Hardwood Flooring

There are many reasons why you might want to install hardwood floors in your home. Hardwood flooring has remained a popular choice throughout time, as it has proven to be a versatile, durable option while ever maintaining a classical and elegant appearance wherever it is used. Hardwood floors are not only preferred because of their aesthetics, but also because they are materially a type of floor known for elasticity and flexibility, which can be very beneficial traits for the flooring of your home to have. When doing the research on how to install wooden floors for your home, there are many things to discover about the process, the materials used, and the ways to go about finding the right contractors in your area to help you get the job done.

Different Types of Hardwood Floors

You will first and foremost want to consider whether you will use solid hardwood floors or engineered hardwood floors when you seek the addition of hardwood floors in your home.

Solid hardwood floors can widely vary in dimension and style, but each plank is contrived of solid wood and is milled from one single piece of timber. Some people enjoy the natural characteristics that solid hardwood flooring has to offer, however solid hardwood floors present a challenge as in modern construction, they are characteristic for their installation over concrete slab. While there is no standard size for floorboards of solid wood, the largest size that can be manufactured without jeopardizing the structure of the flooring is usually 100 mm thick. The thickness of the planks of wood used in your solid hardwood floors might need to depend on the environment of your home, as wood can expand and contract based on the humidity and temperature of any given space. While solid hardwood flooring might be desirable in many aspects, its use is limited in several ways. The limitations on the size of the plank that can be manufactured in solid hardwood floors often cause gapping, crowning, and cupping.

While solid hardwood flooring is entirely composed of timber, engineered wood, also considered composite wood, man-made wood, or manufactured board, is made out of an assortment of different wood products that are adhered together. These include strands, particles, fibers, and veneers of wood. Thus, engineered wood flooring usually contains two or more layers of wood planks, with the top layer that remains visible, and the underlying layers that are affixed to the core of the hardwood floor, providing stability. While solid hardwood flooring may have it’s own appeals, engineered wood is more commonly used on a global scale. Solid hardwood tends to be less expensive than engineered wood, however the cost to install engineered wood is typically much lower than the cost of installing solid hardwood floors. Using engineered wood also has several benefits over solid hardwood, as patented installation systems have made the installation of engineered wood faster than the installation of solid hardwood and the replacement and repair of boards much easier. Similarly, unlike solid hardwood, engineered wood has the capability for floating installation, where the planks do not require anchoring to a base floor or each other, and are thus easy to install and remove or replace. Engineered wood flooring also better lends itself to use over underfloor heating systems.

Installing Hardwood Floors

Other things to think about when looking to install hardwood floors in your home, or looking to get them installed, are the different types of installation systems that could be used, the manufacturing styles, and the different finishes involved in putting your hardwood floor in place. Systems for installing hardwood floors vary in detail but can include tongue-and-groove methods, click systems, and glue-down approaches. How your hardwood floor is installed might need to depend on exactly where it is being installed, and what specific traits you need your hardwood floor to portray. This might be something you would need to discuss with a hardwood flooring contractor who can help you determine exactly what kind of hardwood flooring and installation system best fits your individual needs.

You might also want to be aware of the different manufacturing styles used in hardwood floors. The rotary-peel process of manufacturing involves preparing a log by boiling it in water for a specified amount of time at a certain temperature, and then peeling it with a blade from the outside in. This method creates a veneer that is then pressed flat with high pressure. Some problems this method my cause on your hardwood floors over time involve the warping of your hardwood floorboards. Some hardwood floors are manufactured using the sliced-peel process that, rather than peeling the wood rotary-style, involves slicing the log from one end to the other. Lastly, there is the dry solid-sawn manufacturing method that keeps the logs at a low humidity level, instead of boiling them. They are then left to dry and are afterwards sawed like solid hardwood floor planks. Finding a hardwood flooring contractor in your local area can help you determine the pros and cons of these different styles of hardwood floors, and help you ensure that you use the one that can suit your specific needs or requirements for your unique and individual hardwood floor.

