6 Laminate Flooring Myths Debunked: Get the Facts

6 Laminate Flooring Myths Debunked: Get the Facts

Laminate flooring has been around for years, and people love it for its realistic visuals, durable wear layer, and budget-friendly price. But a long history also means that a lot of laminate flooring myths have developed over time.

This can lead to confusion when shopping. Do you really know laminate, or have you fallen for the myths?

Today, you can find out! We know all about laminate flooring, so we’re debunking six of the most common myths!

Related Content >Laminate Flooring Buying Guide

Myth 1: Laminate Flooring is More Toxic than Other Flooring

12mm Hillside Hickory Waterproof Laminate

Expert Opinion: False

FDA and EPA guidelines have ensured that many floor options, including our laminate, are made of low-VOC materials. 

In the past, there have been some concerns about the health effects of laminate flooring. It’s true that some lower-quality laminate can off-gas VOCs (volatile organic compounds), but that’s not the case for all laminate floors.

Flooring retailers and manufacturers are also taking the initiative to supply sustainable lumber sources. To ensure you find non toxic laminate flooring, look for products that are FloorScore certified to meet FDA and EPA guidelines. 

Pro Tip: If you are interested in our products but unsure of the VOC certifications, contact us to speak to a flooring expert who can help. 

Myth 2: Laminate is Easily Damaged

10mm Antique Craft Waterproof Laminate

Expert Opinion: False

Some people think that laminate flooring is flimsy and that even the slightest drop or scratch will damage it. But in reality, that’s not the case. This is very durable flooring that can last for years with proper maintenance.

These days, laminate is designed with a high-density core that provides durability and stability,  and it features a protective finish that resists scratches, wear, and stains.

Pro Tip: Laminate flooring comes with an Abrasion Class (AC) rating, which determines how much traffic it can handle. To find the best laminate flooring for your space, always check the AC rating

AC1: Good for closets and bedroomsAC2: Good for dining rooms, living rooms, and family roomsAC3  Good for high traffic areas in your home and light traffic in commercial spacesAC4 Good for any residential application and medium traffic in commercial spacesAC5 Good for high traffic commercial spaces

Myth 3: Laminate Looks Cheap or Ugly

14mm KronoSwiss Origin Wide Plank Laminate

Expert Opinion: False

Some people think of laminate and imagine a flimsy product with an obviously fake image layer that peels up on the edges. Of course, nobody wants that in their home.

Fortunately, laminate has come a long way from the stereotypes from decades ago. Advances in technology have led to highly realistic visuals and textures. Laminate is embossed in the register, meaning that the texture matches the wood grain visual. It looks so real that sometimes it’s hard to tell if it’s real wood or laminate just by looking at it. 

Not only does laminate look realistic, but it also follows some of the most popular wood-look trends. You can find laminate with gray tones, light wood tones, high color variation, wide planks, and more.

Pro Tip: Discover the latest styles with our laminate flooring trends guide. Keep up with the hottest colors, textures, layouts, and more.

Myth 4: Laminate Floors Can’t Handle Water

12mm Mohawk Sawmill Ridge Waterproof Laminate

Expert Opinion: Somewhat False

Laminate flooring has a reputation for not handling water very well, and it has been known to absorb water and swell easily. In the past, just one leak could lead to headaches and water damage. But all of that is changing. 

New waterproof features are proving to be a game-changer in laminate flooring:

Waterproof seal: The surface is coated in a water-repellent seal that keeps spills and moisture from the core.Watertight joints: Each plank locks together tightly to prevent water from seeping through. Some waterproof laminate flooring features bevels that wrap over the plank’s edges for even better moisture protection at the joints.Water-resistant core: The core layer is made of compressed high-density fiberboard (HDF) with resins. This makes it less susceptible to swelling and ensures better water resistance.

Waterproof vs. Water Resistant Vinyl

Not all laminate is waterproof. You can still find laminate flooring that isn’t designed to handle moisture, or that isn’t completely waterproof. 

For example, some brands will use the term “waterproof” to describe their products while others will say “water-resistant.” So what’s the difference?

Water resistance: Water-resistant laminate is waterproof on the surface, so if you spill something on it, it won’t be damaged. However, the backing is still vulnerable to moisture, so if water seeps up under your floor, that can be damage. Waterproof: Waterproof laminate resists moisture both from the top and the bottom. Even if water seeps up from under the floor, the floor won’t fail.

Pro Tip: You can also improve your laminate floor’s water resistance during installation. Some manufacturers include instructions to finish the laminate floor installation with silicone sealant around the perimeter and under the baseboards for more water resistance. We also recommend using an underlay with a vapor barrier or adding a vapor barrier if the laminate already comes with a preattached underlay.

Related Content >Waterproof Laminate Flooring Buying Guide

Myth 5: Cleaning Laminate is Difficult

12mm Mannington Palace Waterproof Laminate

Expert Opinion: False

You might have heard that laminate flooring is tough to clean, and that introducing too much moisture while cleaning can cause damage. 

Truthfully, you can run into some issues if you frequently wet-mop your floor. For non-waterproof products, water can seep into the seams and make your floor swell or bubble. Fortunately, this problem is very easy to avoid once you know how to clean laminate floors the right way! 

First of all, you don’t need to mop frequently. Mopping is only recommended every two months or so. For weekly cleaning, you just need to sweep away dust and dirt with a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum without a beater bar.

When the time comes to mop, we suggest using cleaning products rather than mopping the floor with water. Bona and Swiffer have both made solutions that are great for laminate. 

Pro Tip: For more tips on how to clean laminate flooring, check out this in-depth guide

Myth 6: Laminate Flooring is Expensive

10mm Mohawk Castlebriar Waterproof Laminate

Expert Opinion: False

Because it can look so realistic and have such a durable wear layer, some people think laminate flooring is expensive. 

But budget-conscious buyers don’t need to fear! Laminate flooring provides excellent value without breaking the bank. 

According to HomeAdvisor, the lower price range of laminate flooring is an average of $2.70/sqft. That’s much more affordable than an average of $5.00 to $8.00/sqft for solid hardwood flooring.

Pro Tip: When creating a budget for new laminate flooring, don’t forget to consider extra costs, such as installation fees and removal of your existing flooring.

Related Content >Laminate Flooring Installation Cost Guide

Conclusion

Finally, these myths are busted! Now you’ve got the facts about laminate flooring, and you can shop with confidence.

To learn more about laminate flooring,check out our buying guide, or order some free samples to experience it yourself!

Order Free Samples Shop All Laminate Flooring

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Tips to Protect Floors Under Large Appliances

In your kitchen and laundry room, heavy appliances can stay in place for years, which can cause dents and ruts in the floor’s surface over time. If your appliance vibrates, it can also damage your floors. You may also need to move your appliances occasionally to clean under them or get them serviced, and you’ll want to use some additional precautions to protect your floors when this happens.

How to Protect Your Flooring From Appliances

You can do a few things to ensure your flooring stays safe from appliances:

Be extra careful when installing or servicing appliances:If someone’s installing a fridge for you, discuss refrigerator floor protection and make sure they have a dolly and the knowledge on how to install the appliance without causing expensive damage to your floors. Instead of moving heavy appliances to clean under them, consider using a wand attachment on a vacuum to remove dirt under and around them.Keep your appliances level:Measure the floor under your appliance to ensure there are no irregularities. Even a small tilt can cause it to move, which can create scrapes, dents and scratches.Place a barrier between your appliance and the floor:One of the most effective ways to prevent damage is to place your heavy appliances on a piece of plywood or use some other barrier to ensure the machine is not resting directly on your floor. You can purchase anti-vibration pads from manufacturers and many stores. When you place them on the bottoms of your appliances, you can even avoid scratching hardwood.Keep your appliances in good repair: Malfunctioning appliances can vibrate more, which can put your floors at risk. If any parts break, they can scrape the floor, and if your appliance springs a slow leak, there may be water damage under it for a while before you notice it. Regularly check your appliances to ensure they are in good working order, and call for repairs if they need any maintenance or work.Try to place your appliances on hard surfaces:Consider placing your appliances in rooms with tile or hard-surface flooring specially designed to withstand heavy weight. Your flooring should also be made to resist dents and scratches. Flooring with an added top coat or layer of anti-scratch surfacing can help you keep your floors looking their best.

