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Quartz Countertops Pros And Cons Are They Worth It
Blog, House Renovation

Quartz Countertops Pros And Cons: Are They Worth It?

November 18, 20220

 

There’s a lot of buzz around quartz countertops. They’re lauded as being stylish and durable, and many people are considering them as an option for their home renovation.

But are they really worth the investment? Here, we’ll dive into what quartz actually is and look at the pros and cons of quartz countertops to help you decide.

We’ll also answer some common questions about quartz countertops at the end. Here is what we’ll discuss:

 

What Are Quartz Countertops?

Quartz countertops are a type of man-made stone made from a combination of natural quartz and other materials like resin and other non-stone materials. About 10% of the countertop is made up of something other than stone to increase durability. This makes them very strong and durable, as well as more resistant to scratches and stains than completely natural stone countertop choices.

Now that we’ve covered what quartz countertops are let’s take a look at the pros and cons.

 

Here is a quick table for you to digest. We are going to pick apart each of these traits in a second.

Pros Cons
Extremely Durable Expensive
Low Maintenance Can Be Hard to Install
Variety of Colors May Show Imperfections More Than Other Surfaces

Pros Of Quartz Countertops

Quartz is Extremely Durable

One of the most significant advantages of quartz countertops is that they’re incredibly durable. They’re made to withstand heavy use and abuse, and they’re not as prone to chipping or cracking as other materials can be.

Quartz is also a very hard material, so it’s not as susceptible to scratches the way that softer countertop materials like soapstone or wood are.

Quartz is Low Maintenance

Another big advantage of quartz countertops is that they’re low maintenance. Because they’re non-porous, they’re very easy to keep clean. You don’t have to worry about spills or stains seeping into the material, and you can easily wipe them away with a damp cloth.

You also don’t need to seal quartz countertops as you do with granite or marble. This means one less step in your cleaning routine.

Quartz Comes in a Wide Range of Colors and Patterns

quartz countertop colors and patterns

One of the best things about quartz countertops is that they come in a wide range of colors and patterns, which makes them very versatile. You can find quartz that looks like marble, granite, or even wood.

This means you can easily find an option that fits your style and décor. You’re not limited to the traditional white or black countertop options anymore.

Cons Of Quartz Countertops

Of course, there are also some disadvantages to quartz countertops that you should be aware of before making a decision.

Quartz Countertops Can Be Expensive

One of the most significant drawbacks of quartz countertops is that they can be expensive. They typically cost more than laminate or tile countertops, and they can be comparable in price to granite or marble.

This means you’ll need to factor the cost into your budget when deciding if quartz countertops are right for you.

Quartz Countertops Can Be Difficult to Install

Another downside of quartz countertops is that they can be challenging to install. Because they’re so heavy, you may need professional help to get them properly installed in your home.

This can add to the overall cost of the project, so keep that in mind when budgeting for your new countertops.

Quartz Countertops Show Imperfections

While quartz is a very hard material, it’s not entirely immune to scratches and water spots. If you’re not careful, you may find that your countertops show wear and tear more easily than other materials.

This means you’ll need to be extra careful when using them, and you may need to clean them more often to keep them looking their best.

Now that we’ve looked at the pros and cons of quartz countertops let’s answer some common questions about them.

Quartz Countertop FAQs

Are Quartz Countertops Worth the Investment?

Quartz countertops can be a significant investment, but they offer a lot of benefits that make them worth the cost. They're incredibly durable, low maintenance, and come in a wide range of colors and patterns. If you're looking for new countertops that will last for years to come, quartz is a great option to consider.

How Much Do Quartz Countertops Cost?

The cost of quartz countertops can vary depending on the size of your project and the type of quartz you choose. Generally speaking, they tend to be more expensive than laminate or tile countertops but less expensive than granite or marble. You can expect to pay anywhere from $55 to $100 per square foot for quartz countertops.

Are Quartz Countertops Easy to Clean?

Yes, quartz countertops are very easy to clean. Because they're non-porous, spills and stains won't seep into the material. You can easily wipe them away with a damp cloth.

Do Quartz Countertops Need to Be Sealed?

