Monday 19 December 2016

Designs of Laminate Flooring and Its Features

Designs of Laminate Flooring and Its Features - CarpetExpress

Every home or space is unique, just like the owner. This is the motivation behind the development of extraordinary designs by Quick Step Laminate Flooring

The company has developed an impeccable range of products to match the needs of a dynamic world. The products are developed through the dedicated effort of flooring experts who are trained and have years of experience to horn their skills.

Laminate floors come in a variety of designs. The designed are aimed at matching the dynamic needs of different clients and environments. Some of these designs are listed below with a detailed description of their properties. 

ARTE


The Quick Step Arte design is inspired by the V-shapes that are perfect for the floor. It is subtle and gives your floor a polished look. 

It comes in a variety of shades including marble Carrara, versatile white oiled, polished natural concrete, leather tile light and leather tile dark. You also have Versailles light and polished concrete dark to choose from. 

The colors and textures are distinct in a way that makes it easier to select. Orders are made online with excellent shipping offers.

Laminate Classic


The classic is inspired by traditional floors but lacks the additional designs of modern flooring. It helps you maintain the classic look of your house through a variety of designs including Enhanced Beech, Enhanced Marble, Reclaimed White Patina Oak, Enhanced Natural Oak Natural Varnished and Bleached White Teak. 

This design has a wider selection and offers an excellent color combination to choose from. The patterns are also stylishly blended to give you the natural look and feel. 

Creo


It is manufactured as a response to the demand for multiple bonded strips on floors. Creo helped Quick Step to bring a unique pattern that captured the width of the strips while maintaining the basic elements of each wood type. 

The designs available are therefore unique and elegant which makes them perfect for different personalities. These designs include Oak Natural, Oak Brown, Oak light wood and Oak Grey. 

It is preferred by most modern homes because of its contemporary appeal.

Eligna Wide


As the name suggests, the tiles are wider compared to others in the catalog. The idea is to pull the dimensions of your floor while still maintaining the natural look. With wider planks, you justify the rustic feel on the patterns. 

You have a variety of patterns and textures to choose from including Oiled Light, White Oiled Oak, Reclaimed Chestnut Natural, and Antique. Others are brown Chestnuts, Natural Oiled, Oak Dark and Saw Cut Planks. 

By making an order online, your planks will be shipped to any destination. You get the exact planks as ordered online. 

Majestic


This is a design for contemporary spaces that still want a feel of the traditional wooden floor. The smooth finish and presence of grains leave you with an elegant space to watch. 

It is one of the signature products by Quick Step that has kept the brand at the top of the industry. Some of the color and texture options available are grouped widely into desert, valley, and woodland. Each of these categories is then split into Oak Light dark, brown or beige. 

You also have an option of grey and warm natural on these varieties. It gives your floor a corporate executive look. 

Exquisa


This is a popular choice because of its tactile appearance. It features numerous small sized tiles that enable you to produce unique designs. 

The tiles can also be laid in linear format depending on personal preference. This is an innovative option with both narrow and wide tiles to select from. There are subtle cross joints that enable you to create either a single joint, double or triple pattern per plank. 

The sizes and patterns help you to manipulate the floor to produce your designed pattern with ease. The shades are dark, white or brown with a range of textures for each shade. 

Impressive Ultra


This is a selection for those interested in the natural look. It gives an extra-hard looking floor with authentic wooden grains. 

The joints are clearly visible along the grains. A unique Hydro-Seal coating is applied to the surface to make your floor waterproof. This coat rates top among the range of waterproof floors ever produced. 

You have a range of colors to choose from including beige, brown, grey, dark and natural oak. 

Laminate Flooring has maintained its leading position in the production of floor materials. Its dynamic collection ensures that the needs of each customer are met. Investment in technology guarantees the best quality, versatile and durable materials.

Thursday 24 November 2016

Mannington Vinyl - Types, Advantages and Disadvantages

Mannington is a leading manufacturer of high quality and elegant flooring products. One of the most notable products of this brand is the Mannington Vinyl carpet. 

It comes in a variety of designs and specifications that make it perfect for use in corporate offices, residential houses and commercial spaces.

TYPES OF VINYL FLOORING BY MANNINGTON


Mannington produces two types of vinyl products for use on the floor.

1. Sheet vinyl flooring


The material is sold in sheets that are six or twelve feet wide. Sheet vinyl flooring rolls can be cut into size depending on the shape and size of your floor. They are either laid on the ground or pressed using glue to keep them in place.

2. Tile vinyl flooring


Mannington vinyl tiles are available in squares of 9” or 12”. These sheets can also be reduced to sized depending on the area they are being applied. The tiles are more laborious to apply.

Sheet flooring makes the underlying surface more resistant to water and other liquids. The ease in laying the sheet vinyl also makes many people opt for it over the tiles. It is perfect for DIY flooring. 

However, the tile vinyl floor offers an elegant appearance that is desirable for most homes. The resultant look resembles a ceramic floor. It is, therefore, a more affordable way of achieving that luxurious wood finish.

ADVANTAGES OF USING VINYL FLOORS


1. The floor is durable

Compared to all other materials of a related price, vinyl lasts the longest. It can withstand a lot of traffic including heavy items being dragged on the surface. This minimizes the need for constant repair and maintenance.

