06/05/2010

What to Look for When Purchasing Tile

Posted by The Flooring Expert under Bathroom Design, Ceramic Tile Countertops, custom floor designs, DIY, Do it Yourself, Floor Installations, Floor Maintenance, Flooring Choices, Granite, Green Flooring, Home Improvement, Kitchen Design, Limestone, Marble, Stone Flooring, Stone Flooring Maintenance, Tile Floor Installations, Tile Flooring, Tile Installations, Tile Maintanence | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , |
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By Jordan Rocksmith

Picture of Bathroom Tile

Tile is a long lasting and effective product that can be used throughout your home. From countertops to flooring the options for where you can place tile are limitless. Tile is extremely durable and long lasting. You will easily find that it comes in many forms, colors, shapes and styles. Whether you are
remodeling your home, or constructing a new home tile should always be considered as a primary option.

Tile can be easily maintained and clean making it easier to keep your home sanitary. Tile is made of many different materials that consist of stone, marble, or a man made blend with sand, stone, color, and the compression of ingredients that create everlasting durability that easily suits everyday living.

Whether industrial, commercial, or residential tile is the product of today and our future.

When going to purchasing tile you can find it through a home improvement centers, contractors, or directly through flooring manufacturers.

When searching for tiles for your walls you want something smooth with a glassy texture that will be easy to wipe in-case something is spilled on the wall you can just wipe it up easily. Searching for flooring is different.

While searching for flooring you want to find the tile with the highest quality. When seeking tile for your floors it is good to look for tile that has more slip resistance than others. Slip resistant tiles are made with sand causing a bit of a rougher surface, they are still easy to clean and wipe up. Sand tiles are safer for your home, especially in areas such as the bathroom or kitchen. Tiles that are made with sand can last 20-30 years longer than most of the other tiles you may find today.

Tile is truly the flooring of the future so if you want to set your house up for increased value install tile today.

About the author:
Kelly and Glenn’s (http://www.tileoutletwilsonville.com/) specialty is Granite Countertops. Also offer one of the largest selections of Tile in the area.

 

04/09/2010

Considering Porcelain Tile Floors

Posted by The Flooring Expert under DIY, Flooring Choices, Home Improvement, Kitchen Design, Tile Floor Installations, Tile Flooring, Tile Installations, Tile Maintanence | Tags: , , , , , , , , , |
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Considering Porcelain Tile Floors? How to know whether they’re top quality

By Harry Worthington

If you have considered upgrading to tile flooring, you are probably overwhelmed with the options when it comes to porcelain tile floors. With so many different brands to consider, not to mention the huge variation in the price of different tiles, it can be difficult to determine which tiles are truly of top quality.

Price may not necessarily mean top quality so looking deeper into a few aspects of the tile can really help determine which tile is the best. Keep in mind that while top quality is important, it should be used as a way to help pick the right tiling after finding choices that work with the décor you have chosen, as well as fit in your budget.

Determining tile quality by looking at the wear rating The first thing to consider when
looking at the quality of porcelain tile floors is to look at the wear rating. The ratings come from the Porcelain Enamel Institute which tests tiles and assigns a wear rating based on how the tile fairs in their tests. The rankings are one through five, with one being considered not usable for flooring and five being tested to withstand constant abuse of even the heaviest foot traffic in a commercial or industrial application. Most
porcelain tiles are rated as a five, but there are a few varieties that do not, so it should be checked and verified that the tile has been tested and does score a four or five on the
PEI scale.

Determining tile quality through observation there are a number of other factors to look at when comparing different tiles from a quality perspective. While most porcelain tile floors are going to wear well, finding tiles of the utmost quality requires a careful look at the product out of the box. Looking at the tile, the tiles should look like they all match. If there is a pattern, it should be consistent across a number of tiles, as should the colour. If possible, sample tiles from different boxes to insure that they are consistent.

The next thing to look carefully at is the flatness of the tile. The best way to do this is to look down the edge of a tile and see how straight the line is. If the tile bows out, the tile will have more lip to it, which may or may not be something you desire. The lip is what you feel when you run your hand across the tile.
Proper grouting can mask some of the lip, but the tile shouldn’t bow too much, as it will look like it wasn’t installed properly, more than being lower quality tile. Finally, the tiles should be of a consistent size. By laying out three rows of three tiles from a representative sample, you will be able to see if they are the same size more easily than comparing single tiles. The sample should be square.

At this time, inspecting the tiles for cracks in the finish or glaze is easy to do as well. The cracks will appear to look like lizard tales and even the best tile will have an occasional tile that is missed. However, if a number of things are wrong with the tile, it is probably best to find a different one for your project.

