Satisfaction guaranteed. Call us anytime at 323-731-8453.
Hard Surface Flooring | Flooring Supply Shop Blog

Guide in Choosing the Right Flooring Supplies

choosing the right flooring

Selecting the right flooring supplies is an important first step when renovating or building a new space from the ground up. Not only does the flooring materials you choose contribute to the overall aesthetics of the space but it also plays a significant role in its functionality and durability. With a wide range of options available on the market, finding the perfect flooring types can be a daunting task. So, to help simplify the process, here is a comprehensive guide to assist you in choosing the best flooring materials for your needs. 

Consider lifestyle and usage

Here at Flooring Supply Shop, we believe the first step to selecting the right flooring materials is to consider your lifestyle ad how the space will be used. Different areas o your home or commercial space may require varied flooring supply installation. For example, high-traffic areas like entryways, hallways, and kitchens demand more durable and easy-to-clean flooring materials, such as ceramic tiles, vinyl planks, or laminate. Moreover, bedrooms and living rooms can benefit from the warmth and comfort of carpet or hardwood flooring

 

Assess maintenance requirements

Another important thing to consider is the maintenance and upkeep required for all of the flooring types. Some flooring materials, like natural stone or hardwood, require regular maintenance, such as sealing, polishing, or refinishing, to keep them looking great. Whereas, options like laminate or vinyl require very minimal maintenance. Before your flooring supply installation, assess your willingness and ability to maintain your chosen flooring, and be sure to choose a material that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. 

 

Durability and longevity are key

We recommend opting for flooring materials that can withstand wear and tear, spills, and impacts, no matter which living space. While all flooring materials, if properly cared for, can last a long time, hardwood, vinyl, and ceramic tile are the top three flooring types known for durability and longevity. Additionally, you should consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as it can give you an indication of the expected lifespan and performance of the flooring. 

 

Evaluate moisture resistance 

Moisture resistance is crucial, particularly for places like the bathroom, laundry room, or basement. Since moisture can cause damage, warping, or mold growth in certain flooring materials, you need to select flooring types such as ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, vinyl, or concrete for moisture-prone spaces. However, if you prefer the look of wood, there are types of specialized engineered wood that mimic the look but have better moisture resistance. 

 

Comfort and acoustics

While usually at the bottom of one’s list of considerations, the comfort underfoot and acoustics are especially important for areas like bedrooms and living rooms where you will be spending most of your time at home. Carpet and cork flooring are known for their softness and their ability to absorb sound, making them ideal flooring types for creating a cozy and comfy environment. Alternatively, if you prefer hard surfaces, it’s easy to select area rugs or have acoustic underlays put in during your flooring supply installation to improve comfort and reduce noise in a room. 

 

Have a budget in mind

At the end of the day, you can only select the flooring materials and types that meet your budget. So, before risking any sort of disappointment, determine how much you are willing to spend and explore the flooring options within that price range. Keep in mind that while materials range in price, there may also be additional costs incurred for installation, underlayment, and maintenance. 

 

Seek professional advice

If you are still unsure about what flooring materials are needed for your space, don’t hesitate to reach out and speak with a Flooring Supply Shop specialist. Our team is made up of flooring experts who can provide you with some valuable insight and recommendations based on their years in the business. They can also help you to navigate through various options, consider your specific needs and preferences, and guide you toward the most suitable flooring materials.

DTA Lippage Leveling System

DTA Wedges Gun

Preventing lippage is a serious matter if you’re trying to install your tiles as a professional or even as a DIY installer. The last thing you would want is unevenly spaced floor tiles or what people usually call tile lippage. With the intention of keeping tile installations much more efficient and free from errors, DTA has provided a set of tools and systems available for people to use for both commercial and residential purposes.

DTA Lippage Leveling System is a set of tools explicitly designed to accomplish lippage-free tile installation projects with much less time and errors. The leveling method consists of different tools that are part of the Anti Lippage Tile Leveling System to keep your floor tiles nice and clean.

