What Type of Flooring Should You Use?
AffinityX GrayTV • May 29, 2020
When starting a home renovation project, you want to make sure that you’re always thinking ahead. As much as possible, you should pay attention to every detail that goes into the basic parts of a room, such as the walls, ceilings, and especially the floors.
Your flooring can make or break a room. For example, you wouldn't want to step on a smooth, slippery floor when you take a bath, right? It would be dangerous and impractical. That's why you have to know which type you should use for a room before getting a professional flooring installation.
For Your Living Room
The living room is the place where the family bonds. It's also one of the areas in your home with the most foot traffic, which is why it's best to use a durable material like hardwood
here.
This material can easily be installed on top of a concrete subfloor. You can also walk on it right away. And you don't have to worry about it getting damaged from the weight of your heavier furniture.
For Your Kitchen
It's not uncommon to accidentally spill water or food when cooking. That's why the type you should choose for this area is vinyl flooring. This type is best suited for a kitchen since it's highly water-resistant. It's also easy to maintain! You can use a simple mop to clean the surface from food stains and dirt.
For Your Bathroom
This part of your home is almost always wet because of shower drips, splashes, and, sometimes, even overflows. For this reason, tiles are the top choice.
For your bathrooms, it’s best to go with textured tiles instead of smooth ones, so that it’s not easy to slip on them. They hold up well in wet and moist places and are also easy to clean!
Bring the Best Out of Every Room
Choosing the right type of flooring can bring a room together. Once you know you've selected the right one, call up Floors for Less
for professional flooring installation services.
Upgrade your flooring today with engineered hardwood and enjoy a stylish, long-lasting solution tailored for Madison’s climate!
Stay ahead of the trends this winter by upgrading your flooring with stylish and practical options that suit Madison’s climate.
Madison, WI, experiences a challenging freeze-thaw cycle during the winter months, which can take a toll on your flooring. Fluctuating temperatures and moisture can cause floors to expand, contract, and even warp if not properly prepared. Here’s how to protect your floors and ensure they withstand Madison’s winter conditions.  Understand the Freeze-Thaw Cycle’s Impact on Flooring The freeze-thaw cycle refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture in and around your home. This cycle can: Cause hardwood floors to expand and contract, leading to gaps or buckling. Lead to moisture seeping into tile grout, causing cracks or loosening tiles. Result in water damage to carpets and other porous flooring materials. Steps to Prepare Your Floors 1. Seal Hardwood Floors Sealing hardwood floors helps prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. A high-quality sealant acts as a barrier, reducing the risk of warping or swelling during temperature changes. 2. Use Floor Mats and Rugs Place floor mats at entryways to trap snow, salt, and moisture brought in from outside. Adding rugs in high-traffic areas can provide an extra layer of protection for your floors. 3. Maintain Humidity Levels Use a humidifier to keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This prevents hardwood floors from drying out or expanding due to excess moisture. 4. Clean Regularly Dust and debris can scratch floors and make them more susceptible to damage. Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors regularly with appropriate cleaning solutions to maintain their integrity. 5. Inspect and Repair Grout For tiled floors, check the grout for cracks or signs of wear. Repairing damaged grout prevents water from seeping beneath the tiles, which can cause lifting or cracking during freeze-thaw cycles . 6. Apply Waterproofing Solutions For areas prone to moisture, such as basements or mudrooms, consider applying a waterproofing solution to your floors. This added protection minimizes water-related damage. 7. Use Non-Slip Rugs and Pads Winter can make floors slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Use non-slip rugs and pads to enhance safety while protecting your floors. Benefits of Preparing Your Floors Longevity : Proper preparation extends the lifespan of your flooring. Cost Savings : Avoid costly repairs or replacements caused by winter damage. Enhanced Comfort : Well-maintained floors contribute to a warm and inviting home environment. To explore durable and winter-ready flooring options, visit Floors for Less. Let us help you find the perfect solution for Madison’s challenging winters. FAQs About Protecting Floors During Freeze-Thaw Cycles What is the freeze-thaw cycle? It refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture during winter months. How does the freeze-thaw cycle affect hardwood floors? It can cause expansion, contraction, and warping if floors are not properly prepared. What type of flooring is best for freeze-thaw conditions? Hardwood with proper sealing, waterproof tiles, and moisture-resistant materials work best. How can I prevent moisture damage to my floors? Use sealants, waterproofing solutions, and maintain proper humidity levels indoors. Should I use rugs during winter? Yes, rugs protect floors from scratches, moisture, and salt brought in from outside. How often should I inspect my floors in winter? Regularly check for signs of damage, especially after extreme weather changes. Are waterproof flooring solutions worth it? Yes, they provide added protection against water damage and are ideal for high-moisture areas. Preparing your hardwood floors for Madison freeze-thaw cycle is essential to protect your investment and ensure your home remains cozy and safe throughout the winter. Contact Floors for Less today for expert advice and premium flooring solutions!