Finally, the finish of your hardwood floor can be a big determinate when it comes to the overall completed product of your hardwood floor. The two most common finishes for hardwood floors in modern homes are oil and polyurethane. Each of these finishes can vary in style and require different kinds of maintenance. Sanding can also give you a method for smoothing out a hardwood floor that has been installed, should there be any unevenness, or should you wish to refurbish the look of an older hardwood floor. These will all be things to consider and to discuss with an expert in professional hardwood flooring when you are ready for installing and enjoying your own hardwood floors. 

Written by Megan Laddusaw

Basics About Bamboo Flooring

You may have heard the buzz about bamboo flooring, but how does it stand up in comparison to other popular choices in flooring? Is it really as durable or environmentally friendly as they say it is? Before considering the installation of bamboo flooring in your home, it is imperative to know the basics about bamboo and why it has become a popular flooring material over the past 30 years.

The Origins of Bamboo Flooring

Many people often mistake bamboo floors for hardwood floors because bamboo flooring is very similar in physicality and appearance, but what many people don’t realize about bamboo is that it is in fact a type of grass, rather than a type of wood. The Bamboo plant originates in China and throughout several regions of Asia. Because bamboo is considered to be a giant grass, it can grow at incredible speeds. Bamboo only takes about three years to grow into full maturity, and because of this it has been recognized as a highly renewable resource for many different kinds of building materials. Moso bamboo, the main species used for the manufacturing of flooring and construction materials, can even grow up to approximately 47 inches in 24 hours. Bamboo is being recognized world-wide as a sustainable material because of how fast it can grow and be harvested, especially when compared to that of most types of hardwood that take about 40-60 years of growth before they can be considered harvest-ready.

Other Benefits of Bamboo Flooring

Another natural benefit that bamboo has over hardwood is that, when it is harvested, the root system of the plant is left intact, which means that the bamboo doesn’t need to be replanted after it is harvested. This further makes bamboo a more sustainable material. Likewise, in it’s natural environment, bamboo should require no irrigation, no pesticides, and no fertilizer and bamboo is known to absorb 70% more carbon from the atmosphere than a hardwood forest, both qualities that add to bamboo’s capabilities as a green resource. Due to the many environmentally friendly advantages that bamboo has as a plant, the LEED program of the United States Green Building Council even advocates its use as a flooring material in their rating system.

Bamboo as a Flooring Material

Bamboo flooring has been applauded for its strength and durability, although there are many factors that can influence the strength of bamboo. Things such as the type of bamboo plant, the age of the culm, and how the bamboo is manufactured and made into planks for flooring all determine how the bamboo floor in question will hold up to wear and tear. Like other types of flooring the hardness of bamboo flooring can be tested using the Janka test for hardness. Natural bamboo flooring earns a hardness rating of about 1,380, whereas red oak receives a rating of 1,290 and black walnut 1,010. It’s easy to see why bamboo has been seen as a great alternative to hardwood floors, because in some cases it can even be stronger than the hardwood floor you might have chosen instead.

Choosing bamboo flooring for your home might also have some other benefits; bamboo floors are often less pricey than hardwood floors. Bamboo floors might also be a healthier choice for those who are sensitive to allergens, such as dust or dust mites, that don’t often collect in bamboo floors as they do in other types of flooring. Likewise, bamboo flooring is typically very easy to install and maintain, it is versatile in that it can go above many different types of subfloors. All that is required for cleaning a bamboo floor is an occasional sweeping over with a dry mop.

Bamboo flooring is ideal for any room in the home, as bamboo flooring also typically holds up to humidity much better than hardwood floors do. Similarly, many prefer the look of a bamboo floor, as it comes in many different types. The three main choices in grain types include horizontal, vertical and strand woven. Additionally bamboo comes in different colors; natural, carbonized (to make the bamboo lighter), tiger (a combination of natural and carbonized), and stained (to represent any kind of wood stain that fits best in your home).