Parts of the DTA Lippage System

The lippage system consists of three leveling tools: leveling caps, tile spacers, and a tile leveling gun. By coherently using these three tools, you’ll be able to install tiles free from lippage consistently.

  • Tile leveling spacers – used to prevent your tile from being too close together as well as keeping an even distance for each tile during the installation.
  • Tile leveling gun – the leveling gun tool is utilized after everything is tucked on the floor to tighten the caps to keep things as evenly placed as possible. 
  • Leveling system caps – the system caps are fitted right to the top of the spacers, which helps level the tiles in between.

Advantages of Using the DTA Leveling System

  • This system is purely designed to achieve a consistently leveled results across any tiled area. 
  • An effortless and quick way to lay out your tiles that takes away leveling errors, saving a ton of time for installers.
  • Designed for flexibility and performance as the system works and is suitable for both floors and walls.
  • The base of each leveling spacer is strategically designed to have holes to allow it to push through the wet adhesive, which then ensures equal adhesion for your tile floors.
  • Perfect leveling even if your tiles are uneven. This means that the system will work on various tile thicknesses.
  • The most cost-effective and versatile leveling system in the market.

How to Use the Lippage Leveling System

Before using the DTA Lippage Leveling System, you should first ensure that the floor is already prepared and leveled.

  1. Once the floor is ready and adhesives are already mixed, it is now time to lay down the first tile.
  2. Place the tile leveling spacers under the first tile that is already laid down. Make sure you space them out evenly if using multiple leveling spacers.
  3. After that, lay down the second tile, with the spacers hanging out in between the two tiles.
  4. Fit the cap on top of your leveling spacers and tighten them using the tile leveling gun.
  5. Gently repeat the whole process until you’ve already set the tiles on the entire floor.
  6. Wait for the adhesive to dry first, then remove the caps by simply kicking them off.

Easy Maintenance Tips for Underfloor Heating Systems

flooring design

Have you ever walked on a floor and noticed that it feels warm and cozy? Chances are, it’s an underfloor heating system at work. Due to its cost-effectiveness and comfort, underfloor heating has become a popular choice for many homeowners and business owners. However, proper maintenance is needed to ensure its longevity and peak performance. 

In this article, we’ll share with you some tips and tricks you can do today to preserve the effectiveness of your floor heating systems that should keep you warm and cozy during the cold months.

Periodic Cleaning of Your Heating Systems

Regular cleaning is always crucial to maintain your underfloor heating system’s efficiency. Over time, dirt and debris can build up on the heating pipes, leading to diminishing performance. To prevent this, using a soft-bristled brush is highly recommended to sweep the pipes and remove any accumulated dirt. Doing so ensures that the heating pipes remain clean and unobstructed, allowing for efficient heat distribution throughout your home. Regular cleaning makes a huge difference in extending the lifespan of underfloor heating systems and lets you make the most out of your money’s worth.

Always Check the Pressure

Besides cleaning, regularly checking the pressure gauge is also advised to ensure the pressure is within the optimal range. Low pressure could also lead to a decline in performance, so it’s vital to refill the system if you notice the pressure dropping below the recommended level. By keeping an eye on the pressure gauge and refilling the system as needed, you’ll be able to ensure that your underfloor heating system operates at peak efficiency and lets you avoid any potential issues in the long run.

Bleeding the System

Another maintenance task that is often overlooked is bleeding the system. Trapped air can cause cold spots on the floor, and bleeding the system can remove any air bubbles. In this part, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully is necessary to avoid damaging the system.

Inspect for Leaking Issues

flooring

Leaking is also a prevalent issue that can affect the performance of your underfloor heating system. Regularly inspecting the system for signs of leakage, such as damp patches on the floor is always a good idea to avoid unforeseen problems in the future. If you suspect a leak, immediately seek assistance from a technician, so they identify the source of the problem and make the necessary repairs. Ignoring a leak can further damage the system and even pose safety hazards, so it’s best to stay vigilant and address issues like leakage immediately.