No, you don't need to seal quartz countertops. They're non-porous so they won't absorb spills or stains. This makes them very easy to keep clean.

Does Quartz Chip Easily?

While quartz is a very hard material and less likely to be scratched or chipped than many other materials, it's not immune to damage. If you're not careful, you may find that your countertops show wear and tear more easily than other materials.

Do Quartz Countertops Show Water Spots?

Yes, quartz countertops can show water spots. It's best always to keep them cleaned up.

Are Quartz Countertops Durable?

Yes, quartz countertops are very durable. They're made from one of the hardest minerals on earth, so they're built to last. With proper care, they can last for years without showing signs of wear and tear.

Can I Put Hot Pans on Quartz Countertops?

Quartz countertops are pretty heat resistant; however, you should never put excessively hot items on the counter, as damage can always occur, no matter the material. Always use pot holders or trivets to protect the counter from direct contact.

Can I Cut on Quartz Countertops?

Although quartz countertops are made from a hard material, sharp items like knives can still scratch them. You would also find that your knives would dull quite quickly. Always use a cutting board when cutting on your countertops.

Are Quartz Countertops A Good Choice?

Quartz countertops are an excellent choice for many homeowners. They offer a lot of benefits that make them worth the cost. They're highly durable, low maintenance, and come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Overall, if you're looking for new countertops that will last for years to come, quartz is a great option to consider.

for years to come, quartz is a great option to consider.

Best Stone Countertops
Blog, House Renovation

Best Stone Countertops: Your Buying Guide for 2024

September 27, 20220

When it comes time to update your home’s countertops, the sheer number of choices can be daunting.  From natural stones to laminate, there is a material and style to suit every taste and budget.

Here is a guide to help you choose the best countertop for your needs, including how to get started.

Topics we’ll cover include:

  • Getting Started: The Information You Need Before Shopping
  • The Best Stone Countertops
    • Granite
    • Quartzite
    • Marble
    • Soapstone
    • Engineered Stone
  • FAQs

Getting Started: The Information You Need Before Shopping

When it comes to countertops, there are a lot of choices.

Before you start shopping, it’s important to narrow down your options by considering your needs and what will work best in your space.

Here are some things to think about:

  • Countertop material: There are many different materials to choose from, including natural stone, laminate, and engineered stone. Each has its own unique look and feel. We’ll go over the best stone countertops in more detail later.
  • Countertop style: Do you want a sleek and modern look or something more traditional?
  • Countertop usage: How will you be using your countertops? If you do a lot of cooking, you’ll want a material that can withstand high temperatures.
  • Maintenance: Some materials require more upkeep than others. Consider how easy the countertop is to clean and if you’re willing to put in the work to maintain it.
  • Budget: Countertops can range in price from $30 per square foot to $200 per square foot, depending on the material and style. Most stone countertops start at about $40 per square foot*.

*prices subject to change

Keep these factors in mind as you shop for countertops to find the best option for your home.

Countertop Measurements

You’ll also need accurate measurements to know how much countertop you need. To measure, use a tape measure and record the length and width of each section of the countertop.

If you have an L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen, you’ll need to measure each section separately. Don’t forget to measure any overhangs or areas where the countertop will extend beyond the cabinets.

It’s a good idea to measure twice to be sure you have accurate measurements. Once you have your measurements, you can use a calculator to determine the square footage of the countertop you need.

Now that you know what to consider before shopping for countertops let’s take a look at some of the best stone countertops on the market.

The Best Stone Countertops

There are many different types of stone countertops to choose from, each with its own unique look and feel. Here are some of the best options:

Granite

Granite

Granite is a popular choice for countertops because it’s durable and heat-resistant. It also has a natural beauty that can add to the value of your home.

 

Pros:

  • Granite is a durable material that can withstand high temperatures. It’s also scratch-resistant and stain-resistant.
  • Granite is a natural material that adds beauty and value to your home.

Cons:

  • Granite is a porous material, so it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining. It’s also a heavy material, so it requires reinforcement if used for countertops.

Pricing: Granite countertops start at $40 per square foot*.

