The floor you use inside your house could be a reflection of what are inside, people and things. As such when you choose to install hardwood flooring, be sure to know at least the basics of it or consult a professional to help you choose the best kind of hardwood flooring for your house.
There are certain types of hardwood flooring that are suitable for certain locations in the house. It is in this case important to understand where such kind is to be installed. Installing the hardwood flooring to the right place enables you to conserve your time, money and effort for the years to come. If you do such, you need not reinstall another hardwood flooring in the next 10 years but only need maintain it and refinish in time.
Hardwood flooring is one of the best investments you can have for your house. If you want wood, do not install and stick to cheap but not durable plywood, instead, choose to install hardwood flooring.
One of the considerations in installing hardwood flooring is its wear layers. The thickness of this layer varies; though, the thicker the better. Thick wear layers can be refinished more times than thin ones. Hardwood flooring may be worn out as it used over time. There may be scratches, small cracks on the floor but with this thick wear layers, you can reconstruct the floor for it to look as good as new. However, thin wear layers are sold in lesser cost. Hardwood flooring with thin wear layers could still be durable but not as those with thick ones.
Refinishing of hardwood flooring could be done once is every five years. With think wear layers or veneer, refinishing could be done at least two to three times depending on the worn out part. Hardwood flooring with thin wear layers may need necessary reinstallation when damages occur where there is no way to refinish it. If are keeping a lot of heavy furniture in your home that could cause your flooring to be damaged when they are dragged or rearranged, it is best to install hardwood flooring with think veneers.
Wear layers of hardwood flooring could measure from ¼ to 1/8 inches. Other wear layers have 9/16 or 3/8 inches measurements.
Another consideration when choosing to install hardwood flooring to you home is the ply of the wood. Again, the thicker the ply is the better. Hardwood flooring products could vary from two to ten plies. Though those with more plies could last longer, they are more costly that their lesser plies counterpart. In any case, should you plan to stay in a house for five to ten or more years, choose those with thick wear layers and more plies for durability and longevity sake.
After those two considerations, you can now choose the size or style of your hardwood flooring. You can have something with different colors that match your taste and could look like its ceramic or marble counterpart. Wood flooring has already developed from its original brown woody color.
You may choose to install planks that are made of wide pieces of wood or strips made of smaller pieces. Other preferences of hardwood flooring include single piece which can give a solid look and parquet that looks like a tile.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 29th, 2008. Comment. 
Antique flooring is a truly magnificent kind of flooring. You must be wondering, what’s the price for something like this, and where can I buy? The answer to this is simple – all you have to do is browse for the right price. Wait, we know what you are thinking “what if I don’t know what price is the best?†Well, the answer is fairly simple as well. Antique flooring can range between four dollars a S/F to ten dollars a S/F and higher. It all depends on what type of wood you are ordering, what kind of planks they are, long, short, thick, or thin. Since the price can vary a bit, it is a good idea to find the one that you like best for the price. Of course, you can always go extravagant, but most people prefer choosing something simple and with a lower price for the quality. Antique flooring can be bought online, from a local craftsman, or from major companies that allow you to search a wide variety of different floors until you find the perfect one for you and your family.
Most companies will give you the option of allowing the company itself to find you a contractor for the installation. This is a good option because it leaves you with a lot less hassle when trying to find a trustworthy contractor. They can assist you in finding the perfect floor. They have specialists who can identify what you want and work with you to find what you need in antique flooring. Any of these options can be a good choice for purchasing antique floors. Buying online gives you the option of variety, for you have a lot to choose from, and in some cases they can even provide you with free shipping. Another thing to remember when buying antique wood flooring, is that you should always buy extra for cutting. Also, there is the occasional mistake that people make when installing wood floors is – not taking careful measurements. As the saying goes – “Measure twice, cut once,†well, it can save you a lot of time and money.
Variety in Woods
Antique flooring comes in three main woods they are, Oak, Pine and Elm. All of which make a great wood floor. Oak is good because of its beauty and the fact that it makes a interesting dark wood pattern, a lot of people like oak because of its visual appeal. Pine is different from oak. The pine tree used to make this wood can take a considerably longer period of time to grow than oak. Even though some oak wood floors can be dated hundreds of years old, the pine tree also lives a long time, and makes a long lasting wood floor.
