Category: Flooring General

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!

Finishing Your Basement: Flooring Tips to Follow

June 18, 2018

Looking to finish your basement? Not sure where to start? Ashley Fine Floors can help! Basement renovations are one of the most common areas of the home that owners choose to renovate when looking for ways to add value to their property. Choosing the best flooring can be tricky, but with some careful consideration, you’ll be able to find the right foundation in no time. Check the key hazards you need to be aware of, as well as a few flooring recommendations below.

Basement Challenges

Because of their location underground, basements face unique challenges when it comes to choosing your flooring. Failing to take the environment into account can result in costly damages, and potentially even present a health risk to those living in the home. Prevent this by keeping these major factors in mind:

Exposure to Moisture

Basements are typically subject to a damper environment than rooms located above ground. They are also one of the most areas when it comes to climate related damages, particularly flooding. As a result, you’ll want to choose flooring that is resistant to moisture, ideally with a vapour barrier or waterproof backing to prevent liquids from soaking in.

Mould and Mildew

Much like their vulnerability to moisture, many basements are at risk for the development of mould and mildew, especially because they tend to be naturally cooler. Lower temperatures, less opportunity for circulating air, and oftentimes less foot traffic, mean that the wrong flooring can lead to a high risk of mould growth if there is an unseen spill or leak. Left undetected, this can have serious health implications for you and your family.

Tip: opt for a flooring choice that isn’t glued down and that “floats” above a moisture barrier to give yourself an extra layer of protection.

Temperature Shifts

With a general lack of natural sunlight available, basements tend to be cooler than other areas of the home year round. Seasonal temperature shifts can have a larger impact on your foundation as a whole. Choosing a flooring option that is flexible and isn’t at risk of cracking or warping during temperature fluctuations is a wise investment.

Work With Your Foundations

For those working with a previously unfinished basement, there’s a chance your foundation isn’t entirely level. Any dips, cracks, or other structural challenges will need to be accounted for when selecting your flooring option to ensure that your installation lasts in the long-term.

How to Choose the Best Option

Every basement is different, meaning that there’s no one flooring option that’s the perfect fit for every renovation. Meeting with qualified flooring professionals will help narrow down your selection to materials that work best for your home. As a general rule of thumb, shy away from from hardwood flooring (despite the style points, it is extremely vulnerable to water and thus not the best fit), and look to the following options:

At Ashely Fine Floors, we carry a wide selection of basement-friendly flooring options for you to choose from, all without sacrificing function or style. To learn what works best for your home, contact our team today!

Choosing the Best Basement Carpeting

June 13, 2018

If you’re in the process of planning an upcoming basement renovation, you likely already know just how important it can be to select the right flooring materials for your space. Whether you’re looking to expand your space for the family to relax in, or are looking to upgrade your basement into a secondary suite, choosing the best flooring for your space will help protect against premature wear, unnecessary repair costs, and more.

A common question the we encounter at Ashley Fine Floors is whether or not carpet is a wise investment for basement renovations. While there’s no direct “yes” or “no” answer, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind if you’re considering selecting carpet for your flooring. Read on to find out the best ways to incorporate carpet into your basement renovation.

Why Consider Carpeting?

As those of us in Alberta will know, the colder months often contribute to cooler areas in our homes, including our floors. Carpet can be a cost-effective, stylish, way to brighten up your area as well as increase insulation and retain warmth.

What Are the Challenges?

Basements can be tricky to outfit due to the fact that the natural lower temperature and more frequent presence of moisture can be harsh on floors. That doesn’t mean you can’t use carpets, but it does mean that you’ll need to be a little more selective when choosing the type of carpeting you want to incorporate. It’s also wise to keep in mind that you will probably need to swap out your flooring every 10 years or so to prevent moisture build up and carpet rot.

How to Choose the Best Option

As we mentioned above, selecting the right quality will go a long ways towards preventing mould build up and premature aging. A few key features that make carpets basement friendly are:

  • Low pile: Low pile carpeting is thinner than high-pile styles, meaning it takes less time to dry out if it is exposed to moisture.
  • Thinner padding: Less padding may seem unappealing since it means less built-in warmth, it also means there’s less chance of the carpet sucking up and retaining liquid.
  • Opt for manmade: Organic materials such as wool are more susceptible to damage caused by becoming waterlogged. Carpets made out of nylon and polyester are better suited to repel liquids and to handle the more moist environments commonly found in basements.
  • Look for waterproof backings: certain types of carpets have special waterproof backings the prevent moisture from passing through, making them the perfect option for basement areas.

Bonus Tip

Watch where you install: Even if you’ve selected a carpet that can handle basement conditions, it’s best to reserve it for specific areas that are less exposed to water on a regular basis. Laundry rooms, bathrooms and kitchens are best suited to another type of flooring like vinyl or linoleum.

Ready to get started on your next project? Contact the team at Ashley Fine Floors today!

Cork Flooring: Your Eco-Friendly Solution!

April 30, 2018

Looking to refresh your home or complete your new space with a quality flooring solution that’s stylish, durable, and eco-conscious? Cork flooring may be the right fit! As a relatively new addition to the flooring world, cork vinyl offers a wide variety of benefits to property owners. Perks include:

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.

