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Upgrade Your Home Comfort with NapaCarpet Cushion

November 4, 20240

When choosing flooring, many homeowners overlook one essential element: the carpet cushion. The right cushion not only adds comfort but also enhances the longevity and performance of your carpet. At GC Flooring Pros, we proudly offer NapaCarpet Cushion, a premium product designed to maximize your carpet experience.

What is NapaCarpet Cushion?

Napa is a high-quality carpet cushion that incorporates DuraPlush foam technology, ensuring superior underfoot comfort, extended carpet life, and effective moisture and microbial protection. The cushion’s triple protection feature includes a Fresh Dimension antimicrobial barrier and moisture-resistant technology, making it ideal for homes with kids, pets, or areas prone to spills.

What is Napa Used For?

Napais designed to work under all types of carpets, providing extra padding and cushioning that improves the feel of walking on the carpet. Beyond comfort, this cushion enhances durability and can help in soundproofing rooms, reducing the noise of footsteps and improving energy efficiency by providing thermal insulation.

Why Choose Napa?

  1. Superior Comfort: Thanks to DuraPlush foam technology, Napa offers unmatched cushioning for everyday use.
  2. Triple Protection: The antimicrobial and moisture-resistant layers keep your carpet cleaner for longer.
  3. Hypoallergenic and Eco-Friendly: Napa is made from 100% recyclable materials, contributing to a healthier home environment.
  4. Durability: By protecting your carpet from wear and tear, Napa extends the life of your flooring.

Pricing

The price of Napa Carpet Cushion varies depending on factors such as carpet size and installation needs. On average, expect to pay $4 to $8 per square yard for premium underlay like Napa. For a custom quote, contact GC Flooring Pros for a personalized estimate.

Pros and Cons of Napa Carpet Cushion

Pros Cons
Superior underfoot comfort Higher upfront cost
Triple protection (moisture, mold, antimicrobial) May not be necessary for all carpet types
Hypoallergenic and eco-friendly Limited availability in certain regions
Reduces noise and improves insulation
CRI Green Label Plus-certified

Is Napa Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a long-term carpet solution that boosts comfort, durability, and cleanliness, Napa is a wise investment. It’s especially beneficial for households with high foot traffic or those prone to spills. Although the initial cost might be higher compared to standard carpet padding, the added protection and extended carpet lifespan make it a cost-effective solution in the long run.

FAQ’s about Napa

  1. Can Napa be installed with all types of carpets? Yes, Napa is compatible with most carpets and offers benefits such as enhanced cushioning and longevity.
  2. How does Napa help with allergies? Napa is hypoallergenic and contains antimicrobial properties that reduce allergens, helping to maintain better indoor air quality.
  3. Is Napa Carpet Cushion environmentally friendly? Yes, it’s made from 100% recyclable materials and can contribute to LEED building credits.
  4. How much does Napa cost? Prices typically range from $7 to $10 per square yard, depending on carpet size and installation requirements.

For more information on pricing or to explore how Napa can enhance your home, contact GC Flooring Pros today!

Transform your home’s comfort and durability with Napa Carpet Cushion—your carpet deserves the best!

 

Ensuring a High Quality Flooring Installation: The Importance of Proper Floor Preparation

October 6, 20240

When it comes to installing new hard surface flooring—whether it’s laminate, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), or engineered wood—proper floor preparation is crucial for achieving a beautiful and lasting result. Unfortunately, we cannot provide an accurate estimate for any necessary floor prep until the existing flooring is removed. Hidden issues may arise, including asbestos, termite damage, uneven concrete, or additional layers of underlayment that could delay your installation.

Common Challenges with Older Homes

Many older homes, especially those with upper floors, often have uneven subfloors. The most typical issue we encounter is this unevenness, which we address using 25 lb bags of “float” material at $65 per bag (this price includes both materials and labor). It’s important to note that we do not level floors; a quality installation requires the subfloor to be flat, not perfectly level. For instance, in a 1,000 square foot area, you might need around 10 bags of float, costing approximately $600—though this can vary based on the specific conditions of your subfloor.

When Floor Prep Is Necessary

If you are replacing a floating floor with another floating option or a hard surface, and if the previous installation was done correctly, you might not need any additional floor prep. However, if we’re demoing a hard surface, there’s a chance that prior floor prep could come up, necessitating further work.

We often hear homeowners say, “My house is new; it shouldn’t need any floor prep.” The age of your home has little bearing on the amount of prep work required. We are always happy to discuss these details to clarify your specific situation.