2. It can withstand very heavy traffic


Vinyl is a very resilient material. This explains why it is used for commercial purposes. It gives you a luxurious feel especially for corporate spaces without having to spend a fortune. Even when subjected to heavy traffic, the surface remains in excellent form for the longest time.

3. It is noise free


Noise-free surfaces are mostly made of fabric and therefore are difficult to maintain. However, with vinyl sheets or tiles manufactured by Mannington, you are guaranteed a silent floor that looks luxurious and elegant, yet is easy to maintain.

4. Easy to install


This is one of the flooring materials that you can install without having to engage or pay a specialist. All you need is to ensure a flat and smooth surface. Lay the sheet down either using an adhesive or without one if the floor is temporary.

5. Available in a variety of patterns


The appearance on the floor sets the mood for the entire room. Vinyl sheets come with different patterns that can change the appearance of your floor. The variety allows you to meet your taste expectations.

6. It is perfect when you have children


The floor is comfortable and warm to walk on, especially if the sheet is thick. The ease of maintenance and the fact that it does not soak water makes it perfect for bringing up children. Stains like crayons and beverages do not stick on the floor.

DISADVANTAGES OF USING VINYL FLOORS


Before looking at the disadvantages, it is worth noting that suitability depends on personal preference and the uses a certain area is put into. What one person may consider a disadvantage may be an advantage to another person. 

Consult our vinyl flooring experts here to know the best option for your floor. Here are some of the disadvantages to consider.
  • Vinyl floors are not able to withstand heavy loads. It gets worse when the load is dragged on the surface. The floor is either torn or left with marks that make it rough and unpleasant to watch.
  • It is easily perforated by sharp objects. This means that vinyl flooring cannot be done in rooms or areas where sharp objects like nails. There is also the likelihood of chairs perforating the vinyl flooring.
  • The color may fade or be damaged by chemicals. Due to regular cleaning, especially wiping, the color on sections that are frequently used may fade. It may also peel off when such substances as acids spill on the surface. Fading calls for a total replacement which will add to your expenses.
  • Extreme temperatures will damage the vinyl. Nature is vinyl is that it melts easily when subjected to extreme heat. It might therefore not be appropriate for certain surfaces. Experts will guide you on how to circumvent this challenge.

Mannington vinyl flooring is a versatile option for corporate, commercial and residential spaces. With expert assistance, you will make the best choice in terms of color, texture, and thickness. This is a cost-effective way of having elegant interiors.  

Monday 24 October 2016

Why Diverse Industries Prefer Shaw Carpet

Why  Diverse Industries Prefer Shaw Carpet - carpetexpress.com

Looking for a cutting-edge designer carpet that is easy to install and maintain?

Shaw is the brand that gives you cutting edge and sustainable design ideas to create the perfect look. Beautify your premises and be ecologically sound at one stroke.

History of Shaw


Way back in 1946, a small business named Star Dye Company set up a dyeing unit for tufted scatter rugs. By way of good quality products, innovative designs, great service and a desire to create customer satisfaction, this small business entity was catapulted into the list of the largest carpet manufacturers in the world. 

Shaw Carpet, as it is called now, fulfills the need for practical, innovative and functional flooring in commercial and residential spaces alike. If you have been waiting to lay your hands on the finest floor solutions, then durable and resistant carpets by Shaw serve to be the right choice for you!

Diverse User Segments that use Shaw Carpets


There are multiple uses and customizations for flooring needs. Diverse industries have their own set of flooring needs that have to be looked into with careful consideration by floor installers and their users alike. 

Shaw carpets take pride in catering to the needs of industries across the spectrum.
  • Educational institutions require flooring alternatives that are safe, non-slippery and resistant to the tell-tale marks caused by high traffic across the day.
  • The requirements and approvals needed for government sector supply are met very ably by this company. It takes pride in matching the specifications needed for Government suppliers and provides the best quality products at the most affordable prices.
  • It has been found that design plays an important role in creating a wellness compatible and healthy environment. Shaw innovative and functional designs create the required ambiance to promote wellness in nursing homes, hospitals, senior citizen homes, healthcare centers, etc.
  • Flooring design is an integral part of the interiorscape and defines what you are and what you aspire to be like. A proper atmosphere needs to be created through color and texture to create the correct feel for your office or any other commercial space; Shaw carpets helps you do just that!
  • From New York to Dubai, top corporates are opting for the ultra luxurious and functional designs of Shaw Carpets to enhance the look and feel of their office space.
  • If you are looking to stage your home or rental space for rent optimization, the Quick Ship delivery option offers quick delivery of your chosen products to avoid any home restoration delays.
  • Retailers are very satisfied with the stylish, elegant and easily installed flooring options offered by the Company. He, most products suit the need of practicality with luxury. Believe it or not, 38 out of the top 50 designs approved in the retail industry take recourse to the Shaw design stable for their carpeting needs.
  • Hospitality sector has a huge need for innovative, luxurious, as well as easy to install and maintain floorings in a multitude of designs. Shaw carpeting provides smart solutions for all hospitality carpet needs.

Training Facility For Installation and Maintenance


Design leadership includes the quality training experience provided to the students and interns mentored at Shaw Hospitality through special training methods and seminars. The company also sets up training facilities for installation and maintenance of carpets and other flooring products.

