The differences between solid wood, engineered hardwood and laminate flooring

Image via Wikipedia

Selecting flooring can be a confusing process with so many different labels, styles, colors, and types of flooring available today. Breaking down some of the terminology and types of flooring is necessary to ensure that you get the product you are after. It is equally important that it functions properly in the room you select. If you live in South Carolina and are interested in installing new flooring, see: DirectBuy of Columbia SC.

Hardwood flooring characteristics and uses:

Also known as solid wood flooring, solid wood is milled from a single 3/4" thick piece of hardwood. Because of its thickness, a solid hardwood floor can be sanded and refinished over several generations of use. Solid wood flooring expands and contracts with changes in your home's relative humidity. In many cases installers compensate for this movement by leaving an expansion gap between the floor and the wall. Base molding or quarter round is traditionally used to hide the extra space.

Hardwood flooring installation has some limitations, if you plan to install over concrete, you must use an engineered product to ensure structural integrity. The existing cement floor needs to have a moisture barrier installed prior to installation. Solid wood flooring or Engineered flooring may be used over plywood, wood, or OSB subfloors.

Ideally, solid wood flooring if properly installed, can go in bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms and kitchens (*however it could be a risk in a kitchen, with a dishwasher. A faulty dishwasher can leak all over a floor and possibly damage hardwood floors and their finish). If you are considering flooring for a bathroom where continuous moisture is expected, you will want to select a product other than hardwood.

Image via WikipediaEngineered hardwood flooring characteristics and uses:
Engineered wood is produced with three to five layers of hardwood. Each layer is stacked in a cross-grain configuration and bonded together under heat and pressure. As a result, engineered wood flooring is less likely to be affected by changes in humidity and can be installed at all levels of the home. This makes it typically more flexible with installation.
Engineered flooring can be installed in any room that you choose, even a basement, because it can withstand moisture due to the multiple layers of wood material that withstand buckling and rippling. It's also fairly easy to install and looks just as beautiful as hardwood flooring. Engineered hardwood flooring is comparable to hardwood flooring, with the single biggest differences being in the amount of times you can refinish engineered hardwood, vs. solid hardwood.
Solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished over and over, and while engineered hardwood can be refinished, it can't be refinished over and over again..as a result solid lasts longer. The other difference is the price, typically engineered hardwood flooring is less expensive.
Laminate flooring characteristics and uses:
Image via WikipediaLaminate is different from solid wood flooring and engineered flooring due to the fact it is manufactured using synthetic materials. The interesting hardwood “look” of laminate flooring is achieved by a process in the manufacturing where a picture of real hardwood floors is installed underneath a finish of melamine.
Visually speaking laminate flooring today can replicate the look, feel and texture of true hardwood flooring. Laminate is less expensive than both solid wood and engineered flooring, however, it has some disadvantages- unlike engineered flooring, laminate can not be used in areas where moisture can be a problem. It is not ideal for laundry rooms, kitchens with dishwashers, see above note*. Laundry rooms like kitchens can be susceptible to leaks from washing machines and in some cases if your hot water heater is located in the area and has a leak. Leaks that are large get under the laminate causing the planks that are floating to become distorted and separate.
Laminate is very durable product and is very difficult to scratch or damage. It is an ideal choice for living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and playrooms. Very few substances stick to the coating on laminate flooring. Installation is easy as it can go over existing flooring and snaps into place. It is ideal for a do it yourself project.

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Counter top options for kitchen and bath

If you are studying the options for different choices of counter tops and vanity counters, you are no doubt going to be overwhelmed by the vast amount of choices now in the market. Here are a few of the most readily available choices to help in the decision making process.
Granite- Granite is an igneous rock that is comprised mostly of quartz and feldspar. Forming from slowly cooling Magma far beneath the surface of the earth, granite is heat resistant, and can endure hot pans, extreme cold, stains, scratches and looks beautiful year after year. The various choices in color also make this gorgeous stone fit any design. Great for kitchen and bathroom vanities. Prices per square foot generally range starting at $50.00, but it is a wise investment as it adds value to your home. It is one of the most desired upgrades of the last decade in homes. For a less expensive alternative many people are opting for granite tile in their kitchen design. There are more seams, but the overall look of granite is still very much observed. Only purchase granite that is sealed and look for a warranty of no less than 15 years on the seal.

Solid Surface- Commonly known as Corian, this type of counter top is manufactured out of acrylic resins. It is a man made material and its range in color runs the gamut. Heat and scratch resistant and a little less costly than natural stone, solid surface counter tops are an upgrade consideration from laminate and a practical selection in homes with children. Scratches can be buffed smooth as well. Prices vary from about $35.00 a square foot, installation fees can vary. Sinks can be integrated with solid surface counter tops and give a smooth seamless transition and back splashes can be fused on to the surface. While heat and stain resistant, solid surface counter tops are not completely impervious to damage. They can crack, scorch and can not endure direct high heat to the surface. A little extra care is needed, but no more than what a homeowner would need to exercise with most other options for counter tops. This type of counter top is also an ideal vanity choice in bathrooms.