The Role of Float in Quality Installations

Utilizing floor float is essential for a high-quality installation and to uphold your manufacturer’s product warranty. Companies that include floor prep in their initial bid may face issues later, as their installers might have less incentive to use adequate prep materials, leading to calls for repairs down the line. In rare cases, if your floors are excessively uneven, you may need the expertise of a framer or concrete specialist to resolve significant issues that could impede our installation.

Why Flat Matters

A flat, smooth subfloor is critical for the performance of hard surface flooring. If the subfloor has dips, humps, or uneven patches, it can cause locking mechanisms in laminate or LVP to fail, leading to gaps, squeaking, or even damage over time. A level subfloor ensures that the flooring panels fit together seamlessly, preventing movement and buckling, which can drastically affect the longevity of your new floor.

In Conclusion

In summary, investing in floor float during your flooring installation not only enhances durability and visual appeal but also ensures optimal performance. It eliminates common issues caused by subfloor irregularities, paving the way for a smoother installation and a resilient final product. If you have any questions or need further clarification on your flooring project, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you achieve a high quality installed floor!

soft white carpet indoors background
Carpet Flooring

Unveiling Elegance: Exploring the Latest Trends in Carpet Designs

September 28, 20240

When it comes to interior design, the right carpet can be a game-changer, adding warmth, comfort, and style to any room. Whether you’re looking to refresh your living space, make a bold statement, or create a cozy atmosphere, carpet designs offer endless possibilities to suit your taste and needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the latest trends in carpet designs, discuss how to choose the perfect carpet for your home and share tips on how to care for your investment. All of the images you see in this blog are from our very own customers!

The Evolution of Carpet Designs

Carpets have come a long way from the traditional, plain designs of the past. Today, carpet manufacturers offer a wide variety of patterns, textures, and colors that cater to different styles and preferences. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a classic, intricate pattern, there’s a carpet design to match your vision.

– Geometric Patterns: Bold geometric designs are making a strong comeback, adding a contemporary edge to any room. These patterns are perfect for creating visual interest and can be used as a focal point in spaces with neutral or monochromatic color schemes.

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– Organic and Abstract Designs: For those who prefer a more artistic touch, organic and abstract patterns inspired by nature or modern art are a popular choice. These designs can bring a sense of movement and fluidity to a room, making it feel dynamic and lively.

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– Classic Elegance: If you’re a fan of timeless beauty, classic designs like Persian or Oriental rugs continue to hold their appeal. These carpets often feature intricate patterns and rich colors that can add a sense of luxury and tradition to your space.

Choosing the Right Carpet Design for Your Space

Selecting the perfect carpet design involves more than just picking a pattern you like. It’s essential to consider the room’s purpose, the existing decor, and the mood you want to create.

– Living Room: For a space where you entertain guests or relax with family, consider a carpet with a durable material and a design that complements your furniture and wall colors. A neutral palette with subtle patterns can create a calming environment, while a bold design can serve as a statement piece.

– Bedroom: Your bedroom should be a sanctuary, and the carpet plays a significant role in setting the tone. Soft, plush carpets in soothing colors like pastels or earth tones can make the room feel cozy and inviting. Consider designs with a minimal pattern or a simple texture to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

– Office: In a home office, you might want to strike a balance between professionalism and comfort. Opt for a carpet with a low pile and a clean, modern design that enhances focus and productivity. Neutral tones or muted patterns work well in this setting.

– Kids’ Room: Carpets in children’s rooms should be fun, durable, and easy to clean. Bright colors and playful patterns, such as animals, stars, or educational themes, can stimulate creativity and make the room feel vibrant and energetic.

Top Trends in Carpet Designs

Carpet trends evolve with time, influenced by broader design movements, technological advancements, and changes in consumer preferences. Here are some of the top trends to consider:

– Sustainable Carpets: As sustainability becomes increasingly important, eco-friendly carpet designs made from recycled or natural materials are gaining popularity. These carpets not only reduce environmental impact but also offer unique textures and organic patterns.

– Textured Carpets: Texture plays a crucial role in the tactile experience of a room. Textured carpets, such as those with looped or cut-and-loop piles, add depth and dimension to a space, making it feel more luxurious and inviting.

 

 

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– Bold Colors: While neutral colors remain a safe choice, bold and vibrant hues are trending for those looking to make a statement. Deep blues, emerald greens, and rich reds can add drama and personality to a room, transforming it into a stylish and eye-catching space.

