Interior Design

sunroom flooring
About Floors, Blog, Interior Design

What is the Best Sunroom Flooring? Hardwood, Tile, or LVP?

When it comes to creating a beautiful and functional sunroom, choosing the right flooring is crucial. The flooring you select should not only enhance the aesthetics of the space but also withstand the unique challenges posed by sunlight, temperature fluctuations, and moisture. 

 

In this blog, we will explore three popular flooring options for sunrooms: hardwood, tile, and Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP). By examining the benefits, drawbacks, and considerations of each, you can make an informed decision about the best flooring for your sunroom.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Sunroom Flooring

 

Before diving into the specifics of each flooring option, it’s important to consider a few key factors that can influence your decision. These factors include: 

  • functionality and usage of your sunroom
  • the amount of sunlight and temperature variations it experiences
  • the moisture and humidity levels in the room
  • the durability and maintenance requirements you’re willing to undertake
  • your budget considerations

Exploring Hardwood Flooring for a Sunroom

 

Hardwood flooring exudes elegance and charm, making it a popular choice for sunrooms. It adds warmth and natural beauty to the space. However, hardwood does have some considerations when it comes to sunrooms. While hardwood is generally durable, prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the wood to fade and change color over time. 

 

Additionally, hardwood is susceptible to moisture damage, making it less ideal for sunrooms with higher humidity levels or prone to spills. However, by choosing engineered hardwood or opting for proper sealing and maintenance, you can mitigate these concerns and make hardwood a great option.

 

Pros of Hardwood Flooring in a Sunroom:

 

  • Timeless and elegant aesthetic
  • Adds warmth and natural beauty
  • Can increase the value of your home
  • Durable with proper care and maintenance
  • Can be refinished to extend the lifespan

 

Cons of Hardwood Flooring in a Sunroom:

 

  • Susceptible to fading and color change from sunlight exposure
  • Prone to moisture damage if not properly sealed or maintained
  • More expensive upfront cost compared to LVP or tile
  • Requires periodic refinishing to maintain the appearance

 

Tile Flooring: A Viable Option for Sunrooms

 

Tile flooring offers a range of benefits that make it suitable for sunrooms. It is highly durable, resistant to moisture, and impervious to sunlight. Tiles come in various materials, such as ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone, allowing you to achieve different aesthetics. They also offer excellent temperature control, keeping the sunroom cool during hot summer days. However, tile can feel cold underfoot and may require additional heating or area rugs for comfort. The grout lines between tiles may also require regular cleaning and maintenance.

Pros of Tile Flooring in a Sunroom

  • Highly durable and resistant to moisture, stains, and fading
  • Wide range of design options with various colors, patterns, and textures
  • Provides excellent temperature control, keeping the sunroom cool
  • Easy to clean and maintain with regular sweeping and mopping
  • Can be combined with radiant heating for added comfort

Cons of Tile Flooring in a Sunroom

  • Can feel cold underfoot, especially in cooler weather
  • Grout lines require regular cleaning and maintenance
  • Hard and rigid surface may not be as comfortable to walk or stand on
  • Installation can be more time-consuming and costly compared to LVP

 

LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) Flooring: A Modern Alternative

 

LVP has gained popularity as a versatile and cost-effective flooring option for sunrooms. It mimics the look of hardwood or stone but offers enhanced durability and water resistance. LVP is resistant to sunlight fading, making it a great choice for sunrooms with ample natural light. It is also softer and warmer underfoot compared to tile. 

 

Additionally, LVP requires minimal maintenance, making it an attractive option for those seeking convenience. However, it’s important to select high-quality LVP with a thick wear layer for optimal performance.

Pros of LVP Flooring in a Sunroom

  • Resistant to moisture, making it suitable for high-humidity environments
  • Mimics the look of hardwood or tile at a more affordable price
  • Durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and fading
  • Low maintenance and easy to clean
  • Softer and warmer underfoot compared to tile

Cons of LVP Flooring in a Sunroom

  • Some lower-quality options may show signs of wear over time
  • Limited design options compared to tile
  • May have a synthetic feel compared to the authenticity of hardwood

 

Comparing the Options: Hardwood vs. Tile vs. LVP

 

To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare the three options based on key factors:

 

Durability and longevity: Tile and LVP flooring are highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic and potential sunroom hazards. Hardwood may require more maintenance and can be more susceptible to scratches and fading.

 

Resistance to moisture and sun damage: Tile and LVP are excellent choices for sunrooms with high moisture levels or direct sunlight exposure. Hardwood may require extra care and protection against moisture damage and sun fading.

 

Aesthetics and design options: Hardwood provides a classic, elegant look, while tile offers a wide range of design options with different colors, patterns, and textures. LVP can mimic the look of hardwood or tile and offers various styles and finishes.

