The New Floor Guide

3 Differences Between Sisal Carpet and Seagrass Carpet

guest — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 19:19:05 +0000

Sisal and seagrass carpet are both durable carpets made of natural plant fibers that last much longer than regular carpet. So what are the differences between the two? Let’s look at a few differences, to help you decide which one will suit your home better.

-Texture of the Carpets
Seagrass grows underwater, and so the fibers are more reed like than than sisal. When woven into a carpet, they have a hand-woven aesthetic that looks like something you’d buy from a local in a tropical climate. Sisal has more of a natural carpet look and feel, as the fibers are much finer than seagrass. Both are excellent as rugs or carpet square – sisal carpet tiles in particular do a great job as doormats – but seagrass usually isn’t chosen to carpet an entire home.

-Sizes
Sisal can easily be made into a full carpet for a room. It’s much more convenient than seagrass carpet, as seagrass is just a little tougher to work with. Sisal is often combined with wool to make a hybrid carpet that is almost indistinguishable from regular carpet. Seagrass is easier to work with in smaller squares overall.

-Price
Both sisal and seagrass carpet are pricier than regular carpet, which isn’t any surprise, considering how much more work it takes to grow and then process them. However, sisal is a little rarer than seagrass, and it’s less known, so overall it’s going to cost more, square foot for square foot, than seagrass. This is another reason that wool and sisal mixes are common – it saves money and gives the carpet a little extra strength. Chances are though, if you’re buying one of these carpets, that money isn’t much of a factor anyway.

Both sisal and seagrass are good choices for carpet, but they have slightly different qualities about them. Be sure to research each one before making a decision one way or the other.

Choosing a Grout Cleaner

admin — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 04:25:45 +0000

Cleaning tile grout on a regular basis is the best way to prevent tiles getting affected by grime, mildew or gesture. Kitchen and bathroom tiles are more prone to dirt and mildew than tile floors at other parts of the home, so you should take special care to clean shower and kitchen tile and grouts regularly with a good and effective grout cleaner.

Before you start on the job, you must make sure that you have the right tools in hand. Grout cleaners, grout brushes and grout scrubbers are the very basic things that you will need. For more thorough cleaning, you may use commercial grout cleaner or grout steam cleaner or can even seek the service of a professional if you find that the tiles are affected badly that have undergone discoloration.

Different methods of grout cleaning

For regular grout cleaning, it is best to use the milder products. Vinegar makes for an effective tile grout cleaner. Depending on the intensity of wash you are looking for, you can apply full vinegar or can dilute it with water. You can also mix the vinegar with a stronger grout cleaner product for a slightly harder wash. First, put the solution into a spray bottle and then spray it over the grout lines. Let it sit for ten minutes for disinfecting. Then scrub the grouts with a non-metal brush. You should look that the brushes are hard but not stiff enough to cause any damage to the tile and the grout. Scrubbing in a circular motion is more effective to get a through clean. Once the scrubbing is done, rinse the floor with a wet mop or sponge.

You can apply the same method with a baking soda, water and vinegar solution or for a slightly stronger wash, a solution of salt, vinegar and baking soda. Even if you take proper care of your grouts, with time, they are going to collect some stains or go through a process of discoloration. In such cases, it is good to use lemon juice as a grout cleaning solution. Lemon works great as stain remover and can also help the grouts and tiles to recover their original color.

However from time to time, you would also need to clean your grout with chemical solutions. The milder of them can be any bleach solutions. The normal household cleaners that contain bleach should work fine, too. When applying these products, make sure to use protective eye wear and hand gloves and keep the area well ventilated. Bleach products are especially powerful in removing mildew and mold.

For a heavy-duty cleaning however, you will have to go for the commercial grout cleaners containing harsher chemicals. These products can be bought at regular hardware stores. The pH-balanced products are most useful for grout cleaning. You can also use these products for steam cleaning which can be very effective with discoloration issues. However make sure that you do not use this type of tile grout cleaner too often, as they contain abrasive ingredients and can damage your tiles in case of over use.

How To Clean Hardwood Floors

admin — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 23:13:41 +0000

Hardwood floors have become the flooring of choice for many homes in the past decade. How to clean hardwood floors and the best method that should be used is an often debated topic. Depending on your specific type of hardwood flooring and the condition of your flooring there are several different ways that are believed to be the best way to clean them.