Learn More About Protecting Your Flooring Under Large Appliances With 50 Floor

If your floors have been scratched or dented already and you need new flooring — or you want to install hard-surface flooring before you buy new appliances —set an appointment with usfor an in-home consultation. 50 Floor offers a unique in-home shopping experience because our flooring professionals understand your home is the best place to evaluate your flooring options.

During your in-home consultation, our team can bring flooring samples so you can test their strength for yourself. Our exceptional customer service is always there to assist, from the moment you decide you need flooring up to when your floor is correctly installed.

The post Tips to Protect Floors Under Large Appliances appeared first on 50 Floor.

What Is the Janka Hardness Rating Scale for Wood Floors?

Different wood species have various levels of hardness, and the Janka hardness scale is one standardized way of comparing types of wood. While the Janka wood hardness scale is not the only factor you will want to consider when choosing wood floors, it is something to think about as you select the right floor for your lifestyle and needs.

What Is the Janka Hardwood Scale?

The Janka hardwood scale was named after Gabriel Janka, who worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Products Lab. His scale uses a test for denting and wear to compare woods. In strictly controlled conditions, a steel ball is pushed into similar planks of wood using a heavy force. Each wood species can take a different amount of pressure before the ball becomes halfway embedded in the wood — this test is what the Janka hardwood scale is based on.

Wood hardness is measured in the amount of force (in lbf, or pounds of force) needed to push the ball into the wood. Some popular examples of Janka hardness ratings include:

Douglas Fir:660 lbfBlack Cherry:950 lbfRed Oak:1,290 lbfAmerican Beech:1,300 lbfHard Maple:1,450 lbfBrazilian Cherry:2,350 lbf

Is the Janka Hardwood Scale Important When I Buy Flooring?

In general, experts recommend woods have a rating of 1,000 lbf or higher to be used for flooring, but there are a few other factors to consider. First, a higher Janka hardwood scale rating is not always better. Very hard woods may be difficult to cut or work with, which could limit your flooring options and may make floors more expensive.

The Janka hardwood scale considers wood in its raw form, but wood prepared for hardwood floors may be treated and coated with special finishes to make it more resilient and stronger. Today, many processes allow you to have the look of natural wood floors without worrying as much about dents.

Finally, many wood floors today areengineered hardwood. Engineered hardwood consists of layers of hardwood crisscrossed together, and this can truly make your floors more than the sum of their parts. Engineered wood flooring can sometimes be stronger than hardwood or consist of different woods with various ratings.

The Janka hardwood scale measures for indents, so it can approximate the effects of furniture, high heels and pets. However, it may not anticipate other damage. It does not consider how the wood reacts to moisture, how likely it is to crack or have flaws or how it performs in a home.

Talk to 50 Floor About Your Flooring Options

The Janka hardwood scale can be a useful piece of information when choosing your hardwood flooring, but it is not the only thing to consider. If you’re wondering which flooring may be right for you, get in touch with us to book a consultationin your home. Our professionals can answer your questions and guide you through the entire process of getting beautiful floors, right from your own residence.

The post What Is the Janka Hardness Rating Scale for Wood Floors? appeared first on 50 Floor.

2021 Bedroom Flooring Ideas: 18+ Trends to Upgrade Your Personal Oasis

2021 Bedroom Flooring Ideas: 18+ Trends to Upgrade Your Personal Oasis

Your bedroom should be a comfortable escape from the stresses of the day. The right bedroom floor will help set a tranquil, restful tone for the entire room, but what are the best bedroom flooring ideas to fit your space?

When shopping for the best flooring for your bedroom, consider your style and which looks will grow with the rest of your home. To get your room off to the right start, let’s see what’s trending with bedroom floors.

What to Look for in Bedroom Flooring

How to Choose Bedroom Flooring: Shaw Floorigami Striation Carpet Plank

To ensure your bedroom is the ultimate place for comfort, there are a few key characteristics to look for in your flooring. 

Warmth: The last thing you want to wake up to is cold floors. Make sure your floors can stay at the perfect temperature, even through the colder months. Comfort: Because your bedroom is a place of relaxation, the floors should add to the overall feeling of your room. Sound control: Hollow, echoey sounds are unwelcome with any floor, but especially in your bedroom. Find a floor that keeps footfalls quiet. Style: To tie the whole room together, your bedroom floor should fit the same vibe as your furniture and decor. Maintenance: Make sure you choose a bedroom floor that is easy to care for. Whether you’re cleaning up a spill, or experiencing a lot of foot traffic, taking care of your floors should be a snap. Trend longevity: With trends coming and going and the bedroom being your personal space, it’s important to find floors that will stay on-trend with the ever-changing style of your room. Related Content > Flooring Trends: 25+ Top Flooring Ideas This Year

Trending Bedroom Floor Types

Bedroom Flooring Types: Daltile Saddle Brook

What kinds of floors are trending in bedrooms this year? Between carpet, tile, and wood-look flooring, you have options to choose from. 

Bedroom Carpet

Bedroom Carpet Floors: Easy Street Carpet Tiles

Perhaps the most classic bedroom flooring ideas around, carpet comes in a variety of styles, such as rolls, tiles, and rugs. Carpets have come a long way over the past decade with features like stain-proofing and eco-friendliness, so they have more durability and style than ever before. 

But with all the types of carpet, what types specifically work as bedroom flooring? Let’s talk about it. 

Carpet Rolls

Carpet Roll Bedroom Flooring: Anderson Tuftex Chapel Ridge

Carpet rolls come in many different colors, textures, and thicknesses. In bedrooms, the most common style of carpet rolls is plush, neutral carpets that create a relaxing, cozy backdrop for the rest of your room. 

Nowadays, most carpet rolls are often stain-resistant and water-resistant, making them wonderfully low maintenance. There are even some carpet rolls made out of recycled materials such as water bottles, so you can enjoy a warm, durable, eco-friendly carpet.   

With textures ranging from Berber, to cut and loop, twist, and texture, your bedroom carpet is ready to make your bedroom comfy and stylish. 

SHOP CARPET ROLLS

Carpet Tiles and Planks

Carpet Tiles and Planks: Shaw Floorigami Scandi Chic Carpet Plank

For carpet that is easy to install and customize, consider carpet tiles or planks. With so many textures, colors, and pattern options, carpet tiles are perfect for stylizing every room. And what better place to customize your carpet flooring than your bedroom?

Whether you choose carpet planks or tiles, it’s common to see carpet tiles as beautiful area rugs or installed wall to wall in a bedroom. Plush carpet tiles are especially popular because you get the softness with ease of installation. 

SHOP CARPET TILES AND PLANKS

rea Rugs

Bedroom Area Rugs: Ikat Indoor Outdoor Area Rug

The cool thing about area rugs is that they go over an existing floor, no matter if it’s hardwood or more carpet. In bedrooms, area rugs are typically found in high traffic areas such as around the bed, or simply in the middle of the room to add coziness and style. 

Depending on the decor in your room, you can choose low pile or plush area rugs, and decide if you want solid colors or intricate patterns. 

Our area rugs come in many different sizes to fit any room. Not to mention the wide array of colors there are to choose from. All you have to do is roll it out, and voila character, added! 

SHOP AREA RUGS

Will the carpet bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

Carpet is a bedroom flooring ideas staple. For that reason and with the welcomed addition of carpet tiles and planks, you’ll see this type of floor in bedrooms for a long time. 

Related Content > Carpet Trends: 25 Eye-Catching Carpet Ideas

Bedroom Tile Flooring

Bedroom Tile Flooring: Daltile Memoir

Now that we’ve talked about the most common bedroom flooring idea, let’s dive into the most unexpected – tile. 

Because of tile’s reputation of being cold and hard, you probably wouldn’t expect it in a bedroom. However, tile is durable, moisture-resistant, low-maintenance, and incredibly stylish. Whether you’re looking for wood-look or geometric-shaped tile, your bedroom floor can be eye-catching. 

Probably one of the most popular types of tile flooring in bedrooms is large format tile or wood-look tile. Large-format tiles help the rest of the room feel bigger, while wood-look tile gives the same gorgeous look as traditional wood flooring, but with added durability.