Routine Servicing for Maintenance

A skilled technician can inspect the system’s components, such as the boiler, valves, and pipes, to identify any issues before they escalate. To keep your underfloor heating system in excellent condition and prevent any potential breakdowns, routine servicing is highly recommended. A well-maintained underfloor heating system is more efficient and can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for costly repairs.

Consider the Compatibility of Thermostat

Choosing a compatible thermostat for your underfloor heating system is also crucial. Different thermostats are designed for specific heating systems, so make sure to choose one that is compatible with your underfloor heating system. The thermostat should also be located in a suitable location, away from any heat sources or drafts.

Seek Expert Advice On Flooring Types

The type of flooring above your underfloor heating system can also affect its performance. Certain types of flooring, such as thick carpets or vinyl, can restrict the heat flow and reduce the system’s efficiency. Therefore, consulting your underfloor heating system’s manual for advice on suitable flooring types can help ensure maximum performance.

Home Improvements

It’s crucial to be cautious while performing home improvements to prevent any damage to the underfloor heating system. Whenever you’re planning to drill into the floor or carry out any renovation work, ensure that you take the necessary precautions to avoid damaging the underfloor heating system.

If you’re not sure about how to proceed, it’s always advisable to seek guidance from a qualified technician who can help you with the necessary steps to ensure the safety of your heating system. Remember, taking care of your underfloor heating system is essential to ensure its longevity and efficient functioning, and any damage can lead to costly repairs.

Final Thoughts

Bottomline, underfloor heating systems are excellent heating solution that provides comfort and cost-effectiveness. However, proper maintenance is paramount to ensure its efficient operation and longevity. Regular cleaning, bleeding, servicing, checking the pressure and looking for leaks are all important maintenance tasks. By following these tips, you can enjoy and make the most out of the benefits of underfloor heating for many years to come.

Have you found these underfloor heating maintenance tips helpful? Leave a comment down below and share us your thoughts.

How to Clean Hardwood Floors?

How to Care for Your Hardwood Flooring

Aside from bringing a luxurious classic vibe to your home, Hardwood Floors also have inherent properties like dust repellant and other features that make them a viable flooring option for most homes. However, they are certainly not the easiest to maintain as they would require regular maintenance if you really want to keep that squeaky clean finish and away from damage.

In this blog, we’ll be mentioning some practical tips you can do at home on how to clean filthy hardwood floors, so you can ensure that they will last you longer and enjoy the aesthetic feel it’s bringing to the table. These methods are simple and absolutely applicable to everyone who wants to keep their hardwood floors sparkling and fresh.

Vacuum Regularly

Cleaning your hardwood floors doesn’t have to be complicated. Even a regular run-through of vacuum cleaning should do the trick to remove unwanted dust and avoid filthy floors. If you can do this simple trick daily, it would be best to avoid dirt built-up undermining the appearance of your hardwood floors.

Choose the Right Cleaning Products

The products you use for your floors can make or break the quality of your surface, so you must choose wisely the products you’ll be using to clean your hardwood floors. Make sure that you’ll use a chemical solution explicitly made for wood to prevent damaging your surface material and keep them squeaky clean all the time. We recommend you use this Wood & Laminate Floor Cleaner as it is tested and proven safe for all flooring types and is an environmentally friendly cleaner.

Keep Your Hardwood Floors Dry

Using a wet mop is something that you shouldn’t often do when you’re dealing with hardwood floors. Leaving your floors wet could cause wood swells as moisture is one of the most common reasons for deteriorating wood material floors. To prevent this from happening, practice using a floor mop that is dry or slightly damp so you can keep your hardwood floors as dry as possible.