Bamboo flooring is surpassingly being considered the most reasonable flooring choice of the modern day and the future. Bamboo flooring is not only, in many ways, a good choice for the environment, but it also typically cost-efficient and durable in strength, as well. Bamboo flooring no doubt has all of the qualifications necessary to serve as the type of flooring for any home, and is a choice that should highly be considered looking to install new floors. Of course, as there are many different types of bamboo flooring, and many different methods of manufacturing and installing these floors, it is always best to consult a local professional who can make sure you are purchasing the best type of bamboo flooring that fits all of your specific needs. 

Written by Megan Laddusaw

Why Use Laminate Flooring?

Laminate floors have been growing in popularity over the years since their introduction to the United States in the early nineties. But the debate has continued to reign over whether laminate floors truly are comparable to their real hardwood counterparts, or if they’re just like any other knock-off: a cheap second-best. While many people still insist on real hardwood floors, the continually growing use of laminate flooring points out that it may just be as good as the real thing, if not better.

Many people do not realize that there are several benefits to using laminate flooring over hardwood floors other than just the cost. Yes, laminate flooring’s main objective is to provide your home with the highly sought-after, sophisticated look of hardwood flooring for a fraction of the cost and hassle, but a laminate floor can be beneficial in many other ways, as well.

Laminate Flooring Installation Benefits

Laminate flooring installation is in nearly every case much easier than installing real hardwood floors and unlike real solid hardwood flooring, which should really only be installed above grade, laminate flooring can be installed over virtually any flooring surface. It often goes without consideration that prior to installing a hardwood floor the hardwood must sit in the environment of your home for a minimum of three weeks to get acclimated, as wood can expand and change shape due to temperature and pressure. Laminate flooring can be installed in as little as 36 hours, and is much less likely to warp after being set. If you were a do-it-yourself homeowner, a laminate flooring project would be a feasible, cost-efficient and very beneficial one to attempt. Most laminate flooring only requires what is known as a “floating” installation in which the laminate floor-boards, by nature of their “tongue and groove” design are simply snapped into place, like puzzle pieces that float over the sub-floor of your home. Likewise, many laminate flooring manufacturers now provide glue-less laminate flooring systems making the installation process all the more faster and easier. No nails, no hammers, no glue, no fuss. Where hardwood installation often requires a lengthy process of sanding, staining, and finishing, laminate floors are typically pre-finished, and ready for use immediately after being installed. In the businesses of home owning, home improvement and home building, where time and efficiency are the most valuable of building materials, why not go with a flooring option that is as close to installing itself as it possibly can be? 

Laminate Flooring Durability

Contrary to what might be expected, laminate flooring can actually be much more durable than real hardwood flooring. Laminate flooring is estimated to be about fifteen times stronger than real hardwood and most come with a warranty that guarantee your laminate flooring for at least ten to fifteen years. Unlike real hardwood that typically doesn’t fare well in environments with a higher exposure to moisture and humidity, there are many types of laminate flooring that are water-resistant and waterproof and that can therefore be installed in areas of the home such as the kitchen and the bathroom. While hardwood floors are prone to getting scratched or indented and face damage under high amounts of traffic, laminate floors are much more enduring under these pressures. Laminate floors also hold up better against common household accidents such as cigarette burns and spilled bleach. Furthermore, laminate floors typically have a very high resistance to UV exposure, something that homeowners often overlook. Where hard wood floors can fade over time due to exposure from the sun, it tends not to be the case with laminate floors, and so they make a great option for rooms of the house that receive a lot of natural sunlight. Laminate floors are also renitent by nature to the growth of mold and bacteria in ways that hardwood floors are not and can, in that sense, contain some added health benefits, as well.

Caring for Laminate Flooring

One of the biggest concerns for a homeowner when choosing materials for his or her home is what the maintenance for those materials will entail throughout time.  Advantageously, maintenance for a laminate floor is very simple. All that it requires is being swept over with a broom or damp mop on occasion; vacuums can be used on it as well to help pick up some of the dirt. Where hardwood floors might need resanding after a period of time, laminate floors won’t require this. If laminate floors do get damaged or eventually succumb to wear and tear, they can easily be replaced.