 

Quartzite

Quartzite

Quartzite is a natural stone that looks similar to marble but is more durable. It’s heat-resistant and scratch-resistant, making it a good choice for busy kitchens.

 

Pros:

  • Quartzite is a durable material that can withstand high temperatures. It’s also scratch-resistant and stain-resistant.

Cons:

  • Quartzite is a porous material, so it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining. Like granite, it’s also a heavy material, so it requires reinforcement if used for countertops.

Pricing: Quartzite countertops start at $50 per square foot*.

 

Marble

Marble

Marble is a classic choice for countertops because of its beauty and elegance.

 

Pros:

  • Marble is a beautiful material that can add elegance to your home.

Cons:

  • Marble is a softer material, so it’s more susceptible to scratches and stains.
  • Marble should be sealed regularly to prevent staining.

Pricing: Marble countertops start at $40 per square foot*.

 

Soapstone

Soapstone is a natural stone that’s heat-resistant.

 

Pros: 

  • Soapstone is a durable material that can withstand high temperatures.
  • It’s also non-porous, so it doesn’t need to be sealed.

Cons:

  • Soapstone is a softer material, so it’s more susceptible to scratches.

Pricing: Soapstone countertops start at $55 per square foot*.

 

Engineered Stone / Quartz

Engineered Stone / Quartz

Engineered stone is a man-made material that’s made from a mix of quartz and other materials. This makes the color more even, as it’s not coming directly from the randomness of nature. This assures you that each counter will match another perfectly. And because it is man-made, engineered stone is more customizable in terms of colors and patterns.

 

Pros:

  • Engineered stone is a durable material that can withstand high temperatures. It’s also stain-resistant and non-porous, so you never need to seal it.

Cons:

  • Engineered stone is a harder material, so it’s more susceptible to chips and cracks.

Pricing: Engineered stone countertops start at $55 per square foot*.

 

How Do I Choose The Best Stone Countertop?

Now that you know the different types of stone countertops available, how do you choose the best one for your home? It really boils down to your preferences. Make a checklist of the factors we listed above, and prioritize them based on what’s most important to you and your family.

 

If you need help choosing, we’re always here. Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to walk you through your options.

 

Stone Countertops FAQs

How do you seal a stone countertop?

To seal a stone countertop, you'll need to purchase a sealing agent specifically designed for stone. Apply the sealer according to the manufacturer's instructions, and be sure to reseal regularly to prevent staining.

How do you clean a stone countertop?

To clean a stone countertop, you can use warm water and soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the stone. For tougher stains, you can use a diluted vinegar solution.

What is the difference between granite and quartz?

Granite is a natural stone that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Quartz is an engineered stone made from a mix of quartz and other materials. Quartz is more customizable in terms of colors and patterns, but both materials are durable and stain-resistant.

Which is better: marble or granite?

Marble and granite are both popular choices for countertops. Marble is a classic material that can add elegance to your home, but it’s more susceptible to scratches and stains. Granite is a durable material that’s heat-resistant and scratch-resistant, but it’s a porous material, so it needs to be sealed regularly.

What is the most expensive countertop material?

The most expensive stone countertop material is soapstone*.

*https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/cabinets-and-countertops/soapstone-counter-install/

hardwood flooring in a bathroom
Bathroom Flooring, About Floors, Blog, Hardwood Flooring, House Renovation, Interior Design, Tips & Tricks

Can You Use Hardwood Flooring in A Bathroom?

January 25, 20220

The hardwood flooring in your bathroom can make a huge impact on the appearance and feel of your space. But you may be wondering if hardwood is right for your situation.

If you’re considering hardwood floors for a bathroom, keep these things in mind:

  • hardwoods are more susceptible to water damage
  • hardwoods may require more time and money spent on waterproofing and sealing than other types of flooring
  • hardwoods may need periodic refinishing to maintain their beauty.

But they offer a great deal of visual appeal and beautiful flooring for years on end if they’re done right.

Overall, we recommend not using hardwood flooring in bathrooms that have a shower or tub and using them with caution and preparation in powder rooms. Read on to learn more.

