Useful Tips When Dyeing Your Carpet

It’s that time of year again when the carpets in your home may start to look a bit worse for wear. Holiday messes and mud tracked in from the outside can quickly damage your flooring. Rather than always getting stressed with how it looks, why not try dyeing it yourself? Remember to note these tips to ensure your project will turn out well.

Check if your carpet is dyeable

Not all types of carpet fiber can be dyed. Only wool or nylon fibers are dyeable. To test your carpet, carefully burn a fiber sample. Wool will burn slowly, smell like burning hair, and leave a dark ash. Nylon will melt, form a light-colored, hard bead, and may smell of celery. Source: HomeGuifes.SFGate

You can’t lighten a dark carpet

Before you commit, keep in mind that this process cannot convert dark carpeting to a lighter shade, and the color on the package may not be quite the color you get, depending on your original carpet shade and type of any stains. Source: BobVila

Clean your carpet first

Before proceeding to dye your carpet, you will need to give it a thorough cleaning. Begin this process by removing any furniture from the carpeted area you wish to dye. Once the room has been cleared out, go over the entire area with a vacuum cleaner, paying special attention to any hard-to-reach crevices. After the carpeted area is dust-free, apply your organic carpet shampoo, then use a sponge, scrub brush, or washcloth to vigorously scrub away any stains or caked-on dirt deposits. Lastly, use painter’s tape to seal off your walls as well as any other areas you wish to protect from the dye.

When performing this step, it is very important that you use a 100 percent natural carpet shampoo, as the chemicals found in most commercial carpet shampoos may have a bad reaction to the chemicals found in your carpet dye and produce potentially hazardous fumes. Source: DoItYourself

Relax this holiday season, and let us take care of the carpet dyeing! We’ll make your carpet look brand new in no time.

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How to Keep Your Floor Warm This Winter

It may be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean your floor has to be! Here is some tried and tested advice on keeping your floor nice and warm this chilly season!

Cover the floor with carpet

Some floor materials are naturally colder than others. Hardwood, tile and linoleum floors are colder than carpeted ones because the carpeting provides extra insulation on the floors. Lay carpeting or use area rugs to insulate your floors and prevent coldness. Be aware that thin rugs or carpets may not prevent cold floors as well as thicker ones. Thicker carpets provide more insulation against the cold. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Select the correct underlayment

There are a variety of flat, resilient flooring options such as vinyl, linoleum, and laminate that will take on the temperature of whatever surface they are installed over. If they are placed directly on a concrete subfloor then they will inherit the naturally chilly properties of that material. Even with plywood subfloors, there can still be a drafty feel during winter’s chill.

The solution to this is the use of an underlayment. This is installed above the subfloor but below the surface covering. It usually consists of cork, foam, rubber, or some other natural insulating material. This can help improve the warmth of the area while adding genuine R-value to the floor, which cuts down on energy costs. Underlayment can also reduce sound transmission to and from the rooms below. Source: TheSpruce

Ensure there’s proper insulation underneath

When the floor is above an unheated crawl space, install insulation between the floor joists. Check periodically to make sure that it is in good shape; insects or critters occasionally get into a crawl space and wreak havoc with the insulation. Insulation may also be dislodged by the natural movement of your home settling. Avoid these problems altogether by using spray foam insulation, which is costly, but a lot more efficient than fiberglass.

Although unfinished basements are usually warmer than crawl spaces, insulating will still help to keep the floor above at a more comfortable temperature. When it comes to over-the-garage bonus rooms, insulation and sealing are essential not only to keep out the cold, but also to form a barrier against carbon monoxide. (Nevertheless, you will still need to install a CO monitor.) Source: Networx

Hate cold flooring? Contact us before making a switch to carpeted floors to get expert advice on which type is perfect for your needs!

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What Are Granite Tiles?

If you want to upgrade your flooring and add a touch of class to it, granite tiles are a great option. They have been popular for decades now due to their beauty and durability. If you’re thinking about adding these beautiful stones to your home, here are a few things you ought to know:

What Are Granite Tiles?

How is granite formed?

Granite is an igneous rock made from magma that cools and solidifies underground in a high-pressure process. Sourced from quarries around the world, cutting equipment drills holes around it in shallow points in the earth to create transportable blocks. Blasting engineers then place explosives in the holes to generate a blast just strong enough to separate the granite from its location but not destroy it. Cranes then lift the blocks and load them into trucks to take them to a stone-cutting facility where they will become granite slabs or tiles. Source: Hunker

What are the types of granite tiles?

