Category: Flooring General

The Beginners Guide to Traditional and Engineered Hardwood

January 10, 2019

Looking to add a touch of timeless elegance to your home and increase your property value? Hardwood flooring demands attention and holds an undeniably classic style that is sure to enhance your home. If you’re contemplating making the investment of hardwood floors, before are a few fast facts you’ll want to keep in mind.

There Are Two Different Kinds

Despite being sold under the “hardwood umbrella” there are two distinct types of planks available on the market: solid and engineered.

Solid (or Traditional) Hardwood is made of a single piece of wood, and is thick enough to allow for multiple resandings over the years. Solid hardwood is durable, but can be vulnerable to scratches and shrinking and expanding due to humidity exposure.

Engineered Hardwood is crafted from several layers of high-quality plywood that are melded together and then coated with a hardwood veneer. Slightly less thick than traditional hardwood and therefore only able to be sanded a few times, engineered hardwood is less susceptible to humidity fluctuations and can be placed in areas where traditional hardwood cannot such as over concrete or radiant heating.

Which To Choose?

As with any kind of flooring, both traditional and engineered hardwood have unique benefits. While traditional hardwood may be a little more expensive upfront, the ability to be sanded multiple times gives extra longevity and the thickness of the boards certainly makes them sturdy. Contrastingly, engineered hardwood is a little more flexible in its placement and can afford the same style in rooms that you may not be able to place traditional planks.

At Ashley Fine Floors, we carry the leading brands for both traditional and hardwood flooring. Visit our store or chat with our experts now to learn more about which type of planking is best suited for your space!

Explore Eco-Friendly Flooring Solutions

December 11, 2018

Are you looking for eco-friendly, green flooring solutions that’s built to last? Cork and linoleum tiles are a fantastic way to add style and flare to your home, all with the environment in mind. Learn more about both products below!

Cork Flooring

As a relatively new addition to the flooring world, cork flooring is often an under-utilized option. Made from the cork oak tree by material removed from bark, cork is one of the most sustainable products on the market. Relatively cheap in nature, cork floors offer plenty of benefits to owners, including:

Durability

Cork is extremely flexible as a compound, making it resistant to cracking, abrasions, and less vulnerable to gas and liquids. It is also able to withstand the demands of regular foot traffic, even offering a softer surface for those standing for long periods of time. Once installed, cork flooring can easily stand the test of time!

Fantastic Insulator

Dying to keep your toes warm? Look no further. Cork’s ‘squishy’ interior makes it an excellent insulator that holds heat well, especially when placed over radiant heaters.

Noise Dampener

Along with insulating heat, cork’s make up is also well suited for naturally dampening and absorbing sound. If you’re looking to reduce the transfer of noise between floors or even from room to room, cork can help significantly.

Linoleum

Better known than its cork counterparts, linoleum flooring remains one of the most popular sustainable flooring options. With plenty of style choices and a reputation for long lasting (the lifespan is between 20-40 years!) durability, additional benefits of linoleum include:

Low maintenance

Linoleum’s durable makeup also means it is easy to care for. Even with heavy foot traffic, minimal effort is all it takes to keep your floors looking their best. Naturally water, scratch, stain, and warp resistant, your tiles are designed to withstand heavy demand while staying stylish. Simply sweep off any accumulating dust or debris and mop up spills as needed and you’re covered!

Cost Effective

If you’re looking at a large installation (several rooms or more), linoleum’s price point can be extremely attractive, even after the cost of installation is factored in.

Versatile

While linoleum has an unfortunate rap for being “boring”, the truth is actually quite the opposite! With plenty of styles to choose from, there’s no shortage of eco-friendly options at your fingertips!

Learn more about eco-friendly flooring solutions with Ashley Fine Floors by contacting our team today!

Benefits of Professional Flooring Installation

November 5, 2018

New floors are a fantastic way to breathe life into a tired space and improve the overall value of your property. Once you’ve selected the flooring and style that perfectly fits your home, the next step is planning a hassle-free installation.

While some DIY enthusiasts opt to place planks and tiles themselves, many homeowners opt for professional flooring installation. At Ashley Fine Floors, our experts offer customers all of the benefits of worry-free placement, a few of which include:

Experience

Even the most detail oriented handyman can have a difficult time properly installing floorboards their first time. With hundreds of jobs under our belt, the Ashley team is able to handle any kind of placement, even in tricky spaces.