Plus, if you want to add some warmth to your tile floors, simply throw a stylish area rug by your bed to keep your feet warm during the colder months. 

SHOP TILE FLOORING

Will the bedroom tile flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

It depends on the type of tile installed, and the aesthetic of your home. As for large format tile or wood-look tile, this trend will last in bedrooms for the next 15-20 years. For stone-look or mosaic floor tile, these styles tend to change more frequently and may need to be changed every 5 years to stay up to date.

Bedroom Vinyl Flooring

COREtec Plus 5

Vinyl flooring is one of the most versatile floors on the market. From vinyl planks to vinyl tiles to sheet vinyl, you can add character to every room of the house, especially your bedroom. 

Luxury Vinyl Planks and Tiles

Vinyl Bedroom Flooring: COREtec Plus Enhanced Waterproof Tiles

For added durability and style, luxury vinyl flooring is the perfect choice for bedroom floors. Available in a variety of textures and styles, vinyl tiles and planks create stone or wood look bedroom floors that are durable, resilient, and cozy.

People often choose beige, wide plank luxury vinyl as bedroom flooring because it’s classic and inviting, and the width of the plank will make the room feel larger.

With easy DIY installation, luxury vinyl flooring is the perfect addition to your bedroom. 

SHOP LUXURY VINYL FLOORING

Related Content > Vinyl Flooring Trends: 20+ Hot Vinyl Flooring Ideas

Sheet Vinyl

Vinyl Sheet Bedroom Flooring: Mohawk Versatech 13' 2

While sheet vinyl flooring is usually installed in small bathrooms or entryways, its gorgeous patterns have made a splash in bedroom flooring ideas. This year you’ll see both bold and delicate patterns to give your room an eye-catching element. 

Sheet vinyl is rolled vinyl that can be rolled or glued onto your subfloor. With durable features such as water resistance, these low-maintenance floors come in gorgeous colors and patterns to go with every room. From wood-looks to stone looks, and decorative patterns there’s a vinyl sheet that’s perfect for your bedroom. 

SHOP SHEET VINYL FLOORING

Will the vinyl bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

Luxury vinyl flooring will stand the test of time in bedroom flooring. As for sheet vinyl, this trend should continue for another 10-15 years. 

Bedroom Wood Flooring

Wood Bedroom Floors: 13mm Tuffcore Estate WaterResist Laminate

Wood flooring is an excellent and popular choice for bedroom flooring. From engineered wood flooring to laminate to traditional solid wood, there are so many shades and species options to help elevate your bedroom’s style. 

Engineered Hardwood Bedroom Flooring Ideas

Wood Bedroom Flooring: Toscana Hickory Engineered Hardwood

Engineered hardwood flooring is all over the bedroom flooring market because of its classic style. This year, you can expect long, wide-plank engineered hardwood in light, natural shades to elevate your bedroom’s timeless style. 

A wonderful alternative to solid hardwood flooring, engineered wood is topped with a real wood veneer and can be installed where traditional hardwood cannot. Available in a wide variety of wood species, engineered hardwood is the perfect bedroom flooring solution. 

SHOP ENGINEERED HARDWOOD FLOORING

Related Content > Tile Flooring Trends: 25+ Contemporary Tile Ideas

Bedroom Laminate Flooring

14mm KronoSwiss Origin Wide Plank Laminate

You can find laminate floors in all areas of the home, but in the bedroom this year a common style is wide plank laminate in lighter shades. You get the classic look of wood flooring with a twist of modernism in the width of the plank. 

Available in a variety of different species and plank sizes, laminate is also extremely durable and easy to install. Not to mention there are also waterproof laminate flooring options available in a variety of colors. Regardless of your room’s decor, laminate has you covered with flooring options.

SHOP LAMINATE FLOORING

Will the wood bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

Where there’s a wood-look floor, there are bedroom flooring ideas. Because of their ever-popular wood look, both engineered hardwood and laminate floors will remain a timeless bedroom flooring option. 

2021 Trending Bedroom Floor Looks

Trending Bedroom Flooring Looks: Daltile RevoTile - Wood Visual

With so many bedroom floors to choose from, there have to be specific looks that are trending this year, right? Absolutely! From wood looks to bold patterns, a lot is going on with bedroom flooring. 

Wood-Look Bedroom Flooring Ideas

Wood-Look Bedroom Floors: Daltile Cinematic

It’s not a big surprise that wood-look flooring is so often found in bedrooms. Wood floors are all the rage in every room of the home, but in the bedroom, it gives a classic look to the room and it’s easy to complement with decorations and furniture. 

In bedrooms, you’ll see wood-look tiles, vinyl, laminate, and even wide-plank engineered hardwood. Dark shades or neutral grays or greige (gray mixed with beige) will be the most popular colors for wood look bedroom flooring ideas. 

Plus, in most cases, wood-look floors are more durable and low-maintenance compared to traditional hardwood floors. 

Will the wood-look bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

Absolutely! Almost every floor has a wood-look option for a reason. It’s just that popular. You can expect to see wood-look flooring in bedrooms for a long time!

Patterned Bedroom Floors

Patterned Bedroom Flooring: Mannington Benchmark 12' Vinyl Sheet

If you want your bedroom floors to make a statement, patterned floors are the perfect trend for you. With sheet vinyl, carpet tile, or tile floors you can easily create a stylish, eye-catching floor, effortlessly. 

Patterned bedroom floors are often very subtle since a bold pattern might overwhelm the room. Think delicate patterns with white, beige, cool blue, or gray. This adds an element of fun while keeping relaxation as the main theme of the room. 

Will the patterned bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

While this trend is fun and beautiful, it’s unlikely that it will last for long. Bedrooms are where you go to feel relaxed and welcome. A patterned floor might be too over-stimulating after a while. This trend will most likely fade within the next 10 years. 

Stone-Look Bedroom Flooring

Stone-Look Bedroom Flooring: Stone Flex Tiles - Gemstone Collection

For a modern twist in your bedroom floors, consider stone-look flooring. This style adds a minimalist, classic style to your bedroom whether you use luxury vinyl tile or stone-look tile floors. 

Similar to tile floors, you can expect to see large format stone-look flooring. This makes the floor look seamless, and captures the modern vibe that many love. As for color, you’ll see a lot of whites and dark grays that resemble marble. 

The great thing about stone-look floors is that they look expensive, even if they’re not. So by putting them in your bedroom, they add a touch of elegance. 

Will the stone-look bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

If the modern style is the look you want for your bedroom, stone-look flooring will last a long time for you. However, in general, expect to see the stone look in more kitchens and bathrooms rather than bedrooms. 

Related Content > Laminate Flooring Trends: 13 Stylish Laminate Flooring Ideas

Bedroom Flooring Color Trends

Bedroom Color Trends: Shaw Albright Oak Engineered Wood

In every room of the home, color is everything. Color sets the tone of a room, so finding the perfect floors to complement the rest of the room is something you’ll want to consider. In 2021 and beyond, you’ll see a mostly cool color palette on the floors. 

Black Flooring for Bedrooms

Black Bedroom Flooring: Daltile RevoTile-Stone Visual

If you like the moody vibe for your room, black, or ebonized floors are huge this year. In tile flooring, luxury vinyl tile, or sheet vinyl, black flooring creates a modern twist to your bedroom. It’s bold and eye-catching but does not overwhelm the rest of the room. Plus, you can easily complement black floors with a variety of furniture and decor. 

Will the black bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

This trend tends to be cyclical with black moody floors and white-washed floors coming into the fold every 5-7 years.

White Bedroom Flooring Ideas

White Bedroom Flooring: Mannington Revive 12' Luxury Vinyl Sheet

White or whitewashed floors are a pretty big trend in most rooms. It brightens everything up and works for modern, farmhouse, and mid-century styles. Whether it’s plush white carpet, white tile, or whitewashed wood-look flooring, this trend creates a simple backdrop for every room. 

More than likely, you will see white stone-look flooring or some variation of what carpet with delicate patterns to add a warm touch to the bedroom. 

Will the white bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

Dramatic whites tend to be cyclical – but brightening up the room with neutrals or whites is a lasting style. 

Gray Bedroom Flooring

Gray Bedroom Flooring: New Standard 2 Rigid Core Vinyl Planks

If white is too bright, and black is too dark, gray floors are the perfect compromise. Great news, gray bedroom floors are also super popular this year. 

