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If you are someone who is lucky enough to live in a home with hardwood floors, you should be thankful. Hardwood floors are the epitome of class and elevate a home’s look and feel that is tough to replicate.

But if you are deciding upon the type of hardwood floor you want in your home, you have options. There are many selections for your home flooring but when it comes to hardwood floors, most people start with selecting the tone: light or dark? Yet, even those two options might feel overwhelming and impossible to choose between.

Getting Started

Light, cool, dark, warm – these are the tones of hardwood that can alter the overall look and feel of a floor. There are many factors to consider. In the end, it all depends on what type of homeowner you are and what sort of things you value. What type of cleaner are you? Are you a pet owner? Do you have children? All of these things will come together to help inform if your hardwood floors are going to function better in a dark tone or a lighter one. 

Before you really get into the pros and cons of dark and light hardwood floors, it is important that you make a commitment to decide upon the option that you like the most. At the end of the day, the final choice should always be the one that makes you happiest. It’s your home and it should look the way you want it to. 

When the time comes to make the final decision, here are the things to think about when choosing between light or dark hardwood floors.

Which is Easier to Keep Clean?

While some of the competing topics between light and dark hardwood floors end up with neck-and-neck results, this one isn’t really close. The truth is that lighter toned hardwood floors are much easier to keep clean. Light hardwood floors tend to show less dirt than their dark alternatives. This is important if you have a home that has a lot of open windows, fans, or pets. An open window, for example, will bring in dirt and dust from the outside world. That will show up pretty readily on your hardwood floor. 

The same dirt and dust will also get all over a carpeted floor too. However, it will show up much more on hardwood. Thankfully, seeing a mess easier on hardwood can actually be a good thing because that means you will be able to tend to it faster and get it cleaned. People who have carpets are often walking around on dirty ground without even knowing it. Meanwhile, homeowners with hardwood are able to spot and fix these problem areas much faster. 

If you are looking for a floor that is easier to clean, you should go with light hardwood floors.

Which Shows Scratches More?

Hardwood floors are striking in their appearance, there is no doubt about it. But it is also undeniable that hardwood floors are more prone to scratches and little damages more than most other flooring methods. This makes sense when you think about it, wood is more susceptible to little imperfections over time. Hardwood floors are still strong, don’t misunderstand that. However, there is a good chance that your hardwood floor will receive some dings and damage over time. 

Since some minor damage is unavoidable, the question becomes which shows scratches more: light or dark hardwood? Most people agree that dents, dings, and scratches show up much more on dark hardwood. Why is that? Because most wood floor species are light, so when you scratch through the dark-colored surface, the contrast of the light underneath is more obvious, meaning that the scratch shows up much easier than it does on a light-on-light hardwood floor. 

This is something to consider if you are a parent or pet owner. Children and animals are the two biggest culprits when it comes to damage to hardwood floors. They bring a lot of love into your home but they also can bring in a lot of roughhousing and damage. If you have children or pets – or both – you should seriously consider having a light hardwood floor for your home. 

If you still decide to get a dark hardwood floor knowing that your scratches will show up more, there are options for you. There are many ways to clean your hardwood floor, no matter how dark it is and how many scratches it has.

[Source: Unsplash]

Which One Will Cost You More?

You may be wondering which one, light or dark toned hardwood floors, will make a larger impact on your wallet. The truth is that in this case, both light and dark hardwood floors are about the same when it comes to pricing. In some markets, that may be different. However, generally, the difference in pricing is minimal. 

Personal Preferences

While maintenance and cost are common deciding factors, one thing that can’t be neglected is considering one’s personal preferences. 

A home’s style is unique. Depending on the color schemes of the rooms in your home, there is usually an optimal choice. There is actually a science that revolves around floor color. Here are some highlights. 

• Floor colors impact the way we perceive the size of a room. Some colors make a room look larger, while others make the room feel smaller. 
• Brown has a feeling of comfort and inspires nature.
• White has a feeling of cleanliness, innocence, and happiness.
• Black has a feeling of sophistication and power. 

Specific colors are used by interior designers in numerous ways. 

• Bring attention to a specific part of a room
• Convey emotions
• Create contrast
• Create connections
• Alter perception of space

Final Thoughts

No matter which you choose, light or dark hardwood flooring, no choice is wrong. Although, each has their own unique benefits. To make the final choice, you should think about what type of homeowner you are, who lives in your home, and how often you want to clean. And of course, don’t forget to consider your own personal preferences, which is the most important factor in deciding which tone is right for you.

Carpet vs. Hardwoods – Which Is More Sanitary?

Carpet versus hardwood: it’s a debate that feels as old as time. New homeowners have dealt with this issue for ages now and people come down hard on either side of the debate. 