Time Saver

Simply put, time is money. The last thing most homeowners want to do after a purchase is spend hours on their hands and knees clicking boards into place. Our experts are quick, efficient, and ensure that your installation is done in no time!

Peace of Mind

Whether you’re finishing up a new build or completing a renovation, home alterations can be stressful. Adding in a DIY element for a major component like floors can be overwhelming for many, whereas partnering with professionals eliminates the vast majority of installation concerns.

Perfect Results

Flooring plays an important role in the overall visual appeal of our homes, which is why proper placement is vital. Working an experienced team means your planks or tiles will be installed carefully, reducing your chance of avoidable cracking, warps, or other types of damage that may be caused from poor placement. As the foundation for your home, your floors should never be a point of stress!

At Ashley Fine Floors, we make flooring installation a breeze! Contact our team to learn more.

Linoleum Flooring: Your Eco-Friendly Flooring Solution

October 16, 2018

Are you looking for a cost effective, stylish, and durable option for your home or commercial space? Linoleum flooring is one of the most versatile and understated options on the market. Learn more about the benefits of linoleum below!

Think Green

One of the most distinct advantages of linoleum flooring is the fact that it is made of all natural, biodegradable, materials, making it an eco-friendly product. Because it lacks certain plastics and varnishes used by other planks, you won’t need to worry about toxic or harmful particles being released into your home over time.

Long Lasting

Not only is linoleum incredibly durable day to day (can someone say pet and children friendly?), but it’s built to last. With proper care, linoleum can last far longer than vinyl products, averaging a lifespan of 20-40 years.

Low Maintenance

If you’re looking for a floor that can withstand heavy duty traffic with minimal effort, linoleum is a fantastic fit. Naturally water, scratch, stain, and warp resistant, your tiles are designed to withstand heavy demand while staying stylish. Simply sweep off any accumulating dust or debris and mop up spills as needed and you’re covered!

Cost Effective

One of the most attractive aspects of linoleum is the competitive price point, particularly if you’re looking at a large installation. Compared to luxury vinyl tile or laminate, linoleum typically comes in cheaper, even when the cost of installing is factored in.

Simple and Stylish

Think linoleum is bland and boring? Think again! Linoleum has plenty of versatile styles to choose from, allowing you to enjoy all of the benefits above, along with a fantastic visual compliment.

Want to learn more about linoleum? We can help! Contact the experts at Ashley Fine Floors today.

Protecting Your Rental Unit Flooring

October 10, 2018

Whether you’re a first time investment property owner or a seasoned landlord, it should come as no surprise that rental units take more abuse than the average family home. Selecting the right kind of flooring can help prevent the need for extensive repairs later and help you lease to new tenants with confidence. If you’re considering putting your property back on the market, follow the tips below to protect your floors from avoidable damage.

Consider the big picture

One of the most important aspects of protecting your floors is to understand the function and needs of every room in your property. Doing so will help you select flooring that is best suited to the area. Factors you’ll want to discuss during the decision making process are:

What is the purpose of this room? What are the corresponding challenges?

Identifying the function of each room should help you select flooring that is appropriate for the needs of the area. Examples include pairing water resistant planks in bathrooms and laundry rooms.

How many tenants am I expecting to live in the unit? How much foot traffic will the floor need to withstand?

If your space is designed to house a family, the demand on your floors will be greater than a unit made for a single person or couple. If you’re planning on making your property pet-friendly, you’ll want to factor that in as well.

Am I planning renovations in the near future? How much maintenance am I willing to put in now?

If you are aiming for a short term rental to help save up for larger renovations in the future, this may help you decide if you want to update your flooring, and what solutions work best in the interim.

When was the last time the floors were updated?

If you’re on the fence as to whether or not your flooring needs an overhaul, it’s best to consider when your current set up was put into place. Certain textiles like carpets and hardwood have more specific lifespan than other materials like vinyl, so you’ll want to take this into account. Starting fresh may actually save you money in the long run compared to having to deal with repairs or the removal of moulding carpets that may not have been adequately cared for by a previous owner.

What to choose

The reality is, every rental unit is different. While the staples of vinyl, cork, laminate, and linoleum are common choices due to their resilience and price point, it’s best to take the specific needs of your property into consideration.