Elm is light and gives a airy feel to the room by brightening things up a bit. Elm can be a good choice when you are looking for something that adds a certain flair to your room. Ancient Chinese Elm is popular because when it comes to antique floors, this kind of flooring can be dated back many years while still looking new. It is really a matter of personal preference in the case of choosing the right wood. All of them are wonderful in their own way, and it is up to you to find the perfect one.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 28th, 2008. Comment.
Installation
Installing antique flooring is an important process. You have to make sure that you install properly, or else it can be the difference between a great floor and a big mess. You should take into account how long you will be storing the wood before installing it. This is important because if the wood is stored for too long in a harsh environment, it can become warped. So be sure to store the wood in a clean dry area at the proper temperature, approximately 65 to 75 degrees. Next, you should prepare the floor for installation, be sure to remove any debris and carpeting. Also, make sure that the floor is level, clean and dry for installation. This step of pre-installation is one of the most important and so few actually know the importance of this step in the installation process.
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Antique flooring is done by the glue-down method, or it is nailed down using large nailing machines, which nail the individual board to the floor. After you have prepared the flooring and nailed it down, it’s the time to sand. You have to be careful during this process, because you do not want to over sand and cause damage to the antique flooring, lightly sand until it has smooth finish. Then you must clean it to remove any dust from the sanding process, using a duster or a vacuum. Then you are ready for the finishing process, and this is the final touch in making your antique flooring beautiful and gleaming. There are a variety of different finishes to apply, and most people prefer the look of the unstained version of the wood because of its natural beauty.
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Once your finish has been applied, and you have successfully followed instructions; the floor should be dried, and you are ready to move furniture into the room. The installation process is something that you should pay a lot of attention to, because it can change the whole look of your room. It is important to read all the instructions and follow them carefully. Without following the proper instructions for installation, you could end up with a generally bad experience that could cost you more than it’s worth. If you cannot find the right instructions on how to install you can contact a professional, or go online to find the needed information.
More Information on Installation
Although antique flooring is beautiful, it does not come without a price. The installation fee can be slightly expensive, as with most wood floors. But, this is something to be expected because of the hard work and care involved in the process. When hiring someone to install antique flooring in your home, be sure to browse about the different companies before zeroing in on the one that can give you the best offer on installation. Make sure that they are a well-trusted company. All of this should leave you with a wonderful floor that you are sure to love and keep loving for years to come.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 26th, 2008. Comment.
Cork and Its Many Purposes
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Cork, made from the cork oak tree, is present in many households and used for many purposes. Because cork is a light material, it can be used for many objects such as boats because it floats well on the water. Cork is probably best known for its wine corks used as stoppers on wine bottles. It can be used for musical instruments, fishing rods, and even cement! But the one cork utility that makes it a class apart is that it can be used for flooring as well. Cork flooring is widely spread across the world and used by designers everywhere, because of its relatively low price and stylish look.
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History of Cork
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Cork flooring can be one of the best home improvement choices you make when designing your home. But before we get to this wonderful flooring we should first learn about the history of the cork itself. This will help you understand and fully appreciate the wonderful flooring made out of this miraculous material known as cork. Do you know that cork was originally designed to keep oxygen out of wine bottles, keeping it from getting old and molding? Well, the ancient Greeks here amongst the first ones to use cork for their wine stoppers. And ever since then, cork has been used in everything, all over the world.
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Cork Flooring and You
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Most of the time cork flooring is a reasonably priced floor, but for some people the costs of installation can make the overall cost rise. But keep in mind that cork flooring is well worth whatever price you have to pay for it. Maintenance for cork floors are quite simple, cork floors only require a weekly mopping with minimal amounts of water and it is as simple as that! Do not forget that cork is easily repaired if something goes wrong, although that is highly unlikely as these floors are made of a very strong wood.
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As with almost any kind of flooring you should be careful to avoid harsh chemicals that might damage the floor. Cork flooring is made with layers of cork for extra support and comfort on your feet. Cork floors are made with 5 layers, the cork underlayment which is the bottom layer that helps to insulate the flooring. The stabilizing core is the next layer that adds interlocking sides to the panel. Next is the cork core which is one of the most important layers, because it provides a cushion when walked on. The top layer is the top layer that provides the style aspects of it. Special parts of the cork oak bark are chosen to make certain stylish patterns with the top layer. And last but not least is the finishing layer of varnish to finish everything off and leave a beautiful shine.