Competitions and awards are constituted to further enhance the learning experience. Design leadership celebrates the idea of giving back to the industry and the environment in a big way!

Awards


The Presidential Green Chemistry award was conferred on the company in 2003 for pioneering designs that look to reduce pollution and harness the use of chemistry to reduce pollution. They have also garnered the Best in Flooring award by IIDA/Hospitality design for making the widest array of designs for industry setting collaborations.

Performance and quality


The ISO9001/9002 quality system standards have been adopted by the Shaw Quality System as the standard for the entire Shaw Operations. There are individual operations and facilities to maintain quality systems. This facilitates induction of internal audits to control quality standards of all products.

Shaw Carpets employs the Six Sigma Business improvement methodology to enhance operational excellence, comprehend data, and implement process solutions. Many Sigma black and green belts are employed by Shaw.  

Lean manufacturing practices maximize effectiveness from the manufacturing unit, thereby minimizing downtime. This further impacts production, shipping, delivery and hence makes for better customer experiences. 

Lean manufacturing helps identify waste and the means to eliminate it. This results in carpet manufacturing processes that maximize customer delight.

Specialized environmental management systems


Reducing downtime and maximizing operating efficiency is essential in reducing any negative impact caused on the environment by Shaw Carpets. 

The specialized environmental management system is fashioned after the specifications of ISO 14001 to suit the needs of carpet manufacturers. 

The Shaw Environmental systems {SES} monitor the energy, emissions, water, and waste and reduces the same to benefit the environment and promote sustainability. The manufacturing units are all certified through the SES and ISO 140001.

The manufacturing facilities ensure high safety standards, ensuring that the manpower comfort level is enhanced. This is fortified by safety committees and task forces who try and resolve potential safety issues. This also ensures that safety practices are followed at every level. 

The secure manufacturing staff at Shaw Carpets is a vigilant lot that reciprocates the concern towards environmental safety measures. The Company enjoys the benefit of vertical integration. 

The nylon polymerization, reclamation, and fiber extrusion production processes can control cost and ensure product quality. Reduction in wastage also helps in managing pollution, thereby making sustainability viable.

The company takes great pride in declaring that over 100 million pounds of carpet are processed annually through a wide array of internal recycling options to reclaim and recycle its products. 

The specialized EcoWorx product platform is compatible with leveraging opportunities to recycle from all the plants in their global operations and markets. The Evergreen Ringgold recycling facility provides additional capacity and is capable of handling PET-based carpeting solutions also. 

The environmental Guarantee is the basis of the Company commitment towards environmental responsibility and anchors the cornerstone of the philosophy of sustainability.

Re2E {reclaim-to-energy} is the facility that facilitates the generation of energy fuelled by reclaimed carpet material from Shaw Carpets own manufacturing units. This fuel is then used to generate steam and electricity used not only in our own plants but also as a supplement to the reclamation network.

Conclusion


Shaw carpeting and flooring solutions showcase commendable efforts to establish good practices and equipment to work towards sustainability and pollution management practices. The Shaw Carpets products are used across a huge section of industry verticals are you willing to be a part of this revolution?

Friday 23 September 2016

Why Should Prefer Armstrong Vinyl For Residential Flooring

Why Should Prefer Armstrong Vinyl For Residential Flooring - carpetexpress.com

Are you looking for beautiful, seamless and easy to maintain flooring solutions at affordable prices? 

Your search ends with Armstrong Vinyl flooring, which is undisputedly among the best in its category.

Decor ideas suited to Armstrong Vinyl


The first question that arises in the mind of a homeowner or interior designer is what style of decor should be the central theme of the house? 

Is the theme traditional, transitional or modern? 

Vinyl is one of the best options with styles from traditional plank style sheets (which seamlessly create a wooden floor feel) to edgy contemporary designs that flaunt bold colors and patterns. 

Most homeowners, decorators, and interior designs love the look and feel imparted by Armstrong Vinyl, are you one of them?

Are you looking towards decorating a commercial area with large volumes of traffic? 

If yes, then you may like to check out the various kinds of vinyl floors that are up for grabs before freezing your purchase. Sheet vinyl flooring is durable, flame retardant, easy to install and maintain. It is also a very good product to use in businesses like hotels, malls and high maintenance spaces that need refurbishment every couple of years to keep the venue looking crisp and new.

Affordable and fuss-free, vinyl flooring is a dream come true for buyers from all walks of life and different budgets for their flooring tasks.

Armstrong Vinyl flooring for home decor


Not too long ago, vinyl was considered to be the poor cousin to marble, wood, and granite. Even tiles were considered classier than vinyl. But times are changing very fast. 

Today, those cheap shiny plastic like vinyl flooring solutions are history. LVT or Luxury Vinyl Tile is the modern version of vinyl flooring that has skewed the market demand for the product profitably.