Hardwood Flooring In A Bathroom Can Add Elegance And Class

The appeal of hardwood floors is hard to argue with. They add a touch of elegance and class to any room. And if you’re looking for that spa-like feeling in your bathroom, hardwood floors may be just what you need.

In fact, hardwood floors are so desirable in a home that they have been shown to increase property values by up to 10%. Another interesting study by the National Association of Realtors has shown that homes with hardwood floors can sell for an average of $5,000 more than homes without. So if you are looking at the installation of hardwood floors from an investment standpoint, it would be hard to go wrong.

However, before making your decision, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of this type of flooring, especially in an area notorious for moisture.

Hardwoods Are Susceptible To Water Damage

One of the main drawbacks to hardwood flooring in a bathroom is that it is more susceptible to water damage than other types of flooring. If your bathroom is not properly sealed with polyurethane, you may find yourself with buckled and warped floors before too long.

In addition, if water does get on your hardwoods, it can cause them to swell and even rot. This is why we do not recommend hardwood floors in a bathroom that contains a shower or bath.

A hardwood floor can be damaged by water from a number of sources, including:

  • splashing or spilling on the hardwood surface itself
  • flooding caused by clogging in pipes and drains
  • condensation that forms under tiles or slabs

However, the most common problem in a bathroom setting is when water is left to stand on the hardwood surface for a long period of time from tub and shower use.

This can lead to stains and warped boards, which will eventually cause other problems for your home. 

While we don’t recommend using hardwood in a full bathroom, if you are choosing to do so, there are many different types of hardwoods available now that resist moisture a little better than traditional hardwoods like oak or maple wood. More on that below.

Hardwoods Require Proper Waterproofing 

The costs of waterproofing hardwood flooring are also something to consider.

In general, hardwood floors are naturally water-resistant. However, if your bathroom has a hardwood floor, it’s likely that the room will become wet from time to time as a result of splashing or spills on the hardwood surface. We suggest cleaning up spills immediately when they happen and not leaving puddles on the hardwood.

Polyurethane seals the wood and helps make it waterproof. It also serves as a protective coating that hardwood floors need to maintain their beauty and durability over time.

These sealers can be applied by professional hardwood flooring companies or you could choose one of the many water-based polyurethane products available at your local home improvement store and do it yourself.

Hardwoods May Need Periodic Refinishing To Maintain Their Beauty

A hardwood floor that is properly maintained and has a high-quality finish can last for up to 20 years or more before it needs to be refinished. However, if you care for your floors correctly, they will last much longer.

Refinishing hardwood floors is a big job, but it can be worth it to keep your floor looking beautiful for years to come. The basic steps to hardwood floor refinishing are:

  • sand hardwood floors with a special sander
  • apply hardwood flooring stain, if desired
  • finish by applying hardwood floor protective coating

If done correctly, this process can take anywhere from four to eight hours per room depending on the size of your space and how many coats are needed to get an even coat.

What Are The Best Wood Options for Waterproof Hardwood Floors?

Hardwoods that are the least susceptible to water damage are often hardwoods that are naturally more water-resistant. These hardwood floors may include:

  • Maple (hard, durable).
  • Hickory (very hard and dense). 
  • Red Oak Wood Flooring (moderately hard but still more resistant to water than most other types of wood flooring)

What About Engineered Hardwoods For Water Resistance?

Engineered hardwoods are great for water resistance because they are constructed from hardwood planks with a veneer of hardwood on top. The hardwood veneer provides the durability that is necessary for high-moisture areas like bathrooms, while engineered hardwoods can help you save money because they require less finishing and sealing than solid wood floors do.

 

Getting Help With Your Hardwood Floor Purchase

Hardwood flooring is a popular and beautiful choice for many homeowners, but it can also be difficult to choose the right style. There are so many different types of hardwood floors with so many different looks! You have to consider cost, durability, color, and finish when making your selection.

That’s why it can be helpful to get expert advice when choosing hardwood flooring for your home. A professional hardwood flooring company can help you select the right type of wood and the right finish for your specific needs and preferences. They can also give you a quote on how much the installation will cost.