When you are trying to decide between carpet and hardwood, you need to ask yourself one major question: which is more sanitary? Are hardwood floors or carpet more sanitary for your home and the people living in it? This is a vital question to answer because if you end up with the option that is dirtier and more prone to getting messy, you will have to clean it more often. Over time, this will cost you a lot of time, energy, and money. Additionally, you want the option that is going to be cleaner because that is better for the health and well-being of everyone living in your home, especially children or pets. 

At the end of the day, there is a cleaner, more sanitary choice, and it might surprise you.

Sanitary Properties

We all know what it’s like to get stains on our carpets. Not only is there the problem of getting the stain out, but it’s almost impossible to completely remove the effect that takes place within the fibers themselves. Dirt, urine, smells, and funkiness are brought out even more when stepped on, so the issues are never actually completely resolved. 

What’s more, the bigger problem is the allergens that come from infected carpets. Even if your family has a tolerance or lack of allergies from these things, the guests that you bring into your home may experience them. 

If you insist on carpeting part of your home, the best thing you can do for safety is using a vacuum that has a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Note that you will need to vacuum every week or two regardless of visible pollutants to maintain your carpet and enable the ability to get rid of major issues when they do arise. 

Steam cleaning is a popular choice, and this is an okay option, but it’s very important to dry the carpet after use. Opening windows and using fans are great tools at your disposal here. If the carpet isn’t dried, mold and pests show up. 

The beauty of hardwood floors is the ease and effectiveness of cleaning. A simple mopping gets the job done for good. No more dealing with things like nasty pet dander or dust mites. Bacteria is not a joke.

Visible Messes

One of the benefits of having a hardwood floor is that you are able to see messes on it much easier. If you stay on top of cleaning, that means that a hardwood floor will be a cleaner floor because you will quickly take care of any damage or mess that you see.

[Source: Unsplash]

Keep in mind, hardwood isn’t always the best choice when it comes to this aspect. There are times when you might not see a mess because it is on hardwood. A liquid spill, for example, often shows up easier on carpet, which means you will notice it sooner and clean it up faster. Depending on the coloring of your hardwood, you might not see a spill of any liquid and that might lead to it sitting, drying, staining, or doing long term damage. 

However, most messes will be much more visual on a hardwood floor. Whether it be a dropped piece of food, mud and dirt, or a mess from your pet, it will show up clear as day on hardwood. If you clean your floors once a day – even if it’s just a quick sweep – you will see the latest mess that needs to be addressed. 

For this reason, hardwood floors are often cleaner simply because the messes that end up on them are so much more obvious and don’t fall into the many nooks and crannies of a carpet, forever lost below the surface. 

Which Costs More to Clean?

This is a tricky aspect of the debate between carpet and hardwood floors. Many people want to know which one is more expensive when it comes to professional cleaning. Will you be spending more money on a hardwood floor or will you be spending more on a carpet? The answer isn’t that surprising: hardwood floors will set you back far less than a carpet.

Just because cleaning a hardwood floor is cheaper than cleaning a carpet doesn’t mean that tending to hardwood won’t be cheap. It will still cost you a pretty penny. Actually, it can cost a lot because most people will clean their hardwood floors far more often than they clean their carpets. Many homeowners who have hardwood floors keep a bottle of wood cleaner handy and pour a bit on the floors and mop it up at least once a week. The best wood cleaners that will really get the job done don’t come cheap. So while hardwood floors are going to cost less than carpets when it comes to cleaning, it will still cause a hit to your wallet. But staying clean is always worth it.

Cleaning a carpet is much more expensive than cleaning a hardwood floor for multiple reasons. For one, you will need a vacuum and those are usually quite expensive if you are looking for one that will actually achieve everything it’s supposed to. A vacuum is vital for a carpeted floor, otherwise your home will soon be filled with germs, dirt, grime, and other things that can do long term damage to the carpet as well as to the people living in your home. 

However, everyone who owns a home with carpet inside also knows that there will come a time when you will have to purchase the services of a professional carpet cleaner. Whether you are renting the tools yourself or hiring a firm that will do it for you, professionally cleaning a carpet is quite the process. First of all, it can cost more than $100 per visit. Secondly, you need to be home when the professional team arrives to clean. Thirdly, you need to do a lot of prep before someone comes to clean your carpet. Generally, you need to remove all of the furniture from the floor and have it totally bare so that the cleaning can take place. Plus, after your carpets are professionally cleaned, they can remain damp or wet for about a day more. 

The truth is that carpets get dirty much faster and much easier than hardwood floors and the cleaning process to take care of them is a lot more of a hassle too.