Cork is an important part of our world and is used in an environmentally friendly way to help preserve the cork oak trees while at the same time making this beautiful cork flooring for everyone to enjoy.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 26th, 2008. Comment.
History of Bamboo
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Bamboo flooring originates from the bamboo plant itself, but what exactly is the history of this amazing and versatile plant? While most people have heard of bamboo, many of them don’t know the exact details about where this plant comes from. But, as you probably already imagined bamboo comes from Asian countries where it is grown in large numbers. The bamboo plant is a grass but some grow so large that they are called Bamboo trees. These are obviously much larger than the regular bamboo plant.
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Bamboo has been around for centuries and is known for its many purposes, some of the most ancient artifacts found, came from as far back as the Song dynasty. They had made many objects out of bamboo. Bamboo has been used as flooring for approximately 5,000 years in some Asian countries; the Han dynasty used bamboo for flooring in many of their enormous palaces. They used bamboo for more than just floors they also used it for paper and medicines as well as many other helpful objects.
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Bamboo Flooring
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Bamboo is considered to be a very hard wood, even though it is not a wood at all, but a grass. It loses a considerable amount of hardness during processing but the finished result is still a very hard wood. Bamboo flooring is something that has been popular for many thousands of years, so there must be something special about it. That something is the fact that bamboo can be grown in large numbers and very quickly, making it abundant for harvesting and making helpful objects. Bamboo flooring can be considered one of the oldest and first hard wood floors to come into existence.
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Bamboo flooring comes in over 55 colors so there are many choices to choose from. If you are concerned about mold or mildew, do not worry about it, most bamboo floors are pre-treated to protect against insects and mold or mildews. But you should still exercise proper care and maintenance when purchasing new bamboo flooring. Most bamboo flooring is made with layers, each layer possessing a different job, each adding to the protection and insulation of the floor.
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Today, bamboo is not just flooring, but it also makes great furniture, such as table and chairs. Some people even use bamboo knitting needles which are a very popular item. But the bamboo floors are really something special, made from such a magnificent wood, bamboo flooring could not be anything but the best. Most bamboo flooring is manufactured in China and then shipped all over the world.
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Bamboo has been used for some pretty amazing things, some that most people have never heard of. One of these things was the fact that Alexander Graham Bell used bamboo in his earliest phonograph, or perhaps that bamboo is the fastest growing plant of any kind on the planet today. Bamboo is extremely strong and in some cases can even be stronger than steal, which is what makes it such a durable option for flooring. Just remember that when choosing wood floors bamboo could be the right choice for you, it has been around long enough, the ancients knew that it was amazing, and they where right, bamboo is magnificent. So when shopping online or at a flooring company, just remember that bamboo is not just a wood, it’s a lifestyle.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 26th, 2008. Comment.
Laminate flooring was introduced in America in 1994 and since then its popularity has always been on the rise. As with any popular product, there has been a flood of versions of laminate flooring. There has been this whole host of manufacturers who have jumped on to the bandwagon and are now producing laminate flooring of various types an numerous designs. As the saying goes, the more the choice, the harder it becomes to choose, and it is also very true for laminate flooring. What we are here trying to do is to help you decide on the right laminate floor that you will need.
There are various factors which you will need to consider before deciding on one particular flooring.
Price
This has always been a crucial factor no matter what you are buying. And as much as you would like to save the maximum amount, going for the best deal doesn’t always work out. First of all get your budget done. While researching on the net you might come across unbelievable deals like less than a dollar for every square feet. The best thing would be not to believe them. The normal price range for laminate flooring is generally between $1.5 and $3 for every square feet, with some going as high as $6 per sq. ft. Anything lower than that might mean either they are discontinued products whose replacements wont be available when you need them or you might need to buy a huge quantity to get the special discounted price.
Design Choices
There are numerous designs available today, enough to make you go crazy. If you are looking for wood designs, you will get the designs for all the species. You will also have to choose between:
• Single strip
• Two strip and
• Three strip
Then you will need to decide on laminate boards with
• square edges,
• beveled edges and
• micro-beveled edges
Finally you will have to take a call on the different surface finishes and textures. That is quite a choice. But decide only after seeing the boards, preferably installed on a floor. You can also look photographs of rooms with particular type of floorings. However, never should you decide on a particular kind just by looking at a photograph. Also remember that your floor forms the foundation of the room décor and it should gel well with the furniture and the color of the walls.