– Layered Looks: Another trend is layering different carpets and rugs to create a dynamic, multi-dimensional look. Combining patterns, textures, and colors allows you to personalize your space and showcase your creativity.

Carpet Care Tips to Maintain Beauty and Longevity

Investing in a beautiful carpet design is only the first step. Proper care is essential to maintain its appearance and extend its life. Here are some tips to keep your carpet looking fresh and vibrant:

– Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum your carpet at least once a week to remove dirt and prevent fibers from matting. High-traffic areas may require more frequent cleaning.

– Spot Cleaning: Address spills and stains immediately to prevent them from setting. Use a mild carpet cleaner and blot the area gently with a clean cloth.

– Professional Cleaning: Schedule professional carpet cleaning every 12-18 months to remove deep-seated dirt and rejuvenate the fibers. This is especially important for carpets in high-use areas.

– Protecting High-Traffic Areas: Use rugs or runners in high-traffic zones to minimize wear and tear. Rotating your carpet every few months can also help distribute wear evenly.

 Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Carpet designs offer a versatile and impactful way to enhance your home’s interior. Whether you prefer classic patterns, modern textures, or bold colors, there’s a design that can help you achieve the look and feel you desire. By choosing the right carpet for each room and maintaining it properly, you can enjoy a beautiful and comfortable home for years to come.

Ready to transform your space with a new carpet design? Explore our wide selection of carpet flooring and find the perfect one to complement your style and needs. 

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Carpet Flooring

The Timeless Elegance of Wool Carpets: A Natural Choice for Your Home

April 1, 20240

When it comes to enhancing the comfort and aesthetics of your living space, few things can match the timeless appeal of a wool carpet. Renowned for its luxurious texture, durability, and eco-friendliness, wool carpeting stands out as a natural choice for homeowners seeking both style and sustainability.

Luxurious Comfort

One of the most enticing aspects of wool carpets is their unparalleled comfort underfoot. Unlike synthetic fibers, wool has a natural softness that invites you to sink your toes into its plush pile. Whether you’re walking barefoot across the room or lounging on the floor with loved ones, the sensation of wool beneath your feet is unmatched in its warmth and coziness.

Durability That Endures

Wool carpets are celebrated for their exceptional durability, making them a wise investment for any home. Thanks to the inherent strength of wool fibers, these carpets can withstand heavy foot traffic and maintain their appearance for years to come. Unlike synthetic alternatives that may show signs of wear and tear over time, wool carpets have a natural resilience that allows them to retain their beauty even in high-traffic areas of your home.

Timeless Elegance

With their classic beauty and timeless appeal, wool carpets effortlessly elevate the aesthetic of any room. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a more traditional ambiance, there’s a wool carpet to suit your style. Available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures, wool carpets offer endless design possibilities, allowing you to create a space that reflects your unique taste and personality.

Eco-Friendly Choice

In an era where sustainability is increasingly important, wool carpets stand out as an eco-friendly flooring option. Wool is a renewable resource, harvested from sheep that graze on natural pastures. Unlike synthetic fibers derived from petrochemicals, wool is biodegradable and recyclable, making it a greener choice for environmentally-conscious consumers. By choosing wool carpets for your home, you can reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying the beauty and comfort of natural materials.

Healthy Living

In addition to their aesthetic and environmental benefits, wool carpets also contribute to a healthier indoor environment. Wool fibers naturally repel dust, dirt, and allergens, making them ideal for individuals with allergies or respiratory sensitivities. By trapping airborne particles within the carpet fibers, wool helps to improve indoor air quality and create a cleaner, healthier living space for you and your family.

Comparing Wool Carpets to Other Types of Flooring

  1. Synthetic Carpets: While synthetic carpets may offer a lower upfront cost, they often lack the durability and natural beauty of wool. Synthetic fibers can wear down more quickly and may not provide the same level of comfort and insulation as wool.
  2. Hardwood Flooring: Hardwood flooring is prized for its elegance and durability, but it can be costly to install and may require regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Wool carpets offer a softer feel underfoot and can provide better sound insulation and warmth compared to hardwood.
  3. Laminate Flooring: Laminate flooring is a budget-friendly option that mimics the look of hardwood but lacks the warmth and comfort of wool carpets. Laminate may also be prone to water damage, whereas wool carpets are more resilient and easier to maintain.