GC Flooring Pros is here to help you make the best decision possible by providing you with professional advice, guidance, and recommendations based on your unique needs. We’re happy to answer any questions about our products or services at any time during your purchase process. Our experts are always available via phone call or email whenever you need them!

If you are in the Dallas, TX area and you would like hardwood flooring installed in your home, we can help with any hardwood style or finish that appeals to you. Request an in-house estimate today!

forest engineered wood
About Floors, Blog, Hardwood Flooring, House Renovation

Is Engineered Wood the Answer to Sustainable Wood Flooring?

December 21, 20210

Sustainable living is one of the most important topics in the modern age. Studies show that as much as 77% of the population wants to learn how to live more sustainably. Unfortunately, many of us simply don’t know where to start.

The good news is that sustainable living can start in the home – specifically, your wood flooring! If you’re a member of that 77%, we’re here to help you understand engineered wood and how it benefits the environment. 

Read on to find out why you should use it for your next sustainable wood flooring.

 

What Is Engineered Wood?

As the name suggests, engineered wood has been artificially given structure. Manufacturers will press together woods of several different types to create this beautiful, hardy flooring material. 

Typically, engineered wood will have a layer of plywood with a veneer of a chosen hardwood. This combination provides the aesthetic a designer would like while also providing the sustainability, hardiness, and cost of engineered wood.

 

What Are Some Sustainable Wood Flooring Examples?

Sustainable wood flooring is any type of wood flooring better for the environment because it either uses reclaimed wood or utilizes much less of the tree per wood plank than your average solid hardwood.

Here are some examples typically used for engineered wood flooring: 

  • Hickory 
  • Pecan 
  • Oak
  • Maple

These four options for engineered wood flooring are more sustainable than the traditional solid hardwood, and all are great options.

 

Differences Between Hardwood and Engineered Wood

Despite having similar construction purposes, there are plenty of differences between hardwood and engineered wood.

Construction

Hardwood consists entirely of a single piece of wood – oak, maple, or others. This piece is then cut to fit the purposes needed. Engineered wood is, instead, made of multiple different tree pieces.

The difference is visible with a cross-section of the wood. Rather than seeing a uniform type of wood as you would with hardwood, you see several different types.

Hardiness

Many assume that engineered wood is weaker and less durable than hardwood. However, engineered wood is just as sturdy as hardwood – even sturdier in some cases due to its resistance to warping.

Hardwood is especially damaged by moisture, but this isn’t as much of an issue with engineered wood. Due to being made up of several layers of different wood, engineered wood can resist water much better. 

 

Why Is Engineered Wood Better for the Environment?

Engineered wood is an excellent sustainable wood flooring choice when competing with hardwood. Consider some of the following as some of the best benefits of using engineered wood over hardwood.

More Sustainable

As we talked about above, the most important feature of engineered wood is that it’s significantly more sustainable in its farming and construction. 

With engineered wood, there’s a much smaller environmental impact. Many manufacturers will use wood from recycling suppliers, especially to create the plywood beneath. Doing so keeps trees in the ground and helps to limit deforestation.

Low Pollutant Generation

The processing of hardwood is another source of environmental damage. It is especially prevalent when it comes to making the veneer. For hardwood, cutting the veneer can create a significant amount of sawdust, waste wood, and consume more fuel.

The engineered wood process cuts the veneer instead, as cutting into a composite doesn’t always go well. This process creates much less sawdust and pollutants, wastes less wood, and uses less fuel. It also is much quicker.

 

Styles of Engineered Wood

Another fantastic benefit of engineered wood is how customizable it is. There are plenty of designs that engineered wood can use, given that it’s artificially formed!

Plank Flooring

The most common – and easiest to work with – is wooden planks. By doing so, you can install the planks in whatever orientation you prefer. You can also stagger and switch lengths to provide a design or pattern in the wood.

Sheet Flooring

Some flooring is made in a single large instalment. Such a design can be more difficult to replace but can give a smoother and more uniform appearance than others.

Chevron Flooring

Chevron flooring is a bit more complicated but certain to impress. Placing the wood down in smaller diagonal cuts provides a V pattern across the floor. While installation can be more intense, this is a classic and beautiful look that engineered wood can easily create. 