Added Benefits to Laminate Flooring

Although laminate flooring might be criticized for its small details that make it distinguishable from real solid wood, the truth is that many people really don’t notice the difference between the two. There is actually much to be appreciated about what laminate flooring can accomplish aesthetically.  It is extremely versatile and can be made to look like any type of wood, in any stain or grain. In essence, laminate flooring is not limited to just the replication of hardwood flooring. Laminate flooring can also simulate various styles of stone and ceramic floors, as well.

There will always be arguments for why a laminate floor just isn’t the same as a hardwood floor, but if time and money constraints just don’t give you room for the real thing, treading on laminate flooring in your new home in the years to come, won’t be something you’ll regret. 

Written by Megan Laddusaw

Publish by: GGB Interiors


We are here to help you write your own interior design and decorating story, one that suits you and your lifestyle. Window coverings are part of that story, whatever style of house or apartment you are decorating


 

GGB Interiors is a full service custom window treatment workroom. The first step in our relationship will be an in-home consultation. The in-home consultation will include:

    Measuring
    Style selection
    Fabric and trim selection
    Hardware selection
    Professional Installation

These images provide ideas of the many ways in which drapes and other window treatments take center stage, tie the decorative theme of a room together, or provide a supporting role in the overall design. We offer long, sleek, contemporary panels, traditionally styled drapes, sheer treatments and many different types of shades, blinds, shutters, and woven woods. After viewing these decorating ideas, please contact us for further assistance.

Publish by: California Flooring and Design

If by chance you find a better price, we'll match it plus 10% off, and you'll have the added security and service that only the largest and most reliable flooring provider can offer. 


Our Focus is on... 

• Offering the total package: with moldings, underlayments, baseboards, crown moldings, and staircases.
• Stocked Inventory: Large Selection of floor products on hand located at our giant warehouse.
• Product Guarantee: Customers who receive damaged or defective products, will recieve a full refund and replacement and no additional cost. We    will solve any problem's you may have and replace any damaged or defective floors.
• Serving you 7 days a week

Why? 

California Flooring & Design understand's how difficult it may be, picking out a new floor for your home. Dont worry our knowledgeable and caring sales staff are here to help and consult you in making the best decision. We take extra measure's and pride in what we do. Our commitment to you. Come visit our location and speak with a sales associate  for more details.

Publish by: California Flooring and Design

 

 

HARDWOOD - Burma Mohagany 4 1/2"  - $2.99sq.ft

 

HARDWOOD - Brazilian Cherry 4 1/2" - $2.99sq.ft

 

HARDWOOD - Shaw American Cherry 5"- $2.99sq.ft

 

HARDWOOD - Solid Oak 3" & 2 1/4" (4 colors) $3.49

 

HARDWOOD - Maple Plank - $2.99sq.ft

 

HARDWOOD - Oak Plank - $1.99sq.ft

 

 

LAMINATE - Shaw (20 different colors) starting at - $.99sq.ft

 

LAMINATE - 12mm in stock (15 different colors) - $1.69sq.ft 

TILE - ceramic or porcelain 13x13 (3 colors) - $.99sq.ft 

 

TILE - Ceramic or Porcelain 13x13 (3 colors) - $.99sq.ft 

TRAVERTINE - Creme / Beige 18x18 - $2.49sq.ft 

 

• • Free estimates • Flood Damage • Floor care products • Sand & Refinish • Residential or Commercial •

 

Publish by: California Flooring and Design



Do you have Hardwood floors in your home,  and you need helpful tips and guidelines  and how to maintain or clean them? You're not alone. Many people are left asking the question, "How do I keep my floors looking their best?". We offer a great selection of Hardwood floor cleaners from the makers of BONA floor care. Bona's floor care  products contain no harsh chemicals and currently its the healthiest, simpliest and most effective way to clean and maintain your hardwood and hard surface floors.While maintaining a wood floor may be a little more laborious and more demanding than a vinyl or composite floor, the key is upkeep, mainly using the right products and using efficient cleaning methods for your wood floors. 