Since this natural stone is especially durable, it’s suitable for most settings. Whether your purpose is commercial or residential, high or low traffic, granite tile will perform exceptionally well. Note that each style has its strengths.

• Polished granite: A smart choice for kitchen counters due to its ability to withstand the heat of cooking materials, it’s also suited for wall cladding, vanity tops, and decorative objects due to its lustrous sheen. Finally, it’s great for heavy traffic indoor flooring due to its strong resistance. Leathered granite is great for these applications as well.
• Honed granite: Often used for high traffic commercial flooring due to its durability and lack of shine, it also functions well for sidewalks and other outdoors areas with heavy foot traffic. This finish is also popular for bathroom applications.
• Brushed granite: Along with being used for kitchen counters, this type is great for many outdoor applications, including decks, sidewalks, curb stones, and outdoor furniture. Source: BuildDirect

How to maintain granite tiles?

Granite floors can show signs of wear and tear fairly easily if they’re not cleaned regularly. Dirt, sand and other abrasive debris can sit on the surface and be ground into the stone when household members walk across the floor, causing scratches. Use a soft, dry mop or a vacuum cleaner with an attachment for bare floors to remove dirt, dust and other debris regularly. If a spill occurs on your granite floor, clean it immediately as you would on a countertop with warm water and dish-washing liquid if necessary. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Looking for an expert to help install granite tiles so you won’t waste your money on a bad installation? Call us!

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Different Types of Natural Stone Flooring

Natural stone flooring is a great option for homeowners who want to add some extra style and flair to their homes. It is also very durable, so it will last you for years and years without needing any repairs or replacements! Here are some great options to choose from:

Marble

Prized for its classic elegance, marble flooring has been around since ancient times. It’s instantly recognizable for its soft grain patterns and creamy colors that range from white to red, green, and black. It’s often polished to a high sheen that shows off its subtle beauty.

Polished marble is slippery when wet and isn’t the best choice for kitchens and baths. Honed marble has more surface texture and is a good alternative, but doesn’t have the dynamic color of polished marble.

Marble is one of nature’s softer rocks and prone to scratching and staining, so professional sealing after installation is recommended. Source: DIYNetwork

Slate

Slate is both very durable and extremely varied in terms of color and pattern. This has ensured that it is a prime fixture in many home remodeling and landscaping projects. In order to make the best use of it, many contractors and designers include slate as an accent piece. The many different colors and shades give it a versatility that is unmatched by the other stone tiles on this list. Slate can be moderately priced to expensive, depending upon the type of color and pattern that you choose. Source: DoItYourself

Limestone

Occurring in many tones, from nearly white to the more common warm honey, as well as rarer greys and dark browns Limestone is often a rustic. Textures range from even-grained stones through to smoother types with fossils and coarser, open-textured varieties. Some can be polished to resemble marble. It can scratch easily as it’s quite soft so be careful in kitchens. However, as it’s resistant to mold and bacteria, it works really well as a bathroom flooring option. Source: RealHomes

Want to know which type of stone tiles is best suited for your home? Call us and we’ll help you decide!

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Types of Mosaic Tiles

Tiles come in many different styles and colours that can help match with any room’s design. So whether you’re renovating or building a new home, mosaic tiles can be a great option. Read on to learn about some of our favourite types, and maybe you can consider them for your project.

Glass 

“Even the ancient Romans used glass mosaic tile surfaces.”

It says a lot about a material when it is still one of the more popular decorative surfaces in the world after thousands of years of use. Glass mosaic is such a tile, as even the ancient Romans took advantage of the beauty and value evident in this material. Homeowners have many options when it comes to selecting a glass mosaic pattern, and the range of colors and styles continues to make the material an excellent choice for a backsplash surface. As with metal mosaics, glass mosaic tiles are renowned for their ability to withstand moisture and stains. And, because the material is so durable, you can rest assured it will last after installation for many years ahead. Source: BuildDirect

Organic 

These are tiles cut from marble, granite, basalt and limestone. The range and beauty of each tile is determined by the stone itself. They are sold in sheets or individual squares. Source: DoItYourself

Ceramic 

And lastly, if you are going short on budget, but still want to have that ‘mosaic’ feel in your house, then you should go for the most traditional option: ceramic tiles. Known as the everyman-tiles, ceramic tiles are easily mass produced and can be found at regular craft stores. These tiles can be used wherever you want, and depending on the design can look premium too. The problem ceramic mosaic tiles is, they are not customizable and you’ll be to live with pre-set designs. There are both glazed and unglazed options for you to choose, so you have some options on that regard. For the living room, you can choose glazed designs and unglazed for other parts of the house. Source: HandymanTips

Need help with installation or repair? Call us today and get a free estimate!