Laminate- The most commonly used counter top material, laminate is comprised of layers of paper that have been treated with resin and fused together using high heat and pressure. Today, laminate has a wide variety of styles that can mimic the look of wood, granite, and quartz. The most modest sheets of laminate will be sold in solid colors and range in price from around $ 5.00 a square foot. High end laminate come with high sheen, and textures to look like the more costly stone counter tops and the prices can be quite costly depending on installation and can run up to $45.00 per linear foot. Custom edges will add to the costs as well. Laminate will not add as much in value to your home as stone counter tops, but for the new look and beauty they offer, it will definitely appeal to any home buyer. Laminate can stain, but it can be easily cleaned with baking soda and water, and in some cases bleach/water solutions are needed. Laminate is naturally anti-bacterial. Although scratch resistant, laminate can chip and be damaged. The higher end laminates are manufactured with a texture and most scratches will not be readily visible, however, badly damaged laminate can not be repaired. If poorly installed, moisture seeping into the seams can cause the laminate to separate from the wood it is glued to. It is not a good idea to place any hot items on laminate, you should use trivets/pot holders and not place hot pans from the stove directly on the surface of a laminate counter top especially for an extended period of time.

Ceramic Tile- Ceramic tiles were used a great deal prior to granite being readily available. It is heat resistant and scratch resistant and less costly than stone counter tops. It is also fairly easy for the home owner to install in their home, provided they have access to  or own a wet saw. Ceramic tiles do require that the grout be sealed regularly to prevent it from stains and mildew issues, especially in bathroom areas. Ceramic tiles range in price from around $10.00 a square foot (this does not include installation) ,and come in many color choices and patterns. It is not as valuable an upgrade as granite, but it is considered an upgrade to laminate and is still used often for back splashes. Ceramic tiles do offer the homeowner a certain amount of creativity , making it a more personal customized  improvement to your home. Tiles can be scratched, chipped and even broken but also can be replaced on a need-to basis. Tiles are also available in other materials and worth investigating, but prices will be higher than ceramic porcelain. Keep in mind these are just a few samples of the options available. Visit your local hardware, or home improvement center to see the full range of choices available. Remember to do your research!

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Countertop options for kitchen and bath

Image by granite-charlotte via Flickr

If you are studying the options for different choices of counter tops and vanity counters, you are no doubt going to be overwhelmed by the vast amount of choices now in the market. Here are a few of the most readily available choices to help in the decision making process.

Granite- Granite is an igneous rock that is comprised mostly of quartz and feldspar. Forming from slowly cooling Magma far beneath the surface of the earth, granite is heat resistant, and can endure hot pans, extreme cold, stains, scratches and looks beautiful year after year. The various choices in color also make this gorgeous stone fit any design. Great for kitchen and bathroom vanities. Prices per square foot generally range starting at $50.00, but it is a wise investment as it adds value to your home. It is one of the most desired upgrades of the last decade in homes. For a less expensive alternative many people are opting for granite tile in their kitchen design. There are more seams, but the overall look of granite is still very much observed. Only purchase granite that is sealed and look for a warranty of no less than 15 years on the seal.

Solid Surface- Commonly known as Corian, this type of counter top is manufactured out of acrylic resins. It is a man made material and its range in color runs the gamut. Heat and scratch resistant and a little less costly than natural stone, solid surface counter tops are an upgrade consideration from laminate and a practical selection in homes with children. Scratches can be buffed smooth as well. Prices vary from about $35.00 a square foot, installation fees can vary. Sinks can be integrated with solid surface counter tops and give a smooth seamless transition and back splashes can be fused on to the surface. While heat and stain resistant, solid surface counter tops are not completely impervious to damage. They can crack, scorch and can not endure direct high heat to the surface. A little extra care is needed, but no more than what a homeowner would need to exercise with most other options for counter tops. This type of counter top is also an ideal vanity choice in bathrooms.

Laminate- The most commonly used counter top material, laminate is comprised of layers of paper that have been treated with resin and fused together using high heat and pressure. Today, laminate has a wide variety of styles that can mimic the look of wood, granite, and quartz. The most modest sheets of laminate will be sold in solid colors and range in price from around $ 5.00 a square foot. High end laminate come with high sheen, and textures to look like the more costly stone counter tops and the prices can be quite costly depending on installation and can run up to $45.00 per linear foot. Custom edges will add to the costs as well. Laminate will not add as much in value to your home as stone counter tops, but for the new look and beauty they offer, it will definitely appeal to any home buyer. Laminate can stain, but it can be easily cleaned with baking soda and water, and in some cases bleach/water solutions are needed. Laminate is naturally anti-bacterial. Although scratch resistant, laminate can chip and be damaged. The higher end laminates are manufactured with a texture and most scratches will not be readily visible, however, badly damaged laminate can not be repaired. If poorly installed, moisture seeping into the seams can cause the laminate to separate from the wood it is glued to. It is not a good idea to place any hot items on laminate, you should use trivets/pot holders and not place hot pans from the stove directly on the surface of a laminate counter top especially for an extended period of time.