Gray is neutral and easy to pair with pops of color or stylize with different shades of gray. It brings a tranquil addition to bedrooms and can be found in every flooring option from wood to carpet. 

You can expect to see plush gray carpet in bedrooms everywhere since it keeps the warmth and neutrality you want in your oasis. But don’t count gray hard surface floors out either!

Will the gray bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

You can count on seeing gray flooring in bedrooms for years to come. It’s the perfect alternative to white or beige since it’s still neutral and it’s a cool color that’s not overpowering. 

Cool Blue Bedroom Flooring

Cool Blue Bedroom Floors: Mannington Benchmark 12' Vinyl Sheet

Blue is such an easy color to work with. It promotes tranquility and calmness, So why not add some of that to your bedroom floor. You will see blue in patterned floors, sheet vinyl, tile, and some carpet. 

Soft gray-blue is easy to complement with other colors, furniture, and decor. Plus it can be found in a variety of flooring options. 

Will the blue bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

Blue flooring will last in bedrooms for a few years. It’s fun and eye-catching, but flooring isn’t typically replaced every year. So if you no longer like the color in a couple of years, it’s on your floor so it’s not as easily removed. 

Beige Bedroom Flooring

Beige Bedroom Flooring: Masland Dorado Carpet Roll

The color beige applies to a large number of flooring options. Whether it’s a beige-colored wood-look floor, carpet, or tile, there are so many options. That’s what makes it perfect as bedroom flooring. 

Beige is the ultimate neutral color and goes well with other colors so it’s easy to work with. Plus it adds to the relaxing ambiance of your bedroom. 

Will the beige bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

Beige bedroom flooring will certainly last this year, and for many years on. It’s simple, neutral, and classic, regardless of the flooring type.  

Related Content > Wood Flooring Trends: 21 Trendy Flooring Ideas

2021 Bedroom Flooring Ideas: Layouts and Patterns

Bedroom Flooring Pattern and Layout Trends: Daltile Choreo

Depending on the type of bedroom flooring you choose, you can create patterns with different flooring layouts or find a floor with your desired pattern built right in. This year, there are a few floor layouts that are standing out. 

Herringbone Bedroom Flooring 

Herringbone Patterned Floor: Stone Flex Tiles- Mosaic Collection

The herringbone pattern is popular for many flooring types. Carpet, vinyl, laminate planks, and tile floors all use this stylish pattern since it creates a unique floor no matter where it’s installed. You can either create the herringbone pattern with planks or find flooring with the pattern pre-printed onto it.

While herringbone and chevron patterns look similar, they have a few differences that set them apart. Chevron floors require flooring to be angled and come together to a point. Although, some ceramic tiles, vinyl tiles, and laminate are producing products with the chevron pattern in the tile itself. Herringbone achieves a similar look by connecting two planks at a 90-degree angle as seen above. This layout makes a more narrow-angle, which makes a space look and feel larger. 

Will the herringbone bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

You’ll see herringbone bedroom floor for at least the next decade and, perhaps, even longer.

Large Format Tile Bedroom Flooring

Large Format Tiles: Daltile Chord

Large-format flooring makes the room feel bigger. You can expect to see large format tiles in a variety of bedrooms. Large format applies to tile flooring that is wider than 15”. This can be in hexagon-shaped flooring or basic rectangular or square-shaped tile flooring. 

In 2021, you can expect to see light stone-look large format tiles in bedrooms. This helps the room feel bigger while adding a neutral backdrop to the rest of the room.

Will the large format bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

Yes! This trend isn’t going anywhere because it makes small spaces feel big. It will feel like you’re adding square footage for smaller bedrooms and will elevate your home as a whole. 

Wide Plank Bedroom Flooring

Wide Plank Bedroom Flooring: 10mm Antique Craft Waterproof Laminate

Wood or wood-look planks 7” or wider are taking over bedroom floors since it makes the space feel bigger while looking gorgeous. This is one trend you can expect to see every year in every style for the foreseeable future. Longer, wider planks also make spaces look larger, more open, and less busy. The days of shorter, traditionally sized planks are over. Wide planks are becoming the new normal as they streamline the floor in every room. 

Will the wide plank bedroom flooring trend last in 2021 and beyond?

Manufacturers are trending towards even wider and longer planks. This trend will soon become a classic staple in bedrooms, living rooms, and even bathrooms, and it will likely last the test of time.

Related Content > Bathroom Flooring Trends: 20+ Ideas for an Updated Style

Bedroom Style Trends

Shaw Floorigami Scandi Chic Carpet Plank

What design style is your favorite? While your bedroom is a place of escape and relaxation, it’s also a reflection of you, and can be a striking, gorgeous part of your home. You just have to find the right design style. 

The Modern Bedroom

The Modern Bedroom: Wilderness Birch Engineered Hardwood

Modern design is one of the most beloved styles around. Clean lines, neutral color palettes, simplicity, and functionality are all encompassed in one classic style.

Modernism creates striking yet simple silhouettes with clean lines, earth-toned color palettes, and natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather. You won’t see pops of color in modern design. More often, you’ll see warm neutral colors, and a balance of all elements incorporated in the room. 

To incorporate modern style in a bedroom, you’ll find earth-toned color pallets, wide-plank wood-look floors, or large format tile floors with clean lines. 

Will the modern bedroom trend last in 2021 and beyond?

While modern style is minimalist, it’s also striking and not as welcoming. Because of that, this style will fade as a style for bedrooms within the next decade.

Related Content > Modern Flooring Ideas: 11 Options for Contemporary Homes

The Farmhouse Bedroom

The Farmhouse Bedroom: Shaw Reflections Hickory Engineered Wood

Because of popular home renovation shows, the farmhouse style became very trendy. Although minimal in design, farmhouse style brings in the outdoors through rustic wood tones, beauty through family heirlooms, and incorporation of country home decor.

Farmhouse-style bedrooms incorporate whites, grays, and neutral tones with personal touches everywhere. With wood-look floors, earth-toned carpets, or rustic area rugs you can live your farmhouse dream. 

Will the farmhouse bedroom trend last in 2021 and beyond?

The farmhouse-style bedroom won’t go anywhere any time soon. It’s welcoming, neutral, and personal all at once. 

Related Content > Farmhouse Flooring: 15+ Ideas for a Country Chic Home

The Vintage Bedroom

The Vintage Bedroom: Shaw Prodigy HDR Plus 7 Waterproof Vinyl Planks

Everyone loves a throwback in design. Anytime something is retro or vintage it gives the room some history and classic style. So it’s no surprise that we are seeing the vintage bedroom emerge into common bedroom decor. 

In the vintage bedroom, you’ll find plush carpet rolls of all colors, ornate furniture, and maybe a simple area rug to turn back time. 

Will the vintage bedroom trend last in 2021 and beyond?

As long as time moves forward, there will be a place for vintage bedrooms. This style has a history and classic style that takes us back to a simpler time. 

Conclusion

The most important thing to consider when it comes to bedroom flooring is if it helps welcome you home after a long day. 

If you’re looking to get started with new trendy bedroom flooring ideas, you can start here.

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The post 2021 Bedroom Flooring Ideas: 18+ Trends to Upgrade Your Personal Oasis appeared first on Flooring Inc.

The 4 Best Rustic Flooring Options for a Country Style Home

The 4 Best Rustic Flooring Options for a Country Style Home

Trends come and go, but some things never fade out of style. And rustic interior design is one of those things. Once you have the perfect furniture, paint, and decor to create a country-style home, the only thing left to do is choose the best rustic flooring to tie it all together!

But how do you find the right rustic flooring to fit your style? We can help.

In this guide, you’ll learn more about rustic interior design, discover the different flooring options for this look, and find out how to get the perfect rustic flooring for your home. 

Related Content >Wood Flooring Trends

What is Rustic Style?

Shaw Anvil Pro Plus 7 Rigid Core Vinyl Planks

This look is all about highlighting natural beauty. Rustic style features natural materials like wood and stone, or engineered materials designed to mimic those looks. 

With this rugged style, the flooring showcases natural details that enhance the beauty of your space. Wood and wood-look floors have knots, scrapes, and color variations. Meanwhile, stone and stone-look floors have rough edges and natural stone patterns. 