Not sure where to get started? Ashley Fine Floors can help! Our team has been connecting Edmonton and area with leading flooring solutions for over 25 years. Contact our team today to learn more.

2018 Flooring Trends

July 30, 2018

If you’re in the process of finishing your new home home, or are looking to spruce up your space, flooring is the perfect final piece to tie your aesthetic together. Whether you’re style driven and are a fan of incorporating the latest trends, or are simply looking for the latest practical options to install in your home, below are a few of 2018’s most popular flooring options to consider!

Functional is In!

2018 has seen a surge in flooring selections that are practical as well as sleek and sophisticated. Eco-friendly options like cork and laminate have been rising in popularity, and boast a wide range of benefits for homeowners including increased insulation, natural sound dampening and easy care.

Another big trend is the move towards waterproof flooring, including vinyl and carpet selections. The threat of moisture damage is a constant worry for property owners, and waterproof tiles and planks can help to greatly reduce your overall risk.

Natural Beauty Takes Centre Stage

Synthetic and high gloss flooring are dropping in popularity, with trends increasingly favouring understated natural looks such as stone and wood finishes with a matte finish. In terms of patterns, chevron and herringbone, as well as diagonal, wide length, and mixed width planks remain a steady favourite. Natural looking textures such as smooth, distressed and hand scraped finishes are in as well.

Get the look for less: Love the classic feel of Hardwood, but don’t have the budget? Laminate and Luxury Vinyl Tile are the perfect compromise to get the style you want at a significantly cheaper cost per square foot.

Light and Welcoming

Where older trends favoured dramatic, dark, flooring with lighter accents above, 2018 styles have shifted to the the opposite end. Lighter planking with a warm, bright, feel are extremely popular at the moment, with no immediate signs of fading in the future.

Looking to help your home look its best? Contact Ashley Fine Floors today to learn more!

Caring for Newly Installed Tile Flooring

July 16, 2018

Wondering how to care for your freshly laid tile flooring? The good news is, tile floors are remarkably easy to maintain. To make sure you get off to the best start and have long-lasting, gorgeous looking floors, follow our tips below!

Immediately After Installation

It may be tempting to give your brand new floors a wash down, but to ensure your sealing has the time necessary to properly set in, it’s crucial to wait at least 2-4 days before introducing any excess liquid. If you need to clean up any unexpected spills, do so with caution and try to get rid of extra moisture right away. Once things are fully dried, you can focus on a regular cleaning schedule.

Water is Your Friend

“Wait…you want met to put water on my floors? I thought you just said that was bad!” Don’t worry; we can explain! While you never want to leave pools of water sitting on your tiles, when it comes to selecting your ideal cleaning solution, warm water should be your first choice. Why? Water lacks the harsh chemicals often found in other cleaners, and should be enough to handle most spot cleaning jobs.

For the occasional “heavy duty” cleaning where water simply won’t cut it, stick to gentle, neutral PH, based cleansers that are specifically made for tile floors.

Remove Dirt and Debris Before Mopping

As with any flooring, sweeping or vacuuming your tiles prior to moping is a safe bet to help avoid accidental scratching and abrasions caused by leftover grit. To keep your floors in pristine shape, it’s a good idea to sweep weekly, or as needed.

Clean Spills Immediately

Even though tile flooring is quite resistant to liquids, it’s always a good idea to spot clean messes immediately to prevent stains, warping, and avoidable erosion to your sealant. Keeping a microfibre cloth or mop on hand will make it easy to treat spills as they happen

Want to learn more? Contact our experts today!

Vinyl Planks: Your Water Resistant Flooring Choice

July 9, 2018

If you’re in the market for new flooring to complete your bathroom or kitchen renovations, you’ll already know that it’s important to find the right water resistant solution to ensure everything stays in place for the long-term. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a sophisticated, stylish, and low maintenance option for areas of your home that are more prone to moisture exposure. Read on to find out why vinyl is great option to help finish your next reno!

Waterproof vs. Water Resistant

It might sound like common sense, but there’s often quite a bit of confusion when it comes to determining whether or not your flooring is truly waterproof or is water resistant. Fully waterproof flooring is rare, as even the most resistant finishes will typically have some degree of vulnerability where moisture is concerned. Even if your planks are classified as “waterproof” it’s still wise to take precautions and keep prolonged exposure to liquid as minimal as possible.