 

Switching to Engineered Wood Flooring

If you’ve been looking into a more environmentally-friendly housing design, you should look into engineered sustainable wood flooring today! It’s a great way to cut down on costs while also cutting down your carbon footprint. The strength and flexibility of engineered wood in combination with its excellent green qualities for the environment make it an easy choice over hardwood.

Please feel free to contact us for more information on sustainable wood floors. You can also browse our website to learn more about all of our wood flooring options.

GC Flooring Pros
About Floors, Blog, Floor Care, Hand Scraped Wood Flooring, Hardwood Flooring, House Renovation, Recommended Blog, Tips & Tricks

Hand Scraped Hardwood Flooring

January 9, 20190

Hand Scraped Hardwood Flooring

Hand scraped hardwood flooring is a very popular choice for homeowners who are looking to upgrade the design and beauty of their homes. Hand scraped wood has a beautiful, natural texture that brings out the wood’s natural aesthetic beauty and creates a classic, timeless atmosphere of warmth and character. Hand scraped hardwood flooring also has a unique look.

What Is Hand Scraped Hardwood Flooring

Hand scraped is actually just another way to describe hand-sanded floors. Hand-sanding is the process of using heavy-duty sandpaper to wear away at the floor’s surface until it is smooth, and level. Hand scraped hardwood floors are a fairly recent development in the flooring industry, but they have become a favorite for many homeowners over the past decade. Hand-sanded floors fit seamlessly with casual contemporary or shabby chic decor schemes, but their hand scraped texture makes them well suited to formal traditional settings as well

Hand scraped hardwood floors are a current trend that leaves distinct grooves and marks on a floor, giving a room warmth, history, and personality. By opting for hand scraped hardwoods, homeowners can make their brand-new floors look like they’re 100 years old. This style of flooring goes well in any type of home

The surface texture of hand scraped wood (also known as hand sculptured wood) brings out the wood floor’s natural aesthetic beauty and creates a classic, timeless atmosphere of warmth and character. With varying patterns from plank to plank, your home will stand out and be the welcoming space you will want to come home to!

The surface texture of hand scraped wood (also known as hand sculptured wood) brings out the wood floor’s natural aesthetic beauty and creates a classic, timeless atmosphere of warmth and character. With varying patterns from plank to plank, your home will stand out and be the welcoming space you will want to come home to!

At GC Flooring Pros, we will assist you throughout the entire process of selection (from our numerous styles, species, and colors), installation, and provide you with the tools to care for your hand scraped wood floors so they maintain their beauty and life for years to come.

Contact us today for your free in-home consultation. Let’s get started on that upgrade today!

WINTER FLOORING TRENDS AND DESIGNS

November 28, 20180

Nov 28 Blog Picture

Considering a home improvement project this winter? In 2019 flooring manufacturers will be producing even more looks that will mimic the latest texture trends and the most sought after flooring style. Here are some key flooring options to refresh your space with a new look!

WOOD YOU LIKE THIS?

Hardwood – Wood flooring is available from high-quality manufacturers such as Armstrong, Bella Cera, and Anderson to name a few. Engineered hardwood is manufactured with layers of plywood-like wood. Solid wood flooring is made from traditional hardwood planks made from a single piece of wood. Tuscan Oak, White Oak, Soft Ash Wood are some key trends that are popping off of Pinterest and into homes. What “wood” do you like in your living space?

VINYL ANYONE?

Vinyl flooring is a highly popular option and a great choice and with advanced technology, vinyl manufacturers can create realistic, waterproof floors that look like hardwood, tile or stone. Luxury vinyl plank flooring can be made to look like hand-scraped, exotic wood species and grains. If you want comfort and durability in the high traffic areas of your home, vinyl flooring is a stunning and economical choice!

TILE THIS

If you’re looking for tile that’s softer underfoot, engineered tile is a great option. Your feet will appreciate the more comfortable feel, not to mention it’s easier to maintain and clean.

Today’s many styles and design options can be a reflection of your personality and what feels comfortable and functional for your and your family. As the homeowner, you can elevate the aesthetics of your home, with the upgrade of new floors – be it wood, vinyl, or tile.