Warranty
Before finally deciding on a particular product, look at the warranty on offer. The general trend is to provide a 15-year residential warranty for protection against premature wear, staining and fading. Protection against accidental moisture damage would be a bonus.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 22nd, 2008. Comment.
When you choose antique flooring for your home, you are choosing something that is endowed with a rich history. Everything it has been through is shown on its lined surface, and that is what makes this such a wonderful type of flooring. Antique flooring comes in many different types of wood, including oak and pine. Its rough craftsman look is what makes it so appealing to many homeowners. This spectacular flooring can come from a variety of places, old houses, barns, and old public buildings. That is why it has such a rich history. When you buy antique flooring, you will cherish it for its beauty. And the fact that with each line in the flooring tells a story about its past, s eve so mesmerizing!
Caring for Antique Flooring
The care and maintenance for antique flooring vary depending on what type of wood the floor is made out of, and what kind of protective finish the floor has. It is easy to find directions on proper care, but here are some tips to follow in case you get stuck without instructions on maintenance. Antique floors are usually old, and you should handle them with care. You can help protect your floor from scratches by placing mats around the house in places with a lot of traffic such as the kitchen or living area. Another good idea would be to use area rugs that are both stylish and serve the purpose of protecting your floor from dust, harmful UV rays, and also the wear and tear of everyday life.Â
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When it comes to cleaning the floor, never use harsh chemicals. And when you absolutely must mop, use small amounts of water to avoid warping. You may use a duster or a vacuum several times a week or to your own satisfaction. Antique floors can be damaged from furniture such as dining room chairs, so frequently moved from one place to the other. Because of this, it is a good idea to preserve the look of your floor by adding pads to the legs of your chairs and other items that could damage the flooring. Also, never use oils or sprays on the wood, and keep potted plants from leaking onto the surface of the wood. This can also cause damage.
Sunlight can also take its toll on antique wood floor, leaving sunspots on the flooring. To prevent such damage, you should place blinds or curtains on windows that allow the sun to make direct contact with the flooring. This will be sure to keep your antique flooring from fading or any other sun-related damage. By following these simple steps your floor will keep its beauty and grace for many years to come. Antique flooring is a special type of flooring that requires special care, so be sure to always use the proper care and maintenance instructions.
Never forget to take into consideration the type of floor you have and what kind of protective sealing it possesses. The care can be different for some depending on those facts. By placing antique floors in your home, you are adding a certain touch of classic beauty that only antique floors can bring.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 21st, 2008. Comment.
Antique flooring can add a lot of warmth to the look of your home. But, what are the benefits of having antique hardwood flooring in your home? Antique flooring is awash with benefits. One of the most important benefits is that when you purchase reclaimed antique flooring, you are helping the environment, and are recycling an old wood that might have been thrown out. Antique flooring adds such a pleasant look and feel to your home, making it warm and inviting for your friends and family. It is durable and beautiful all at the same time, leaving you with something that you know you will always love. And not to mention you are saving a piece of history in your very own home for the world to see. Antique flooring always has a lot of character, and the history is clearly there.
More About Antique Woods
Antique wood is used for more than just flooring. If you are going for an antique theme in your home you might want to have some of these fine items made from the same wood as your antique flooring. There is a wide variety of different shapes and sizes, but one of the most popular is the antique wood lamp. the name speaks for its self, it is a lamp made of antique wood, and has a nice classic feel to it that adds a touch of class to your home. Not to mention that it goes perfect with antique flooring. But there are other items that are made from antique woods such as, tables, chairs, and other great pieces that are gaining popularity, because so many people enjoy the look of antique woods. That’s what makes antique floors so popular.
Antique woods can be found in many places and then recycled. Most are extracted from old buildings, and then used in your home. Some can even be hundreds of years old and have stood the test of time while still maintaining its signature classic beauty. Antique floors can be a good choice for your home, for they add charm and grace. It can be like walking on a masterpiece created by the time itself.
The Acclimation Process
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This process is important in the installation of your antique floors. The acclimation process is designed to adjust the wood to its surroundings. This can prevent the wood from expanding or contracting too much after installation. This process allows the wood to adjust before it is installed, making the process much easier. During this process the wood is placed in a clean dry area, which should be stored at temperature of no higher then 75 degrees F. And no colder then 65 degrees F. Humidity causes the wood to expand or contract, which is why you must keep it dry. This can be a an important part, because you do not want your wood to expand once it has been installed. This can cause major problems.
