring, you will also need to outline what the function of the space will be and what you or your family may do in the space over time. Identifying the function will help you narrow down your search for the right products and understand which flooring options will definitely not work for space. Some ways that understanding the functions of the room can help is to assist in the understanding if the floor choice needs to be water resistant, easy to clean, durable, just to name a few. Get more tips for flooring choices from our friends at the Home Depot.

Before Choosing Flooring – Do your Homework

Once you have defined the space and function, next steps will be to start researching the different flooring options available on the market today. Whether it is hardwood, ceramic tile, porcelain, carpet, or laminate flooring, understanding the properties will in the end narrow down your search for the right flooring that will last within your home and bring your satisfaction in your final choice. For example, choices for a bathroom due to the water that will be spilled or moisture content of the room would possibly lean you towards a ceramic or porcelain tile as they would not be as susceptible to water spills as hardwood or laminate may be. Try this tips for choosing a floor from This Old House.

No matter what your preference may for flooring, it is important to conduct your research before you choose a flooring option for your space. Remember that this is a big decision for your home and lessen the stress of the project and choose the smooth ride over the rough one. Ask yourself all of the questions before starting your project, plan, and research your flooring options based on function and aesthetics. Keeping these things in mind will help you choose the right flooring moving forward and keep you satisfied with your choice over the years.

For more home flooring ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

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How to Transform Your Interiors with Travertine Tiles

Image Via: Travertine Info

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Travertine can be the Perfect Flooring Choice

Choosing from the colossal variety of flooring options, that have flooded the market can become very overwhelming, especially when both aesthetic and monetary values are at stake. Amongst the plethora of flooring choices, the one ‘megastar’ that you cannot help but notice is the, Travertine Tile. A perfect alternative for both high and low traffic areas of the house, these tiles hallmark easy maintenance, great aesthetics and high durability.

Image via: Lapis Design Partners

Amenities & Great Aesthetics

Homeowners, sometimes look at completely restyling their homes in a pocket cordial budget, without having to change everything about it. It can be ascertained that just by re-looking at the flooring, one can meet both the above mentioned criteria. Travertine Tiles, bear a unique age-old charm, that subtly infuses the feeling of eternal existence into a space, all within the reaches of a decent budget. Thus, by just redoing the flooring you can uplift the aesthetic quality of your space. Additionally, the vast array of color choices, extends the opportunity to pick and choose as per your mood and the requirements of your surroundings.

Image Via: Travertine Info

Versatility in a Durable Floor Material

When used indoors, Travertine Tiles induce a sense of warmth into the decor and merge seamlessly into any space, whether it is contemporary or traditional. When used outdoors, in patios and balconies, these tiles can be patterned into numerous  compositions to match the landscaping and complement your foliage and when bedecking pool sides and water bodies, these naturally salt and chlorine proof tiles are a good option for durability and blending with your interior application. Travertine Tiles, are essentially the most budget cordial flooring option, engendering the same durability as other natural stones. Its charm, vast array of color options, non-slip texture, heat resilient qualities, innate versatility, ease of installing and production, all make it a very favorable choice for your homes. These tiles are a long time investment, the kind that will stay for ages to come.

For more flooring tips on Stagetecture, click here.

These days more and more pet owners are warming to the idea of giving them their own space. If you have a dear pet and an extra bedroom, you may want to update it to give him/her a relaxing environment. In fact, there are so many cute and exciting things you can do to decorate your pet’s room. Your pets make up your family too, so ensuring that the furniture and ares for them are perfect will help them feel at home!

Image via: Pinterest

Personalizing your Home for your Beloved Pets

Furniture

The most important thing in any bedroom is the bed; same should be the case with your pet’s room. Look for a soft and comfortable bed that is just the right size for him/her. Consider purchasing a dark colored bed so that it hides stains and dirt. Also, add a chest of drawers to keep accessories such as outfits, brushes, collars, and more organized. Make sure to keep everything out of your pet’s reach to avoid damage.