Resistant to Bacteria

Due to its composition, cork is naturally resistant to the bacteria that would typically lead to mould growth and the presence of other allergens. This makes it a fantastic option for those with pets, little ones, or those simply wanting to minimize the presence of dander in their home for health reasons.

Fantastic Insulator

For those of us familiar with the lovely temperature fluctuations that come with the Albertan landscape, you’ll know just how nice it is to set foot on a warm floor on chillier mornings. Cork flooring can be installed over radiant heating, and due to its insulating qualities, it will retain ambient temperature that helps keep your home warm.

Gentle on the Environment

Unlike several flooring counterparts, cork is unique in that it does not harm trees during its production, and is easy on the environment as a whole. For those looking for a sustainable, environmentally conscious solution, this is often a winning factor over other options.

Looking to add some style to your home or office? Ashley Fine Floors has a wide selection of flooring options, including hardwood, vinyl, and cork to meet your flooring needs. Contact us today to learn more!

How to Help Your Vinyl Flooring “Spring” to Life!

April 9, 2018

If you’ve read our previous piece, you’ll know that vinyl flooring boasts a wide range of benefits for home and property owners. Luxury Vinyl Tile is particularly popular amongst those looking for a more cost-effective, but equally stylish, alternative to hardwood. As we head into the warmer month and face the annual Edmonton snowmelt, here are a few spring cleaning tips to consider when caring for your vinyl floors.

Use Low Impact Cleaning Techniques

Vinyl tiling is hardy and able to withstand a wide variety of environmental stressors, making it an ideal choice for busy property owners. Even so, you’ll want to pay particular attention to your cleaning methods as the season change. Spring can be a particularly challenging season since melting snow means increased moisture in the home, as well as the presence of salt, sand, and grit from the outdoors. To maintain your floors, you’ll want to stay on top of a regular cleaning routine, as well as spot clean any spills or stains. Make sure to use gentle cleaning materials, such as microfiber cloths and avoid exposing your tiles to excess water. Regular sweeping, vacuuming (make sure you use the appropriate attachments), and mopping will help you prevent the build-up of grime as we head into the warmer months.

Think Natural When It Comes to Products

Due to their finish, vinyl tiles are not best suited to the use of most waxes and polishes, which leave a film behind and potentially damage the floor. Apple cider vinegar diluted in warm water is a great substitute for traditional soaps, and gently removes any build up without leaving a cloudy residue behind.

Prevention is Your Best Bet

The best way to avoid damage and staining is to keep dirt and moisture out of your home period. Adding floor mats at entry points as well as key transitional areas, removing shoes before you enter the home, and drying off your pet’s paws when they come inside will help you keep your home clean and your floors looking their best for the years to come.

Looking for the best flooring for your new home, renovation, or investment property? Our experts can help. Ashley Fine Floors has been serving the Edmonton area for over 25 years and is your first choice when it comes to flooring. Contact our team today to learn more!

Choosing Your Best Basement Flooring

January 16, 2018

Choosing basement flooring can be a tricky process, particularly if you live in a colder climate, or an area that encounters high moisture throughout the year (rainfall, snow, etc.). In our previous piece on basement renovations, our team identified a few key info bites to keep in mind if you’re considering finishing your basement this spring. To expand on the topic, and to help answer some frequently asked questions, we’ve compiled a few additional points to consider before your renovation. Check our expert advice below!

Choose Flooring That’s Equipped to Handle Basement Needs

We touched on a few of the unique needs of basements in our previous piece, but as a general rule of thumb, one of your main points of concern when it comes to finishing your basement is preventing moisture build-up and keeping the area properly insulated. The right flooring choice can go a long way towards accomplishing both objectives, keeping your space cozy and warm. While statement pieces like hardwood may look fantastic, their vulnerability to water and moisture makes them a less than ideal fit for basements (if you’re still set on a hardwood look, you might want to consider engineered hardwood or luxury vinyl tile instead). Your ideal flooring choice will take into account your foundation (typically concrete), and allow it to breathe to prevent the potential for mould build up.

Look for Options That Aren’t Glued Down

As we mentioned above, allowing your foundation to breathe is a key factor when it comes to stopping mould growth on its track. Choosing planks and tiles that “float” and click into place gives you the option of installing a moisture barrier underneath, making your flooring extra water resistant. Prime candidates for this kind of installation include:

These kinds of tiles give you plenty of style options, allowing your space to stay warm and protected from moisture.

Other Options

If you’re quite sure which long-term flooring solution is ideal for your home, interim options like applying an epoxy coat to your foundation can help to seal your current floor against water damage and bacteria. Floating options like those mentioned above can always be installed later on, giving you time to save up or select the perfect fit for your space. One thing to keep in mind about epoxy and other types of sealants is that, while they do offer protection against cracks, stains, and liquid damage, they offer very little regarding added insulation. If you’re hoping to keep your basement warmer, epoxy may not be a full-scale solution.

Learn more about basement renovations, the most up to date flooring options and more by speaking with a member of our team today!