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Simple Ways to Keep Your Carpets Clean

A home with wall-to-wall carpeting can easily get those soft, beautiful floors dingy and dirty in no time. The condition of your carpet depends on your daily habits and cleaning methods, so you could be doing something more to keep your carpet looking and smelling its best. There are simple methods that you can do to ensure that your carpets will always be in top condition and so that you won’t have to spend a lot of time maintaining them.

1. Always take your shoes off inside – Speaking of taking your shoes off, if you really want to keep your carpet clean, make it a rule that shoes come off when you walk in, so you don’t bring in dirt and debris from outside. And if you want to go the extra mile (or you just really like wearing shoes indoors) you can wear socks or designate house shoes or slippers to wear around your home to protect carpeting from any oils and dirt from your feet—just make sure you never wear them outside. Source: Apartment Therapy
2. Treat stains as soon as they occur – If you notice a stain, tackle it right away. Any kind of spill requires swift action before the substance sets in. Apply your chosen cleaner to the spill and gently blot it out with a clean rag. Keep blotting the spill until it’s dry and then vacuum the area.

• Make sure to use a white or neutral-colored towel to clean the stain. You do not want to get dye on your carpeting.
• If you don’t want to use a chemical-based cleaner, a combination of vinegar and club soda usually works on stains. Mix equal parts vinegar and club soda and then apply to the stain. Source: WikiHow

3. Vacuum once a week – Vacuum the carpet throughout your home at least once a week, and vacuum areas of high traffic every few days. If you whisk away surface dirt before it has a chance to get worked deep down into the carpet pile, you will both prevent allergens and bacteria from quickly accumulating and preserve the carpet’s appearance. Not only does dirt dim the look of carpets, but its abrasive particles actually damage the fibres of the carpet so that they slowly lose their sheen and plush character. Source: Maid for You
4. Baking Soda Combats Oil Stains – Oil has to be the most frustrating substance to remove from carpets and sometimes you can’t exactly treat these stains with hot water and the dabbing technique. You need a special way to extract oils from carpets and this is where baking soda saves your life and your carpet. Apply liberally on the stain area and leave it until the baking soda absorbs the stain and for a sort of dry crust, which you can effectively vacuum and leave you with a much lighter stain. After most of the oil has been absorbed, you can proceed to dabbing the stain. Source: Clean London Professional

Carpets come in many different colours, shapes, sizes, and material so it’s best that you consult with a professional first if ever you plan on using certain cleaning products on them. If you want our help, then you can get in touch by checking out our contact information below!

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How to Get Slime Out of Carpet

Slime is all the rage among kids right now, but it can be difficult to get out of the carpet. If your child has dropped some of this sticky goo on the floor and you are struggling to clean it up, here are some tricks for you.

Before anything else, scrape away the excess slime

Take a flat kitchen spatula or blunt scraper, slip it under the slime, wet or dry, and transfer it on to a few pieces of newspaper or kitchen towel placed just to the side of the slime.

If the slime spillage is large and in one place, work from the outside inwards so that you don’t spread it around the carpet. Get as much of it up as possible, then dab with kitchen paper to remove more. Dab very gently – you don’t want to push the slime further down into the carpet pile.

If you’ve just discovered the slime and it’s been there a while, it’s likely to have dried at least around the edges. Once you’ve removed the majority of it with the spatula, take a small stiff brush to it (an old toothbrush or nail brush will do) to lose the dried slime. Then take the vacuum cleaner to the dried slime (not the wet, that won’t do your vacuum cleaner any favors) and remove as much of it as possible. Source: RealHomes

What to do with dried slime

“Place a few ice cubes on the dried residue and allow the ice to ‘freeze’ the slime, which can help to remove the dried-up slime from the carpet,” Lynch says.

Repeat this process as needed but wait until your carpet is dry to vacuum up any stray particles. Source: RealSimple

What to do with wet slime

Vinegar and Water: Mix one-part warm water with two parts vinegar. Spray onto the stain and use a soft brush to work slime loose from the carpet. Use a dry paper towel to dab at the stain. Vacuum it once dry. Source: HGTV

When all else fails, call a professional cleaner

They will know how to get slime out of carpet using heavy-duty products or tools you may not have at home, such as steam-cleaners or more powerful cleaning solutions. They should also know how to remove the stubborn slime without damaging your carpet. Source: MyMove

Don’t hesitate to reach out anytime you’re having carpet-related issues so we can give you advice that suits your needs. Call us!