About the author:
Are you looking to improve your home with Porcelain Tile Floors? If so then why not contact Porcelain Tiles, this company can help you. For more information on this company please visit the website at http://www.porcelain-tiles.co.uk/

 

02/15/2010

Kitchen Remodeling: Your Palette of Materials

Posted by The Flooring Expert under DIY, Do it Yourself, Home Improvement, Kitchen Design, Real Estate | Tags: , , , , , , , |
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By James Mahoney

Kitchen Design Experts

By far, the majority of your kitchen remodeling budget will be spent on materials. All the new kitchen remodeling ideas in the past ten years have incorporated unique and beautiful cabinetry, countertops, flooring, lighting and hardware made from a huge range of woods, synthetics and recycled materials.

If you’re interested in learning more about design plans for kitchen remodeling which use unique materials, check out the treasure-trove of articles and resources on the website KitchenDesignerIdeas.com.

You’ll find beautiful, exciting ideas which will inspire your own dream kitchen.

Your kitchen remodeling palette includes:

Cabinets Cabinets are the biggest consideration for most kitchen remodeling projects. Since they line the walls, your cabinetry can set the tone for your entire room. Hundreds of cabinet makers around the country have developed designs that range from traditional to ultra modern in every color imaginable. They can be made from wood, bamboo, laminate, and even stainless steel.

Countertops Countertops are often chosen to coordinate with the cabinets. There are thousands of styles in materials that range from granite to recycled glass. You can go for a natural look or be daring with bold, bright colors. Tiles are another great countertop material and they can be incorporated
into artistic kitchen wall tile designs that add to your décor.

Lighting Lighting is the most under-estimated component to your kitchen. Your lighting can set a mood, give you the best environment for preparing food, and add an artistic flair. You’ll be able to find lighting that matches your overall décor, and which is as functional as it is beautiful.

Flooring No design plans for kitchen remodeling are complete without addressing the flooring. Your flooring choice should not only coordinate with your overall décor, it should add a dimension of comfort to the room. Flooring care is also a very important consideration, since your kitchen floor requires more cleaning than any other area of your house.

Windows Windows add the most important element to any room: natural light. Your kitchen windows can bring the outdoors inside, creating a room that is tranquil and inviting for your family to spend time in.

Appliances Technology is amazing. Today’s appliances are not only aesthetically pleasing, they are infinitely more efficient. Your family can use these tools to enjoy your kitchen and protect the planet. When you create your design plans for kitchen remodeling be sure to include appliances you’ve
researched for their beauty and efficiency.

If you’re anticipating the start of a kitchen remodeling or redesign project, don’t forget to check out the best online resource for articles and ideas: KitchenDesignerIdeas.com. You’ll have fun planning the kitchen of your dreams with the help of this amazing online resource.

About the author:
James Mahoney is the owner of Kitchen Designers Ideas.com. He has written many articles on kitchen design and puts out an information packed newsletter. Learn about kitchen design ideas and trends by visiting his site at
www.KitchenDesignersIdeas.com.

 

12/28/2009

Fabulous and Inexpensive Ceramic Tiles

Posted by The Flooring Expert under Ceramic Tile Countertops, DIY, Do it Yourself, Floor Installations, Flooring Choices, Home Improvement, Kitchen Design, Real Estate, Tile Floor Installations, Tile Flooring, Tile Installations, Tile Maintanence | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , |
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By Jacob Oramy

Ceramic tiles have emerged as the most popular, versatile and beautiful tiles options available to the homeowners today. These tiles are available in wide range of sizes, colors and designs. Whether you intend to set a new bath or remodeling a traditional look for your kitchen, you can always have a handy option of fitting a ceramic tile. It works equally well for flooring, countertop, backsplash or wall.

In simple terms, Ceramic tile is a mixture of clay which has been shaped and heated at high temperatures which results in its hard body. This hard material is then left untreated or it may receive a glazed wear layer. In its most basic form, ceramic tile is clay with colored glass coating packaged in a box.

Selecting ceramic tiles can be fun at the same time confusing. The market is flooded with several varieties, patterns, and colors of these tiles. The entire house, especially the bathroom and kitchen dramatically transforms with the installation of these tiles.

The first step is to choose the right kind of tiles. It is recommended that you consult a tile installer or a retailer and get the right combination of looks, durability and even price for a particular season. There are myriad tiles available in the section of ceramic tiles; this means that you will definitely find the right kind of tiles available for your bathroom or kitchen. You need to consider certain before you visit a ceramic tile store, like you should be aware of tile size that you are looking for, the color, texture and even the budgetary concerns. Having a good outline of what you require and you are looking for will help you to streamline your choices easily.