The floor also won’t look like it’s brand new. Instead, you’ll see signs of age and use. Flooring in this style has a lot of character, to create an authentic, timeworn look.

Rustic flooring is popular with cottagecore interior design, farmhouse style, and more. Just picture a luxurious lakeside cabin or a country cottage, and that’s rustic design.

Rustic Wood Flooring

Johnson Hardwood Vineyard Maple Engineered Wood

Wood flooring is probably the first option that comes to mind for rustic flooring. These days, engineered hardwood flooring is more and more popular. Engineered wood flooring is a durable alternative to solid hardwood flooring, featuring a real wood surface layer and an engineered core. 

With engineered hardwood floors, you get the warmth and beauty of genuine wood planks with the added benefit of durability and water-resistant flooring.

If you think engineered wood flooring is right for you, keep these tips in mind to help you choose the best rustic style.

Reclaimed Looks

Engineered Hardwood Shoreline Hickory Engineered Wood

Reclaimed wood flooring is made from planks recycled from other uses. For example, Barnwood flooring is a very popular option for the reclaimed look. As the name suggests, Barnwood comes from old barns and farmhouses and features scrapes, burns, nail holes, and more. This flooring has a lot of character

Naturally, because Barnwood and other reclaimed wood is in high demand and there’s such a limited supply, this is a pricey option. 

Fortunately, you can now find new flooring deliberately designed to look like reclaimed wood, so you get that sought-after look without all the hassle. Manufacturers create intentional scratches, scrapes, and even burns for the perfectly distressed wood flooring look.

Knots and Detailed Wood Grains

Anderson Imperial Pecan Engineered Hardwood

Different wood species have distinct grain and knot patterns, kind of like unique personalities. Some wood floors have a straight, even grain with minimal knots. Others have more swirls and color variations.

For the rustic style, the more knot and grain variation, the better. It’s all about showcasing the natural beauty of the wood and letting it be the star of the show. 

Pro Tip: For some truly gorgeous detail, look for Pecan, Hickory, and White Oak wood flooring.

Related Content >Best Farmhouse Flooring Ideas

Multi-Width Planks

Toscana Hickory Engineered Hardwood

This trend goes back to the reclaimed look. When piecing together recycled wood flooring, it’s possible that not all the planks will have the same width. This creates a varied appearance that’s subtle, but still carries a lot of personality. 

Luckily for you, there’s no need to sort through a stack of reclaimed wood to get this look. Manufacturers are now mimicking this width variation, so you can easily find new flooring with mixed-width planks. 

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Rustic Laminate Flooring

12mm Mannington Arcadia Waterproof Laminate

Laminate flooring offers highly realistic wood looks at a more budget-friendly price compared to engineered hardwood. With today’s manufacturing technology, you can find 3D photographic imaging that will make laminate flooring visually indistinguishable from real wood.

Plus, those beautiful visuals are protected by a tough wear layer that prevents wear, tear, and even scratches. That means your floor will be flawlessly rustic for years to come.

Does laminate sound right for you? Follow these trend tips to get the perfect rustic look. 

Light Wood Colors

14mm KronoSwiss Origin Wide Plank Laminate

While some wood naturally has darker tones, this effect often comes from staining, and a stained look is the last thing you want for a rustic home. Instead, rustic wood-look flooring features more light and natural tones. 

Light wood flooring also better showcases the knots and grain patterns that make wood-look flooring unique. As you shop, look for laminate in blonde and honey tones. These will work best in a rustic country style.

Wide Planks

12mm Mohawk Elderwood Waterproof Laminate

Wide planks are trending everywhere right now – not just in rustic interior design. That’s because wide planks create less visual disruption, and they make spaces feel larger. Plus, a wider plank lets you see more of the wood pattern.

When given the choice, it’s a good idea to opt for the wider plank. If you ever change your style, this look is versatile enough to fit with any aesthetic.

Shop Laminate Flooring

Related Content >Laminate Flooring Trends

Rustic Vinyl Flooring

Rustic House 7 Rigid Core Vinyl Planks

Luxury vinyl flooring is a great option for the rustic style because it offers many options. You can choose from vinyl planks, vinyl tiles, and even vinyl sheets. And, you also get to decide whether you want a classic wood look or a stone look.

That’s right! Vinyl comes in more style varieties compared to engineered wood or even laminate. While there are tons of beautiful wood styles, if you’re looking for something different, stone-look vinyl tiles and sheets are the perfect solutions.

Not to mention, many vinyl flooring options are 100% waterproof, so you can enjoy easy maintenance and a worry-free floor.

To make your new vinyl floor match your rustic style, check out these trends.

Color Variation and Patina

Shaw Paragon Plus 5 Rigid Core Vinyl Planks

High variation wood-look flooring is a great option for rustic style. It’s an authentic look with a touch of ruggedness, perfect for a cabin or farmhouse. You can find color variation from plank to plank, or within a single plank.

With real hardwood flooring, this color variation has a technical name – patina. Hardwood patina is a sign of aging and weathering, and it’s a highly sought-after look for rustic flooring. 

Fortunately, you don’t have to sit around and wait for your floor to age on its own. With luxury vinyl flooring, laminate, and even engineered hardwood, many floors are now treated to have that same timeworn look the day you install it.

Stone-Look Vinyl

Mohawk Gateway 12' wide Vinyl Sheet

At this point, you know all about rustic wood flooring, so now it’s time for something different: stone-look vinyl. If you pick the right stone look, your floor will be the perfect match for the rest of your home.

Look for stone patterns with earthy tones. Granite, slate, and travertine looks are ideal for this style. Avoid light-colored tile or anything too glamorous, like marble. Rustic stone-look flooring is all about being down-to-earth.

Shop All Vinyl Flooring

Related Content >Vinyl Flooring Trends

Rustic Tile Flooring

Daltile Stone Decorative Accents

If you love stone looks, then rustic tile flooring might be the best option for you. Porcelain tile can be made to resemble virtually anything, including popular stone visuals. There’s always authentic stone tile as well.

The most important choice you’ll make is the kind of stone or stone look to match your style. For a rustic look, classics like slate, travertine, and granite won’t let you down.

Your next choice is to decide what tile size works best for you. If you want a simple look, large format tiles will be your best bet. Or you can choose pebble mosaics for something one-of-a-kind.

Pro Tip: Avoid glossy finishes, since that would make your floor too modern. Instead, search for matte finish tiles. 

Tile That Looks Like Wood

Daltile Cinematic

Stone isn’t the only thing tile can mimic. Wood-look tile is another popular option, offering the beauty of hardwood with the durability and easy maintenance of tile. You won’t have to worry about stains, dents, or refinishing your floor.

Tiles that look like wood feature the biggest trends, including high variation and distressed effects, both perfect for your rustic home.

Related Content >Tile Flooring Trends

Rustic Backsplash Tile

emser tile venetian flat pebbles

The great thing about tile? It doesn’t just go on the floor! You can also upgrade your backsplash or create an accent wall with rustic wall tile.

When considering wall tile, stone looks are the most common. For a perfect touch of rustic charm, consider a pebble mosaic.

Shop Tile Flooring Shop Backsplash Tile

Conclusion

Bring your country chic home to life with rustic flooring that matches your style. Whether you want engineered hardwood with beautiful knots and wood grains, or detailed stone patterns, you can now shop with confidence knowing exactly what you need to look for in a floor.

Are you ready to get your new rustic style started?

Order Free Samples Shop All Flooring

The post The 4 Best Rustic Flooring Options for a Country Style Home appeared first on Flooring Inc.

Flooring Trends Throughout the Ages

Flooring Trends Throughout the Ages

Over the centuries, flooring has proved to be an enduring, functional and even stylish home feature. Your home’s flooring is a crucial part of your everyday life and provides a foundation for any living space, but it also can tell a unique story of your home’s history. For older homes, historic flooring can offer insight into the past and the history of the home. If you’re looking to remodel or sell your historic home, you may want to know the history of popular flooring styles and the evolution of flooring trends. This article takes you through flooring trends over time and provides everything you need to know about the latest flooring trends in 2021.

Why Do Flooring Trends Matter?