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Types of Cut Pile

If you’re looking for the best cut pile carpeting for your home, it’s essential to know which type is right for you. Here is some information on the most common options.

What is Cut Pile?

Cut pile starts like a loop pile, but then the tips are cut so there are no loops. This makes the cut pile carpets denser and softer than loop pile. Depending upon the shearing of the loops, the carpet might have patterns throughout. Because the threads are cut, cut pile carpet is not as durable as loop pile and needs replacement more often. Here are some of the forms of cut pile carpet: Source: Modernize

Saxony

The term Saxony pile refers to a particular type of cut-pile carpet with fibers that are very soft and dense. The relatively short fibers stand straight up and down to create a lush, fuzzy surface. The drawback to this style is that those strands are easily crushed down by feet and vacuum cleaners, leaving impressions on its surface. It is also susceptible to wear-and-tear, as well as staining, making Saxony carpets a floor treatment best suited for use in low-traffic areas, such as formal living rooms or dens. They are also somewhat more expensive than traditional cut-pile carpets. Source: TheSpruce

Textured

Textured carpeting is a cut-pile floor covering subjected to additional treatment. The yarn fibers are exposed to a steam treatment that curls the individual strands so that they stay kinked and curled. A textured carpet is less likely to show marks from footprints or a vacuum cleaner because the fibers all curl differently, compared to straight yarn fibers that bend or lie down in similar fashion under pressure or after vacuuming. A highly textured carpeting such as frieze carpet hides such marks even more, since the fibers are more twisted. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Frieze

Frieze carpet features tightly twisted fibers that appear curled or kinked. Steam is typically used to create that effect.

Frieze carpet is dense and durable, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas like hallways, staircases and family rooms. It’s generally considered a casual-style carpet, so choose something else for more formal rooms. Source: FamilyHandyman

There are many other carpet choices available, and we understand that finding the perfect fit for your home can be quite confusing. If you need help, don’t hesitate to give us a call!

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A Basic Guide to Laminate Flooring

Do you want to give your home a fresh new look? Laminate flooring can do just that. It’s the perfect flooring option for those who are seeking for something durable and affordable. Find out more about it below.  

What is laminate flooring?

First manufactured in the 1970s, laminate flooring was one of the first man-made alternatives to hardwood floors. It’s a great choice for homeowners who like the appearance of hardwood floors but don’t want to spend a large amount of money on flooring materials. Its thick composition makes it pretty comfortable to walk on, so it can work well in living areas and hallways. Source: ThisOldHouse

Advantages

• Easy to clean
• Scratch-resistant
• Good for homes with pets and children
• Inexpensive relative to other types of floor coverings

Disadvantages

• Moisture can swell the laminate floor base
• Chips easily
• Not suitable for bathrooms or laundry rooms Source: TheSpruce

Different surface types

You may want to pick your floor simply based on what the surface will look like. As we’ve said before, laminates are always evolving. Where there once was one basic surface to choose from, now there are many.

• Smooth. A plain finish just like a layer of varnish you’d associate with hardwood. Sometimes you can choose between high, medium and low gloss finishes.
• Embossed and/or Textured. Some laminates come with a textured finish. Regular embossing isn’t an exact match up with the grooves of the printed grain but does fool the eye into seeing a surface grain.
• Distressed/Hand scraped. Hand scraped laminate flooring is now available—a process that up until recently was reserved only for engineered or solid hardwood floors. This process adds an antiqued look to your laminate floor.
• Embossed in Registration. This type of embossing matches the grain of the wood exactly for the most authentic embossed look.
• Keep an eye out for new laminate innovations, they’re happening all the time. Source: BuildDirect

If you decide to install laminate flooring at home, know that we’ll always be here to back you up if a problem arises. We specialize in all kinds of flooring repair so don’t hesitate to give us a call when you need help.