Just be sure to follow all directions and if in any doubt about the acclimation process, contact your local craftsman or manufacturer for help on what to do in that situation. In most cases, it is a better idea to hire a contractor to do the installation for you. Just remember the facts and never hesitate to call someone or look online for help.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 20th, 2008. Comment.
What is Pergo?
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Pergo is the most popular and well known brand of laminate flooring in the world today. The Pergo company invented laminate flooring in the 1970s, and has been the leading company ever since. Pergo flooring is known for its elegance and style, and is perhaps the most well made of all laminate flooring. Pergo flooring is easy to install and is fairly reasonable in price, it averages the same price as any other laminate flooring ranging from six dollars a S/F to eleven dollars a S/F. But, no matter what the price is, this flooring is the best in many ways, and is sure to make your house as stylish and sleek as you could imagine.
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Installation
Pergo flooring is quick and easy to install, first you pick out the perfect floor for you, whether that be mocha, light, or anything in between. Then you must be sure that the surface that you intend on laying the flooring upon is clear of all debris, carpet, and dampness (never lay laminate over a damp area). Then once you have followed these simple steps, you are ready for the final installation. You can hire contractors to install the laminate for you or you can do it yourself, which is really popular in the world we live in today. Pergo flooring comes with a tongue and groove pattern for easy installation. Just measure the pieces to fit your floor space and cut to the desired size, then snap the pieces into place. It is as easy as that! Because of this inter-locking groove it is one of the most popular choices when it comes to do-it-yourselfers.
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Other Options
Pergo flooring has so many options to choose from, including tiles, stone and many other options. Laminate is popular because it looks so similar to wood flooring, yet it has a much lower cost, things like stone floors can be higher in price, but still satisfying and beautiful. When it comes to tile floors, Pergo flooring is hard to beat. You get a wide range of styles and textures. Designers prefer Pergo over some of the other large companies, because of Pergo’s quality flooring. Pergo floors come with many extras including a silent step underlayment that helps to stop the sound of echoing footsteps, even on laminate. They have a foam underlayment that helps block out moisture while keeping the floor sound proof.
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All of this and more is what makes Pergo the leading flooring company around today. With over 30 years of experience, they have to be good! There are very few negative aspects of Pergo floors, because of their quick and easy installation and sound proof underlayments. However, you should always take good care of your hardwood, laminate, tile, or stone floor. Never over-use soap and water, because some laminates tend to warp, and always install Pergo flooring on even, clean and dry floors, never over carpet. After all these years, Pergo has never let us down, and it is sure to keep going on as the best flooring company around today, and for many generations on.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 20th, 2008. Comment.
Caring for Your Floor
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Caring for you bamboo flooring is really important to keep it look new and shiny. Most manufacturers provide you with a simple set of guidelines to follow. These guidelines help you care for your flooring, but incase you do not get these tips with your floor it is important to call your manufacturer, and find out what to do in this situation.
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Here are some tips you can follow when caring for bamboo flooring.
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- Place rubber pads under the legs of your furniture to prevent scratches or scuff marks.
- Also, never drag furniture across the floor, instead carry it.
- You should avoid letting sharp objects come in contact with the floor. You can do this by keeping the floor clear of debris, and also by making sure that pets in the home have clipped nails to insure that it does not scratch the flooring.
- Because bamboo flooring is a hardwood, it can absorb moisture easily which is why you should always clean up spills immediately to prevent staining.
- You should never use any kind of harsh chemicals on bamboo flooring, and you should never use any kind of household cleaners or oils unless recommended by the manufacturer.
- Use blinds or curtains to protect the floor from powerful UV rays that can fade or damage the floor.
- Keeping the floor out of direct sunlight by using these methods will protect it from any harm done by sunlight. Place a pan underneath plants, so that no moisture will make contact with the floor. And again, use mats and area rugs whenever the floor could come in contact with water, or just in high traffic type areas of your home.
- Use only the recommended cleaner for you bamboo flooring.
- Use a soft cloth that will not scratch the floor, some bamboo floors are softer than others making them more susceptible to scratching, so be careful with your flooring and be sure to read all instructions for care and maintenance. Â
What are the Downsides to Bamboo Flooring?