Many make the beginner's mistake of cleaning their floor with agents that are too harsh, which can mar or damage a floor's finish. The result can be a nightmare. Use of harsh chemicals and abrasives can scuff, scratch or even remove your floor's finish and gloss. When this occurs, the typical solution is to strip and re-sand the floor of its remaining finish, a process which is timely and somewhat costly. Instead, let's focus on some not-so-drastic cleaning and maintenance procedures, things you can do on a daily, weekly, monthly and yearly basis to insure the luster and beauty of your home's hardwood flooring surfaces.

Regular Cleaning

Through your daily traffic in the house, you may notice that your flooring surfaces may begin to dull slightly. This is most likely as a result of residual dirt tracked into the house by your family or your pets. A good procedure to clean your floors in an efficient and proper manner is to initially sweep the area with a soft bristle broom. It is important to examine the broom's bristles before starting, as some brooms are not appropriate for some surface areas and can also scratch or mar the finish. It is best to try the broom on a small area of the floor first to insure that it's not damaging the floor in any way.

Next, mix a solution of mild soap and water, preferably on the lighter side of the soap to insure a non-slip surface is maintained. Using a soft sponge mop, evenly mop the entire surface area until clean, and then let the area air dry. If this procedure is maintained on a regular basis, you will certainly prolong the beauty of your floors for a very long time. Beyond this, there are other steps that can be taken less frequently that can add life and beauty to your floors, such as floor treatments.

Monthly Floor Treatment

Floor treatments are widely available cleaning products specifically designed to add luster and shine, all while conditioning your hardwood floors. While these products are excessive to use on a weekly basis, it is certainly reasonable to treat your floor to this process every month or so, depending on traffic, and the simple steps needed to do so are well worth the effort. Be sure to verify the contents and application procedures for your specific product, and should any questions arise, refer to your local home products retailer for further advice. Sometimes mixtures/concentrates can vary from brand to brand, so be sure to check the label for mixture directions.

Many conditioning products available today are offered in a full strength version, which can be sprayed, either by aerosol or pump, directly onto your floor, then mopped dry with a clean dry rag or mop. It is typically in your best interest to follow your routine cleaning procedures prior to the application, to insure that no foreign objects can be collected by the rag or mop and cause scratching or marring. Once the area is cleaned and prepped, spread the product evenly over the entire area. Work backwards toward the opening of the room and gently buff the area clean. Doing this every month or so is perfectly safe for your floor's finish and will add that desired effect of longevity and beauty to your home.

Annual Floor Sealing

Every year or so, it is a good idea to seal and condition your hardwood floors. This a simple procedure, completed with products that are also readily available, and can be done in an afternoon. When shopping for a floor sealer, be sure to check the contents and verify that there are no dyes contained in the product. While dyes may be appropriate for tinting a floor's finish, in this application, you want to retain the natural color of the floor and preserve the factory finish. Clean and prep the entire floor surface properly before getting started.

Begin sealing your floor by applying liberal amounts of bottled sealer to a localized area of the floor. With a clean mop or rag, begin brushing the sealer evenly one section at time, and allow ample time for the sealer to dry. Once the sealer is dry, it's time to buff the area. This simple procedure consists of rubbing a clean, soft rag in a circular manner across the entire surface of the treated area. Take time during this process to step back, and try to align your sight evenly with the floor to verify that all the sealer has been properly removed and buffed out. If this is done properly, it should provide a clean, clear improvement on your floor's original finish.

Following these steps will drastically extend the life and beauty of your hardwood floor. Because every floor is different, it's always best to confer with your home improvement store professionals regarding product solutions that best fit your application. While general floor cleaner is appropriate in most cases, also be sure to check with the manufacturer of your floor’s finish before applying any chemical agents; failing to do so could adversely affect the condition and the life of the floor.