Conclusion

In conclusion, wool carpets offer a winning combination of luxury, durability, and eco-friendliness that make them a standout choice for any home. With their timeless elegance and natural beauty, wool carpets have earned their place as a beloved flooring option for generations of homeowners. Whether you’re renovating your living room, bedroom, or any other space in your home, consider the enduring appeal of wool carpets for a touch of warmth, comfort, and style that will last a lifetime.

FAQs about Wool Carpets

Are wool carpets easy to clean?

Yes, wool carpets are relatively easy to clean and maintain. Regular vacuuming and occasional professional cleaning are typically all that’s needed to keep your wool carpet looking its best.

Are wool carpets suitable for households with pets?

Yes, wool carpets can be a good choice for pet owners. Wool fibers are naturally stain-resistant and easy to clean, making them well-suited to households with pets. Additionally, wool carpets can help to reduce pet odors and allergens in the home.

Are wool carpets prone to moth damage?

While wool carpets can be susceptible to moth damage if not properly cared for, there are steps you can take to prevent infestations. Regular vacuuming, keeping the carpet clean and dry, and using moth repellents can help protect your wool carpet from moth damage.

Are wool carpets suitable for high-traffic areas?

Yes, wool carpets are known for their durability and resilience, making them suitable for high-traffic areas of the home such as living rooms, hallways, and stairs. With proper care and maintenance, a wool carpet can withstand years of use without showing significant signs of wear and tear.

 

Types of Carpet
Blog, Carpet Flooring

The 6 Different Types of Carpet

August 8, 20220

Choosing the right carpet for your home is an investment, so you want to ensure that it lasts for years. While aesthetics certainly play a part, you should also consider the best options for the room you’re interested in carpeting, your lifestyle, whether you have children or pets, and the maintenance requirements. 

The first step in carpeting your home is knowing the different types of carpet available.

What are the different types of carpet?

  • Berber
  • Cable
  • Cut and loop
  • Frieze
  • Plush
  • Textured

Berber Carpet

Berber (looped) is a style of carpet made of thick, bulky yarn. Typically, it is made of olefin but is also available in wool, polyester and nylon. 

Unlike most other styles of carpet, the fibers are left as loops—hence the name—rather than sheared. The looped construction feels “bouncy” underfoot, but it’s not as soft as others. 

Durability

Berber carpet is remarkably durable because the fibers are uncut and woven very tightly, which prevents fraying.  

These factors make it very popular for high-traffic areas, like playrooms, living rooms, and children’s bedrooms. It’s also the primary carpet found in commercial office buildings.

Maintenance & Care

Berber is easy to maintain because liquid spills tend to sit on top of the pile rather than sink into it. It’s also great at hiding dirt because the loops are so dense. 

One downside is that the loops can snag, so pet claws or sharp edges can pull the fibers loose. 

Cable Carpet

Constructed of long, thick yarns, cable carpet is a luxurious style that adds coziness and warmth to your home.

The most popular fiber options are nylon, polyester, and wool, all of which offer a soft texture similar to shag.

Durability

Cable carpet performs best in low-traffic conditions, as the longer fiber length is prone to matting and crushing. That makes it ideal for bedrooms, guest rooms, and living rooms.   

This type of carpet holds moisture, affecting how it retains dirt. In that context, a cable carpet with a higher pile may appear discolored without regular deep cleaning. 

Maintenance & Care

With regular vacuuming and steam cleaning, your cable carpet should maintain its softness and color for many years. 

Cut and Loop Carpet

Featuring a combination of high, sheared tufts and lower-cut loops, cut and loop carpet is well-known for its sculptural, textural patterns. 

While the patterns can consist of different colored fibers, more subtle options in a single tone are also quite popular. 

Durability

One key drawback with cut and loop carpet is that the pattern starts to look worn down as the cut fibers fray or untwist. 

Because the pattern depends on the length difference between the cut and loop sections, it is best suited for low-traffic areas. 

Maintenance & Care

Cut and loop carpets need regular vacuuming, contributing to the worn-out appearance. 

Fortunately, the texture tends to hide dirt, so consider choosing a darker-colored carpet to cut back on how often you’ll need to vacuum. 

Frieze Carpet

Frieze or “twist” carpet has a knobby appearance because each long fiber is tightly twisted. The tightness of the twist causes the fibers to curl back on themselves, creating a soft and comfortable underfoot feel. 

Durability

One of the advantages of frieze carpet is that the twists resist matting and crushing. Because the fibers curl down, the pressure from foot traffic lands on the sides rather than the sheared top. You can use it in every carpeted room of your home with the confidence that it will stand up to wear and tear.