LVT Benefits

Durable

Besides being extremely water resistant, luxury vinyl tile is extremely durable in general, meaning it can stand up to the demands of high traffic and daily use. The low sheen helps mask dirt and rime, and its soft and flexible backing is easier on the joints while acting as a natural sound barrier.

Stylish

LVT is available in a wide variety of styles, patterns, colours and finishes. No matter your style, vinyl has you covered, giving homeowners an easy way to recreate the look of stone, ceramic, and wood planks at a fraction of the price.

Affordable

As we mentioned above, LVT is significantly cheaper than many other options. If you have a large area to cover, or are simply looking to maximize your style for less, vinyl is a great fit.

Quick Water Tips

Not sure how to keep your vinyl safe from water after installation? Even though the product is naturally very resistant, it’s still best to ensure you’re taking the appropriate measures to prevent prolonged exposure to moisture and other factors that may degrade your finish over time.

  • Mop up spills and standing water as soon as possible
  • Keep an eye on any chemicals that may reach your flooring, especially those you use regularly, but may not be aware of: hairspray, shampoo, lotions, etc.
  • Use gentle cleaning methods to avoid prematurely damaging the seal of your planks.

To learn more about Vinyl Tiles, contact our team today!

Discover the Benefits of Laminate Flooring

July 3, 2018

If your flooring is due for refreshing and you’re in the process of searching for the best replacement, laminate tiling may or may not already be on your radar. If you haven’t discovered the benefits already, below are a few reasons you should consider laminate for your home.

What is Laminate?

Contrary to popular belief, laminate is not made out of plastic. Multiple materials are combine to create four layers: wear, design, core, and backing. Each layer helps the tiles to maintain their original aesthetic and to protect against signs of wear or damage.

Endless Style Options

While some homeowners may still associate laminate with a plastic, dull, appearance, the reality couldn’t be more opposite! Laminate is a fantastic way to achieve a gorgeous hardwood look throughout your home at a fraction of the cost. This is particularly advantageous if you need to cover a large area.

Durable

Despite its relative cheapness per square footage, laminate flooring is extremely durable and easy to maintain. It’s resistance to moisture means it can be installed in areas typically not suitable for traditional hardwood, including bathrooms and kitchens. Cleaning is simple, and a resilient finish means there’s less need to worry about chips or dents: all great factors for families with little ones or pets!

Easy to Install

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, quick installation option, laminate is a fantastic choice! Planks can easily be clicked into place, and can even be installed over radiant heating.

Ready to get started? We can help! Contact the experts at Ashley Fine Floors to find your perfect fit today!

Selecting the Tile Flooring For Your Home

June 25, 2018

Are you considering reviving your flooring as your next renovation project? Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is an increasingly popular choice amongst homeowners looking for a cost-effective way to bring a stylish touch to their home. Tile flooring is durable, easy to install and maintain, and able to handle the demands of most environments. If you’re wondering if vinyl tiles would be a good fit for your renovation, here are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.

Where Are You Installing Your Flooring?

A clear advantage for vinyl tiling is that, unlike other options, it is relatively easy to place anywhere in the home. That said, taking into account the specifics of the area where you plan on placing the tiles will help determine the best kind of finish, texture, and sealing necessary to ensure the longevity of your flooring. Factors you’ll want to address are:

  • Is there an increased presence of moisture in the area (i.e. with bathrooms, or kitchens)?
  • What damaging factors will this area face most often? A bedroom and a mudroom will experience different kinds of wear, for example.
  • Foot traffic levels.

Size and Layout

Knowing the square footage of the area you need to cover will help make sure your tiles fit the space perfectly. Tiling is fairly customizable, but it’s still best to know your area size to ensure everything is made to scale.

Daily Demands

As we said above, vinyl tile is quite durable, but knowing what factors your flooring will need to contend with on a daily basis will help you pick the right tiling for each area of your home.

Budget

Finally, while tiling is versatile and affordable for a wide range of budgets, knowing your ideal dollar amount, both for the initial installation and continual upkeep, will help narrow down your choices. At Ashley Fine Floors, we stock a vast selection of tiles for you to view. Our experienced team is happy to help you find the ideal fit for your home! Contact our team today to learn more!