[Source: Unsplash]

Dirty carpets are breeding grounds for allergies. For those reasons alone, buying a hardwood floor over a carpet is probably the right approach when you are trying to choose the more sanitary option. 

Final Thoughts

Of course, you can still have a very dirty hardwood floor, even if it is usually cleaner than a carpet. However, carpets are higher maintenance and it’s harder to tell if they are actually clean or not. Hardwood floors are more sanitary and cost-effective when considering the time and money that goes into most carpet-cleaning products. 

The truth is that no matter which option you choose, you need to make sure that you are always attentive to your floor and buy the right products and spend the appropriate amount of time making sure it is as healthy, bright, and clean as it can be. Cleaning a floor, whether it is hardwood or carpet, is an essential part of owning a home.

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Just picture it: Summer is here, the kids are in and out of the garden trampling in wet muddy footprints from the pool and grass, and you’re following along with a mop wondering if your floors can handle this amount of pressure. In this blog we will cover some of the best flooring types for busy family homes that will easily cater to your little one’s antics.

Engineered Wood Flooring  

 

First on the list is engineered wood flooring.  Engineered wood flooring combines multiple layers of timber with a solid wood veneer. Designed to allow for wood expansion, engineered wood is compatible with underfloor heating systems and boasts a high moisture tolerance level. 

 

Thanks to the solid wood veneer, engineered wood flooring displays all the stunning looks of solid wood at a fraction of the cost. Available in an array of wood species, colours and finishes – there’s a range to compliment every home and budget!

Thanks to its robust design, the nature of this flooring means it can easily withstand the pressures of a busy family home. Spills, heavy traffic, toys, pets. Whatever your worries are, this flooring can cater to the demand.

 

Not only that, engineered wood is easy to clean. Unlike solid wood, engineered wood is less susceptible to water damage and is water resistant to a degree. 

 

To clean your engineered wood a lightly wet mop with clean water and floor cleaner will do the trick! 

 

If you’re wanting to introduce that luxurious solid wood feel to your home but your lifestyle conflicts with being able to meet the demands, don’t worry! Engineered wood allows you to have the best of both worlds. 

 

So you don’t have to worry about anything with this durable contender. From practicality right through to maintenance, it’s perfect for your bust family home. 

 

EvoCore

 

This next family friendly flooring should be high on your list of options to consider. EvoCore is an innovative flooring range that is in a league of its own in the flooring market. 

 

EvoCore Flooring is the most versatile flooring range that we offer. Providing maximum protection from moisture, stains, dents and scratches, as well as  temperature fluctuations. Our EvoCore ranges are designed with many factors in mind to provide a great option for all areas of the home, including high-risk areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.

 

If you’re a parent or even a dog owner, we’re sure these benefits are music to your ears!

 

Thanks to EvoCore’s durable and waterproof qualities, it’s easy to clean. So when those inevitable spills or muddy footprints appear, you can easily clean them away with peace of mind that your flooring will stay intact. 

You’ll also be pleased to hear that EvoCore comes in a wide variety or amazing ranges. Each of these offering their own perks, designs and styles. So there is something for everyone when it comes to fitting the interior of your home. As well as being perfect in the practicality department. 

 

Laminate

 

Next on the list is laminate flooring. This flooring often gets the reputation that it isn’t the best of quality when it comes to practicality with flooring. However, that couldn’t be more wrong. 

 

Laminate flooring has actually come a long way and is one of the most popular flooring options. It comes in different AC ratings. This judges the laminate flooring based on its ability to resist against abrasion, impact and stains. All the things you need to consider with your flooring when living in a busy family home. 

 

The higher the AC rating, the more durable the flooring. Laminates of AC4/5 make amazing additions to family homes thanks to their practicality. 

 

They’re easy to maintain, available in a wide range of colours and styles, replicate real wood for a fraction of the cost, resists moisture, scratches and wear and tear. 

So you can have a stunning real wood appearance, with all the practicalities needed in a flooring for it to stand the test of time in your family home!

 

There we have it, some of the top performing flooring for busy family homes. If you have any more questions regarding flooring, get in touch with one of our advisors today!

The post Best Floors For a Busy Family Home appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

Reading Time: 7 minutes

When it comes to home renovations, there are a number of elements that come at a significant cost. Flooring is often one of them. Think about it; your flooring has to cover the entire area of your home. But it doesn’t always have to break the bank to achieve the desired aesthetic you’re wanting. In this blog, we’ll cover cheap flooring ideas that are alternatives to your expensive hardwood flooring. 

Laminate Flooring 

 

Where cheap flooring is concerned, laminate is a great option!

Laminate is renowned for being practical, budget friendly and excellently replicating real wood flooring in a wide range of colours and styles. So you can have a high performing floor at a low cost.