 

Maintenance and cleaning requirements: Tile and LVP require minimal maintenance, while hardwood may need periodic refinishing and more careful cleaning to maintain its appearance.

 

Cost comparison and value for money: Hardwood tends to be the most expensive option, both in terms of material and installation costs. But the classic look is worth it!

 

Tile falls in the mid-range, with variations depending on the type of tile chosen. 

 

LVP is generally the most budget-friendly option, but depending on your preferences, may not necessarily be the best choice.

 

Conclusion

 

Choosing the best flooring for your sunroom involves considering various factors such as functionality, sunlight exposure, moisture levels, durability, maintenance, and budget. While hardwood, tile, and LVP all have their advantages and drawbacks, the final decision depends on your specific needs and preferences.

 

If you prioritize a timeless and elegant aesthetic and are willing to take extra care to protect against sunlight and moisture, hardwood flooring is the ideal choice. For those seeking durability, resistance to moisture and sunlight, and a wide range of design options, tile flooring is an excellent option. If budget-friendliness, water resistance, low maintenance, and versatility are your priorities, LVP flooring may be the perfect fit.

 

When it’s time to transform your sunroom with the flooring of your choice, consider reaching out to GC Flooring Pros. Their team of experts can guide you through the selection process and provide professional installation services. Visit their website or contact them for all your sunroom flooring needs.

 

Remember, the best flooring for your sunroom is one that aligns with your specific requirements and brings both beauty and functionality to your space. Choose wisely and enjoy the sunlit oasis you’ve always dreamed of.

 

Sunroom Flooring FAQs

Will hardwood flooring in a sunroom fade over time?

Hardwood flooring in a sunroom can fade over time due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. However, choosing engineered hardwood or taking measures such as using window treatments or applying UV-protective coatings can help minimize fading.

Are tiles suitable for sunrooms with high humidity levels?

Yes, tiles are suitable for sunrooms with high humidity levels. They are resistant to moisture and offer excellent durability in such environments. However, proper installation and sealing are essential to ensure maximum protection against moisture.

 

Does LVP flooring require regular maintenance?

LVP flooring requires minimal maintenance compared to other options. It is highly resistant to stains, scratches, and fading. Regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping are usually sufficient to keep LVP flooring in great condition.

Can tile flooring feel cold in a sunroom?

Yes, tile flooring can feel cold underfoot, especially in cooler weather. To make the sunroom more comfortable, you can consider using area rugs or installing radiant heating systems beneath the tile flooring.

Is LVP flooring a cost-effective option for a sunroom?

Yes, LVP flooring is generally considered a cost-effective option for sunrooms. It provides excellent value for money due to its durability, resistance to moisture and fading, and low maintenance requirements.

Can hardwood flooring be installed directly in a sunroom without any special precautions?

It is advisable to take certain precautions when installing hardwood flooring in a sunroom. Ensuring proper subfloor preparation, using moisture barriers, and sealing the wood with appropriate finishes are essential to protect against moisture damage and sun fading.

Can tile flooring crack in a sunroom due to temperature fluctuations?

Properly installed tile flooring can withstand temperature fluctuations in a sunroom. However, it is crucial to use the appropriate type of tile and ensure a proper subfloor and underlayment to minimize the risk of cracking.

Which flooring option is the most durable for a sunroom?

Both tile and LVP flooring are highly durable options for sunrooms. They are resistant to scratches, stains, and fading. However, the specific durability depends on the quality of the materials chosen and proper installation.

Can I install any type of hardwood flooring in a sunroom?

Not all types of hardwood flooring are suitable for sunrooms. Certain hardwood species may be more prone to sun damage or moisture-related issues. It is best to consult with a flooring professional who can recommend the most appropriate hardwood options for sunroom installations.

Granite Colors Whats The Best Countertop Color For Your Kitchen
Blog, Interior Design

Granite Colors: What’s The Best Countertop Color For Your Kitchen?

Countertops play a big role in the overall design of your kitchen. Not only do they provide a surface to prepare food on, but they also act as a focal point for the room.

 

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when designing your kitchen is choosing the right stone countertop. If you’ve settled on granite, you then have to decide on a color. There are many different granite colors and styles to choose from, so it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you.

 

In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of several popular granite countertop colors and help you decide which one is best for your kitchen.

 

Here’s what we’ll cover:

 

Why Is Granite A Good Choice For Your Countertops?

 

Granite is a popular material for countertops because it is durable, heat-resistant, and scratch resistant. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.

 

Another advantage of granite is that it comes in various colors and styles. This allows you to find a color that best compliments your kitchen’s design. 

Popular Granite Colors and What’s Best For Your Needs

 

There are many different granite colors to choose from, so it’s important to consider what will work best for your kitchen.