  1. Luxury finishes are available in both heterogeneous chip designs and homogenous single finishes. The floors with edgy chip designs may combine both textural and color contrasts for giving off a very natural look. 
  2. Vinyl no longer needs to be restricted to areas of the house that are utilitarian like the laundry and mud rooms. The versatile finishes and thick upper layers of Armstrong Vinyl ensure luxurious finish to all parts of residential and commercial spaces; just go for it.
  3. Doll up your bedroom or living room with directional color schemes available in Luxury Vinyl Tiles. Add elements of nature with wooden finish tiles that look exactly like the real thing but are eminently easier to maintain. Bathrooms and kitchens can also be finished with vinyl tiles, this is because these tiles are seamless and when properly installed, also discourage the seepage of water.
  4. Vinyl is stain proof, scratch proof, moisture repellant, fungus repellant, and most importantly, flame retardant, making it one of the most intelligent choices for your home.
  5. Armstrong Vinyl is easy to install, and if you are good with your hands, you may well be able to install it yourself with the help of DIY videos. If it is a new home you are furnishing, you just need to fill in the cracks and put in the flooring. You might want to tear out the flooring in an old home that you are refurbishing to avoid moisture seepage and grout lines.
  6. The Vivero collection of Armstrong Vinyl is perfect for your home as the designs in this range do not warp, and can be easily installed over pre-existing sub floors- thus making installation cheap and easy. 
  7. The multi-purpose trim is available for almost every level of your dream home, be it the landing, the staircase or step downs. You may like to invest n such trims for imparting a decent look to any space in your environment.
  8. The Alterna collection sports designs in multiple finishes like marble, slate, concrete with inlaid motifs, weathered metal, travertine, timber and even linen, making it a great choice for all your rooms.

Armstrong vinyl is not only for your floors!


Do not believe for a moment that Vinyl is restricted to flooring. It is a beneficial product to cover your walls with. A lot has been spoken about the quality of Vinyl tiles that make them a good alternative for floors. The same affordability, luxurious feel and easy maintenance criteria apply to wall finishes also.

  1. Renaissance saw the trend of covering walls with stone, wood, and silk. You would love to try using such vinyl planks and tiles too. Architectural Remnants, Rustic Premium and Coastal Living Patina range from the Armstrong Vinyl offer stable to stunning effects and are certainly the way to go. The beauty of natural elements, especially the ones that have undergone natural wear and tear, make for very realistic and unique decor for your home.
  2. Matching trim is also readily available to impart a professional and seamless look to your walls. These trims not only ensure protection to the walls from moisture and damp but also give a very sophisticated polish to your walls. Appropriate molding also adds to the ambiance and completes the look that you are aiming for. So do invest in the finish of your choice and watch your room come alive with easy and inexpensive decor ideas!

Caring for your Armstrong Vinyl Floors and walls


There are a host of maintenance products available to help keep your Vinyl flooring in mint condition. You may use these products to maintain a high gloss and ensure the longevity of your vinyl tiles. 

Let us discuss how we can best look after our new decor option.
  1. It is advisable to sweep the floors regularly but avoid the beater option on the vacuum cleaner.
  2. You may wipe the floor and walls regularly with cleaning products available with Armstrong flooring according to the instructions given on the package. Normal cleaners may be harmful to the acrylic used for grouting vinyl tiles. 
  3. It is essential to avoid scuffing or gouging off your floor when shifting heavy furniture or appliances by using a plank to walk the stuff across.
  4. Use of furniture pads may help reduce indentation marks.
  5. Natural woven mats placed outside doors may help reduce the accumulation of dirt and moisture onto the vinyl, thereby increasing its life. 
  6. Normal waxes and shines may also be detrimental to the vinyl flooring, so it is best to avoid using them.
  7. Scrubbing with heavy-duty brushes or scrubbers is an absolute disaster in the making!

Your dream home within your reach


Indulge in your passion for creating your dream home with gusto. If so required, professional inputs from the Armstrong Vinyl team are just a phone call away. So go ahead and grab your slice of life – you will not be disappointed.

Tuesday 23 August 2016

Essential Tips For Care and Maintenance of Stanton Carpet


Essential Tips For Care and Maintenance of Stanton Carpet-carpetexpress.com

Looking for a new carpet for your home? You can definitely add warmth and color to your home with high quality, branded, stylish, and decorative Stanton Carpets.

Carpets are floor coverings that add softness to all kinds of hard floors. The upper layer of carpets is usually made of nylon, polyester, polypropylene or wool which is heat treated to retain the twist and keep the fibers attached to the backing. 

The kind of cover you choose for your floors has a big impact on the decor and style of your space. You can choose the floor covering first and then revolve your decor around it; or if you are re-doing the floor of your old home and the decor is already there, all you need to do is look for the right kind of floor covering. Well, there is no dearth of choices for your floor coverings. 

Even in the face of plentiful options, you will love to conduct your research online and update yourself with all the designs and patterns of Stanton Carpet that are available in the market. 

There is one for each buyer’s personal style and preference, choose a Stanton carpet that suits your pocket!

Why Should You Prefer Stanton Wool Carpet


Why Wool? 

Well, woolen carpets are known for their comfort and durability. The natural oils present in their fibers make them stain resistant and fire resistant. Wool is non-allergenic; therefore, it does not promote the growth of dust mites and bacteria. Also, a woolen Stanton carpet does not give off harmful emissions, thus making it naturally green and eco-friendly. In most cases, the robust woolen fibers of these carpets ensure that the pile doesn’t flatten over time and bounces back into shape to look as good as new. 