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3 Important Carpet Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners

When you have a fur baby, it is clear that tidying up after them will be part of your life. However, the chore can become more difficult if your flooring requires an extra amount of care and attention than usual! Here are 3 things I recommend for making this process easier on yourself:

Prevent potential headaches by choosing a stain-proof carpet

If you are able, stain-resistant carpet is always the way to go. Consider this option if you are replacing the carpeting or wish to carpet a wood or tile floor. This type of carpet is often more costly but also lasts for an extended period of time. Stain-resistant carpet already has a protective layer applied to the fibers. There is no need for scotch guarding practices as it can withstand being steam-cleaned, vacuumed and spills without losing too much of its integrity. Source: Amerifirst

Take care of accidents fast

With pets as with life, accidents happen. The key to making sure that accidents don’t become lasting stains is to take care of it right after it happens. Step one is to remove any solids using a dustpan or even a dull knife if necessary. Then grab a roll of paper towels, lay several down on the trouble-spot, and weigh them down either with a heavy object or by standing on it yourself. Once the area is dry, prevent discoloration by cleaning the carpet area thoroughly with tepid water and dish soap. Source: ApartmentFinder

Don’t let pet hair overwhelm you

Pet hair can accumulate on everything, especially carpets. A shedding pet can leave a trail of hair across the floor that can quickly clog your vacuum cleaner. Wrapping masking tape around an old paint roller and attaching it to an old broom or mop handle can act like a giant lint roller to pick up pet hair before you vacuum. Alternatively, raking your carpet with a rubber-bristled carpet rake collects the pet hair in clumps, so you can remove the hair by hand before vacuuming. Vacuum your carpet at least three times a week with a HEPA-filtered, bagless vacuum to reduce the amount of pet hair left in your carpet. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Have you noticed any damage or stains on your carpet caused by your pets? Or maybe you can smell an odor that won’t go away? We can help get rid of all those for you! Call us today.

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Answering Common Carpet Stretching FAQs

Carpet buckling or wrinkling often happen for many reasons, including normal wear and tear and improper installation. It’s important to address this problem early because it can lead to fall accidents. We know there are some common questions that come up when people think about stretching their carpets as a solution so we’ve put together this blog post to answer those for you!

Can you DIY a carpet stretching project?

Straightening a carpet might seem a straightforward task – and it is, if you rent the right equipment and find helpers to move furniture, operate the power stretcher and hand you the staple gun, knee kicker and other tools as you need them. Repairing 200 square feet of loose or rumpled wall-to-wall carpet, however, can challenge your patience — just as you straighten one ripple, another appears. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

How much does it cost?

If your carpet is in good shape but dirty and beginning to buckle, having it cleaned and stretched extends its lifespan considerably, making it look much younger. The average cost of cleaning and stretching together is around $250 but is higher if the carpet is severely stained or needs deodorizing. Source: Fixr

Are you required to move all furniture before stretching?

Whether you DIY or hire a pro, you likely need to move at least 50% of the furniture before carpet stretching. You don’t necessarily have to take every single piece of furniture out of the room, especially if you have help from a carpet pro with a power stretcher. Things can depend on where the carpet needs to be stretched, the location of the furniture and how heavy the furniture is.

Should you clean before stretching the carpet or after?

You should stretch your carpet and then clean it. This makes sure you clean the entire carpet well. If done correctly, stretching won’t allow wrinkles to return through professional cleaning.

Source: HomeAdvisor

Do you want to get your carpet at home stretched? We’ll be more than happy to help! Contact us today to get a free estimate.

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All About Grouting

From the floors in your kitchen and bathrooms to the tiles in your shower, there’s an awful lot of grouting work that needs to be done on a regular basis. But how do you know whether to clean or regrout? Find out below!

Why is grout important?

Grout serves several purposes for a tile installation. It helps even out inconsistencies in tile sizes and helps prevent damage to tiles in the case of normal house settling or flexing. In the bathroom, grout also helps to prevent water from seeping between the tiles and rotting away the substrate behind it. Unfortunately, water can eventually wear down the grout, causing growth of mold and mildew and cracking of the cement. Normal house settlement and time can also damage the grout in your home. Source: Hunker

How to clean it?

In some cases, the grout might just be stained or dirty, particularly if you are dealing with a floor that gets a lot of traffic. There are plenty of grout and tile cleaners on the market, but hydrogen peroxide and baking soda may work just as well.

1. Pour a little hydrogen peroxide onto the grout lines and use a grout brush to work it in for a few seconds.
2. Then pour baking soda on top and brush your little heart out.
3. Clean up with water after you have covered the entire area, and your tile and grout will look fresh and new. Source: BobVila

How to re-grout?

Good news: If you do need to re-grout, you won’t have to remove all of the original putty; you will need to use the same grout type if you are touching up certain areas, says Donalson. Replacing grout due to mold doesn’t always involve taking away all of the existing material, either, he adds. 