 

It is manufactured from multiple layers of high-density fibreboard (HDF). A digitally printed top layer covers densely-packed wood fibres to create a stable core. High-quality wood image is printed, which is often paired with authentic-feeling bevels and grains, to create a hyper-realistic wood effect. This has even extended to being available in tile designs too!

 

Benefits of Laminate

 

On top of being appealing from a budget angle, laminate offers a host of benefits that are practical to day-to-day life:

 

• Manufactured to be highly durable
• Easier and cheaper installation
• Scratch and water resistant
• Hygienic, easy cleanable surface.
• Realistic design
• Available in a wide range of styles
• Available in a wide range of budgets 
• Pet-friendly 

 

AC Ratings 

 

As previously mentioned, laminate is up there with being able to adhere to most budgets. Though there is still often the connotation that with laminate, whilst being budget friendly, quality is compromised. However, this isn’t necessarily true. 

 

When shopping for laminate flooring, you may encounter a term referred to as a “laminate AC rating”. Meaning “abrasion class”, AC rating describes a floor’s durability against a number of key factors. The higher the AC rating, the more durable it is. Whilst laminate with a rating of AC1 is only suitable for areas with little footfall, the higher AC5-rated laminate floors are robust enough for use in commercial buildings, such as busy retail stores.

 

Laminate AC rating determines how well a laminate floor copes within different environments.

In order to receive an AC rating, laminate flooring must go through rigorous testing. Known as the Taber test, the process assesses the flooring to measure its resistance. The AC rating is dependent on how it deals with a number of different stress points. Abrasion, stains, impact, moisture, heat and scratches are all factors used to produce a laminate AC rating.

To receive an AC rating, every aspect of the test requires a pass. If it fails even one, it receives an “unrated” label, meaning it misses the mark in terms of quality expected by both retailers and consumers.

So in reality, you don’t have to compromise quality at all. Making sure you know your stuff when it comes to AC ratings can help you with a steal – purchasing cheap flooring that supports the demands of any lifestyle. 

Saving Costs With Laminate

 

On top of laminate being relatively cheap to purchase for your packs of flooring, there are other cost saving benefits that come with choosing this cheap flooring option. 

 

Installation 

 

When it comes to your installation, the majority of laminates are available in a tongue and groove locking system. This means that installation is quick and easy, so the DIY method is welcomed. Alternatively if you’re hiring a fitter, this could save you on costs as you wouldn’t require the fitter for as long a duration.    

 

Laminate Styles 

 

Another way you can save money by purchasing laminate flooring is in the style department. 

 

Herringbone and chevron are traditional flooring styles turned trend, now a popular choice with contemporary interiors. 

With this being more of a classic design, it has typically only been available in your hardwood flooring options, however there is now a vast array of designs available in laminate. So you can save money, whilst still shopping in style! 

 

LVT Flooring

 

The next contender on the cheap flooring list is LVT. 

Luxury Vinyl Tiles, also known as Click Vinyl Flooring or LVT, are renowned for the ability to imitate high-end flooring designs to an impeccable standard. Built with multiple layers, this robust flooring not only looks amazing but is one of the toughest flooring options on the market too.

 

Benefits of LVT

 

As well as being a front-runner for a cheap flooring option for your home, LVT offers an abundance of benefits, from style, to budget, to practicality. 

 

• Available in a range of budgets
• Available in a range of styles
• Highly durable 
• Waterproof
• Slip resistant
• Provides warmth and cushioned feel underfoot
• Insulates sound
• Easy to maintain 
• Its innovative design makes it difficult to differentiate from real wood thanks to its textured finish 
• Easy to install
• Easy to replace individual tiles where any areas may be damaged
• The average lifespan is 25-30 years (depending on maintenance and traffic)

 

Saving Costs With LVT

 

Thanks to the amazing price points of LVT with some ranges being from around £8.99, you’re already getting a whole lot of bang for your buck when comparing the price to the benefits. 

 

However, that’s not the only cost savings you will find with Luxury Vinyl Flooring. 

 

Installation

 

One money saving method that comes as a cost benefit of LVT is its easy installation. Because LVT is available in click or stickdown options, the installation is a lot quicker in comparison to fitting real wood, ceramic or stone flooring. 

 

As a result of this easy installation, time and effort will be saved when fitting, so if you’re hiring a fitter, this may save you a few pounds. 

 

Furthermore whilst Luxury Vinyl Flooring is extremely durable, on the off chance that any damage occurs to the flooring,  you can easily replace the area the damage has occurred without ripping up your entire flooring. 

 

This is because Luxury Vinyl Flooring is fitted in individual tiled packs as opposed to vinyl roll. So no more worrying about paying to replace your entire flooring for one or two scuffs. 