The wool that is used to make Stanton Carpets is biodegradable, renewable and also has a longer shelf life than other fibers. The luxurious wool of these carpets can be dyed to perfection with beautiful rich colors. 

All in all, these stylish and gorgeous carpets are the first choice for homeowners of all ages and different walks of life. You can surely express your personal style with a splash of color with high-quality Stanton Carpets made of wool. 

Wool carpets are not only soft under your foot, but they also offer cushioned protection for the crawling babies in your house. The best part is that they absorb ambient sound and bring down the noise levels in your environment, thereby allowing you to have a comfortable nap - even with children running or walking around in your personal space.

Care and Maintenance of Stanton Carpets


Some carpets have a longer life cycle than the others; it all depends on the style and fiber of the carpet. However, a bit of care and maintenance can increase the life of any carpet. It is normal to find the appearance of a carpet changing due to prolonged use. Regular usage also leads to minor variations in the coloration and textures of rugs and carpets. Therefore, an extra bit of care and precaution can go a long way in enhancing the beauty and appearance of your woolen carpets. Care and maintenance of a Stanton carpet made of wool are a lot easier than the carpets made from other fibers. 

1. Vacuum Carpet At Least Once A Week


Firstly, you need to vacuum your woolen carpets at least once a week. The act does not only increase the life of the carpet but also enhances its beauty. When your carpet is first laid out on the floor of your home, you need to vacuum it frequently so that the dust, surface lint, and fluff are all removed. Then, you should vacuum your Stanton carpets once a week so that all the soil and dirt is removed from the pile of the carpet itself, otherwise cleaning tasks will become extremely difficult for you if the soil finds its way below the pile. High foot traffic zones in your home require more vacuuming than the other areas. While vacuuming, first go against the direction of the pile so that the pile is lifted and the soil and dirt are unsettled and removed. Finish your vacuuming by going in the direction of the pile, so that you can get a uniform finish. A good vacuum cleaner makes the job of maintaining your carpets a very easy one. 

2. Remove Stains, Spillages, Moisture From The Carpet


All spillages on your carpet should be removed immediately by blotting or dabbing away the liquid with the help of white paper towels that also remove excess moisture. It is essential for you to go through the manufacturers’ instructions to ensure that you are using the appropriate methods to remove the stains from your carpet; else, there is a risk of permanently discoloring the area of the spillage without gaining from the applied warranty. Lastly, if the stains are too stubborn and you are not able to get rid of them, then it is recommended that you call in a professional cleaner to deal with the stains.

3. Resist Insects and Pests


During the manufacturing process of Stanton carpets made of wool, insect resistant treatment is applied to keep moths and carpet beetles at bay. In spite of adopting the best practices, some insects and pests may find their way in and infest the carpet. Therefore, it is recommended that you thoroughly vacuum clean your woolen carpets, especially, along with the skirting and under your furniture. In case you find that insects are still persisting, it is advisable to contact a professional pest control operator right away. 

How To Protect Your Stanton Wool Carpet


  1. Place doormats at the entrance of your house so that all soil, dirt, and moisture from footwear is adequately trapped before you or others step into your beautifully carpeted space. 
  2. Heavy furniture pieces generally leave pressure marks on the carpet, therefore, it is recommended that you occasionally move your furniture around and use furniture coasters and chair pads to distribute their pressure. 
  3. You may like to use area rugs in high foot traffic zones of your home so that you can protect your wool carpets from uneven wear and tear. 
  4. Be extremely careful while using chemical cleaners to clean your non-carpeted areas. These chemical cleaners can easily discolor your carpets or leave permanent stains on them. 
  5. Stanton Carpets made of wool are dyed in different rich colors, and like any other dyed material, they are prone to fading when exposed to direct sunlight. Therefore, it is recommended that you draw your curtains, blinds or shades during the period of direct sunlight. 

There is no doubt that Stanton Carpets specialize in producing exquisite carpets that are soft, durable and detailed to perfection. Think no longer; enhance the beauty of your home with Stanton Carpets!


Sunday 21 August 2016

5 Durable Alternatives To Hand-scraped Hardwood Floors


These days, high-quality artisan quality hand scraped hardwood floors are definitely a ‘fad’ and make all kinds of wooden floors look more real. Found in contemporary to eclectic and rustic styles, hand-scraped hardwood can create any look you like.

Aesthetically, the timeworn appearance of hand sculptured hardwood flooring lends an old-time warmth and atmosphere to any room. Modern homeowners who seek style, elegance, and individuality are increasingly falling in love with this kind of distressed wooden look that produces floors of incredible beauty. If you are buying a new home or just renovating the looks of your old home, express your personal style with these custom designed handscraped hardwood floors and add more character to our space.

What is your preference? 

Soft subtle scraping or deeper hand scraping for a more rustic look; choose the look that compliments the style and décor of your rooms. If you are a family with bouncy kids and pets with scratchy paws, then, you may like to go in for the textured surface of hand scraped hardwood floors which are more forgiving towards small scratches and dents. 

The process of hand scraping wooden boards brings out the unique graining and natural beauty of all kinds of wood species. In this range of flooring options, you are likely to find various styles and grades of wood species like solid, engineered, hand scraped, click locking, distressed, natural colored or the original stained ones. It’s essential to remember that even the best of wooden boards react to the moisture levels existing in the place that they need to be fixed in. 