When undertaking a re-grout project, don’t take any shortcuts or a partial approach—get it all done in one shot. “By doing all of the re-grouting at once, you save time so that you don’t have to do different parts again every couple of months,” continues Donalson. Once you’ve taken the grout away and cleaned the sections, you can then begin to apply new grout. Source: MarthaStewart

What do you think you need to do at home? Clean or regrout your tiles? Whatever it is, let us take care of it for you. Call us!

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Common Problems with Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood floors are a popular choice for homeowners because they are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and easy to maintain. However, some common problems can occur with this type of flooring. 

Deterioration

Wood floors have a protective finish that helps them withstand ample abuse from pets, furniture, kids, and more. Over time, though, this finish will begin to wear off. As it does, you can expect your wood floors to show signs of everyday wear and tear, such as scratches, dings, and dents. You may also notice worn spots that could be caused by high traffic or by a subpar finishing job. Using protective pads under furniture and leaving your shoes at the door can help protect your floors. Source: BuildDirect

Warping

When exposed to or saturated in water, wood can swell and warp. Prevent water from coming in contact with wood floors by using area rugs below sinks and near entry doors, and by placing houseplant pots or containers on top of water-collecting dishes. Source:  Angi

Chipping finish

Floor finishes peel because the floor was contaminated or improperly prepped when the finish was applied. Excessive sanding with high-grit paper can burnish wood and create a surface too smooth for the finish to adhere. Inadequate abrading or cleaning between finish coats, applying a top coat over a floor that is not dry, or working with incompatible finishes all can cause peeling. However, the most common cause of peeling that I see is stain residue that isn’t cleaned from the floor prior to applying finish. Source: FineHomeBuilding

Splitting or cracking

Over the years, many hardwood floors develop small splits or cracks in the surface of the wood. These can be spot repaired with some angled nails to secure the two pieces together, along with some wood putty to hide the blemishes. If your floor is suffering from large cracks, however, you might want to think about refinishing the floor. And if the split is particularly bad, you should probably replace the damaged plank altogether. Source: HomeAdvisor

Are you experiencing any of the above at home? Let us know, and we’ll help!

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Grout Cleaning Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

We all want a pristine home, but sometimes the cleaning process can feel daunting. Here are some grout cleaning tips that you must do every once in a while to make sure your tiles are in the best condition.

Use commercial products

One of the best grout cleaners on the market could make quick work of removing mold and mildew and restoring bright grout white lines. These often work in one of two methods: (1) spray and wipe, or (2) scour with a brush. Spray-on products claim to work without scrubbing, which can save time and energy, but they may contain harsher acids, solvents, or chlorine bleach. Scouring with a brush and cleaner does require a little work, but this method can be especially effective on floors and heavily soiled grout. So, before you begin using a product, pay attention to the active ingredients and heed the instructions (particularly safety precautions). Source: BobVila

Use steam to soften stains

In the bathroom, you’re probably dealing not only with surface dirt and debris, but also soap scum residue, which can be harder to remove. Make it easy on yourself by spritzing the tiled floors and shower walls with surface cleaner, then cranking the hot water for five minutes until steam builds. Wait 20 minutes and the tiles will be noticeably easier to wipe clean with a cloth. Source: MarthaStewart

Grout renewal

And when the above doesn’t work to remove the stains, there’s one more thing you can do short of changing the entire grout: grout renewal. There are products to consider that add a layer of color and protection against future staining and can extend the life of your grout for quite a few years.

Signs that your grout needs changing include flaking and breaking and tiles coming off. It’s especially important to take action as soon as you see this kind of breakage in your grout because water can seep into your wall and cause much worse damage. Source: TheSpruce

Need help with any flooring-related concern? We got you! Call us today to book an appointment.

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Types of Marble Tiles

Marble is a beautiful and durable stone that has been used for centuries. It’s often seen in kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-traffic areas because of its durability. In this article, we will discuss the different varieties most homeowners choose for their homes. 