LVT Styles 

 

In addition to the cost saving in terms of practicality, this versatile flooring is also ahead of the game with style. More importantly, these styles could be the difference between a large bill or a pleasantly surprising one. 

 

Similarly to laminate flooring, LVT has a wide range of styles available. From herringbone, to tile to chevron and your typical real wood effect. 

 

This means that you can achieve the looks of more expensive flooring options for a fraction of the price. Moreover, if it’s a real wood effect you’re wanting to incorporate into your design, then LVT’s ability to imitate this is second to none, thanks to its innovative design. 

 

It’s extremely difficult to tell the difference between real wood and LVT because of the textured finish and bevelled edges adding realism to the design. 

 

As real wood can be a large investment on its own when it comes to renovating your home, you don’t have to compromise on adding a real wood tone into your interiors thanks to luxury vinyl flooring. 

 

EvoCore Flooring

 

Next on the list is a flooring you may not have heard of, or if you have, you may not associate it with the word cheap… EvoCore.

 

EvoCore is one of the most innovative flooring types on the market and with good reason, not all of the EvoCore ranges are at the lowest of price points in comparison to other flooring types. 

However, EvoCore has expanded its ranges to hit a wider range of budgets, so that practicality, style and versatility is made more affordable. 

 

Our ranges offer diverse results whether you’re transforming your home or commercial property, with a range of styles and budgets to suit a variety of needs.

 

These exclusive ranges are designed with every lifestyle in mind. Whether you’ve got a house-full or populated office, you can add luxury, comfort and style to your space with EvoCore.

 

Benefits of EvoCore 

 

EvoCore Flooring provides many beneficial factors. Each range comes with its own additional benefits, however we have listed the standard benefits below. 

They ensure the best protection and resistance against both common and rare household and commercial activities. Below is a bullet-pointed list of each benefit that this range offers: 

• EvoCore is 100% waterproof
• Anti-slip surface
• No expansion or contraction when exposed to heat and cold
• Pet-friendly
• Durable and hard-wearing
• Easy installation
• Real wood look and feel
• Scratch-resistant
• Compatible with underfloor heating
• Hides minor subfloor imperfections
• Can be laid over existing flooring
• Eco-friendly

 

Saving Costs With EvoCore

 

Now that EvoCore has had such success in its initial ranges, it has continued to expand offering even more versatility. Through this expansion, we have been able to offer even more diversity in styles, practicality and budgets.

 

This is where it gains its place in this list of cheap flooring options. 

 

EvoCore Origins

 

EvoCore Origins is one of the more affordable ranges within the EvoCore brand, offering beautiful authentic wood designs for adding a natural warmth to your home. Featuring in-built underlay, home-wide suitability, high durability and a variety of colours and styles, EvoCore Origins is an ideal flooring for any home, with any lifestyle, and what’s more, it’s budget friendly. So you can have all of this without breaking the bank.

 

When coupling the fact that this flooring is at a lower price point already, with it having in-built underlay and easy installation. You’re saving money in not one, not two but three places. 

 

You don’t have to purchase your underlay separately, and you can also save money on installation fees due to the ease of its installation. You could even fit it yourself if you’re feeling confident and want to upskill in the DIY department!

 

Styles

 

If you had your heart set on introducing real wood flooring into your design, but the cost is putting you off, don’t worry. Similarly, to laminate and LVT, EvoCore Origins is outstanding when it comes to imitating real wood. Each plank incorporates a registered embossed true-to-grain real wood feel. 

 

So if you were wanting the warmth, and natural essence delivered by real wood, you can still achieve this for a lower cost, and more practicality. 

 

Amazing, right?   

 

To conclude, you’re not short of cost effective ways to save on your flooring whilst still achieving that desired real wood effect in your home. Flooring can be a large investment but with these options, it doesn’t have to be. 

 

For any questions regarding your flooring, please get in touch with one of our advisors who will be happy to help with any queries. 

 

 

The post Cheap Flooring – Replicate Real Wood On a Budget  appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

Is There a Perfect Time to Install Our New Hardwood Flooring?

You may be asking yourself this question, and every home is different. The summer can be a great month for some families because the kids are out of school, and schedules aren’t as hectic. Other families like to plan their new floor installation around their finances. It’s common to pick a date, like in the spring, and then save in small chunks for new prefinished hardwood flooring.

So is there a perfect time to install your new hardwood flooring? Nope! MacDonald Hardwoods offers pre-finished hardwoods options only. This significantly speeds up installation times and requires no sanding or staining in your home, meaning you can get started at any time. 

Why Try Our Hardwood Flooring?