Image via: Houzz

Personalizing your Home for your Beloved Pets – the walls

Paint the walls to instantly update the room. Soothing colors such as light blue, light green and light pink work great with pets. If you want to add some character to your dear friend’s room, opt for fun and interesting print wallpapers. Alternatively, matching it with the rest of your home décor is a good idea too. Just remember to pick glossy shades so that dirt, paw prints, and nose prints can be easily wiped off.

Flooring

If the bedroom that you are considering for your pet is carpeted, it’s wise to switch to tile or vinyl flooring so that cleaning up messes becomes less of a hassle. Moreover, tile or vinyl do not absorb pet odor like the carpet does. This will help to reduce unpleasant smells in the bedroom.

Image via: Houzz

Entertainment

Apart from your pet’s favorite toys, make sure to provide some entertainment for him/her. If the room does not have windows or they are too high to see outdoors, consider installing a television or even an aquarium to stave off the boredom.

These decorating ideas will help you create a wondrous room for your dear pet. Even if he/she would not care much about the décor, he/she would know that this room is his/her own special space for relaxation and entertainment.

For more pet ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Your home is a sanctuary where you can escape if you need to relax after a tiring day from office. It is a place where you can kick off your shoes, sit by the couch and forget about the world outside. But excess dust, mould or moisture can turn a happy home into a house of horrors for allergy sufferers. If you are prone to hay fever or asthma, take these few simple steps to reduce the allergens in your home.

Bedroom:

Once you’ve resolved to reduce the allergens in your home, work your way around the house eliminating potential triggers. The bedroom is a good place to start as it is the one room where you’ll spend most of your time. Start by encasing pillows and mattresses using any available cover protections. This can surely prevent possible build-up of allergen causing dust mites and makes washing quick and easy. It is an effective practice washing your bedroom stuff like blankets, pillowcases and sheets to heated water preferably up to 54 degrees. You can do this at least at least once a week.

Image via: Houzz

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Kitchen:

Your kitchen is the perfect habitat for allergen causing pests such as cockroaches and rodents. Place trash in a can with an insect-proof lid and empty the garbage on daily basis. Make sure kitchen is kept dirt-free with no food crumbs or leftovers to help reduce the chance that you will attract these pesky house guests.

Furnishings:

No one wants to sit down on the couch in the afternoon, only to be left coughing and wheezing in a cloud of dust. Avoid allergen gathering upholstered furniture and instead opt for easy-to-clean furniture like those made of metals, wood, plastics or leather.

Image via: Pinterest

Pets:

Your beloved pet may be a valued member of your family but they are also the worst culprit when it comes to your allergies. If you can’t bear to part with your four legged friend, consider keeping your pets outside the home. Bathing pets at least twice a week may also reduce the amount of allergen in the dander they shed.

Curtains and blinds:

Curtains are a big collector of dust and pollen. To limit their asthma causing effects, swap your heavy fabric curtains for washable curtains made of plain cotton or synthetic fabric. If you have blinds, make sure you dust them weekly and vacuum around the tracks to pick up any excess dust that may have collected there.

Image via: Houzz

Flooring :

You spend a lot of time on your floor so it’s important that it’s comfortable and allergen free. Carpets tend to accumulate allergens such as dust, pollen and pet dander. Walking across carpet re-releases all of that into the air. To allergy proof your home, talk to your nearest flooring specialist about installing hardwood timber, laminate flooring or washable area rugs.

Allergy proofing your home takes time and continuous effort. But once you develop these routines and implement a few housecleaning strategies you can breathe a sigh of relief with no irritating wheezing, sneezing or sniffling. It surely is a wiser approach compared to your allergy treatments.

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Around this time of year most of us are getting ready to clean house, get ready for the family visits and all sorts of festivities. Such as the graduations, bridal showers, spring break vacation, summer vacation, Fourth of July and more.  Everyone is coming over to eat, laugh and be merry.  There is one item in particular that can help your home to obtain that festive and lively feel for you and your visitors to enjoy.  Tile!

Image via: Sroka Design, Inc.

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Walls

Image via: Caayu

Tile is a true decorative piece that will add culture and difference to any place it is used. Tiled walls are a great way to add texture, color, and variety to any room it is being displayed in.  The tile has a very warm and inviting feel that it brings to the atmosphere which is what guests hope to feel in your home.