At GC Flooring Pros, we are here to help steer you in the right direction and narrow down all those beautiful flooring styles to find the perfect floor for your home, that fits any style, any budget. Tell us what you’re envisioning and let’s make your vision come alive. Call us at:214-814-1170 or click on the link here to receive a free in-home consultation. Let’s create a space you’ll want to come home to!

how to choose best floors for your basement
Blog, Carpet Flooring, House Renovation, How-to, Tips & Tricks

How to choose the right floor for your basement

May 15, 20170

Choosing floors is hard. Choosing some floors is harder than choosing others.
Basement floors are famous for being the problem of the lot. Being well below the ground moisture poses a real problem/danger for them, as do concrete slabs that make it hard for wood floors to be set up properly. In the past, all of the above had a hefty influence and used to narrow down the basement flooring choices to mostly manmade synthetic materials. However, thanks to modern inventions and technological progress today it’s possible to install pretty much every kind of floor in your basement. So how do you pick one? No worries, we’ve got you covered.

Before moving on to the actual floor selection process, it’s important to determine the purpose of your basement. A simple storage room has a very different aesthetical need than a basement cinema. Deciding early on the function of your basement will make it easier to narrow down and will save you some money.

Concrete

Use it, it’s already there! There is a very high chance that the subfloor in your basement is made out of concrete. Concrete, once considered ugly and cold, has been gaining popularity as a means of decor. The plain concrete surfaces in the room make the more warm materials present in the house stand out beautifully. So instead of paying extra for a new floor, consider turning your concrete subfloor into one. A good cleaning and maybe grinding down some rough spots will do it. If you are looking for a better look, try acid staining. Unlike paint, acid-staining is permanent and just looks better. For an even more sophisticated look, you can have a concrete slab polished and sealed.

Vinyl

Vinyl is probably the fittest material to be installed in a basement. It’s water-resistant and even though it’s synthetic, it can realistically mimic most natural flooring materials including wood and tile. Most vinyl floors are designed to go right over concrete, they come either in sheets or in tiles for easier installation. Vinyl floors can be laid out in one of the two ways, glued down or “floated”. Floating is a flooring installation method used in especially humid environments.

When using the floating method there is enough space for a moisture barrier to be installed over the concrete slab of the basement for better protection against any moisture. However, vinyl isn’t the only “floating floor”. The same approach can be used with most engineered floors.

Tile

Tile has been the go-to floor for the kitchen and bathroom forever, so its water-resistant abilities are no secret. It can endure floods and all kinds of abuse does not require a subfloor and is easier to clean. You can choose from numerous designs, patterns, and makes (glazed for a more budget-oriented basement transformation and porcelain for a richer look).
The only setback? It will most likely add to the lack of heat that is common to a basement. So you might want to consider some heating options if you are planning to spend a lot of time in your basement.

Engineered Wood

We know what you are thinking, wood and humidity don’t seem like the best of combinations.
But it’s not just wood we are talking about, it’s engineered wood. Engineered wood is a stronger and bolder take on the traditional solid hardwood floors that is just as beautiful as the original. Thanks to its cross-ply structure an engineered hardwood board is 80% less likely to get affected by moisture, meaning that the chance of warping is at an all-time low among wooden floors.

Typically, hardwood isn’t seen as a suitable flooring option not only because of its bad water resistance but also because of installation-related difficulties. However, this is only true for solid hardwood floors that require a wooden subfloor to be stapled down onto. The backing layer of engineered hardwood board can be glued straight to your concrete subfloor without much difficulty.

Laminate

Laminate is probably the material most people wouldn’t even consider when they are thinking about remodeling their basement. And they would be right. Regular laminate flooring wouldn’t have a long life of 8 feet under the ground. But we aren’t talking regular laminate, we are talking waterproof laminate. The trick is to fully eradicate any moisture-related dangers before the laminate flooring is installed. This is achieved by the same ‘floating’ method we have discussed earlier and involves a waterproof barrier between the concrete subfloor and the laminate floor. For really humid basements we would still advise using melamine infused laminate flooring.