1) Speed

Opting for our floors will significantly expedite the application time in comparison to unfinished hardwood, as the steps that generally follow placing down the flooring are eliminated as they were completed prior.

2) Minimal Mess

Installing our flooring is a process that produces much less of a mess than traditional flooring, as many of the necessary steps, such as, staining, sanding, and coating have already been done prior and won’t have to be done on-site.

3) Durability, Versatility and Quality

Our floor type provides an unmatched hard, durable finish, allowing them to last well beyond your years if maintained properly. Unfinished floors are not as sturdy, as only minimal amounts of sealant are generally added to them. The potential of application is also versatile, as our floors can be directly applied to a variety of subflooring.

Try Our New Floor Year-Round!

Because of these amazing benefits associated with our prefinished hardwood flooring options listed above, they’re suited to be installed anytime throughout the year, so you don’t have to wait. Meanwhile, un-finished hardwood flooring is often limited to being installed in the fall. Due to the porosity of this kind of wood, they often absorb too much moisture in the summer months. This results in the swelling of the wood. In the winter, the dryness poses another issue, as it often causes the boards to shrink.

Waiting for a good portion of the year to pass isn’t optimal for many buyers, therefore choosing our pre-finished floors is the best way to go!

Making a Small Room Look Bigger – Expert Tips

Wouldn’t it be awesome if we could wave a magic wand and add a couple more square inches here or there? We have compiled tips from experts on interior design, flooring, and color theory to do just that! We’re covering the top 3 methods you can use to maximize your small space and optimize your home, ultimately making your small room look bigger.

Declutter Your Space

The minimalist lifestyle is continuing to get traction among homeowners. Even just a few trinkets can really make your home feel crowded when working with a small space. Some of us just can’t help it! We love stopping by quaint little shops for delightful trinkets and antiques. But, small, cramped rooms don’t have to stop your passion for collecting. 

Source: Unsplash.com

Pick a few of your favorite pieces to have on display, and then create a space to put the rest of your collection in a safe spot, out of sight. The key is to keep your home feeling fresh. Rotate your favorites every month or seasonally.

Donate gently used pieces to your local shelter, church, or community program. Before deciding what to give away, go to the front of your room and take a look at the placement of your furniture. Are there any pieces that are obstructing your view? Move them! 

You’ll find you can really make the most of your space when you shift large pieces away from walkways or doorways. Swap out tall pieces for shorter stylish options like an ottoman or low table. Your remaining tall pieces actually work best when they are positioned alongside the walls rather than in the middle of the room.

For big pieces and large hauls, plan ahead! Give the business you’d wish to donate to a call and see if they accept large pieces before dropping them off. Sometimes they’ll even give you an extra hand. If you don’t have a way of transporting your donations to the location, they’ll arrange for a truck and movers to pick up your donation right at your doorstep. That way you don’t have to bug your friends on a weekend or pay out of pocket for a truck rental service and moving company. 

Update Your Flooring

How many walls does your room have? Most people would say four, but the experts say 6. Why? The flooring and ceiling can dramatically impact the look at feel of any room. Dark wood has a very rich aurora and can feel regal and romantic, but it also can swallow up your space. Matching woods can be tricky. Sometimes the colors may not exactly match up due to staining or natural process. Swap dark-colored flooring for much lighter choices, like light oak or maple hardwood flooring; they tend to be the most popular choices for homes.

Source: Unsplash.com

Is there such a thing as too light? There’s a common misconception that white flooring is harder to maintain. Most homeowners find the exact opposite. They find that dust is much easier to hide. Well, that ultimately depends on you; just be aware of the care and maintenance. 

Let’s say you’re redecorating your kitchen. We suggest light cabinets paired with light flooring. If your kitchen cabinets are already dark wood, use a lighter finish to run adjacent to the woodwork. 

Ultimately, if you do decide to choose a darker wood finish, trust us! You don’t want to select anything more narrow than 8” wide. Having wider boards means that there will be fewer visible seams and provide more balance for smaller rooms. Lucite and glass furniture typically is super modern, and it’s also a popular design choice for homes. Transparent furniture simply takes up less visual space. You can switch your dark wood kitchen table for a translucent set of chairs to create the illusion of more space.

Switch Up Your Color Scheme

When it comes to small spaces, less is more. Small spaces are not ideal for going “color crazy.” Experts say to stick to a cool light colors monochromatic color scheme. We based our small room design concepts on color theory.

Source: Unsplash.com

The color wheel essentially categorized colors as either warm or cool. Think about the colors in nature, like the green in plants, the blue hues in water and the sky; these are all considered cool and calming. When you enter a room with cool colors, it’s almost like they recede away and open up the space. We suggest starting with a shade like white, gray, taupe, or beige; pick a cool neutral shade. It will be much easier to match your furniture and floor if they all remain neutral.