Touch Up Floor Scratches

Hardwood Floors look stunningly great and add depth to every home’s aesthetic feel. However, they are usually prone to floor scratches. The best way to maintain its look is to deal with minor scratches when you notice them and avoid touching up any further damage. Floor scratches are annoying, and they easily mess up the whole look of your hardwood floors.

Re-Finish Every Once in a While

Instead of having to replace your floors when they are obsolete, refinishing wood floors is an excellent way to make the most out of the built lifespan of your flooring. If you notice that your floor doesn’t seem to look dashing anymore, no matter how much you try to clean, it might be time for a refinish. This process will help replenish the natural color of your hardwood floors and allow you to enjoy brand-new surface floors at a much cheaper cost.

Final Thoughts

Indeed, despite all the required maintenance for keeping hardwood floors as clean as possible, it is certainly worth the work as they bring out the best in your place by providing a robust and durable surface floor with a sleek and luxurious visual aesthetic. May you learn to apply these simple steps in cleaning your hardwood floors.

How To Remodel Your Bathroom With Aging In Place Features In Mind

modern bathroom with white tile, a big mirror, faucet and more

The concept of aging in place isn’t new, but it is gaining steam in today’s world. Nursing homes can be lonely and expensive. With more people opting out of nursing homes than ever before, aging in place has become the standard for elderly citizens.

Whether you’re housing an elderly family or you yourself are looking to age comfortably in the peace of your own home, there are features you’ll need to keep you safe. Old age typically comes with a decrease in balance as well as other functions that you use to avoid injury on a daily basis.

This means you need extra support and stability in the form of aging-in-place features. In case you’re interested in aging in place, here are some bathroom features you should incorporate.

  1. A Non-Slip Floor

Bathroom floors can get pretty slippery. Slips lead to falls and falls lead to injury, so having a non-slip floor is essential. Both cork and rubber make excellent choices for flooring that won’t become slippery, even when wet.

They also have some give to them and won’t result in bruising should you or a loved one hit the deck. Of course, you’ll need to make sure you have adequate floor drainage as well, especially if you have a wet bathroom.

  1. Touchless Faucets

Bathrrom Round Sink

No longer just a staple of public restrooms, touchless faucets allow you to turn your sinks on and off without reaching all the way to the back of your counter to grab a handle or knob. They lessen the likelihood of a muscle strain or fall occurring, and they are easier on the small joints of the hands and fingers too. Shop Kissah Single Lever

  1. Curved Countertops

Bathrrom Bathtub

Countertop edges take the lives of many elderly people each year. These edges tend to be hard and pointy, which spells disaster for a vulnerable citizen who might stumble or slip into one. If you want a bathroom fit for aging in place, you need curved, smooth countertop edges.

You might also consider fitting some specialized padding around the edges of your bathroom countertops for extra protection. It might seem insignificant but it can quite literally mean the difference between life and death in many cases.

  1. High Toilets

Many elderly folks have weak or compromised knees, which makes squatting down onto a normal toilet a painful and potentially dangerous experience. Raise your toilets up to the point where you don’t need to put undue pressure on your knees when sitting down.

You should also have at least two handrails in your bathroom. One for support getting in and out of the shower and one for getting up and down on the toilet.

Make Your Bathroom Nearly Injury-Proof with these Safety Features

The bathroom is one of the deadliest rooms in any house, so implement non-slip flooring, curved countertop edges with padding, touchless faucets, and high toilets. Doing so will allow you to rest easier at night knowing your bathroom won’t be the cause of injury to yourself or someone you love.

Skylar Ross is a contributor to Innovative Building Materials. He is a blogger and content writer for the residential and commercial flooring industry. Skylar is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and manufacturers discover materials and methods of installation that increase property value, improve durability, and discover innovative flooring options for their home or commercial space.

Copyright © 2020 FlooringSupplyShop.com

Read More:

Hard Surface Flooring | Flooring Supply Shop Blog