The texture also hides seams, making it an excellent option for rooms wider than a carpet roll or stairs. 

Maintenance & Care

Frieze carpets mask dirt, but it can be challenging to clean up liquid spills, as they tend to sink into the fibers. Be proactive by choosing stain-resistant fibers and cleaning up any accidents as soon as they happen. 

Plush Carpet

Of all the different types of carpet, plush carpet is arguably the softest. It has a smooth, flat pile made of tightly-packed fibers. 

The appearance and texture are similar to velvet, as the color looks lighter or darker depending on which direction the fibers are laying. 

Durability

Plush carpets are durable, making them a popular choice for homes with pets and children. 

The softness is luxurious and pleasant to lay on, so little ones who enjoy playing on the floor will be comfortable. 

One drawback of plush carpets is that they show indentations from footprints, vacuum tracks, and furniture because the fibers are so short and dense. While that is normal, it is something to consider before making a purchase. 

Maintenance & Care

Because of the uniform color and dense fibers, plush does best with regular vacuuming to remove dirt and pet hair. Otherwise, it can look discolored and lose some of its softness. 

Additionally, wet spills must be blotted up immediately, as they can spread quickly. You should avoid rubbing the carpet, which causes the fibers to fray and affects the texture. 

Textured Carpet

Textured carpets are highly versatile, as they can consist of either cut piles or loops that are tightly twisted and vary in length to create two different color tones. 

The appearance is more subtle than cut and loop style carpets but still adds plenty of visual interest without the tendency to appear worn down. 

Durability

Textured carpets are excellent at masking furniture indentations and stand up to even the heaviest foot traffic, so it’s perfect for busy households with pets and children. 

Because the fibers are twisted similarly to frieze-style carpets, they also resist crushing and matting.

Maintenance & Care

Like all twisted-strand flooring, textured carpets are excellent at masking dirt. The short pile also resists staining. 

You should maintain a regular vacuuming and steam cleaning routine to ensure the subtle patterning stays as beautiful as the day you installed it. 

Wrap Up

Carpet has long been a favorite thanks to its soft coziness, warmth, and upscale appearance. While it does require a little more care and maintenance, the different types of carpet make a huge difference in how much time you’ll need to spend on upkeep. 

The most popular types are Berber, plush, and frieze – but if you’re looking for softness, we definitely recommend the plush!

To get the most out of your new carpets, work with our professional installation team who can guide you through the best options for your home!

Quality Flooring in Frisco TX
About Floors, Blog, Carpet Flooring, Tips & Tricks

Choosing the right floor for elderly

August 30, 20170

Aging is a real thing that happens to all of us. With age, our motor skills get sloppier and we become more prone to falls and slips. We also have less energy to spend on mundane tasks like cleaning. The way out is to adjust.
Choosing the right floor will help seniors avoid all these complications in their everyday life.
The ideal flooring material should be soft enough to offer needed support to bones and joints in case of accidents. At the same time, the floor should be relatively easy to maintain since some elderly also struggle with mobility problems.
Here is our overview of the best flooring options for seniors that balance ease of maintenance and safety.

Carpet

Being warm and soft, carpet is often the go to flooring material for children’s rooms. It’s a great flooring choice for elderly for the very same reason. Carpet’s cushioned surface offers much-needed support in case of accidental falls. The warmth it offers underfoot can also be beneficial to elderly, who often experience lack of body heat or have a problem retaining it.

However, carpet flooring might not be the perfect choice for all seniors.
Carpet tends to collect dust particles in the fibers and sets it free every time someone steps on its surface. This can harm the indoor air quality of the space and cause health related issues, especially for seniors dealing with respiratory illnesses.
Maintaining carpet isn’t the easiest of tasks. Because of its structure spills and stains can go deep into the cloth. This can make upkeep difficult for seniors, especially those who experience mobility problems. If not cleaned properly, over time carpet can become a home for bacteria and insects and lead to sanitation problems.

Vinyl Floors

Vinyl is made out of rubber which gives the floor certain flexibility and protective ability in case of accidental slips. Installing additional felt or cork paddings underneath can make the surface even more cushiony.
Caring for a vinyl floor is as easy as it gets. Being a resilient floor it’s almost impenetrable to stains and water. Sweeping on a regular basis goes a long way to keep the floor clean. This makes vinyl flooring a truly hassle-free solution for senior citizen’s flooring needs.
The only drawback installing a vinyl floor has is its impact on the environment.
Vinyl is made from a non-renewable resource. The manufacturing process consumes fuel while setting free toxins and other dangerous byproducts.