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There are some health risks involved with certain bamboo flooring. Formaldehyde is something that occurs naturally both outdoors and indoors, and it can cause symptoms such as itchy watery eyes and even in some cases skin irritation. But most of the time formaldehyde is not much of a worry, because it takes a large amount to really affect someone. Bamboo floors can sometimes contain a small amount of formaldehyde, but it is nothing to worry about, so don’t sweat it!
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Formaldehyde is found in all different kinds of things such as paints, tobacco smoke, cosmetics and even wood burning stoves. Obviously bamboo floors do not contain enough formaldehyde to actually cause damage. They have made many tests on bamboo flooring and discovered that it really does not have that many problems. Although some people complain about scratches and dents, but that is something which can happen with any hard wood flooring not just bamboo. Plus, some even enjoy the rustic look that it has over a long period of time. But most of all bamboo floors are durable which provides you will the secure flooring you need in your home or office.Â
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 19th, 2008. Comment.
The Bamboo Plant
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The bamboo plant is a rapidly growing plant that produces bamboo used in bamboo flooring, the bamboo plant, mostly found in Asian countries, reaches maturity in approximately five to six years. By then this hardy little plant is ready to harvest bamboo for flooring and other materials. The bamboo plant continuously regenerates so removing bamboo from the plant does not actually harm the plant in any way, making this an eco-friendly way to make many useful products. Bamboo is really durable and is the perfect plant to be used for making floorings. Unlike some other hard woods, bamboo is almost entirely bug-free, and can make a great addition to your home or office.
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Installation
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Installation involved in bamboo flooring is a mystery for some. Very few brands actually have instruction on the installation process. But, one of the most important parts of installation in the case of bamboo flooring is the preparation process. Be sure that your floor is dry and clean before all installations. This can prevent many problems in the future. Flood preparation is important and many neglect this ever so important step when preparing for installation. Most bamboo flooring is installed by means of staples or floor cleats, but you should always be gentle with the staples to insure that none of the flooring is damaged in the process.
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Bamboo floors must be carefully measured and double measured before ever cutting, always make sure that everything is going to fit into place before cutting the wood, so you do not waste any bamboo. With most bamboo floors, you should not use the floating method, because they are not originally intended for that use and may cause uneven and a generally unpleasant look. Always remember to ask your local contractor when attempting a do-it-yourself project, to see what you should and should not do to produce the best floor possible.
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Using the glue down method is extremely risky if you are a do-it-yourselfer and should not be attempted even by the experienced do-it-yourselfer, using the wrong adhesive could cause major problems. Bamboo flooring is extremely durable and in some cases it is even said that it is harder than normal wood floors. And because of this, it is a good solid floor and will not scratch or dent easily. If you are considering putting down bamboo flooring you should consult a professional on the right tips and tricks to use when laying the floor and what kind of preparations should be used to produce the best results.
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When it comes to bamboo, the darker it is, the softer it will be. And you should pay close attention to this factor when purchasing new bamboo floors. However, most people do tend to choose the darker colors, because it adds a certain amount of warmth to the room giving it a cozy and relaxing feel. But the softer it is the more will be the chances of the floor getting scratched or damaged. But, it is really just a matter of choice; you should research and find the perfect floor for you. A lot of people choose the carbonized bamboo flooring which is soft and is susceptible to scratches, just like any other hard wood floor. Choose what you like, there are many options that you are sure to love.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 19th, 2008. Comment.
Bamboo flooring is a great choice for your wood flooring requirements. Bamboo comes from a family of evergreen plants and despite its sometimes small size, it’s a strong wood. For this reason, it is used as flooring, because although it is flexible, it is strong as well. This strong wood is turned into flooring by first steaming it to make it even more flexible, then it is flattened and glued together. After this it is finished with a protecting UV coat in order to be put down in homes across the world. Most bamboo flooring comes from China, where bamboo flourishes.
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But, bamboo is not just a common wood, or at least that is the belief of some Asian countries. Some believe that all humanity came from one single stem of bamboo. Though that may sound a little far-fetched, bamboo is certainly helpful in the world we live in today. Bamboo flooring is stylish sleek, and certainly good for the environment. It is all natural and therefore makes it a popular choice in homes all over the world.