Melamine is a moisture-resistant chemical that is mixed into the high-density fiberboard, making the laminate extra waterproof. If you want to go for a warmer feeling floor that is better at keeping out moisture than a carpet and less pricey than engineered hardwood, this and vinyl are your two best options.

Whatever floor you decide for your basement, please keep in mind that the right maintenance is half of the deal. Keep your basement as dry as possible and regularly inspect the premises of your house to avoid any accidental leakages.  

GC Flooring Pros
Blog, House Renovation, Tips & Tricks

How to know what floor to choose for your bathroom

February 20, 20170

Self-expression is important to us humans. We want our space to reflect who we are, be practical and make us feel at home. Today’s bathrooms are hardly just a place to attend to one’s body’s needs but more a relaxation area where you can treat yourself to a warm bath after a long day at work. Fortunately, thanks to innovations in the bathroom flooring industry the balance between usability and looks is easily achievable. Most of the flooring products currently available on the market do a great job at enduring the harsh treatment we put out bathrooms through every day. They can tolerate constant water splashes, take on hard chemical spills and fight off spotting while not having to sacrifice the gorgeous look. To help you decide what floor to choose for your bathroom, we are offering an overview of the most popular options.

Stone

Stone is just as popular as it was centuries ago. The latest bathroom trends have it cover not only the floor but also the walls, giving the entire room a simple and timeless look.

Natural stone is famous for its durability and variety. Stone flooring generally comes in two forms, polished or unpolished.
The polished stone floor is a beautiful addition to any bathroom but it tends to be slippery and should be used with extra care in families with young children or the elderly. As an alternative to polished stone flooring honed and textured stone floors offer a better grip, but because of their raw surface, they may require a sealant to prevent stains. Typically, stone floors come pre-cut in 12 inches square or larger tiles and require a strong subfloor for installation. Unlike soft floors, stone tends to be cold to touch. If you aren’t much for wearing slippers, you might want to consider alternative flooring options for your bathroom.

Vinyl

Vinyl is definitely this decade’s favorite flooring product. The days of cheap sheets with a laughable likeness to wood and stone are long gone. Luxury vinyl flooring offers all the advantages of a manmade product and is hardly distinguishable from any natural material.
Vinyl floors are hard-wearing, water-resistant, and can be installed over underfloor heating. Because of their foamy feel, they are a lot nicer to walk on than stone-type floors.

There are two kinds of vinyl floors, tiles, and sheets. Sheet vinyl comes in rolls that are 6- or 12-feet wide, providing a seamless look. Vinyl tiles, on the other hand, are typically 12 to 18 inches square and are easier to install – a great advantage for those who would like to install the floor themselves.  Vinyl tiles, as well as sheets, are available in wood and stone effect, as well as a number of exciting, dynamic patterns.

Hardwood

Many people think that choosing a wooden floor for a potentially waterlogged space is far from reasonable. However, the contrary is true.  With engineered hardwood flooring and its improved properties over the solid wood floor, water splashes seem less than an inconvenience. The cross-layered structure of engineered wood makes each plank 80% better at resisting water than a solid hardwood board.

Floors made out of engineered hardwood are stable and less likely to shift under humid conditions than plain wood floors. They also tend to be a more appropriate option than laminate since the latter has a tendency to swell and cup if the water gets through the seams.
Even engineered hardwood with its enhanced water resistance needs the right care to live up to its promise. Leaving wet bath mats and towels on the floor or not drying off water straight away can worsen your floor’s look and even shorten its life. Because of this It is not really recommended for families with younger children who may be less attentive when it comes to cleaning up spillages. If the wooden look is something you desperately want for your bathroom, there are plenty of alternatives that mimic wood texture and pattern perfectly.

Rubber

Rubber flooring is perfect for families with younger members who are looking for a floor that can take on any challenge. Rubber is durable, easy to clean, and can endure constant water splashes. It’s soft and pleasant to walk on, even barefoot. The textured finish prevents slips. Although should those still happen, the fall will be softened by the rubber which also happens to be a great shock absorbent. Available in pretty much any color, pattern, or texture it’s a design-savvy choice for bathroom flooring.