Ceramic Tile- Ceramic tiles were used a great deal prior to granite being readily available. It is heat resistant and scratch resistant and less costly than stone counter tops. It is also fairly easy for the home owner to install in their home, provided they have access to  or own a wet saw. Ceramic tiles do require that the grout be sealed regularly to prevent it from stains and mildew issues, especially in bathroom areas. Ceramic tiles range in price from around $10.00 a square foot (this does not include installation) ,and come in many color choices and patterns. It is not as valuable an upgrade as granite, but it is considered an upgrade to laminate and is still used often for back splashes. Ceramic tiles do offer the homeowner a certain amount of creativity , making it a more personal customed improvement to your home. Tiles can be scratched, chipped and even broken but also can be replaced on a need-to basis. Tiles are also available in other materials and worth investigating, but prices will be higher than ceramic porcelain. Keep in mind these are just a few samples of the options available. Visit your local hardware, or home improvement center to see the full range of choices available. Remember to do your research!

 

How to choose flooring for your kitchen or bathroom

We often start a project at home much like a baby takes it's first steps. Fearful and unsure. This article will tell you about a few of the flooring choices out there today.
Vinyl- Although not regarded as a "high-end" upgrade, vinyl flooring can be a safer choice in some instances, especially if you have young children. It is highly resistant to wear, chemical solutions and most stains. It comes in a wide variety of designs and patterns and is a common choice for many kitchens and baths. It is an ideal choice where a limited budget is in place.
Terrazzo- A popular flooring of the past, Terrazzo is making quite a comeback. Used outdoors and indoors, Terrazzo is revered for its easy care, durability, and cool feel to the touch. It does require sealing every so many years, but it does offer long wear and will withstand years of use. One word of caution, make sure to mop using a non alkali cleaner. Otherwise you maintain it much like any other floor. Terrazzo comes in a wide variety of thicknesses and is not typically a uniform material. Take this into consideration as to where you will use this floor. If you plan on going barefoot in the room often, it may not be the most comfortable choice.
Stone or Brick- Brick flooring believe it or not was very popular in earlier times. Its richness of color, wide availability, and affordable prices made it a popular choice at one time. Today it is resurfacing as reclaimed materials for those who wish to use something environmentally friendly. It gives many rooms a rustic flare and can give new construction an old feel. That being said, if you get unglazed and unsealed brick you will have to be leary of any oil based staining and the fact that it isn't necessarily "foot" friendly. Stone flooring is also an option and it is durable, beautiful, adds value to your home and can come in every color, shape and texture.
Tile- More and more now you are seeing various tiled flooring in homes. Ceramic tile has long been seen in bathrooms, but occasionally will still be seen as back splashes in kitchens, and on counter tops as a cheaper alternative to granite. For flooring it is also very nice but can be slick when wet and easy to slip on. Porcelain tiles have this same issue but new tiles are emerging every day to look like more expensive varieties. Having tile flooring installed requires a 24 hour setting time typically, so be prepared not to eat in. There are a wide variety of tiles out there. Consider the investment as this typically is a higher end upgrade but usually sees a good return in the long-term.
Laminate- Laminate flooring is basically an imitation flooring that is also called a floating floor. It can be installed right over existing flooring and snaps together. It primarily is seen as a hardwood flooring alternative. Now there is also stone/tile laminate created to imitate the look of stone. Durable and easy to clean laminate will last a long time. Drawback-pretty expensive for being a fake product and mopping it is discouraged as water seeping through the seams where it is joined can get trapped from below and cause problems. It is therefore not suitable for bathrooms. It comes in a wide variety of styles, colors and finishes and is considered an upgrade to vinyl tile, and vinyl flooring. I would recommend this type of flooring if you do not have young children that could spill fluids a lot on the floor. Even though laminate is impervious to stains and cleans easily the fact that you can not give it a good mopping earns it lower marks in my book, but still a beautiful product overall.
Linoleum- Linoleum was first discovered accidentally way back in the 1800's, by a man looking to make a fake leather material for binding books. Who would have ever thought it would end up in so many peoples homes on the floor? Yet almost everyone has heard of this flooring. It is still widely seen and used today in homes because, like laminate, it can easily go over existing flooring. Linoleum's color permeates the material through and through so scratches and cuts do not show up readily. It is not a good choice for bathrooms or basement flooring as it should not come into contact with cement, which absorbs ground moisture. Linoleum is not maintenance free though, it requires regular waxing to look its best so this type of flooring is less desirable today than it used to be for that fact alone.