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Colors and Styles
Bamboo flooring comes in many different styles and colors, virtually any kind of color you could want from a hardwood floor you can get with bamboo flooring. This wonderful wood has been used for many different purposes all over the world for centuries. It makes for a sleek and elegant wood floor that you would surely like. From burnt mocha to natural medium the color range is wide. From extreme light colors to extreme dark colors, the possibilities are nearly endless particularly when you are buying bamboo flooring for your home. Some people, when they think of bamboo, imagine uneven thick round polls of a light cream color, but in reality, bamboo flooring is nothing like that at all.
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Pricing and Where to Buy
The price for bamboo floors ranges from two dollars a S/F to eight dollars a S/F. It all depends on the color and what quality of wood you buy. Bamboo can come in a variety of styles and with each of these styles is a certain price, some cheaper while some are higher, because of the value of the wood, and how hard it is for the merchant to get the wood. Most bamboo floors can be purchased at most flooring companies, but some online stores can be cheaper depending on the kind of bamboo you are buying. You will have to pay shipping and handling when it comes to ordering online, but if you can get a better deal on the price of the actual flooring the shipping costs may not be such a hassle.
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In fact, sometimes it is cheaper to buy the flooring online and pay shipping and handling rather than buy from some flooring stores. You should keep in mind that most of the cheaper flooring is that way, because it may have a different protective coating on the outside of the wood, which makes the bamboo more susceptible to wood boring worms that can seriously harm your flooring if the UV coating is not properly done or done with the right kind of UV coating. But no matter what type of bamboo flooring you choose, you will surely like the stylish and elegant edge it gives your home and your lifestyle.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 18th, 2008. Comment.
Cork flooring is becoming increasingly popular, but many have known of its virtues and that is why it has been used in many public buildings including the Library of Congress located in Washington D.C. which has one of the largest book collections in the world. Cork is also the flooring choice in many older libraries and churches that have a lot of visitors. Builders wanted something that would not ware easily with all the traffic. Cork does not rot do to moisture or gasses of any kind, which makes it a good choice if you are looking for something that will last a long time without getting damaged. This flooring, as you may or may not know, has a great sound proof quality to it. And for this reason, it is quite popular to put cork under other floors such as tile or hardwood to prevent the sound of footsteps, which is ideal in libraries.
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Cork flooring has been around a while, and some buildings have had cork floors for centuries that have not been changed all that much over the years. Cork floors have increased in popularity over the past few years, because so many people have realized the importance of saving the environment, and cork flooring is very eco-friendly. It does not harm the environment in any way and comes from a renewable resource. Cork floors even make an appearance in the first church of Chicago, where it has stood the test of time with grace and beauty. There is just no stopping this stuff!
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Cork has been growing in popularity, and before you know it, within almost a blink of an eye cork is showing up in all households, libraries, and government buildings all over the world. Even some famous designers used cork for their designs as well as the architect Frank Lloyd Wright who used cork in many of his own designs, and appreciated the durable nature of cork and how environmentally friendly it was. No matter how you look at it, cork has been there through it all, and is reckoned as one of the most durable floors in the world.
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Care and MaintenanceÂ
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Cork flooring is quite possibly the most low maintenance floor you can buy today, it requires very little to keep it beautiful which is another reason why so many choose this floor for their home or office.
Here are some simple tips to follow when caring for your new cork flooring.
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- You should protect your floor from sun damage by using curtains or blinds in areas where the sun might touch the floor directly.
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- Another good idea for keeping your floor beautiful is placing mats in front of sinks and places where it might come in contact with water.
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- You should be careful when moving furniture, because it is possible to leave scuff marks.
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- If you do spill something on the floor it is suggested to wipe up immediately because the cork can absorb the liquid leaving stains.
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- Most of the time cork only requires a light sweeping or vacuuming each week, but you can use floor cleaners as long as they are safe for pre-finished flooring.
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- You should always check the manufacturer tips on cleaning and maintenance before cleaning your floors with any chemicals.
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About Cork Flooring
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Cork flooring is becoming more and more popular all the time due to its many virtues including the fact that it is relatively inexpensive and comfortable to walk on, because of its natural cushioning effect, and because of the fact that it insulates well, keeping it warm in the winter months. Cork flooring provides a certain amount of sound-proofing, compared to other floors that make loud noises when walked on. Most of the cork today is produced in Spain, where massive amounts of cork oaks are grown. Cork is environmentally friendly and a good choice for more modern flooring. Cork is used in a variety of different things, not just floors. In fact, you are probably familiar with some of the objects made of cork; you might even have some of them in your home, such as wine corks or bulletin boards.