Carrara 

Mined in the quarries of Massa-Carrara in northwestern Tuscany, Carrara marble arrives at worldwide locations in massive blocks. Slabs are cut from the blocks and either honed, giving them a satinlike, smooth matte finish, or polished to a shiny gloss. Distinguishing true Carrara marble from others is like identifying gemstones. You have to know what to look for. Carrara marble has a white/gray background with delicate blue-gray veining that’s evenly spaced. The whiter the background, the more costly the slab. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Calacatta

Calacutta marble is another type of Italian marble, mostly found in the Carrara (yes, do not be confused) region in Italy. Calacatta marble is whiter and smoother than Carrara and has more darker and dramatic veins which are thick and generally run in a mesh on the entire surface, as seen in this picture. You could use marble on the counter top, and match the walls with marble effect wallpaper too for a great looking kitchen. Source: Homify

Emperador 

Quarried from three regions in Spain, this stone varies from the whites and grays associated with Calacatta and Carrara and comes in different shades of brown. It typically exhibits fine grains with irregular veins. Its darker color makes it an ideal choice for a high-traffic floor or a charming fireplace surround. 

Crema Marfil 

Also quarried in Spain, Crema Marfil comes in many tonal variations. The most prevalent and well-known tiles have a light-beige or yellowish color with uniform backgrounds and veins varying in intensity and irregularity. Crema Marfil is typically used with other darker and more colored natural stones, and is commonly found in exterior cladding, flooring and decorations. A large reserve and wide market availability makes this an appealing choice for homeowners and architects. Source: BuildDirect

Do you have marble tiles at home that need repair? We can help! Call us today to get a free estimate.

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Ceramic vs. Porcelain: Which One Should You Use at Home?

Many homeowners are unsure of the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles, and what their best option is. It can be confusing to know which one to use in your home. In order to help you make an informed decision, here are some points that will help you decide which type of tile is right for you!

How are they made?

Often difficult to tell apart, ceramic and porcelain tiles are made with very similar materials and processes, but there are slight differences between the two types. In general, porcelain tile is harder than ceramic and offers greater design flexibility. Although both are made from clay and other naturally occurring materials fired in a kiln, the clay used to make porcelain tile is more refined and purified. It’s fired at a higher temperature and greater pressure, resulting in an extremely dense and hard material. Source: BHG

Durability

Both ceramic and porcelain excel in high-traffic areas in comparison with other flooring types (such as hardwood, laminate and carpet). But porcelain is a denser tile, and as a result it offers better long-term resistance to scuffs and scratches. Through-body porcelain, where the color on top of the tile goes all the way throughout the tile’s body, is especially scratch resistant. Living rooms and hallways are two of the perfect places to install porcelain. Households with children and pets will appreciate porcelain’s durability.

As the heart of the home, kitchens experience a fair share of foot traffic too. If your cooking space is your home’s social hub and a common gathering place for your family and guests, porcelain is the best option. Source: Houzz

Cost

When it comes to ceramic vs. porcelain tile, porcelain is the pricier material. But that’s only part of the story. Because of its extreme hardness, porcelain is trickier to work with, making pro installation costs higher than ceramic. Source: HGTV

Installation

Both ceramic and porcelain tiles can be very delicate to handle during installation. Ceramic is not very thick, meaning it can be easy to cut in a DIY project, but may also easily (and noticeably) chip. Porcelain tile, meanwhile, is so hard that it may be brittle and prone to cracking when handled with unskilled hands.

If the tile you choose is soft and you’d like to avoid damage from grout sand, it is a recommended to use unsanded grout with small (less than 1/8 inch) spaces between tiles. Once installed, both tiles should function relatively well if the right class of tile has been used in the right place. Installation of either tile, however, will almost certainly require a professional. Source: Diffen

Give yourself some peace of mind by getting an expert’s opinion – call us today so we can help answer any of your questions regarding which flooring material will best suit your needs!

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Want to Use Marble Tiles at Home? Read This First!

Marble is a versatile and beautiful stone that can add elegant style to any room in your house. But is it perfect for your budget and needs? Get to know the answers below.

What is marble?

Marble is a very popular natural stone that is quarried and cut into slabs and tiles for a variety of residential and commercial building applications, including countertops, floors, and wall tiles. It is a metamorphic rock that forms when a sedimentary stone, such as limestone, is transformed under heat and pressure into a harder stone with beautiful color and veined patterns. Marble is sometimes confused with granite, however, granite is an igneous rock derived from volcanic magma, not layered sedimentary rock. Granite typically has a pebbly or spotted color pattern, while marble usually has a wavy veined pattern. Source: TheSpruce

Reasons to choose marble

One of marble’s best features is its durability. Builders have relied upon this natural stone for centuries to provide a strong material that will last for a long time. When purchasing and installing high-quality marble tiles, you can feel satisfied in knowing that they will stand the test of time and keep their appearance for years to come (if properly maintained).