For flooring that is true hardwood and not a man-made manufactured flooring, the key in cleaning hinges on the type of finish that is on the floor. Cleaning hardwood floors with vinegar and water is a good rule of thumb rather than spend time trying to determine your finish on an older floor. Most other cleaners will leave a residue that builds up and will cause dulling of the finish. A major problem when refinishing old floors is a result of the previous cleaning methods leaving a residue that, when refinishing, will cause the new finish to be unable to adhere to the floor. To avoid this problem most old floors will have to be completely re-sanded down to bare, new wood before you can be confident that the new finish will adhere correctly.

Another major issue when cleaning hardwood floors is that water causes wood to expand. This expansion process will crush the wood fibers as they expand and once they dry out there will be gaps in the flooring. Address this possibility by using the least amount of liquid as possible and dry the floor thoroughly as you are cleaning it.

Newer wood floors that have a factory applied finish can be cleaned with fewer concerns than older wood floors. The best cleaning option with laminate or factory sealed flooring is to clean them following guidelines from the manufacturer. As with original hardwood flooring, be sure to dry your flooring as quickly as possible.

An effective cleaner for your flooring is Windex. The alcohol helps the floor to dry more quickly and Windex is very efficient in removing buildup from previously used cleaners. Never use wax on your wood flooring unless you know for fact that it is approved from the manufacturer of your flooring. Wax is very difficult to remove and leaves a heavy buildup on your floor. The best way to know how to clean hardwood floors is to contact the manufacturer if at all possible.

For wood floors that have dulled with age, or with chemical buildup, it is best to buff the floors back to a glossy finish with a floor buffer. To prolong the reflective finish on any hardwood floor it is necessary to sweep and use a dust mop very frequently. Tiny particles of dirt covering the floor are the main cause of your floor developing scratches and appearing scuffed.

Unique And Durable Flooring With Slate Tile

admin — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 01:48:45 +0000

Homeowners are constantly looking for flooring options to add durability along with cosmetic appeal to their homes and using slate tile is one such option. Although not quite as common as other flooring materials, slate tiles can create a unique and durable surface within the home. Like all materials there are locations where slate flooring is better suited and more appropriate to use. The bathroom is one of the most common places to use these tiles while front entrances can also benefit from them. Slate flooring tiles can also be placed in the kitchen as well as the basement. They are normally not recommended for bedrooms or living rooms.

Before laying this type of flooring, there must be some preparations made to the surface to which it will be applied. Certain conditions with the sub-flooring must exist to ensure that your slate tiles will adhere properly and maintain a long life. If you choose to lay on concrete or other hard floor surfaces, you must first make sure that the surface is completely flat. If you find pits, holes or other issues you can use specialized adhesives for flooring to correct them.

There are no significant issues with installing slate tile flooring on an existing wood floor as long as you take necessary precautions. Slate tiles are extremely heavy and are available in various thicknesses, so the wood sub floor must be able to withstand the load. This is of the upmost importance. It is also recommended that a backer board, which is cement, based or a piece of high-grade plywood is added to top of the subfloor before laying the tile. This will add durability as well as creating a level, flat surface area to adhere the adhesive and tiles.

There are numerous benefits associated with slate flooring. Overall, the material is extremely durable although some styles may require a layer of sealant. The tiles are also much more slip resistant than ceramic or vinyl, which makes them a good choice for areas that may be susceptible to drops of water. Slate tiles are used mostly in their natural form, which makes them very decorative and each one unique. Due to their crevices and patterns, they also disguise grime and dirt very well.

The drawbacks from slate floor tiles are few but should be considered. The tiles themselves are cold under bare feet and very hard. You should use a rug or padding in areas where you will stand for extended periods of time. Although they are less expensive than granite or marble, slate can be more costly than many other flooring options. Nevertheless, slate tile flooring can create a durable and decorative look to your home. With proper installation and care, you can enjoy these tiles for many years to come.

Dark Hardwood Flooring Options for Homeowners

guest — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 04:04:06 +0000

Some homeowners may overlook dark hardwoods due to the many myths and misconceptions surrounding this flooring option. Some designers may imply it can make spaces appear smaller, and will show nicks, dings, scrapes and normal wear and tear more easily. Also, you may feel that dark solid wood flooring options are limited compared to the lighter and mid-range color palates. However, any homeowner who has had dark wood flooring installed will tell you that it adds an unsurpassed level of elegance, can make a room appear larger and can withstand everything from high traffic to normal wear and tear.