Cork Floors

Cork floors are famous for their soft underfoot which is the very thing seniors need.
What’s less known about cork is that in addition to making tumbles and falls less painful it also helps minimize heat loss and outside noise.

Caring for a cork floor is relatively easy as long as the sealant is in place. The cork itself is a porous material, the sealant is what protects its surface from stains and spills. To keep cork floor clean all you’ll need to do is sweep or vacuum on a regular basis.

As in with every porous flooring material the major drawback with cork floors is its ability to soak up liquids. To avoid any damage of the kind, cork floor should be resealed at least once a year.
Because of its softness cork floor can easily be harmed by furniture legs, high heels or any sharp object that could poke or scrape its surface.

What floor to install if you have a dog
About Floors, Blog, Carpet Flooring, Tips & Tricks

What floor to install if you have a dog

June 16, 20170

Flooring advice for pet owners

If you are a devoted human to your four-legged friend, you’d want to choose the one flooring that best suits their needs, Preferably, besides offering good enough support (for your pet), it should be also durable and easy to clean (for your own sake).
In this blog, we have set out to help you on this hard but noble quest. To start it off, here are some general tips to help you select the best floor for your furry friend.

Pet nails are a menace

Pet nails can scratch or snag and this can damage some types of floor. So you need to find a solution that’s most resistant to this danger. ing more than others. Trimming nails is not a solution either. Blunt, broad-tipped nails can still gouge the sealer, creating long, shallow dents. Forget floor runners, you definitely don’t have as much power over your dog (even if you believe you do). So it’s better to match your floor to your pet and not the way around.

Bladder control is hard

Once your dog has been trained it’s very rare that you’ll have to face this problem but if your pup is young there is a good chance that it won’t make it outside every time to relieve itself. In addition to unpleasant odor pet urine can leave bad stains. Some types of floors are better at dealing with that than others.

Muddy paws are fun

All that dirt from running through puddles won’t just stay out. No matter how well-behaved your dog is, parts of it will definitely end up on your new floor. You have been warned./Consider yourself warned. So choose the floor that can be cleaned effectively without any fuss.

Dogs can have allergies too

Allergies are a huge topic when choosing a new floor, but rarely in regard to our pets. Sadly, dog allergies are real and could put your four-legged friend in danger. You might not know of any existing allergies if your dog’s never been in contact with the irritant before. That’s why you should test/observe how a certain flooring material affects your pet beforehand.
Still, most floor-related allergies in dogs are a reaction to the floor cleaners and the chemicals they contain. Always use cleaning products that have been approved and are safe for your dog’s consumption. Because, you know, dogs like to lick everything.

Flooring Options

Woof, woof! Now that you’ve got an idea of what to look for, we can move to select that one perfect floor for your little pup.

Vinyl

Vinyl has proven itself as the finest example of resilient flooring on the market today. It’s full of controversies and benefits. Even though it offers soft enough padding to enjoy walking around barefoot, most quiet scratches and liquid spills don’t faze it. Vinyl doesn’t trap dust or allergens and all you’ll need to clean it is a simple mop and warm water. Vinyl also happens quietest flooring option after carpet, something dog owners will definitely come to appreciate.
The floors come in sheets and tiles as well as in all colors and patterns including different hardwood species and natural stone. Vinyl flooring is definitely a great alternative for those pet owners, who want to get a hardwood floor but would like something more durable.

Pros & cons for humans: Easy to clean, can mimic natural materials but real hardwood still looks better.
Pros & cons for dog: It’s soft and warm. No apparent cons.

Ceramic or natural stone tiles

Ceramic and natural stone tiles are hard surface floors that can match your pet’s claws pretty well. They don’t scratch as easily as other floors and if they do the scratches are barely visible and don’t really stand out from the natural pattern. Your dog’s mishaps don’t pose any problem either since both products can endure liquid spills when sealed properly and can be cleaned easily. The glazed option with an extra protective layer may keep the water out more efficiently but its slippery surface can be somewhat uncomfortable for your dog to walk on. Cold too unless your place has underfloor heating. If you go with tile or stone be sure to put down rugs throughout the house so your dog has plenty of space to relax.

Pros & cons for humans: Scratch and waterproof as well as easy to maintain but colder and louder than other floors.
Pros & cons for dog: Less allergenic and pleasantly cool in the summer months. However too hard to sleep on without a rug, requires underfloor heating in the winter.