Our bedrooms should be our safe space to relax and unwind; no matter how small it is, we can still visually expand the space. For instance, keep the walls in the bedroom a creamy white color, and pick bed linens that are also neutral with light pops of color like a soft, warm yellow. Deep purples, like eggplant, can be used for the throw pillows and other accents to highlight and balance your space so it feels larger.

Use light and inviting hues that are all in the same family. For example, ideally, the more light we can let into a room, the better. Yet, we know sometimes leaving windows completely uncovered isn’t really an option. 

We love the way sheer curtains transform spaces. You can also pick light floor-to-ceiling drapes that match your walls to make the room look larger. There is something about long lines that play tricks on our eyes. Stripes are the perfect interior design trick for small spaces. It actually doesn’t even matter what width you use; either thicker or narrow stripes make walls seem longer and taller! Horizontal stripes are also an excellent choice because they make walls appear more expansive.

Just because your space is small doesn’t mean we have to skimp on style. Small apartments can still feel like spacious and cozy homes; it just may require making a few tweaks. Lighting can make a huge difference. You can start small by uncovering your windows and inviting more natural light into your home. Stay tuned for more home remodeling and decorating tips from the experts.

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Considering buying Laminate Flooring but not sure what style to opt for? 2021 has a fantastic variety of Laminate Flooring trends for you to take inspiration from for your home this year! From popular colours to timeless patterns, we’ve picked some of our favourites from an abundance of Laminate trends. 

• Popular Colours
• Patterns
• Waterproof Laminates 
• Distressed Wood Look 

What is Laminate Flooring 

 

Laminate is a popular household flooring type, famous for being practical, budget friendly and excellently replicating real wood flooring in a wide range of colours and styles. 

Laminate is manufactured from multiple layers of high-density fibreboard (HDF). A digitally printed top layer covers densely-packed wood fibres to create a stable core. High-quality wood image is printed, which is often paired with authentic-feeling bevels and grains, to create a hyper-realistic wood effect.

Benefits of Laminate Flooring 

 

Firstly, before we jump into the latest trends in Laminate Flooring, let’s take a look at the benefits.

 

• Manufactured to be highly durable
• Easier and cheaper installation
• Scratch and water resistant
• Hygienic, easy cleanable surface.
• Realistic design
• Available in a wide range of styles
• Available in a wide range of budgets 
• Pet-friendly 

 

If it’s practicality you’re looking for, as you can see from the list above, Laminate could very well be your answer! 

 

Now for the reason you’re really here; tips and tricks on keeping up with the latest and greatest in the world of Laminate Flooring!

Popular Colours 

 

Where interior design is concerned, colour is everything. Mood boards, inspiration pages and home décor magazines are a great source of idea generation for your home renovation. However, does this match up to what’s on trend in 2021?

 

Grey Laminate 

 

Grey Laminate has been a staple in Laminate trends for the last couple of years, and this year is no different. With a sleek and neutral appearance, this colour has unmatched versatility in complementing a wide range of colour palettes incorporated into your room design. 

Whether you’re one for a bold aesthetic, or a subtle design, grey Laminate will perfectly set off the design. This will help to deliver a beautiful contemporary finish.

 

Light Wood Laminate 

 

Additionally, another popular colour trend is one you surely expected to see in this list. The beginning of 2021, a neutral minimalistic aesthetic has been unavoidable in the interiors industry. 

 

Neutral walls, pampas grass, and light wood coloured furnishings have seen a rise in the trend department. 

Laminate flooring is no exception. Further adding to the neutral minimalistic interiors, Laminate is available in a wide variety of warm earthy tones to brighten up your space and feature a touch of nature. 

 

Introducing these tones can create a warm and welcoming space for the whole family to sit back and relax in. Sound like something you want out of your space? Then be inspired by the light wood Laminate look. 

 

Dark Laminate

 

Classic. Luxury. Sophistication. These are often all words that spring to mind when you picture a room with dark wood flooring. 

 

If it’s a touch of timeless charm you’re looking to achieve with your flooring, then a dark Laminate should turn your head. 

 

This popular colour has always been among the more favourable shades when it comes to Laminate. However, it has recently seen a rise, complementing bold designs. Contrasting well with bright colours, this helps to accentuate colourful pieces and furnishings making them stand out in your space. 

This trend as a whole has been largely adopted this year, with dark Laminate being the perfect component. If you’re opting for that real wood look on a budget, this is definitely an option for you, as Laminate replicates real wood exceptionally, for a fraction of the cost. 