 

Here are some of the most popular granite colors:

Black Granite Color

Black Granite Color countertop

Black granite is a classic color that will never go out of style. It’s perfect for a modern kitchen with clean lines. Black granite is very versatile and can be used in both traditional and contemporary kitchens.

 

Since black countertops darken the space, they go best with light-colored cabinets and a surplus of natural light to keep your kitchen feeling bright.

 

One downside to black granite is that it can show fingerprints and smudges more easily than other colors. However, this can be minimized by using a granite sealer.

 

If you’re looking for a sophisticated and timeless color for your kitchen countertops, black granite is a great option.

 

White Granite Color

white granitce countertop

White granite is another classic color that works well in both traditional and contemporary kitchens. It’s perfect for creating a bright and airy feel in your kitchen.

 

White granite is a good choice if you have dark-colored cabinets or very little natural light in your kitchen. It will help to brighten up the space.

 

One downside of white granite is that it can show stains more easily than other colors. You’ll need to be extra careful when cooking or using products that might stain.

 

Overall, white granite is a beautiful and versatile color for your kitchen countertops.

 

Gray Granite Color

grey granite countertop

Gray granite is a popular color for contemporary and modern kitchens. It’s perfect for creating a sleek and elegant look.

 

Gray granite is a good choice if you have light-colored cabinets or want to create a contrast in your kitchen. It can also help to make a small kitchen appear larger.

 

Like white granite, gray granite can show stains more easily than other colors. You’ll need to be careful when cooking or using products that might stain.

 

Overall, gray granite is a beautiful color for your kitchen countertops.

 

Brown Granite Color

brown granite countertop

Brown granite is another classic color that works well in both traditional and contemporary kitchens. It’s perfect for creating a warm and inviting feel in your kitchen.

 

Brown granite is a good choice if you have light-colored cabinets or want to add some pop to your kitchen. Like with gray counters, brown can also help to make a small kitchen appear larger.

 

One downside of brown granite is that it can show scratches and smudges more easily than other colors. However, like with the black counters, this issue can be minimized by using a granite sealer.

 

Blue Granite Color

Blue granite is a rarer color that can add a unique touch to your kitchen. It’s perfect for a kitchen with a nautical or beach-inspired design.

 

Blue granite is best used as an accent color. It can be paired with white cabinets to create a beautiful coastal look.

 

Green Granite Color

Also referred to as Verde Jewel, green granite is another rarer color that can add character to your kitchen. It’s perfect for a kitchen with a nature-inspired design.

 

Green granite is also best used as an accent color. It pairs well with white cabinets and shiny cabinet hardware to create a beautiful contrast.

 

Other Granite Options That Add Character

In addition to the colors mentioned above, there are also other granite options that can add character to your kitchen.

 

Here are some of the most popular granite options:

Veined Granite

Veined granite is a type of granite that has veins running through it. This gives it a unique and luxurious look.  It’s perfect for a kitchen with a high-end design to give a “marble” feel.

Matte Finish

Matte finish granite is a type of granite that has a duller finish. This gives it a more natural look and feel. It’s perfect for a kitchen with a rustic or country design.

Choosing the Right Color for Your Kitchen Countertops

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right color for your kitchen countertops.

 

Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind:

 

The Style of Your Kitchen

The color of your countertops should match the style of your kitchen. For example, a traditional kitchen would look best with classic colors like black or brown granite.

 

A contemporary kitchen would look best with more modern colors like white or gray granite. And an eclectic kitchen would look best with a mix of different colors.

 

The Colors in Your Kitchen

The color of your countertops should also match the other colors in your kitchen. For example, if you have white cabinets, you’ll want to choose a color that compliments them. 

 

If you have dark cabinets, you’ll want to choose a color that contrasts them. You’ll also want to consider the other colors in your kitchen, like the backsplash and flooring.

 

The Size of Your Kitchen

The size of your kitchen will also play a role in choosing the right color for your countertops. For example, if you have a small kitchen, you might want to choose a light-colored countertop to make the space appear larger.

 

If you have a large kitchen, you can choose any color you want. Remember that dark colors can make a small space appear even smaller.

 

Your Personal Preferences

In the end, the right color for your kitchen countertops is the one that you like the best. Trust your instincts and choose the color that you think will look best in your kitchen.

 

You can always ask for samples of granite colors to help you make your decision. Once you’ve chosen the perfect color, you’ll be one step closer to having the kitchen of your dreams. Have questions? We can help! Contact us today, and we can walk you through choosing the best color for your space!

 

FAQs About Granite Colors: What’s the Best Countertop Color for Your Kitchen?

What granite color is most popular for kitchen countertops?
The popularity of granite colors can vary, but neutral tones such as beige, white, and gray are often preferred for kitchen countertops. Classic choices like Giallo Ornamental, Bianco Romano, and Absolute Black are among the most popular.