As styles update and people’s tastes change, interior design takes on new styles and popular trends. Flooring trends change rapidly from decade to decade. New advancements, innovations and inventions have streamlined production and installation processes and are constantly changing. The latest trends from five and even two years ago can differ from today’s popular flooring styles. Your floors should reflect your aesthetic and lifestyle, and modern trends go a long way in enhancing your living spaces.

Current flooring trends also borrow largely from the past. While trends have come and gone over time, authentic hardwood flooring and flooring options that mimic hardwood have regained popularity since the 20th century. Continued improvements to floor production mean that your options are constantly increasing. You can now achieve the look of natural hardwood with more durable and affordable options such as sustainable and waterproof vinyl or laminate floors that replicate natural wood grain. Following popular flooring trends can also be a significant asset to your property. When you’re looking to resell your home, updated flooring in line with the latest trends can add significant value.

You may want to keep up with changing flooring styles over time, and one way to keep things fresh is actually to turn to historic hardwood flooring trends for inspiration. If you arerenovating an older or historic home, you might want to consider preserving and even mimicking the home’s original flooring. 50 Floor can help you both update your flooring and restore its original beauty and elegance.

Flooring trends change from decade to decade

The Evolution of Flooring

How has flooring changed over time? While we now can import exotic wood for our flooring, people before were far more limited in what they could use for their flooring. Wood harvested for floors used to depend on availability in the region as well as manageable price.

Let’s take a look at how far we have progressed concerning one of our home’s most important features!

The Evolution of Flooring

Flooring in the 1700s

During the Baroque period, hardwood flooring was intended only for royal floors and, later, wealthier American homes. In Colonial America, the earliest homes featured basic floor planks made from local tight-grained hardwoods or old- and slow-growth pine. These woods contributed to harder and more durable floors, and they also yielded wider planks. These plain, practical, and simple floors were left bare and worn smooth with time. Stains and varnishes to make floors shiny and give them a warm finish would only become popular in the later 20th century, and knots and other imperfections in 18th-century wood were a common occurrence.

The process of converting felled timber into pliable lumber for flooring was arduous, and people usually finished the rough-sawn planks with square edges. Gaps often formed between the wide floorboards, which were face-nailed to supporting beams and joists.

Industrial Revolution-Era Flooring

The Industrial Revolution saw the advent of steam-driven machines and tongue-and-groove molding, which allowed planks to be joined together and nailed down without leaving any exposed nails. As a result of new manufacturing equipment and techniques, rugs, floors and tiles, which had once been labor-intensive to produce, were now much more accessible and affordable. Workers could also produce finished lumber on a much larger scale, which allowed for far more numerous choices throughout the growing country.

During this time, flooring design borrowed heavily from more decorative and ornamental aesthetics of the rococo, oriental and renaissance styles. Hardwood flooring became a far more clean and attractive option for homes, and true strip floors became popular again. These narrower floors were 2 to 4 inches wide and became widely affordable and reliable in quantity in the 1880s as a product of the Industrial Revolution.

Steam-powered machinery also facilitated the milling of dense hardwoods like oak and maple. This milling allowed people to edge-match the sides of each board into a useful system of tongue-and-groove joints. Hard pine and fir were usually used for strip floors, whereas hardwoods like ash, elm and chestnut and softwoods like pine were popular choices for wide-board floors. While early strip floors were reserved for the better rooms of the home, such as formal parlors and dining areas, they would become almost universal in most homes by the 20th century.

The 1840s also saw the birth of tile making and new techniques to craft elaborate, decorative tile inlays.

Victorian-Era Flooring Styles

Hardwood floors laid in the 1800s were made from mature trees such as heart pine, oak or chestnut. These wood floors tended to be bare, dull and rustic and organized in planks mainly 2 and 3 inches wide. Conversely, older wood floors used boards around 8 inches wide. These wider boards were still used in homes in more rural areas or secondary spaces like kitchens and bedrooms.

Gradually, hardwood flooring transformed into parquet floors with a variety of complex patterns. Parquetry, or the geometric mosaic of wood inlaid in an intricate pattern into flooring, dates back to wealthy French estate owners in the 1600s. By the 1800s, people in America were using parquet floors to add intrigue to their homes. However, this era of flooring also witnessed the earliest phases of artificial material creation. With the creation of linoleum in the 1860s from a mixture of cotton scrim, oxidized linseed oil and cork dust, a new type of flooring known as synthetics emerged.

Synthetic Flooring in the 1900s

As innovators fused natural and manufactured materials, flooring became available in new options. During the rise of synthetics, new luxury vinyl tile, laminate and linoleum floors grew quickly in popularity as they could mimic the appearance of natural wood and stone. Americans had access to more flooring styles than ever before.

The invention of polyvinyl chloride vinyl (PVC) in the 1920s meant limitless design potential in vinyl flooring. Vinyl grew significantly after World War II as one of the top building materials of the century. The introduction of laminate flooring in the 1970s also helped fuel a diversification of flooring options for Americans. Laminate flooring is made of multiple layers of synthetic products and offers a realistic wood look at a much more affordable price.

Mid to Late 20th Century Flooring

Linoleum tiles remained immensely popular into the mid-1900s, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. This era of flooring also saw the rise in popularity of white and black checkered tiles. Full wall-to-wall carpeting boomed from the 1960s through the 1980s and became more accessible to middle-class Americans. This period also introduced a vast array of iconic color combinations, unique tile designs and decorative patterned flooring.

Floors of the early 1900s were primarily made of rubber, cork, felt and asbestos, but as the 1900s progressed, people gained access to greater variation and more glosses for their hardwood floors. By the mid 20th century, wood flooring had transformed from traditional, unfinished oak or maple into a much richer finish made from a wide variety of wood types, including walnut, hickory, mahogany and cherry. Many mid-century hardwood floors also featured original inlays and decorative patterns.

Additionally, the 1960s saw the invention of engineered wood flooring, which is natural wood construction coupled with composite or engineered components for greater durability. A significant benefit of engineered wood flooring is that it adapts to extreme weather and can endure severe heat, moisture and humidity.

Gradually, carpets fell out of fashion as they required more frequent replacement and updating, and hardwood regained its position as a popular flooring once more. When people pulled up old carpet, they often revealed old hardwood floors they could then refresh and restore to their original state.

Flooring in the 21st Century

By the start of the 2000s, people were taking a renewed look at distressed and textured hardwood floors in addition to different shades of wood staining. Matte, gray and wide planks became stylish once more, and people appreciated the affordability of luxury vinyl tile and its ability to replicate hardwood.

Hard-surface floors have continued to flourish, and hardwood flooring has rebounded in popularity. These floors are a significant selling point for many older homes. Renovators take great care to preserve the quality of original hardwood floors in homes as they can drastically increase a home’s property value.

There is a myriad of flooring styles to choose from in modern times. From natural stone to hardwood to synthetic material, your options are limitless!

How to Mimic Historic Flooring Trends

When it comes to installing new flooring in your home, one popular styling choice is to mimic historic flooring trends. Many people appreciate the authenticity and aged look of historic wood flooring’s exposed blemishes, knots and other imperfections. If you want to recreate the timeless look and feel of original, historic home flooring, consider using reclaimed wood, which can channel the look and feel of centuries-old floorboards.

Antique wood flooring and reclaimed wood flooring come from salvaged wood from historic buildings are two options for hardwood flooring that mimic the aged and distressed look of historic homes’ wooden floors. Some reclaimed wood can be fashioned from the beams, paneling and floorboards of barns, warehouses and other structures and can showcase the history and deep texture of the wood.

Another way to mimic historic flooring is to blend your newly installed floors with the home’s original flooring. For example, if you are renovating an older home and you want your new flooring to match your existing floors, you can strip the old floors, refinishing them and staining both your existing and new floors to maintain consistency.

5 Top Flooring Trends in 2021

5 Top Flooring Trends in 2021

Hard-surface flooring has remained a popular choice in living areas, while carpets are still a prime option for bedrooms and cozy spaces. Here are some of the latest and hottest flooring trends for 2021.

Hardwood

Wide plank hardwood flooring is a new floor trend used to make small rooms look bigger and instill a natural elegance. Wide plank flooring maintains a traditional yet rustic style while also showing off the wood’s natural indentations, knots and grains.Grays, whites and other light colorshave also become popular choices for wood flooring in recent years. White-washed wood offers a fresh, naturalistic and minimal look that complements nearly every interior style.