Laminate

A laminate floor is designed to resist scratches. Its impenetrable clear top layer keeps the high-quality image layer underneath well protected. Like vinyl, laminate can mimic an array of natural materials including wood.  A damp mop can go a long way when trying to keep your floor clean. However, that same wear layer that’s responsible for most of laminate’s advantages can be uncomfortable for your dog. It allows little to no grip and can lead to accidents, especially with older animals.
It’s also louder than natural stone or ceramic tiles. It will amplify your dog’s footsteps like no other solid floor. So if you are an owner of an energetic breed you might want to skip this one.
Laminate isn’t as hard as tile but not as soft as vinyl ether. For better comfort for your dog, you still might consider using rugs here and there.

Pros & cons for humans: Easy to clean, can endure scratches but can be loud.
Pros & cons for dog: Warmer and more comfortable than tile but offers little to no traction at all.

Wood

Wood and sharp claws don’t go well together. Resisting scratches and spills aren’t most woods’ strong suit. Trimmed nails can still damage the sealer, leaving behind long shallow dents.
But if you absolutely have to have a wood floor, you could choose from these three options.

  • Go for the super-hard wood species
    Some wood species are naturally stronger than others. According to the Janka hardness test Brazilian Walnut, Hard Maple, Oak, and Hickory floors have a better chance against your furry friend.
  • Get already distressed wood
    Get a hardwood floor that has been already distressed. That way you won’t notice any new scratches. If anything they’ll add to the character of your wood floor!
  • Try SoftPaws
    SoftPaws are applicable nail caps for dogs. They cover your dog’s nails to keep them blunt and harmless and protect your floors, doors, and furniture from dreaded scratches.
why install carpet floor in the bedroom
Interior Design, About Floors, Blog, Carpet Flooring

Why install carpet flooring in the bedroom

June 2, 20170

How you sleep can make you or break you. The quality of sleep affects your energy levels and sets the mood for the day. A good night’s sleep can add to your productivity and decrease stress levels. However, not many people realize that there is a direct correlation between the sleep you’re getting and the environment you are in. Having the right floor in your bedroom can help you relax just as much as a soft pair of nightwear or silky sheets.

Carpet has a long history of being an integral part of sleeping arrangements in different cultures.
Today wall to wall carpets is one of the most popular flooring choices for bedrooms all over the world. It has many benefits other flooring choices lack. Here are the most prominent ones.

Carpet is comfortable

No one wants to feel a cold floor under their feet on their way to the bathroom in the middle of the night or even worse, the first thing in the morning. With carpet, you won’t have to. Predominantly made of fiber, natural or synthetic, carpet is the perfect choice for those who enjoy parading around barefoot or only in socks. Its soft surface will make your feet feel loved even after a long and tiring day at work. Available in every color and pattern, it will add warmth and character to your bedroom. And if you like your floors even softer than usual, that can be arranged too: the softness of carpet flooring can be easily boosted by choosing a high-quality cushion underpad.

Carpet is quiet

A quiet room is the best setting for uninterrupted sleep.
The soft surface of carpet flooring is good for more than spontaneous bladder calls.
While it keeps your toes warm and happy, it also allows you to move around the room without making much noise (and could potentially save your relationship).
Wall-to-wall carpet absorbs sounds up to ten times better than hardwood or any other hard-surfaced floor. Its sound-dampening qualities come in especially handy if you and your family members keep different hours and the noise source is located just below the bedroom territory.
By contributing to a more quiet environment, carpet floors considerably enhance the quality of sleep.

Carpet is healthier

Another factor that affects the quality of sleep greatly is the condition of air in the bedroom.
Studies have shown that carpet floors are indeed a fitting choice for people with asthma, allergies, or other breathing problems. Unlike hard-surfaced floors which let the dust and allergens flow freely, carpets trap them in the fibre and prevent them from becoming airborne and being inhaled.

Carper is safer

Slips are a big part of being human and floors.
But not with this floor. Carpet being mounted to all four sides leaves little room for accidents of this nature. So feel safe while you search for the trousers half asleep in the morning haze.

Carpet brings out the best

Carpet’s main competitor on the bedroom flooring market is hardwood. While it’s also a great flooring option for your bedroom it can make shopping for furniture a bit tricky. See, every wood type comes with a natural pattern that’s hard to match. And even if you do, you don’t really want to go over the top with wood everywhere. So, if you are thinking about having wooden or wood patterned furniture in your bedroom in the first place, maybe relinquish the idea of hardwood and opt for carpet flooring instead. Wall-to-wall carpet will create a pleasant contrast with the furniture and enrich the interior. The endless choice in the carpet department will give you the freedom to experiment with all sorts of colors and patterns to make your bedroom even cozier.