So, it is advisable to acclimatize the wood at least a week prior to installation so that there is a minimum expansion of the wooden flooring in future.

With so much and so many hardwood flooring options to choose from, it is important that you freeze your choice upon an exotic wood species that looks beautiful in any setting. Here are some of the most popular hardwood flooring alternatives to choose from.

Brazilian Walnut


Because of is Janka Hardness Rating of 3680, most homeowners like to opt for this exotic variety of Brazilian Walnut for high traffic areas. This species of hardwood has moderate color variations from medium brown to deep chocolate brown to impart a rich look. Because of its warmth and durability, it is no small wonder that this kind of handscraped hardwood flooring is gaining popularity with homeowners across the world. The straight grains of Brazilian Walnut mixed with the irregular patterns of the natural wood create interesting visuals that are perfect for bringing warmth and elegance to any room.

Brazilian Teak


Brazilian teak is also known as Cumaru or Golden Teak. With a Janka Hardness Rating of 3540, it is 160% harder than Red Oak and is one of the hardest wood species available for hardwood flooring. Cumaru is known for its interlocking grain pattern and colors ranging from light to dark brown. This type of dense wooden flooring is stable and durable. It resists all kinds of dents and scratches caused by daily wear and tear, courtesy high traffic. Overall, Brazilian Teak makes for an elegant and attractive hand scraped hardwood floor option.

Brazilian Cherry


Brazil seems to be the place for some of the most exotic wood species with high Janka Hardness Rating. Brazilian Cherry, which is also popularly known as Jatoba, has a Janka Hardness Rating of 2820. Homeowners love the unique graining and richly colored patterns of Brazilian Cherry. In case you opt for the same, rest assured, this hardwood floor is definitely going to be the main attraction for your home as well. If you are looking for deep, rich and warm tones for the floors of your home or office, then, hand scraped hardwood floor made from Brazilian Cherry is the solution to your needs. Pick what you love the most! 

Santos Mahogany


Santos Mahogany, also known as Cabrueva, is one of the most coveted and sought-after exotic hardwood flooring choices amongst homeowners. With a Janka Hardness Rating of 2200, these floors are 18% harder than Hickory floors, thus making them an excellent choice for durable floors. This exotic species of incredibly hard and dense wood is mostly found in southern Mexico and Central America. The graining of this hardwood is wavy and its dark brown hue with lustrous red undertones adds elegance to any kind of décor.

Tigerwood


The grain pattern of this exotic species of wood resembles the stripes of a tiger, hence the name Tigerwood. This hardwood is also known as Bolivian Koa and has a Janka Hardness Rating of 2160, thereby making it a popular species of hardwood with interior decorators and homeowners who love the style and crave for attention-grabbing designs. Because of its intense graining, tigerwood looks best on planks that are wider than 5 inches. The coloration of tigerwood planks gets richer when exposed to light. In most cases, it takes about three months for the color of the plank to stabilize. Tigerwood hand scraped hardwood flooring creates a beautiful and stunning backdrop for any room; all you need to do is add a few decorative accents that are equally bold in design to create a room full of spice.

Way Forward with Handscraped Hardwood


Apart from the exotic wood species, there are many other domestic hardwood flooring wood species that are perfect for traditional setting such as Red Oak, White Oak, Maple, Birch, Walnut, Hickory, Yellow Pine and other varieties. With a Janka Hardness Rating of 1290, Red Oak Natural is one of the most popular domestic wood species. Red Oak hardwood floors have a strong graining for hiding the scratches and dents caused due to daily wear and tear.

Once you have decided to get a more rustic look in your home and are ready to go in for hand scraped hardwood floors, you would like to know,“How difficult is it to refinish hand scraped hardwood floors?” Well, put your mind at rest. Refinishing a hand scraped hardwood floor is very easy - the small scrapes and dents can be fixed with light sanding and re-scraping can be done with modern finishes and stains.

So, what are you waiting for? Pick the perfect hand scraped hardwood flooring option for your home that fits your budget- you will be glad you did!

Friday 15 July 2016

Milliken Carpet Styles - Why You Should Prefer Milliken?

Milliken carpets and floor coverings are known for their innovative designs and sustainability. Milliken creates exceptional carpet products to enhance the beauty and elegance metrics of any given environment. 

This blog throws more light on the company’s increasing popularity.

Milliken combines unique technologies with smart designs and insights to come up with more colorful and customizable floor coverings. 

Yes, Milliken Carpet owns an extensive list of awards for its state-of-the-art products. The innovative styling and meaningful design of the company’s many products result in an aesthetically pleasing collection of floor coverings. 

Milliken had started off in 1865 from a small wooden fabrics business in Portland, Maine. Today, it is a globally recognized brand courtesy its excellent customer services. 

Milliken has been improvising upon its flooring products to not only meet the requirements of its users but also make sure that there is a minimum negative impact on the environment. The American company offers over 20 exclusive collections, out of which some collections comprise of sub-collections with over 50 assortments. These assortments make use of recycled materials without compromising upon the quality of products in any way.