Floors

Image via: SubZero Wolf

Look at the tiled flooring within this room.  It has a lot of pattern, a very bold color and can act as the accent within the room.  Notice that with the floor having the rhythm and pattern, the rest of the room has a more simplistic vibe. That is another plus with using tile, it can be used as the art pieces within the space.

Stairs

Image via: Mexican Tiles

Tile the bottom half of your steps.  I know sometimes the stairs can disappear because we never really pay that much attention to them unless we are using them to get somewhere even then they are not so eye catching.  Well turn those steps into the focal point that revitalizes the room that it is occupying.  Have the stairs carry their own flare with each step make them noticeable again especially if the patterns are this amazing.

Tables

Image via: Chateau and Bungalow

Maybe you just want a little color with texture on top then having a tiled table or counter top will be perfect in this case.  If you prefer not having the tile so permanent and all over then setting it in one place that is movable and yet still carries the designs and colors you would like then the tiled table is what you need.  However,  if you would like just a splash of tile that is set within the home but not everywhere then the tiled counter top might be a better choice.  It would have  a similar appeal like with the table yet it would be a permanent fix within your home.

Counter Tops

Image via: Houzz

Now that you have seen some ideas about what tile can offer and bring to your humble abode, try it out see what will work in your home!

For more home ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

At some point, you might find that one of the residents in your household is disabled or that an elderly parent is going to come to live with you. As a result, you may have to craft some home disabled extensions that are suitable for the individual’s disabilities. While you are working with the contractor, what are some of the components that you need to consider?

Image via: Frederick + Frederick Architects

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The Extension’s Purpose

As you are shaping your plans for the extension, you really need to be thinking about the main purpose for it. For example, some people choose to have an extension added for vanity purposes, but they want the disabled person to have access to the area too. You might also be crafting a new bathroom that provides more room for a shower seat and a wheelchair or a bedroom on the first floor to accommodate a person who can no longer go up the stairs.

Asking for Input

You really should not leave the disabled person’s input and suggestions out of the equation. Even if this individual has a physical disability, it does not mean that he or she deserves no voice in the matter. Let this person be a part of the conversations, provide input on the amenities he or she would like and help to choose out the colors and style for the new room. Since you are all residents of the house, it is important that this process be a true group project with feedback from all.

Accessibility

If the person is in a wheelchair, you need to be sure that a ramp is provided for any spaces that require upward mobility. Furthermore, be aware of a lip in the floor as these can be impossible for a wheelchair to get over. Choose smooth and straight surfaces, and try to make the extension on the first floor of the house.

Image via: Steve Keating Photography

Space Considerations

You must also take into account any equipment that the disabled person needs to get around. For example, people who are in a wheelchair need a certain width of a door to be able to get in the space or into the new room. The person might also have an oxygen tank on him or her, and you’d need to think about the ease of getting that piece of equipment into the room. You also want the extension to have enough large itself. A very small den or sitting room might not be appropriate.

Subtle Changes

Chances are, the disabled individual does not want attention drawn to the fact that he or she is disabled, so you need to be careful about where you place these modifications. Let’s say that you are installing a bathroom that is more suited to your disabled parent’s physical situation. Instead of making that the main bathroom in the house, consider a suite-style bedroom. Your parent’s bathroom will be located in the bedroom, which allows a greater sense of privacy for the person.

Image via: Jennifer Weiss Architecture

An Experienced Contractor

Creating modifications in the home for a person who has disabilities is not something that just anyone can do. You want to ensure that the contractor actually has some real-life experience in this field. Be sure to ask for samples of work to see what you are in store for if you pick this particular contractor.

Home extensions can be really helpful for people with disabilities, and you want to ensure that these rooms and spaces are crafted to really help the individual out. Through following the aforementioned steps, you will be able to achieve that new living space that really makes a more suitable living situation for your loved one.

For more home ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

There’s a right way and a wrong way to install flooring substrates. Sometimes mistakes don’t cost you anything at all and other times they can cost you several hours and potentially several hundred dollars. This has never been more readily apparent than when you’re remodeling your home. The old adage of “measure twice, cut once” isn’t popular with construction projects without a good reason. Even DIY projects that should be simple have a way of getting out of hand if you aren’t careful. Schluter Ditra is a waterproofing membrane used under your tile or stone flooring that can have you tearing it up and out in frustration if you install it incorrectly.