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Where it Comes From
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Cork comes from the bark of the cork oak, which is grown in places like Spain and Portugal. The bark is removed from the cork oak approximately every nineteen years. But, it is only removed when the tree reaches the age of twenty-five or older. It is removed by hand and then boiled. After that it is baked and made into a variety of things including cork flooring. Well, cork flooring is sealed, and then it is ready to be sold. It comes in many colors, and designers often use different colors in one floor to add depth, by placing many squares together to form the floor. A lot of people consider cork flooring to be the next big thing in floors. It is environmentally friendly, soft on the feet, stylish, and cheaper than most other wood floors.
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Cork flooring is durable and long lasting, and much less likely to crack or scratch like classic wood floors. It is good because of its spring like texture that makes it less likely to break fragile things when dropped onto the floor. Cork can be recycled and used for other items, or even to make cork floors out of the recycled cork. Cork floors can last many years, which makes it great for businesses and places where a lot of people visit. Cork will look new for many years without repair. Another positive aspect of cork flooring is that it is chic ‘n’ stylish, and adds the perfect flair to your home or office. It comes in simple tongue and groove installation, which makes it easy to just snap into place.
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Price Range
Cork floors can range in price from two dollars a S/F to seven dollars a S/F and up, the price is relatively low for such a high quality floor. Like most floors, it can be bought online or at many major flooring companies. Most online floor companies provide you with a wide range to browse through and sometimes they can give you free shipping. Though, if you want to get a hands-on look at the floor, it is best to go to your local flooring center and pick out the exact floor you want by hand. You can even custom order to pick the perfect floor to match your needs. Cork floors are a good choice because of their durability and all their many other positive qualities that make cork the perfect choice for your home or business.
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Cork Flooring – Benefits Galore!
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Cork flooring is endowed with a whole host of benefits. A lot of manufacturers pride themselves on the wonderful feel and comfort of cork flooring. But what makes this specific type of flooring so special? Well, probably the most popular reasons are that it is comfortable and soundproof. Besides, cork floors are allergen free, which is really helpful, considering that a lot of people in America and around the world today have allergies, and everyone is looking for a way to have a more allergy free lifestyle.
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Plus, cork has a naturally occurring wax that repels most insects keeping your home virtually bug-free. This special kind of wax called suberin can keep away most molds and mites that could otherwise harm your home and your flooring, if it was any other kind of wood. Cork is 100% toxic gas free, meaning that if it burns it does not release any toxic fumes, making it a healthy choice for you and your family.
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Color and Patterns
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Cork flooring comes in a variety of textures that can be defined be its rich and colorful pattern. Some cork floors are mixed with other products to add texture and depth, such as rubber or recycled materials. The color of cork flooring is usually the same as what you would normally think of it, that tan color filled will small holes. But, some can come in beautiful darker red colors and light cream colors; it is all a matter of choosing what looks best in your home and what reflects your personal style. No matter what you choose, cork flooring or not, it should always be what you want, because choosing something you do not truly like can result in more trouble than it is worth.
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How to Install Cork Flooring
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Cork flooring can be installed in two ways, both are efficient ways of getting the job done, and both look equally beautiful. However, one is easier and quicker to put down. The glue-down installation process is relatively cheaper in materials but much higher in the cost of installation. This type of installation can be harder to use because it must be placed on a clean and even surface. Besides, it is harder to repair when damage occurs. The second type of installation process is the floating floor process. This is the most popular form of installation among home owners. It comes with specially made edges that lock in place, this type of floor can be put down on virtually any surface without worry of uneven ground.
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It is much easier to repair because it just snaps out of place. The only thing you have to pay attention to when installing cork floors in this method is you must remove all carpeting, and it must be a hard dry surface that you intend to install over. Cork flooring is a great option for that perfect wood floor look, it gives a special feeling to the room; the darker colors can add a warm and inviting feel to the room, while the lighter colors can give it that pop it needs to brighten things up and add an interesting flair that attracts the eye, giving you the room you have always wanted.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 17th, 2008. Comment.