Does the color of granite impact kitchen design and aesthetics?
Absolutely. Granite countertop colors play a significant role in determining the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Lighter colors can make the space feel more open and bright, while darker tones add a touch of sophistication and warmth.

Are certain granite colors more prone to staining or damage?
While granite is generally durable, the porosity of the stone can vary. Lighter colors may be more prone to showing stains, so it’s crucial to seal the granite regularly to protect against spills and potential damage.

How do I choose a granite color that complements my kitchen cabinets?
Consider the color scheme of your kitchen cabinets. For dark cabinets, lighter granite colors provide a striking contrast, while darker cabinets often pair well with lighter granite to create balance. Take samples of both cabinet and granite colors to see how they look together in your kitchen lighting.

Can I mix and match granite colors in my kitchen, or should I stick to a single color?
Mixing granite colors can be a stylish choice if done thoughtfully. However, it’s essential to maintain a cohesive look by ensuring the colors complement each other. For example, you might use a lighter granite color for the main countertops and a darker hue for the kitchen island to create visual interest.

 

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?

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!

GC Flooring Pros
Floor Care, About Floors, Blog, Hand Scraped Wood Flooring, Hardwood Flooring, How-to, Interior Design, Tips & Tricks

Four steps to expect during the Hardwood Floor Installation process

White Oak Hardwood Flooring

 

Are you considering a flooring upgrade in your home? If you don’t know where to start or feel overwhelmed by the various design, grain, and color choices, take a deep breath because you have come to the right place!  At GC Flooring Pros, we will walk with you throughout the entire process, and to give you a heads up, here are four steps that we follow during the hardwood floor installation process, so you know what to expect:

STEP 1: Free In-Home Consultation

Once we set up an appointment, we offer a complimentary in-home consultation. It’s important that we hear your preferences as to the type and style of floors you’re wanting, and so that we can see your space, wall and cabinet colors etc in order that we can offer you the best options to enhance your home. We will also measure the rooms to give you the estimate and bring some different flooring samples. We offer several wood species, plank widths, stain colors, patterns, and designs and typically will bring the most popular choices to start.

STEP 2: Room Preparation

Once you’ve ordered the floors from GC Flooring Pros, and prior to the installation, we will inform you when our expert installers will be coming so that you have ample time to remove all furniture, draperies/curtains, rugs, paintings and all other items from the room. We do offer furniture removal and replacement services which can be discussed at the initial consult.

STEP 3: Installation

During the installation, your home becomes a construction site, so it will inevitably be noisy and disruptive and dusty. It is also advisable to cover up any furniture in nearby rooms, to avoid debris and dust. If we have installed pre-finished floors, you won’t need to go to step 4, and at this time either you or we would proceed to moving your furniture back into your home.

STEP 4: Staining Your Floors

If we have installed unfinished floors, we will then sand, stain, and put polyurethane down. Once the finish is dried, you or we can move your furniture back. We suggest using felt pads under the furniture pieces, to minimize scratches and dents onto your new floors. You can walk on your new finished floors, 48 hours after the last coat of polyurthane has been applied.

Now that you’re aware of the 4 step process of installing hardwood floors in your home, if you have specific questions or would like a complimentary in-home consultation, contact GC Flooring Pros today! We look forward to making your dream floor designs, come alive!

Flower Mound Upgrade Project

img 8097

With the flooring being a highly visible part of your home – and with the foot traffic, spills, and general wear and tear – it can sometimes be taken for granted.

At GC Flooring Pros we can assist you in creating a fresh, new, and comfortable look that will elevate the energy in your space and make your home a warm, cozy, and inviting place to come to. Our aggressive pricing, detailed client care, and knowledgeable installation service are unparalleled. Contact us today for a free in-home consultation. Click here for more info.

WINTER FLOORING TRENDS AND DESIGNS

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!

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

Choosing The Right Floor For Your Home

While the floors in your home are important to the look, feel and functionality of your home, choosing the right floor doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process, so here are a few key questions to ask yourself before you start updating your home with brand new floors:

  • How much traffic do you expect the floor to receive?
  • Do you have children? (if you have older children, durability may not be that much of an issue)
  • Do you have pets?
  • Will the floors get easily wet or dirty?
  • How often will the floor need cleaning?
  • What’s your design style? (If you don’t know, we can help!)
  • What is your budget? (Will you need old flooring disposed of? Do you need extra baseboards?)

Considering your lifestyle, functionality needs, design and budget, will help steer you to the best options for your flooring needs. 

For more details, specs and ideas, call GC Flooring Pros today for a free estimate and let’s get started on your dream design for your floors!

why install carpet floor in the bedroom
Interior Design, About Floors, Blog, Carpet Flooring

Why install carpet flooring in the bedroom

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.

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

Choosing the right floor for your child’s bedroom

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.