A prevalent form of hardwood flooring is engineered hardwood.Engineered hardwood flooringoffers beauty and durability and is low-maintenance, affordable and moisture-resistant. It consists of artificial materials and a top layer of hardwood with layers of plywood laid in alternating directions.

Laminate

Tried and truelaminate flooring imitates solid hardwoodand is attractive, affordable and easy to maintain. Laminate is also an excellent option for keeping up with a busy lifestyle and dealing with life’s messes.Waterproof laminate flooringallows for additional comfort through its watertight seams and stain-resistant material. The textured multi-layer design also gives laminate a more natural look. To keep up with 2021 flooring trends, try high-variation, wood-look laminate in shades such as blonde and honey to make your home feel more open.

Tile

Tile flooring maintains a classic look and is practical and versatile. Many tiles are naturally waterproof, as well as durable and easy to clean. One style of tile that has remained popular is terracotta, whose eye-catching style is great for entryways, mudrooms and kitchens.

Tile flooring allows you to experimentwith organic and contrasting shapes, geometrics and grout that will make your design stand out. Try creating tile transitions across the areas of your home for a trendy and modern look, or use tiles arranged in patterns to create beautiful accents in any room. A popular 2021 tile trend is to arrange tiles in specific layouts to create unique patterns rather than use patterned tiles.

Carpet

Carpet is a classic flooring choice that has seen multiple upgrades over the years. Many people appreciate thedurability and comfort of carpet flooring, along with the diversity of carpet materials currently available. Some trendy choices in 2021 include shag or frieze carpet, Berber carpet and cut and loop carpet from traditional broadloom, polyester and nylon materials.

Feel free to mix and match patterns for your floor with carpet tiles, or add decorative area rugs to break up the various sections of your house and add warmth! Using bold geometric patterns will make a statement in any room. You can also find eco-friendly options for carpets that are primarily made from recycled materials.

Vinyl

People still considervinyl flooring an incredibly trendyand tasteful choice in floors. Vinyl is easy to clean and maintain, so many homeowners appreciate its convenience and easy upkeep. Vinyl flooring also has a natural and stylish look and can feature a variety of decorative patterns.

Luxury vinyl planks fit together and often feature sustainable backings, including cork. They mimic the look of real wood, stone or tile and are durable and water-resistant. Luxury vinyl planks and tiles also come in a wide selection of colors and styles. For a retro yet tasteful look, you can use patterned luxury vinyl flooring.

Meet With a 50 Floor Expert to Update the Floors in Your Historic Property

When you need expert remodeling advice for your home, you can rely on 50 Floor for convenient and affordable flooring options. Our competitive prices and flexible financing options will guarantee satisfaction in your home transformation project. From family-friendly alternatives to waterproof solutions, we offer the latest advancements in flooring technology and installation.

With 50 Floor, you can shop at home with an expert to guide you through the process of getting new floors. With access to our unsurpassable customer service, you’ll save time and money as you explore new flooring options with your decor and lighting.

For the highest quality flooring for your home,schedule your free in-home consultationwith 50 Floor today!

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Role of Flooring in Indoor Air Quality

Role of Indoor Flooring in Air Quality

Since you spend most of your time inside, you should pay special attention to your home’s indoor air quality. Your property’s various building materials and household products can affect your health and well-being. If you’re going to install new flooring soon, choose healthy flooring materials to help prevent illnesses. Use this guide to discover what types of floors would improve your home’s indoor environment.

How Flooring Impacts Indoor Air Quality

How Flooring Impacts Indoor Air Quality

Since your floors take up such a large space in your home, any chemicals or allergens in them could travel into the air and affect the whole house. Here are some of the contaminants that could be in your flooring.

1. Volatile Organic Compounds

Some flooring products and finishes contain harmful VOCs like formaldehyde. These gases radiate from new floor surfaces during the off-gassing or emission process andproduce an unpleasant odor. Breathing in VOCs can causeshort-term and long-term health problems, such as nose and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, liver damage and kidney damage.

You may find formaldehyde in certain materials such as synthetic carpet fibers and adhesives used during installation. When you want to install your new floors, consult the specialist about low-VOC or no-VOC products and methods. The best flooring for indoor air quality features materials without VOCs.

2. Asbestos

From the1930s to the 1980s, tile and vinyl sheet flooring contained asbestos to enhance insulation and resistance to damage. Manufacturers stopped using asbestos after realizing that the substance causes severe illness. When inhaled,it can get stuck in the lungsand cause inflammation or even cancer after long-term exposure.

If your home is from the 1980s or earlier and you haven’t updated your vinyl or tile floors, you may have asbestos in your property. The best way to improve your indoor air quality is to get your flooring replaced with a newer, more eco-friendly material.

3. Allergens

Dust, dirt and pet dander can get stuck in your flooring materials andworsen allergy symptomsif you don’t clean your floors often. Carpeting fibers can trap these contaminants and send them into the air as you walk. To remove debris from your carpet, you can vacuum weekly, but you should also get it professionally cleaned at least once a year.

Other floor materials are still prone to collecting allergens, but since they have a hard surface, you can easily see dust specks and remove them with a vacuum or mop. If you or your loved ones suffer from allergies or other respiratory conditions, you may want to install low-maintenance, easy-to-clean flooring.

4. Mold

Mold and mildew can grow when your floor is wet for a long time. If you have a mold allergy, you may developflu-like symptoms from mold exposure, such as a stuffy nose, fever and shortness of breath. Some flooring materials encourage microbial growth because of their organic components or thick fibers. Inadequate flooring installation can also trap moisture in the underlayment. Look for a reliable company that can lay down your floors correctly to prevent mold growth.

Best Flooring for Indoor Air Quality

Here are some healthy flooring materials that you can have installed in your home.

1. Hardwood

For a one-of-a-kind natural beauty, consider installinghardwood flooringin your living space. It’s relatively easy to maintain, and it can add value to your home. When you take care of them correctly, hardwood floors can last for more than half a century before you need a replacement.

This durable, all-natural material doesn’t contain VOCs. To improve your home’s air quality, make sure the specialist uses awater-based polyurethane finishwith a low VOC count. Hardwood flooring doesn’t trap contaminants or bacteria, and its hard surface makes it easier to see and clean dust.

2. Luxury Vinyl

Luxury vinylis a low-maintenance, aesthetically pleasing flooring material. Manufacturers can make it look like natural stone, ceramic or hardwood, depending on your design preferences. Even though it might contain VOCs, you can ask your flooring specialist about low-VOC options.

Its water resistance can help prevent mold growth on your vinyl floors. You can easily clean up a spill or leak as you notice it. The hard surface doesn’t trap allergens or harmful bacteria. Since it cleans easily, you can use a mild detergent and warm water instead of cleaners with VOCs.

3. Tile

Porcelain and ceramictile flooringcan retain heat to lower your energy costs, and it can look like other materials, such as natural stone or hardwood. These components don’t contain any VOCs because manufacturers use high temperatures to create them.

Tile flooring is resistant to moisture to withstand mold growth, and you can easily clean it with a cloth. Its hard surface makes it easier to clean with a mild detergent instead of harsh chemicals that could reduce your home’s indoor air quality.

4. Laminate

For inexpensive, low-maintenance addition to your property, consider installingwood laminate flooring. This material comes in various color and design options that can resemble natural wood or stone. Its resistance to dents and scratches helps prevent contaminants from getting stuck in the planks.

Even though laminate can contain VOCs, your flooring specialist may have low-VOC options in their inventory. Since this material is resistant to moisture, it won’t trap water or encourage mold growth. You can quickly clean up spills with a microfiber cloth or mop. Its hard surface makes it easier to clean off bacteria and other contaminants.

5. Low-Pile Wool Carpet

Carpet can trap sound and make a room warmer in the winter.Brand-new low-pile carpetingcomes in various color and texture options to complement your room’s design aesthetic. When considering carpet and indoor air quality, it’s not always the best material for improving your family’s health. A low-pile option withnatural wool fibersis the best carpet for indoor air quality.