Milliken Carpet Tiles


Among the various flooring solutions available in the market, carpet tiles seem to be the most popular choice as they can be used for remodeling rooms individually. Milliken is also one of the most popular names in carpet tiles manufacturing. It is known for its durability, captivating designs, robustness, and sustainable production methods. Milliken tiles have a 12-year manufacturer warranty for ordinary wear while lifetime guarantee is offered for covering its anti-static properties. 

These products are usually in the form of multi-purpose tiles that can be laid in various patterns like broadloom or checkerboard patterns. They feature a variety of attractive colors and looped surfaces as well. 

Once installed, Milliken carpet tiles will give a unique feel to every different area of your house. Here, rich collections have something to offer for every new look or feel you aspire to give to your home. 

These high-quality floor tiles are protected with an antimicrobial solution for ensuring healthy and hygienic living conditions. There are several impressive collections offered by the company like Milliken Formwork, Laylines, Nordic stories and Watercolor Lesson. 


These solutions are comfortable, affordable and available in an incredible range of colors. Some of the favorite collections are:


1. Milliken Laylines


Milliken Laylines is an amazing collection of Milliken Carpets that offers a broad spectrum of 92 different colors. The premium color palette will provide you with just the right tones that you wish to have, whether it is bright pink or light gray. The designs give a sophisticated look through their subtle irregular stripes. You could be creative with these colors and have your own striped, chequered patterns or other highlights of your choice.

2. Milliken Formwork


The tiles in this category are resilient and have a long lifespan. They can be used in offices, busy entrances or hallways without thinking twice. Since much of the used material is in the form of recycled content, these products are mainly preferred by the environmentally conscious people. In this Collection, the cushion backing of tiles consists of 90% recycled materials that serve as excellent sound absorbers. These loose-laying carpet tiles are incredibly easy to install. As there is no need for adhesives, the installation processes are faster and cheaper.

3. Milliken Nordic Stories


This Collection consists of a unique combination of colors and textures. These designs are inspired by Scandinavian countries as they were the collective contributors in defining the contemporary design culture of such flooring alternatives. There are four sub-collections under this assortment; these are, Milliken Hidden Plains, Milliken Isograd, Milliken Tectonic and Milliken Extreme contrasts. These designs portray the modern culture of the north and skillfully depict folklores and landscapes. The tiles are ideal for residential areas because of their robust and eco-friendly nature.

4. Milliken Watercolor Lesson

This Collection offers yet another unique palette of colors to convey soothing sensations. The simplicity of designs in this range of products creates a relaxing atmosphere. The assortment has a range of over 20 different colors and features a 12-year warranty. The Collection is not just beautiful but is also suitable for heavy commercial use.

Simple to Install


The carpet tiles are available with physical dimensions of 50cm X 50cm. You can easily layer them on harsh surfaces. With this floor solution in place, you may look forward to getting comfortable and soothing surfaces with improved floor quality and sound isolation. Milliken has a unique design concept called Omni that lets you freely choose the ways in which you wish to arrange the tiles. These tiles do not emit any volatile organic compounds so you can be sure that the quality of air will not degrade in any way in your rooms. As they are thick and sturdy, they will not slip or move around too.

Better Quality


Milliken carpet tiles have Comfort Plus backing; they are capable of improving upon the ambient and sound acoustics by absorbing 50% of extra noise. These tiles use 100 % recycled nylon, hence, durability and retention of appearance are ensured. The Comfort Plus Backing offers support to the underfoot, so there is a reduction of leg muscle fatigue by 24% as well. These carpet tiles can increase the productivity of retail and hospitality industry as the employees in these sectors have to keep standing at most times across the day, and they are relieved of their pain courtesy the cushioning effect of these products. 

Environment-Friendly


Milliken Carpet has followed a staunch recycling policy since 1900. The Company goes at length for reducing all negative environmental impacts. It maintains transparency of all of its stakeholders and communities; with all relevant details being clearly visible in the annual sustainability reports. 

Here, the latest Life Cycle Assessment technologies are used for minimizing waste and maintaining the right quality metrics.

Milliken Area Rugs


Milliken area rugs are available in a variety of colors, patterns, and sizes. Their innovative styling and materials are capable of giving your internal spaces any look and feel you want. Milliken carpets make use of premium quality Nylon fiber. With the usage of finest quality raw materials, these flooring solutions offer the highest levels of durability and attractiveness with ease. They use carefully chosen dyes to ensure minimum fading. These carpet tiles from Milliken use a smart digital patterning technology that is capable of producing a wide range of sizes and scales. Milliguard stain resistance prevents soil accumulation and aids in smooth soil removal while cleaning. These carpets go through an antimicrobial treatment, so they last longer and provide a healthy living atmosphere for you and your family at all times. 

Get Milliken carpets and tiles home, you will love their underfoot feel!

Wednesday 15 June 2016

Things To Know About Shaw Flooring

Shaw flooring solutions are one the most preferred and reputed manufacturers in the market today. From high-tech engineered collections to genuine solid woods and cutting-edge epic lines, their craftsmen and skilled workers create some of the finest flooring products in the industry. Shaw prides itself on offering high attention to details and is also passionately committed to offering homeowners with the best and most sustainable products. 

Shaw is also engaged in manufacturing collections made specifically from wood by-products; thereby reducing upon milling waste. Moreover, incorporating technological advancements and innovative changes such as Durashield XL, silent-step and Versalock, Shaw remains a trusted manufacturer in offering flooring solutions; and how!