Image via: Tile of Spain USA

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What Could Go Wrong?

If you’ve noticed that your tile or grout is cracking, the fault may be with the way that your substrate was installed. Even though Ditra is one of the most commonly used membranes for floor tile installations, you have to make sure that you install it correctly or else you’ll have a host of problems to contend with later. Two things you’ll want to make sure that you do with Ditra are pay careful attention that you fill in the cavities/waffles properly and make sure that you install it over an approved substrate. While there is much more to correctly installing Schluter systems, those two are the most important to make sure that your remodeling project is a success.

If you don’t fill in waffles the right way, the tile won’t be properly supported and the Ditra tile won’t lock properly, which in turn causes you to lose the bonding properties of Ditra. You should also make sure that you use the flat side of the trowel and spread thinset in each direction over the Ditra, which will make sure that all of the waffles are filled in.

Image via: Italy Tile

The Importance Of Improved Substrates

You’ll find that as long as you use the right substrate applying Ditra will be much easier. Most of the bare substrates you can find in a house are approved substrates, including plywood. Bear in mind that linoleum is not included on the list of approved substrates.

There are a number of resources that you can use to help you with your Ditra installation, including an instruction book and a flash video. With so many tutorials and easily accessible instructions, there’s really no way that you can install Ditra incorrectly unless you’re making a conscious effort to. The most important instructions to bear in mind are to use an approved substrate, use an unmodified thinset mortar, fill in the waffles the right way, buy the correct trowel to use and get the right coverage.

If you decide to have a professional install your Ditra for you, make sure that you do your homework before hiring them. Get in touch with their former clients to see how they liked their services and ask if they would recommend them. If not, you may find yourself having to go back and set the tile yourself after finding that the contractor didn’t do a good job. Even if you decide to do the job yourself you should still take your time and make sure that you know what you’re doing.

For more flooring options on Stagetecture, click here.

If you’re an eco-friendly individual and you like rugs, you’ve probably considered purchasing a natural rug before. There are many options to choose from but sisal rugs seem to be the most popular and trending. The reason being: they are durable, require minimal maintenance and look great in just about any room. Regardless, there are a few things to consider when making a purchase decision.

Image: Pinterest

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Determine which sisal rug is best for your home:

First, it’s important to figure out where the rug will be used. From there it’s a good idea to decide on the size, weave pattern and shape. A great way to decide these features is to design your own custom rug.

Because sisal carpet does not build up static or trap dust, maintenance is a breeze. A once over with any standard vacuum will do the trick. However, if your sisal is placed in an area where liquids can be easily spilled, further treatment may be necessary. If so, a fiber sealer can help prevent liquid absorption and dry-cleaning powder will remove any accumulated stains.

Image via: BHG

Sisal rug benefits:

There are also a number of benefits associated with owning sisal rugs. Because of their dense atomic structure, sisals damper noise by absorbing vibrations. Meaning they can reduce sound between levels, especially if placed on hard, tiled floors. Another cool capability is that sisal rugs can be woven with softer materials, such as wool to reduce roughness. And, sisal rugs are completely biodegradable, so they can be thrown out or recycled once they’ve run their course.

For more flooring and carpet ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

A recent study discovered 70 percent of homeowners are planning a remodeling or renovation project and expect to spend upwards of $3,500 to finish the job. Chances are that a large chunk of money is set aside for flooring. No matter what flooring you want, the cost of replacement it can be staggering. If your budget is tight, but you don’t want to skimp on style or quality, there are many clever and unexpected ways to save on several flooring varieties.

 Image via: Two Column Marketing

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Be Realistic

You may dream of installing travertine, marble or an exotic hardwood throughout your home. Unfortunately, your budget is only enough for laminate and linoleum. When it comes to installing flooring, it’s important to create a budget and stick with it. Also, keep in mind the specific room and its function. For instance, you probably want to keep carpeting in your bedroom.