Once you have decided upon the tile of your choice, your next step is to weigh the installation aspects. Kick start the installation procedure with a clean, stable and a firm leveled surface, apply the mortar, lay the tiles and then let it dry properly. The tiles should be left to settle for at least 1 day is most. However it is important to remember the fact that the drying time depends on the characteristic and size of the installation. As the mortar gets completely dried then you need to apply the grout. Grout is the substance that fills the seams between the tiles and it also prevents the dirt and the moisture to get in between as well as beneath the tile and further it increases the life of the tile flooring, countertops and even walls in the restroom.

Ceramic tiles are an excellent material for tub and shower walls. It can withstand excess moisture, is easy to clean and maintain and durable enough to endure a lifetime of hot, soapy soakings. Still, tiles need some care and maintenance. Tiled walls are only as strong as the thin grout joints between the
tiles. Once the grout starts to soften and crack, it hardly takes time for water to seep in and damages the mortar and drywall behind the tile. The best way to abstain from major wall repair is to re-grout any joint when the first crack or stain
appears.

About the author:
Jacob Oramy is a renowned writer who has written several articles on different interior designing techniques and his articles also gives light on the various uses of kitchen’s interior, Ceramic tiles, Granite tiles, Bathroom tiles and Mosaic tiles.

 

12/21/2009

DIY – At Home Projects Anyone Can Do

Posted by The Flooring Expert under Bathroom Design, Ceramic Tile Countertops, DIY, Do it Yourself, Home Improvement, Kitchen Design, Real Estate, The Holidays, Tile Flooring, Tile Maintanence | Tags: , , , , , , , , , |
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By Annie Deakin
When money is tight but your home still needs attention, there are plenty of ways to make your home look like a million bucks while spending less than a hundred. You don’t even need a lot of talent. If you have some simple, common tools and some time, you’re on your way to a TV-worthy DIY remodel.Two areas in a home that will always add value to your property are the kitchen and bathrooms. Keep these in pristine up to date condition and you’re doing yourself a favor. The other rooms, in all fairness, look great because of furniture and decorations which, when  taken out, leave a pretty stark space. And that’s OK. Baths and kitchens, however, look good because of what needs to stay: vanities, lighting fixtures, tiles, showers, tubs, faucets.

Focus on the bathroom first. It’s probably smaller, and a good place to ‘practice’ if this is your first time doing anything more involved than hanging a curtain rod. If you have vanities/counters that need some updating, frequently a coat of paint will work wonders. If you’re really brave, you don’t need to settle on plain old paint. Use a texturizing agent meant for walls. Decals, stencils, and sponging can add details that your neighbors will be envious of.

Even a new faucet is easy to install, and you can find beautiful choices for reasonable prices. Your local home store probably has written instructions to remove the old one and install the new one. Don’t get nervous – this is really easier than you can imagine.

Now is not the time to learn how to lay tile, but you can still improve the look of the tile you have. You can buy kits to fill in chips and even tint the filler to match.

Is the grout dark and moldy? You don’t need to spend time and aggravation trying to clean it. Just re-grout over it. You can buy grout pens in a variety of colors and paint over the grout you have. This is quite the invention! It works on floors, walls
and even inside showers.

Any room can benefit from the addition of a chair railing. They add character and provide a basis for breaking the room into two or more colors. These are ideal in bathrooms where you might want paint on the top and tile on the bottom, or just two different colors of paint. Chair railings need nothing more than a few nails and the correct measurements to put up. It’s amazing what a simple strip of wood can add to the ambiance of a room.

Tired of that old wallpaper but you hate the thoughts of steaming it off? Don’t bother! Paints nowadays can cover anything, including a layer of paper. Pull off any that is hanging and then use a sander (you can rent one) with a medium  grade sanding tool (ask where you rent this). Sand the paper till the wall is smooth. Rinse off with pain water, let try, and paint! (Don’t forget to add a chair railing!)

About the author:
Annie is an expert furniture and interior design writer. Her current area of specialism is bathroom cabinets, coffee tables and wooden garden furniture

 

09/28/2009

5 Tips on Selecting a Kitchen Floor Design

Posted by The Flooring Expert under Flooring Choices, Hardwood Flooring, Laminate Flooring, Stone Flooring, Tile Floor Installations, Tile Flooring, Vinyl Flooring | Tags: , , , , |
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By Nasreen Haque

Kitchen Flooring Design Resources

Kitchen Flooring Design Resources

You have to live with the kitchen design that you choose for several years. It is important to choose a floor design that you really love and not get it just because it is a good price. You want to be happy with your kitchen floor design since you keep it for several years. It is expensive to replace your kitchen floor every so many years so make sure that you are sure on the design.

Types of Kitchen Floors

Kitchen floors have different types to choose from. The main type is the type of material it is. The main types are vinyl and linoleum. It is the underlying of the floor design. Another option that people commonly like are hardwood floors.