GC FLooring Pros
Blog, Carpet Flooring, How-to, Interior Design, Tips & Tricks

Choosing the right floor for your child’s bedroom

May 19, 20170

We all want only the best things for our children. Remodeling a room for your kid is a lot of work, especially if you want to get every detail just right for your little one, from choosing the perfect color for the walls to carefully selecting the toys to decorate the space. However, the floor is often neglected and chosen without much consideration – a misstep both parents and children could end up paying for.

Choosing the right floor for your kid’s bedroom will not only benefit your child’s development throughout the years but also leave you with more free time and give you peace of mind when leaving your child alone in the room. Striking a balance between your child’s needs and the floor’s maintenance requirements is easily doable as long as you know what elements to take into consideration and where to compromise.

Before even approaching the topic of appearance, here are the main demands to be met by any floor that’s to be installed in a child’s bedroom:

Easy Maintenance

You kids may be the one making a mess of their room but it will definitely be you who has to clean it all up (at least for the first couple of years). Food crumbs and occasional paint on the floor is a common occurrence in a household with a child. Choosing a floor that is easy to clean is the best thing you can do for your future self. But refrain yourself from going straight for the most expensive kind. Children are a force of nature. As charming as it might seems to get the very best quality product for your child, it might be smarter to go for something cheaper, so if it’s ruined for once and all you wouldn’t have wasted all that money. Besides, you can always replace it with something fancier when they are older.

High Comfort Level

Comfort is a topic with split opinions. Parents care about a lot when children couldn’t care about it any less. Even if kids are ready to roll naked and run barefoot on a cold tile flooring, it doesn’t mean you should let them. And admit it, playing with your kids on the hard floor would be a lot less nice than a warm cushioned surface.

Adequate Safety

For children, the whole world is a playground. They learn by doing and they do it all: crawling, walking, running. They also fall a lot. This is why having a soft surface to break a fall is a recommended feature to have in a kid’s bedroom. The perfect floor would be strong enough to endure scratches from scattered toys and spills of drinks while at the same time being cushioned enough to make tumbles less painful. If you don’t want to risk your child being affected by an allergy, choose flooring with anti-bacterial properties.

Multi-Functionality

Being a parent is a lot like being a superhero. You have to plan ahead a lot and come up with solutions for problems that don’t even exist yet. Too bad you can’t time travel. But fortunately, you can consider flooring options that are durable and can endure different age groups.

Once you have an idea what the requirements are, you can move to selecting the floor itself.

Here’s an overview of different flooring materials that fit the bill.

Hardwood floors

Wood is a natural material. Harvested straight from the forest and having undergone only the very minimal amount of treatment before ending up as flooring boards makes it a highly unlike culprit for any kind of allergies.
Both, solid and engineered wood floors have a hard surface and aren’t as bouncy as other flooring materials. Fortunately, it’s not something that can’t be fixed with a carpet.
Using designated area rugs is also a great solution for common spills. Because of their smaller size, it’s easier to wash or completely replace them. The hardwood floor, however, will keep its reach look well into your toddler’s teenage years.

Highlight: A natural durable material that can be well combined with other flooring options

Laminate floors

If you want your kid’s room to have the rich look of a wood floor but a softer touch laminate is a great choice. High-quality laminate floors can realistically mimic any wood texture while it’s foam underlayment ensures a certain softness or bounce that other hard floors don’t have.

Extra protective surface makes your laminate flooring 10 times more resistant to scratches and up to 100% water resistant. The look isn’t the only thing laminate flooring shares with hardwood floors – it’s also pleasantly warm to touch.

Highlight: Looks like real hardwood floor but feels softer.

Vinyl floors

Vinyl has it all. It’s often referred to as resilient flooring and rightfully so. The main material being rubber it’s  softer and makes walking on them more comfortable (and quieter!). Most luxury vinyl floors are 100% waterproof and very resistant to scratches and stains.

Needing no more care than tile floor, they deliver a much more pleasant flooring experience. There is a great variety of patterns and textures available, some of them as good as indistinguishable from the natural materials they mimic.

Some vinyl floors even offer a special coating that hinders the growth of bacteria and fungi by 99.9% making the maintenance process even easier and guaranteeing a healthier and fresher environment for your little one.

Highlight: Top resilient flooring with a natural look and antibacterial coating.

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.