Surf the Internet

You’ve wandered the aisles of every flooring provider in your area but cannot find what you’re looking for, or more importantly, an amazing deal. The Internet might not seem like the obvious choice when it comes to flooring, but there are many amazing deals there. Purchasing flooring direct from the manufacturer is another option. In many instances, you can save 50, 60 or 70 percent because you’ve cut out the middle man.

Look for Discounts and Remnants

If you’re covering a small area, inquire about any laminate, hardwood or carpeting remnants at your local home improvement store or floor covering dealer. Remnants are the leftover chunks of flooring, such as the end of a carpet or linoleum roll. In many cases, the seller is so motivated to make room for new inventory that he just might discount the remnant as much as 80 percent. However, don’t expect to recarpet your entire home on remnants. Most of the time, the pieces are large enough to cover a small bedroom, foyer or bathroom.

Image via: Teres 58 Domus

Skip Professional Installation

Many flooring retailers offer free installation if you purchase a set amount of product. However, in most instances, you’ll be expected to pay out of pocket to have it installed. There is another cost-saving installation option: perform the work yourself. If you don’t have the basic tools or expertise to perform the job, ask someone like a friend or family member for help. Laminate and hardwood aren’t difficult to install and require only basic tools. All you need for carpeting is a knife and a knee kicker, which can be rented from many hardware stores. However, if you’re installing expensive, natural flooring, it’s best to leave this delicate procedure to the professionals.

It Never Hurts to Ask

Your locally owned carpet or flooring showroom might not offer the best prices in town. However, aside from service, these institutions can offer you something the big-box retailers never can: a chance to negotiate the price. Once you locate the ideal flooring choice, don’t be afraid to ask if it is the best price. Even if the seller refuses to discount the sticker price, you can still offer to pay cash for a two- to three-percent discount. This will often cover the potential fees charged to the seller by his merchant service for using your credit card.

You might get discouraged by the search for inexpensive and quality flooring, but don’t give up until you find the ideal product for your home and lifestyle. If you continue to struggle, remember to ask for a discount, look for remnants and hit the clearance aisles to find an amazing deal.

Rose Jefferies is a guest blogger and contractor who recommends COIT to her clients. Whenever Rose is ready to spruce up her home’s appearance, she also looks to COIT Carpet Cleaning.

For more flooring options on Stagetecture, click here.

Rugs don’t only look nice but they add warmth to your house as well. We show you how rugs add comfort underfoot, create a cosy and beautiful atmosphere and support your home insulation. 

Rug Sizes and Styles

Warm up your home over these winter months by using a lusciously soft rug. They come in a selection of styles, sizes and depths. Pick a modern, traditional, plain or patterned rug but first you must consider the size of your room and decide on how much of the floor you want covered. Most importantly, use the decor to determine what rug design will compliment the room and help form a seamless look throughout your home.

A variety of cheap rugs from Carpetright mean you can find the rug that suits your taste whatever your budget. Unlike carpet, rugs can easily be moved around, so if you tend to change the look and feel of your interior frequently, a rug can be easily moved from one room to another!

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Bedroom Ideas

Soft rugs are ideal for bedrooms, especially if you have vinyl or laminate flooring. Place one for when you step out of bed so that you can feel the lusciously soft fabric of the warm rug underfoot. Did you know that even a small cosy rug can add warmth by covering a part of the floor and minimise the chill?

Also, bedroom rugs are versatile and enable you to add colour and character to any room, so be sure to inspire and create a focal point in a room where you spend a third of your life. We therefore know that you don’t even need to compromise on style when you have the practicality of a comfortable rug.

Warm Shaggy Rugs

Preparing your home for winter could mean a simple purchase of a soft shag pile rug that is superb at preventing a draft in your home. With shaggy rugs available, you can add extra warmth and comfort underfoot without contradicting your interior design. You can even merge your new rug with your furniture in order to create a consistent overall look in your home.

Inspire your family and guests and be smart this winter with simple floor covering. It is because rugs are affordable that you can replace it more frequently if the need ever arises, which means you have peace of mind as well as a beautiful warm home.

If it is cold outside, why not stay indoors? Shop from the comfort of your own home and visit www.carpetright.co.uk!

For more flooring options on Stagetecture, click here.

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