Category: Home Tips

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.

Why it’s time to rethink carpets

October 22, 2018

 

If you’ve taken a look through any interior design magazines or attended any home shows in the past year or so, you may have noticed a growing trend: despite hard surfaces like vinyl and hardwood being extremely popular, carpet tiles are making a quiet, stylish comeback. While the association with carpet tends to be the high-pile, thick, material that was favoured about a decade ago, there are now several different options on the market that easily blend with any home interior. If you’re looking for a cost-effective, stylish, and warm way to finish your home, carpet might just be the perfect. Learn more about this re-emerging trend below!

Welcome back!

As we said above, carpet tends to leave some homeowners feeling cautious due to the previous era of styling. Unlike the shag carpeting that we all know and love from the 70’s, today’s flooring options are much more chic and easier to maintain. Cut, loop, and combination piles give you an incredibly diverse range of options when it comes to textures, patterns, functionality, and longevity. With a little TLC, it’s easy to keep your carpets looking their best, all year round!

Tip: Learn how to care for your carpets in winter here.

Built in Comfort

One of the most appealing options for carpet, particularly in cooler environments like the Prairies is the added warmth the material brings to any space. Whether you hate freezing your toes in the morning, or shivering while watching a movie, plush carpeting can help keep you cozy during the colder months. Carpet is also much gentler on your joints if you stand for prolonged periods, and act as a natural shock absorber compared to harder alternatives.

Sound Absorbing

Have a rental unit or looking to block noise from traveling between levels? Carpet is a definite asset. Throw an underpad beneath your style of choice, and you’ll be amazed by how much quieter your space seems.

Safety

It may seem counter intuitive to consider carpeting if you have small children, but the added softness and plushness may actually be to your benefit, especially when placed on or around stairs or other dangerous areas within the home. Should your little one fall, there’s a much softer landing surface waiting to catch them.

Versatile

When it comes to the design element, carpet can be as dramatic or muted as you would like. Canadian brands like Beaulieu produce style lines with incredible options, giving you no shortage of patterns, cuts, and colours to choose from!

Ready to rethink your boring, outdated carpet and transform your home? Let us help! Contact the team at Ashley Fine Floors today to learn more.

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.

Spring Floor Care Tips for Carpet Owners

April 16, 2018

Ready to Kiss Winter Goodbye?

So are we! Spring is just around the corner, and as the weather heats up, your flooring is bound to experience a few changes of its own during the transition. Whether you’ve been patiently waiting for the snow to melt before beginning your home renovations, or are simply looking to care for your existing floors, Ashley Fine Floors is here to help.

Springtime can be a wonderful time of year, but for those unprepared, it can be particularly hard on your carpets. Carpets can be a fantastic way to bring life into your space, with a wide selection of patterns, depths, and textures available. They also help insulate your home against the cold, and provide a soft surface to tread on year-round. Learn how to prepare and protect your flooring against the strains of spring below!

Prevention is Your Friend

The best way to protect your carpets against the elements is to protect them from coming in contact in the first place. Place mats around your key entry points and transition areas around the home, and make sure you remove any soiled footing that may carry excess moisture and grit in from the outdoors.

Act Quickly When It Comes to Moisture

Even the most durable carpets are vulnerable when it comes to water damage. If left untended to, water spots can eventually lead to mould, which presents a danger to the health of residents. Prevent risks and unsightly stains by gently blotting excess water with paper towels, microfiber cloths, or using a portable carpet cleaner if you have one.

Pay Attention to Your Nose…Really!

Do you find yourself sniffling more often? Are your family members sneezing and coughing, or waking up feeling congested? It could be a sign that it’s time to give your carpets a proper refresh with a deep clean. Even if you’ve been diligent with your vacuuming, most carpeting will benefit from professional cleaning every 6 months. Professional equipment will be able to reach deeper than other cleaners and will use a safe amount of moisture (and subsequently avoid mould build up) to remove deeply seated dirt and grime. You’ll also find your surface will be plusher, and any lingering odors should be eliminated.

Looking to add some style to your home or office? Ashley Fine Floors has a wide selection of popular carpet brands, including Beaulieu, Lexmark, and Kraus 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!

Spring Cleaning Your Laminate Floors

April 3, 2018

Spring is just around the corner, and as those of us in more temperate climates will know, the shifting of seasons tends to bring unpredictable weather changes. These sudden fluctuations between warm and cold, extra moisture in the air, and the influx of dirt and grit can put additional strain on your floor without the proper precautions. At Ashley Fine Floors we carry a wide range of flooring options, including the widely popular Beaulieu and Richmond laminate lines. With laminate being such valuable option for homeowners wanting style on a wallet-friendly price point, we’ve compiled a few tips for protecting your flooring during the spring. Check out our guide below!

Tend to Any ‘Seasonal Debris’ Promptly

As the snow melts, the presence of moisture, salt, sand, and other winter staples becomes hard to avoid in your home. Prevent your floors from buckling, warping, or gaining unsightly stains by placing mats at each entrance to your home as well as in high traffic “transition areas” (i.e. garage to mudroom or living room to kitchen). You’ll also want to be quick to mop up any puddles, and to gently remove any salt or dirt marks with a damp microfiber cloth. Avoid the use of any abrasive cleaning tools, as they may scratch or damage your finish.

Invest in Soap-Free Cleaners

While laminate flooring is durable and meant to withstand most stressors, you’ll want to make sure you’re using the right treatments when cleaning. Steer clear of using excess water when mopping, as well as soaps, waxes, or polishes that leave behind a residue; not only will these products typically give you a streaky finish, but they may damage the sealing of the flooring itself.