One of the less commonly known color choices for this type of design is Brazilian teak flooring. While this option sounds exotic and unaffordable, don’t let it discourage you from choosing it over other wood types. The hues can range from mid-range tans to deep warm browns. But for those who want the beauty a dark solid wood floor can create, you will want to select Brazilian cherry teak flooring. This hardwood comes in deeper tones, embellished with red and orange undertones. When paired with light colored or white furniture, you can create a warm open space that is truly elegant and unique.

Another option available for dark hardwood flooring is strand woven bamboo. While this choice sounds only slightly less exotic than Brazilian teak, it is actually gaining in popularity compared to traditional hardwoods such as Maple and Walnut. However, bamboo flooring does not gain its coloration through staining – but rather through the carbonization process. Also, darker shades of bamboo are also stronger and more durable compared to the lighter counterparts. This is an ideal feature for homeowners who have high traffic homes that need the additional strength and durability.

Before you discard the idea of dark hardwood flooring, you might want to give it a second look. When paired with light colored or white furniture, the style created can feel open, unique and elegant. And do not think your options are limited in comparison to lighter hardwoods; Brazilian teak and strand woven bamboo are only two of the choices that are available. But regardless of the dark solid wood flooring you choose, it will add an unsurpassed level of beauty and elegance to your home and living space.

Buying Used Rainbow Vacuum Cleaners Can Save You Money

guest — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 18:14:05 +0000

Keeping your home looking nice is a constant process, and floor care is a vital part of that. New vacuum cleaners can be extremely costly, and during hard economic times, individuals are always looking for ways to cut expenses. A great option for this situation would be the purchase of a used Rainbow vacuum cleaner. This brand is so durable and dependable, that even previously owned units can still deliver impeccable results.

Technology is always changing and expanding the options for electronics, appliances, and more. So it is common for some consumers to upgrade their vacuum cleaners when able, leaving older models behind. Individuals looking for a cost effective unit can take advantage of this scenario. The D model and even the Rainbow SE model of the past are still highly regarded cleaners that work well for those who have limited vacuuming needs.

Locating used Rainbow vacuum cleaners can be fairly easy. Auction sites located on the internet will commonly have listings for previously owned units. You can also check your local newspapers or radio swap shops for listings from people who are ready to let their older cleaner go for a newer model.

The Rainbow D models are the easiest and most common cleaners to find for sale when you are ready to start your search. These choices are quite satisfactory for most all domestic settings. These are equipped with a regular hose but with a power cord located on the outside, which makes it a little less convenient than the more modern models.

As you start to look into newer, more advanced models, you will find it more difficult to locate a used unit. The newer E series had multiple enhancements that consumers seemed to really like. That being said, many individuals upgraded to these, leaving many D models to be resold.

Rainbow has been a trusted and dependable brand of vacuum cleaners for years, and the quality of their machines speaks for itself. When such characteristics are present, it can be a less expensive, low risk purchase for you that will provide exceptional results.

Finding the Best Carpet Shampooers

guest — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 16:45:28 +0000

Consumers cleaning their own flooring always look for the best carpet shampooers to ensure that a do-it-yourself project does not turn into a do-yourself fiasco. Although professional services will usually do an outstanding job, the fees and hourly rates may not be in your budget. Also busy families are not always able to set appointments to meet a contractor’s schedule. In this case, finding the best shampooer is a wise investment that save time and money when neither are dispensable.

Here are several tips that will help you in your search for the best carpet shampooer.

* If the shampooer does not have adequate attachments for your needs, the product is a waste of money or a poor compromise. For example, the attachments needs to be able to work with stairs if this is what your household features. The same goes for upholstery. If you have to purchase multiple types of shampooers when one will do, it is always best to go for the multi-functioning product.

* Brushes need to match the types of cleaning most often performed. If you are able to clean on a routine basis then fixed brushes are a good option. Brushes that rotate are more inclined to clean stains and more suitable to an infrequent basis. However the rotating types do not last as long if the home is carpeted.

* The best carpet shampooers always have water tanks with adequate capacity for long cleaning jobs. Consumers are often frustrated by small tanks that require frequent changing, making a long task even more time consuming.

* Extra stains call for extra cleaning products. The shampooer should have a mechanism that triggers additional solution as required.

Not everyone agrees on the best carpet shampooers as each individual has different lifestyle needs. The most important point is that your needs are met and your home is clean as a result.