Synthetic carpeting fibers contain VOCs, but wool is a natural and renewable material free from harmful contaminants. Wool carpet is easier to clean and can even act as a dehumidifier to prevent mold growth. Low-pile carpet has short fibers that act as a hard surface instead of trapping dirt and debris. You can conveniently clean your carpeting with a vacuum.

Schedule an Appointment With 50 Floor to Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality

When you’re ready for new, healthy flooring,make an in-house appointmentwith us. We’ll bring floor samples to your home, so you can see how various options look in your desired room. Ask us about our low-VOC or no-VOC flooring options to improve your home’s air quality. For more information, feel free to call us at877-50-FLOOR.

 Improve Your Home's Indoor Air Quality with 50 Floor

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Red Oak vs. White Oak Flooring

You know you wantoak flooringin at least one of your home’s rooms, but maybe you’re unsure about whether red oak or white oak makes more sense.

Both red and white oak floors can dazzle. Nevertheless, if you’re trying to decide between the two, you’ll want to know their similarities and differences.

Commonalities Between Red Oak and White Oak Floors

To learn the benefits of both types, here are some shared attributes between red and white oak floors:

Species:They both represent the oak species, which means they have that special oak look. You can always tell oak floors because their grain looks uniform, straight and clean.Hardness:The difference between red oak vs. white oak wood hardness doesn’t matter much. Even though red oak’s a bit softer, it is still a sturdy hardwood that can handle the brunt of normal wear and tear.Stains:Do you intend to stain your oak hardwood floors after they’ve been installed in a room or hallway or on your main set of stairs? Either type of oak can accept premium stains. Still, you’ll want to test the stain on a flooring sample first so you know how it will turn out.Price:You’ll often find small price fluctuations between white and red oak flooring. If your budget allows you to go with oak, you don’t have to compromise if you love the appearance of one type of oak floor more than the other.Schedule a Free In-Home Consultation

Differences Between Red and White Oak Hardwood Flooring

Oak wood has overtones and undertones — no surprise here. Red oak has a reddish hue to it, but don’t expect it to echo the intensity of cherry hardwood. Its tone is more along light pink lines. White oak carries yellowish or brown undertones, making it less bright and more of a deeper shade. Here are a few more contrasts between red oak floor vs. white oak:

Grain intensity:Although red and white oak have similar types of graining, a red oak floor’s grain will be a tad stronger. This intensity allows the red oak to hide blemishes more effectively. White oak’s lighter graining makes it appear less patterned, which can be appealing to homeowners who want their oak floors to blend into the background.Water resistance:When you see a boat made of oak, you can bet it’s probably constructed from white oak. That’s because white oak can handle exposure to water better than red oak. Therefore, if you’re choosing an oak floor for a humid area like a bathroom or kitchen, you might want to pick white oak.Average or available plank size:You’ll find more red oaks than white oaks, and they grow bigger on average. If you need a generous plank width of around 5 inches or greater, you’ll find more red oak options.

Choose 50 Floor for Your Oak Hardwood Flooring

Are you having difficulty picking between white and red oak floors? It’s a tough decision — you might be considering mixing both types. However, you’ll want to select one or the other. Mixing and matching them doesn’t usually go well. You’ll do much better with one type of flooring for your space.

Make an appointment with 50 Floorand we’ll bring samples of white and red oak so you can see which one appeals to you most. It’s the fastest, most convenient way to see which floor type will become your next favorite!

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Tips to Increase the Longevity of Hardwood Floors

Genuine hardwood floors are an investment in your home’s beauty. They can also be a long-term option, with expected hardwood longevity lasting decades. Many historic homes still have their original hardwood flooring intact.

To make hardwood floors last, you’ll need to take some precautions. Follow the tips below to increase your hardwood flooring’s longevity within your home.

Make Sure It’s Installed Properly

A hardwood floor’s life span can extend to over a century when installed properly. However, wood floors can start showing their age quickly, and their warranty may be void if they were incorrectly installed. Professional installers should consider humidity and moisture during installation to ensure the floors have enough room to expand and contract. They also need to follow manufacturer directions closely to preserve the warranty.

If you want your hardwood floors installed correctly, contact 50 Floor. Our experts have extensive experience with hardwood floors and can ensure your flooring looks fabulous.

Use Rugs to Protect Floors

Install rugs at entrances to ensure visitors and household inhabitants wipe their feet before walking on your floors. Adding a rug protects the wood from dust and scratches caused by tiny bits of debris tracked in from the outdoors.

Rugs can also preserve your wood floors in high-traffic areas, as the fabric can offer a buffer. Under heavy furniture, thick rugs look beautiful and save your flooring from dents, depressions and scratches.

Use Curtains to Prevent Fading

Ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the surface of hardwood floors. Direct exposure over time can cause fading — especially in areas of a room that get more sunlight — and create an uneven look. To defend against this damage, install curtains or blinds and draw them whenever direct sunlight is on your floors. These coverings protect your flooring and any other items in your home, too.

Protect Flooring From Humidity

Moisture can harm wood floors. Where possible, avoid moisture — and especially moisture fluctuations — in any room with wooden flooring. You may wish to install a hygrometer to track moisture levels in your home. If you live in a humid climate, keep your house well insulated from the elements and use a dehumidifier to keep your indoor space dry.

Direct moisture on your floors can cause even more damage and lead to stains and rot. Always clean up spills promptly and fix leaks in your home immediately. When cleaning your hardwood floors, never use excessive water or liquid cleaning product. Wipe the flooring dry after you have finished cleaning. Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to clean your floors.

Install Hardwood Flooring in Your Home

If you want beautiful hardwood floors installed correctly so you can enjoy them for many years,contact 50 Floor for an appointment. Our team of flooring professionals can show you samples of stunning hardwood floors in your home, so you can evaluate them in your lighting and with your furnishings. 50 Floor can take care of the entire flooring process — from providing you with a quote to ensuring your new floor is installed successfully and beautifully.

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Bold Flooring Ideas

Bold flooring options are a popular choice for many rooms of the house, including entryways, kitchens, hallways, bathrooms and even living rooms. Statement floors can add charm to a simple room and are character-filled enough to make a larger space feel cozier. They can draw the eye and create a sense of unique style.

At 50 Floor, we offer a range of bold flooring ideas for your every need. Explore some attractive choices below — these trendy options look timeless in modern and historic homes alike.

Marble Colored Tile

Bold marble floor tile typically comes in large tile sizes featuring statement hues or contrasting colors. Marble look and genuine marble tile appear sophisticated in bathrooms, kitchens and entryways. If you opt for genuine marble, keep in mind it is a softer material and will require maintenance. It also comes in fewer colors than manufactured luxury vinyl or laminate flooring, which can offer brighter shades.

Stone Look Tile

Luxury vinyl flooring can imitate the look of stone or slate but offers several advantages. Stone look tile from 50 Floor consists of synthetic materials such as tinted polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and can be pressed into tiles of any size in a rainbow of colors.

Since luxury vinyl flooring contains multiple layers and is less porous than natural stone, it is resistant to rips, stains, chips, scuffs, mildew, tears, gouges, scratches and water damage. These luxury vinyl floors are also a fraction of the price of natural stone.

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Dark Wood

Engineered hardwood floors from 50 Floor contain layers of real wood over plywood, making them resistant to moisture. This water resistance allows you to install wood floors in kitchens and other rooms where moisture can be an issue. Dark wood floors in walnut, cherry, hickory and other species can contrast beautifully with paler walls and ceilings for a dramatic look.

For a bolder floor, you can choose dark wood floors with wider planks or arrange your flooring in herringbone or other patterns for a unique look. Dark wood statement floors look especially sophisticated in living rooms and even bedrooms — spaces where you may want the warmer appearance of wood but with an eye-catching style.

Find Bold Flooring for Your Home

Choosing bold floors is a commitment. Since they catch the eye, statement floors require careful consideration, as the right choice will help your room stand out in all the right ways. It’s also important to choose durable options when deciding on bold floors. If people are looking at your flooring, you want it to look its best for as long as possible.

If you’ve been curious about the statement floor trend, why not find out more? At 50 Floor, our flooring experts can come to your home with samples so you can see exactly when your new, bold floors will look like with your furnishings and lighting. Your appointment can also help you work with our team to find the best look for your floors and discover solutions fitting your style and budget.Schedule your appointmentwith 50 Floor today!

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