Shaw Hardwood Collections


Shaw hardwood collection is divided into three categories:



  1. Solid: These are cut and milled from a single board and showcase their purest, natural beauty.
  2. Engineered: These hardwood solutions are stacked and bound under pressure and heat for more durable construction; while displaying the feel and look of solid wood. 
  3. Epic: This line features some of the latest advancements in sustainable technology, and is made from EnviroCore recycled wood fibers for giving off high durability with low environmental impact. 

Well, apart from this, the Shaw hardwood family includes many other collections to offer numerous décor styles ranging from modern to traditional. 

  1. The Grand Canyon collection comprises of bold 8 inches hardwood that exudes time-worn elegance for ageless beauty. 
  2. The Brushed Suede collection displays the appeal of reclaimed wood. 
  3. The Pebble Hill Hickory collection presents rustic yet refined textured patterns with unique shades and distinct wood grains. 
  4. The Chimney rock collection offers staggering board lengths along with high color contrast; ‘an eclectic twist on classic hardwood’. 
  5. For any contemporary design or modern look, mysteriously dark and sleeky shade of Smooth Sailing and Metropolitan maple would be perfect. 

Types of Flooring by Shaw


When it comes to choosing new floorings, one of the main tasks is to decide upon one from among the many options available in the market. With so many flooring companies out there, only a few can live up to and exceed your expectations. Shaw hardwood flooring offers amazing styles to match your house and theme. Some types of floorings offered by Shaw are: 

  1. Hardwood flooring 
  2. Shaw Laminate flooring
  3. Shaw Carpet
  4. Ceramic flooring


High-quality Shaw hardwood flooring allows your home to look elegant and stylish. There are numerous wooden finishes to select from; and unlike other flooring companies, Shaw provides exotic styles and more traditional ones which you shall not find anywhere.If you don’t want the maintenance of hardwood floorings, then you can always go for Shaw laminate flooring. 

With a vast laminate range to boast of, these floors are extremely easy-to-install. Also, the flooring will last longer and withstand a lot of wear and tear.

Shaw ensures that the laminate range provides the features of fade resistance, high durability metrics, and longevity. In most cases, ceramic flooring by Shaw promises to match your taste and style; and is considered perfect for kitchens and bathrooms too. 

You may also like to invest in Shaw carpets that are available in a variety of designs, patterns, and textures. Here, there is something for every budget; you can order some samples for testing and then make your decision accordingly.

Shaw floorings are one of the most prominent names in the flooring industry. In fact, more and more homemakers and builders are opting for Shaw flooring solutions for their homes and offices. This company is one of the leading manufacturers of flooring materials like rugs, tiles, laminates, carpets, and hardwood. Not only does the Company boasts about having a wide clientele but also offers an array of choices when it comes to wood sources like walnut and oak.

Advantages of Shaw Hardwood Floors



Being made of hardwood, Shaw floors guarantee numerous benefits. Shaw hardwood floorings have been popular amongst those who look for durability rather than anything else. Strong and thick, this kind of flooring is designed to last for years in a row. Do know that Shaw floorings can last for 30 years! This means that once installed, this flooring will last with you until you grow old. You don’t have to worry about replacing or repairing them anytime soon. 

Another plus point of Shaw hardwood flooring is that it can be installed at cheap rates. The reason behind this is that you don’t have to use glue or any adhesive to keep such floors in place. Shaw products are made using versa lock technology that keeps the flooring together as they are installed.

Unlike other flooring solutions, Shaw hardwood requires little maintenance. There is no need of cleaning the floor rigorously or every day. It is coated with a chemical called aluminum oxide that acts as a shield against abrasions. Also, it’s easier to polish and clean the floor using a polisher or a good mop. 

Demerits of Shaw Hardwood Floors


Despite numerous benefits of Shaw products, there are some flaws as well. To start with, Shaw hardwood is more expensive than ordinary wood. Since these floors are excellent in quality, they are considered as one of the most expensive flooring options on the market today. However, there are many manufacturers who offer discounted Shaw hardwoods. You can find Shaw Hardwood Floors cheap if you invest your time in proper market research. You may like to go to physical outlets and check the type, style, and pattern of floors that you desire for yourself. Also, do browse the internet and buy Shaw hardwood flooring online for getting more savings on your investments. 

Even though you don’t require any adhesives or glue for installing Shaw floors, they may not be cheap to install. First, it is not possible to conduct the installation processes yourself; in most cases, you will require professional help. In case you find it tedious to install Shaw products, it is recommended that you hire professional installation services with one to several years of experience. This will help in preventing money wastage, and will surely save your time with the job getting done in the right way.

Shaw hardwood flooring offers its customers the timeless tradition of hardwood flooring solutions; and with an array of sizes, colors and species in place. Available in engineered and solid construction, it features numerous protection technologies. Along with enduring style, such floors log in lasting beauty. From the light, rich red of cherry floors to natural maple floors, hardwood floorings offer naturally diverse tones to match anybody’s taste. The durability and beauty of Shaw Hardwood floors have no comparison either. Thus, if you’re thinking of redecorating your house, invest in Shaw and you will never be disappointed. 

All the best!