Spot Cleaning and Regular ‘Quick Sweeps’ Go a Long Way

Laminate floors are low maintenance, but the best way to enhance the longevity of your product is routine upkeep. Spot cleaning any spills, taking a few minutes to sweep up dirt, pet dander, and giving things a quick wipe down every so often will keep your floors in optimal shape between deep cleans. When it comes to a more thorough clean, try a microfiber cloth or mop soaked in hot water, making sure you wring out any excess liquid.

Following these tips will keep your laminate looking fresh and ready for spring. Learn more about the benefits of laminate flooring, as well as our other flooring options, including hardwood and carpeting by contacting our team today!

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!

Vinyl Plank Flooring Benefits

January 2, 2018

When it comes to selecting the right kind of flooring for your new home, rental unit, or renovation, knowing the pros and cons of your various options can help make the selection process easier. Vinyl planking is an exceptionally popular product for both our Calgary and Edmonton locations; to help show why so many of our individual and commercial customers choose vinyl planks, we’ve compiled a quick list of benefits to keep you in the know. Check out our list of pros below!

Cost Effective

If you’ve read our previous piece on 2017 Flooring Trends, you’ll know that one of the biggest selling features is the lower price point compared to hardwood features. If you’re looking to cover a large space or properties that may be exposed to higher than average wear and tear (rental or commercial units), vinyl planks can provide a stylish and durable look at a lower cost.

Moisture Resistant

Another benefit of vinyl tiles is their increased resistance to moisture, making them a viable option for boot rooms, basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. This is particularly beneficial to those of us living in climates that fluctuate greatly throughout the year, requiring our flooring to withstand the unique challenges presented by snow and rainfall.

Easy to Install and Repair

Compared to other flooring types, vinyl tiles are easy to install and can be placed on a variety of base surfaces, including concrete, tile, laminate, etc.

Long-Lasting, Low Maintenance

Luxury vinyl tiles require minimal upkeep and can be easily maintained with occasional sweeping and gentle mopping. Their water and heavy traffic resistance mean planks will stand up to tough conditions, saving you money in the long run.

Learn more about our flooring options by contacting a member of our team today!

Vinyl vs Linoleum: Quick Facts to Know

December 28, 2017

At Ashley Fine Floors, our experts are happy to help home, and property owners find the best flooring fit for their space. One of the topics we frequently discuss with customers is the difference between sheet vinyl and linoleum tiles, which, while similar, have many key attributes that help distinguish between the two. To help alleviate any confusion, check out our quick list of facts below!

Composition

Vinyl

Vinyl is manufactured using petroleum and other chemicals to create a pre-finished product.

Linoleum

Linoleum is made from biodegradable, eco-friendly materials including cork, tree resin, and wood. This may be the preferred option for customers looking for an environmentally conscious product.

Installation

Vinyl

Vinyl is easy to install, and due to its water resistant nature, requires no sealing or waxing. Simply peel and stick, or snap together! (Certain types of sheet vinyl may require more precise measurements than others)

Linoleum

Linoleum is also easy to install. However it does typically require a water sealant to be applied and for the seals between tiles to be thin, to prevent water from seeping through the cracks.

Maintenance

Vinyl

Vinyl is easy to maintain, requiring minimal sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming to keep its lustre.

Linoleum

Linoleum requires more upkeep compared to vinyl, but is still relatively easy to clean. When mopping, be careful to avoid harsh cleaners, as the surface can be sensitive to chemicals. Microfibre cloths and warm water are your best bet for basic cleaning.

Durability

Vinyl

Vinyl is a resilient material, with an average lifespan of anywhere between 10-20 years depending on traffic levels etc. Despite its durability, vinyl may not be the best fit for commercial properties, or spaces that need to handle heavy foot traffic.

Linoleum

The lifespan of linoleum products can be considerably longer than vinyl, average between 20-40 years. Highly durable, it may be suitable for certain commercial or industrial applications, and can withstand higher strain than its vinyl counterparts.

Both linoleum and vinyl provide property owners with a stylish, reliable option to outfit their space. To learn more about these two products, contact a member of our team today!

Laminate Flooring Winter Care

December 21, 2017

As those of us that live in colder climates will know, the winter months can be harsh on your property, especially when it comes to caring for your flooring. If you’ve read our previous blog on winter carpet maintenance you’ll know that snow and dirt present some unique challenges for homeowners. In this blog, we’ll highlight a few best practices to keep your laminate floors looking their best year round!

Moisture is a Chief Concern

With winter comes the dreaded trudge of melted snow and mud. Luckily, laminate’s composition means it’s already resistant to moisture build-up. Even so, to make sure your floors last as long as possible it’s important to minimize the presence of extra moisture in your home. You can do this by placing extra mats in high traffic entrance areas, taking off shoes as you come and go, and by immediately mopping up any sudden spills or puddles.

Protect Against Debris

Another challenge presented by cold weather is the presence of de-icing materials that have abrasive qualities that may damage your finish. Protect your floors against salt, sand, and grit by wiping your shoes before you enter your home, and by sweeping at least once a week. Regular cleaning prevents buildup and saves you the headache of further potential damage.

Avoid Exposure to the Elements

If you’re constantly coming and go from your house, there’s a chance that your flooring may experience negative effects from being exposed to cold air full of moisture. Over exposure to the elements can warp your laminate over time, meaning that it’s best to minimize the presence of cold air or sudden temperature changes when possible.

To learn more about caring for your floors and the benefits of laminate tiles, in particular, contact our team today!