Marble is also considered a hypoallergenic choice for floors. Because of its density, marble tile does not store or accumulate antigens and particles like dust and pollen that can cause allergic reactions. This makes it a more sanitary surface that promotes improved air qualities indoors. Source: BuildDirect

Costs

A good amount of labor goes into quarrying and finishing marble tiles, so even lower-end marble is a pricey flooring choice. The least expensive tiles start around $5 per square foot and higher-end tiles can run $10 to $40 per square foot, depending on density and veining patterns (fine veining is preferable to heavy veining). Also, the larger the tile, the more expensive the square foot cost. Ceramic and porcelain tiles, in comparison, run just $1 to $3 per square foot.

Professional installation can add an additional $3 to $7 per square foot, depending on the going rate for labor in your area and whether additional work is needed. Source: BobVila

If you want to get new tiles of any material installed at home, let us know! We’ll help you save time and money on your renovation. 

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How to Fix Carpet Fraying

Have you noticed the edges of your carpet starting to thin out and fray? If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to solve this problem, this blog post is for you. 

What causes carpet fraying

The main reasons for carpet fraying include poor installation and friction from dirt and debris working their way into the material. Over time, the fibers wear out and can also unravel. If left in this state, the appearance and structural integrity of your carpet will continue to deteriorate. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

How to prepare carpet 

Pull away any fibers completely loose from the carpet backing. Clean the carpet and allow it to thoroughly dry before applying the glue. This is especially important if the fraying was caused by pet actions which may also carry moisture and dirt into the carpet. Apply the hot glue and press the fibers into position and allow the glue to dry. This may only take a few minutes depending on the hot glue used. 

How to repair carpet seams

Most carpet fraying problems occur along the seam between two segments of carpet. This can require applying the hot glue to both segments of the carpet and then gluing the two segments together. This can salvage a situation that might require replacing the entire room of carpet at a fraction of the cost. Continue to monitor the repaired area and apply additional glue if any further fraying is noted. Source: Hunker

Which type of carpet is less likely to fray?

To prevent excess fraying and other types of wear, choose a carpet that is durable and more resistant to wear. For this, nylon carpet is your best bet. Nylon is the strongest carpet material, performs better than others in high traffic areas, and is resistant to mold and mildew. Source: UpgradedHome

Carpet fraying is a common issue in most households. The good news is that it’s easy to repair. If you want to save time and effort, let us take on this job for you. Contact us today to set an appointment.

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What is Carpet Pile Reversal?

Have you noticed when you look at your carpet that some areas look darker than others? Find out what causes this problem by reading below:

How does pile reversal look?

Traffic Lanes Gray: The carpet appears to be soiled, but is actually clean.  This is often due to a combination of factors, such as scratches or fiber distortions due to wear, which will cause light to reflect at different angles instead of uniformly. 

Shading, Pooling, or Nap Reversal:  Normal traffic causes the pile of carpet to flatten slightly, resulting in a shaded effect, especially in plush carpet.  Vacuuming the pile in the same direction can temporarily correct this situation.  Source: Cleanlink

Why does it happen?

Most commonly, pile reversal is the result of poor installation. If two pieces of carpet need to be seamed together in a room, the installer must ensure that the direction of the pile is consistent in both pieces. Otherwise, when the two pieces are joined they can actually look like two different carpets.

Less commonly, the pile can actually change direction on a single piece of carpet. This is somewhat of a mystery in the industry. Sometimes, it is evident that the pile direction shifts in the direction of foot traffic. Other times, though, it has no apparent cause.

In rare instances, the carpet comes straight from the manufacturer with the pile reversed on part of the roll. Unfortunately, reverse pile is not considered by carpet manufacturers to be a defect and therefore is not covered by warranty. Source: TheSpruce

Which carpet type is the least prone to

Examine loop-pile carpets such as Berber, which does not show any footprints or marks at all. It makes an ideal choice for dressing all those common areas of your home, and rooms where you may socialize frequently. A loop pile carpet, Berber’s yarns are sewn through the back of the carpet. Multilevel loop rugs offer a dimensional appearance unlike cut carpet, which has as a straight, tufted appearance. When choosing carpet for the high-traffic areas of your home, couple your design perspective with a touch of realism. For example, a multi-level or patterned Berber rug stylishly conceals the appearance of footprints when compared to fancy, thick-pile carpeting. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Don’t risk headaches down the line. Make sure only professionals with a proven track record install your carpet. If you need help solving any carpet problem, don’t hesitate to call us!

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