Disadvantages of Vinyl

One of the disadvantages of vinyl is the chance of it ripping or tearing. Vinyl is only something that you would want to get as a last resort since it is the cheapest. There isn’t much durability regarding Vinyl.

Luxury Options for Floor Designs

The more expensive options are ceramic tile and stone tile. Ceramic and stone tile are much nicer looking and great for a kitchen floor. One thing that you need to know about these is the possibility of one of them breaking if you happen to drop a large object that is heavy. Ceramic and stone tile is something that you would most likely want a professional to install due to the expensive cost of the material in the first place. You want to have ceramic and stone tile installed by a professional because of the cost that you already spent, you want it to look nice when the project is complete.

Choose the Colors

A kitchen floor design needs to have a pattern and color. Most women like floral designs while men have a different opinion. So get together with the husband or wife to decide on the type of flooring together so there are no arguments later on. Color is important to have due to how it makes the kitchen look when its finally completed. Some individuals prefer the highly common black and white checkerboard type of look.

The Pictures

You may want to look at pictures of kitchen floor designed that you can SEE already completed. You can get the idea of how it will turn out by just stopping at any floor design place to look at some pictures in advance. Many of the local stores have a test model setup to show you how a certain ceramic or other thing turns out in a kitchen design setting once it is completed. They have displays on the floor usually.

The Advantages of a Professional Install of Kitchen Floor

Some people choose to install the new kitchen floor themselves or have it done professionally. If you decided to use vinyl then you can install it yourself without much trouble at all. Other floor installs should be done by a professional so there are no mistakes and that will save you money. It is also saves you time and the end result of a professional install as there are no mistakes whatsoever since they know what they are doing. Professional installers are insured most of the time as well.

About the author:

For more information on kitchens and kitchen designs, please visit the Wren Kitchens website.

 

07/24/2009

Simple and Easy Kitchen designs

Posted by The Flooring Expert under DIY, Do it Yourself, Flooring Choices, Home Improvement, Kitchen Design | Tags: , , , , , , |
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By Nasreen Haque

Bay-Area-Flooring7The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in the house. Consequently, it may begin to show wear sooner than other rooms. But, a full remodel isn’t always necessary and can be avoided. Focus on making changes that will make a big difference. There are several inexpensive design options that will give your kitchen a fresh look.

*A fresh coat of paint is always a wonderful backdrop.

Consider a new color in the kitchen . Not only does paint make a noticeable change, it can draw attention away from the things in the kitchen that you don’t want others to notice as much. For example, if the cabinets are not quite ready for an upgrade, but you want to draw less attention to them, consider a bolder color for the walls. Bold colors make a significant statement.

*Swap out the cabinet hardware.

Adding hardware to plain cabinets can offer more definition to your theme. Also changing the hardware on the cabinets, including exposed hinges, gives the kitchen more personality. It also gives the cabinets an updated appearance. If space is an issue in the kitchen, there are a number of creative options to consider, which will add beauty and functionality.

*Add wall shelves. Shelves not only add space, but they add convenience.

They are a great way to store and show off bulk items, such as peppercorns, onion powder, dried parsley and all your herbs and spices. You can also sling a few small hooks on the shelves to hang potholders, spatulas and spoons.

*Pot racks are beautiful space savers.

Pot racks are perfect solutions for space issues. Pots and pans take up a lot of storage space in cabinets. One way to alleviate cluttered cabinet woes is to hang your cookware. This is not only convenient, but also makes it easier to find everything you need. Pot racks are also attractive and add character to your cooking area. Many pot racks now have lighting inside them. This makes a pot rack even more functional by solving potential lighting issues while adding space and convenience.

*Dining tables can solve space problems.

Many dining tables now have storage cabinets in their base. Consider replacing your dining table with one that has no legs at the corners. This permits a chair to be slid all the way under a table, which provides more floor space. Also since the table base is located in the center of this type of table, many are equipped with a shelf and a cabinet. Also consider replacing your dining table with one that allows for leaves to be folded into the table when not in use.

*Replacing a floor adds beauty.

There are a plethora of options for floor replacements. Consider what would best meet your needs. Every type of floor has pros and cons. Decide first what you need. For example, ceramic and porcelain tile are beautiful, but they are very hard. Anything made of glass or stoneware that falls on these floors will inevitably break. Also, the grout must be sealed regularly and tends to stain. Vinyl, wood and laminate flooring are also beautiful and long lasting. However, they are more easily nicked and scratched.

Adding new designs to the kitchen can be costly or it can be achieved on a low budget. Either way, the options from which to choose are enormous. The best way to select what you want, is to decide what you most need from your kitchen.

About the author:
For more simple and easy kitchen ideas, please visit the Wren Kitchens website.

 

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