Shark steam mops are great for the kitchen

guest — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 06:25:14 +0000

There is this new idea that you can only use a shark steam mop to clear up your home but if you ask me, I think there is definitely a lot of merit to the idea that you will need to buy other mops, cleaners as well as disinfectants to clear up your home. The best part about the Shark Clean range of appliances is that I can use them everyone — the same mop is used to clean the patio, the car, the floors, dust up the drapes and clean my kitchen counter top. With the interchangeable mop heads that ship with the steam mop, it is pretty easy to keep things clean and sanitary. For example, I use the standard mop head that ships with the steam cleaner to take care of all the different spaces in my home.

The three different mop heads that come with the Shark are the standard sized one which used to be the same on that the old mop had with the new ones being the triangular head as well as the one that is what I consider to be the best of the lot which the deluxe sized head of the mop which allows you to make sure that you get the best out of the stuff that you are buying. There is a simple idea to the whole exercise really, the more area that the mop head is able to cover, the better will be the efficiency with which you can clean up a place. There are however certain things that you should keep in mind when working with a mop made by the Euro Pro company. The accessories aren’t backwards compatible and even if they were the handle on the old mop is too flimsy in my opinion to run with the rest.

Detains on Durable Stained Concrete Flooring Applications for Homeowners

guest — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 05:28:12 +0000

While concrete as we know it has been in existence for centuries, only recently modern chemistry and ingenuity have given rise to the process of staining the ancient building material with a mix of hydrochloric acid, water, and metallic salts.

Stained concrete is one of the most popular applications for creating amazing looking concrete slabs. It is sometimes referred to as colored concrete, homeowners, designers and builders are appreciating the value of stained concrete because of the unique outcome that can be achieved combining colors, application techniques, etc., on cement flooring and other substrates. The results are only limited by the creative concepts engineered and designed of those concrete staining and etching experts involved in the stained concrete process.

The hydrochloric acid acts as a chemically abrasive primer, giving the applied stain unparalleled penetration into the stained concrete by local decorative concrete Dallas experts. Once the stain is applied, concrete’s inherent porous nature ensures that the stain cannot be chipped or worn away as it the case with latex-paint based stains. Based on the condition and color of the concrete the stain is applied to, the number of options and color variations that are achievable are only limited to the designer’s and customer’s imaginations. This differs from more than a decade ago, when the general desired effect with acid stained concrete was a uniform, even finish. By diluting the acid then gradually increasing its potency, installers can overlay different brush techniques over several different applications, building up to a color and texture the homeowner can instantly approve of. Be prepared to select from a somewhat finite palate of subtle earth tones, as these are the more commonly available stains. However, in recent years vibrant, exciting colors such as reds, purples, oranges, and yellows.

The overall durability of acid stained concrete is what sets it far above other comparable finishes. Think of the concrete being stained as a piece of wood, with a unique assortment of knots, gnarls, and variations singular to that piece of concrete. This guarantees that no two projects are ever identical, ensuring your new stained concrete floors will stand out amongst others. In addition to lasting for generations, stained concrete floors provided additional health benefits by eliminating carpet-borne allergens and odors, allowing the homeowner to quickly and efficiently clean and care for the floors.

Backpack Vacuums Make Cleaning a Breeze

guest — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 06:44:11 +0000

Ask ten home owners what chore they hate the most and nine of them will say vacuuming. It is not really difficult to understand why. Vacuuming is such a hassle. Not only do you have to round up all of the various attachments that you failed to put back in their proper place the last time you vacuumed, you also have to move heavy pieces of furniture around and find a centrally located electrical socket so that you can finish as quick as possible. Quite simply, it is not fun. There is, however, an easier way to clean your carpets, rugs, or hardwood floors; backpack vacuums.

Backpack vacuums are a relatively simple, yet practical, cleaning solution. These versatile machines are simply lightweight vacuums that an individual can strap to their backs. Besides affording the user the ability to freely move around the room, a backpack vacuum provides the unique ability to clean in areas that may have been previously inaccessible. A few examples include ceiling fans, floor baseboards, and even air conditioning vents. They also make cleaning carpeted stairs ridiculously easy.

In addition to being able to easily reach more places, backpack vacuums make cleaning your house much quicker. Since these vacuums typically weigh less than 11 pounds, they are easy to control and maneuver. Just because these vacuums are not as bulky as traditional vacuum cleaners, do not discount their power. These compact and efficient cleaners have sufficient power to clean just about any surface.

When searching for the right vacuum cleaner, one thing to consider is the type of vacuum bags that is uses. Many models require specific bags, such as miele fjm vacuum bags, while others provide the flexibility to use a wide range of brand name or generic bags. Before you rush out and buy a new backpack vacuum it is always a good idea to do some preliminary research online.