 

Being no stranger to a minority of timeless classics in the flooring industry, opting for your Laminate in this shade will mean you can count on it standing the test of time. Additionally, it gives peace of mind that you can easily change your interiors around it over time without concern if it will match the flooring. 

Patterns / Styles

 

Who doesn’t love a pattern? Clothes, furniture, accessories and wallpaper can often be desirables we seek to find striking patterns in. And your flooring doesn’t have to be an exception.

 

Herringbone, chevron and wide plank designs are all eye-catching patterns available to purchase as a Laminate within the flooring industry. 

 

Undeniably, these designs are well established when it comes to real wood, offering that extra essence of elegance. This can however be a pricey investment. 

 

With these captivating patterns being available in a Laminate, you can get these amazing finishes for a fraction of the cost.

 

Herringbone 

 

Where trending patterns are concerned this one has taken the interior industry by storm! Herringbone flooring is a form of parquet flooring. 

 

Herringbone arranges wooden blocks in a zig-zag pattern to produce beautiful results. This is how parquet flooring is defined – using wooden blocks to create geometric patterns.

Herringbone flooring comes in many different colours and variations. Whilst some lend themselves to contemporary interiors, others will look just as at home in older interiors – just as they did when herringbone wood flooring first made its way into homes in the late 16th Century.

 

So if you want to acquire a compliment or two with your interior design, this timeless classic is certainly a contender for that!

 

Chevron

 

Another amazing pattern, not far behind the whirlwind that is herringbone, is chevron. 

 

The chevron design utilises a zig-zag pattern that’s similar to Herringbone. However, rather than being laid in a staggered pattern, they’re more uniform and are laid to form a true point. The regularity of a chevron pattern means it creates a simple and much cleaner look. Due to the pattern’s features, it also helps to make rooms look more spacious. 

 

Incorporating this into your home is a great way to add a feature piece to your space. With a pattern like this found throughout your flooring, you can make this a stand out element in your design, keeping the rest of your room design minimalistic. 

 

Wide plank 

 

Lastly, another one to watch out for in the Laminate trends department is wide plank Laminate. 

 

You may be thinking “what’s so stylish about a wide plank?” Well, you’ll be intrigued to know that a wider plank provides the opportunity to show off more of the natural grains and knots in the wood, delivering a stunning authentic wood design. 

 

Moreover, wider planks also mean that you’ll use fewer boards. This result in a more seamless finish, as well as it will save you money on the amount of packs needed for your installation. 

 

To conclude, if it’s a natural wood design you want, Laminate is available in wide planks. This offers a larger surface of more natural imperfections in the wood and supplies a rustic charm to your home. 

Waterproof Laminates

 

Next up is another type of Laminate that has hit the trends in 2021. Waterproof Laminate. 

 

Yes, you heard us! Waterproof Laminate. 

 

Previously, Laminate has been renowned for its practicality, ability to replicate real wood and appealing price points. However, its downfall was in its ability to survive the pressures of moisture. 

 

We’re pleased to inform you that this is no longer an issue. With a wide range of waterproof Laminates approved for use in bathrooms, you can acquire that endearing real wood look in even the most demanding rooms of the home. 

And people are acquiring it! Being one of the latest trends in Laminate, we’re seeing an abundance of stunning bathroom transformations featuring this versatile Laminate.  

 

Valencia Tile Retro Blue Grey	Supreme Everest Oak Bronze	Residence Narrow Dark Peterson Oak
Valencia Tile – Add Samples to Cart	Supreme Everest – Add Samples to Cart	Residence Narrow – Add Sample to Cart

 

Without reservation, you can now don’t need to miss out on the opportunity to feature a real wood look in your bathroom.

Distressed Wood Look

 

The last trend we’ll be showcasing is the distressed wood look. 

 

Shabby chic, vintage chic and upcycling are all popular interior stylings in recent years. These styles tend to feature a mix of beauty and distressed pieces within the design.

 

Whether this is translated through furniture or flooring, this narrative gives off an appealing rustic charm.

 

Why not introduce a distressed wood look? This can add an enchanting authenticity to the design. The composition of Laminate includes a printed design. There are no limits to what wood effect designs are available. 

 

There are a wide variety of distressed wood looking Laminates available. As a result, you aren’t limited when it comes to getting the desired look for your space. 

 

 

Amazing right? 

 

Overall, it’s clear to see why these trends have taken the interior industry by storm. Laminate is extremely versatile and is a great contender to pair with a wide range of interiors.  

If you have any questions regarding Laminate flooring, get in touch with one of our flooring experts today who will be happy to assist you. 

The post Laminate Flooring Trends 2021  appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

Reading Time: 9 minutes

Are you wanting to add value to your home? Loft conversions, new kitchens or real wood flooring and open plan living have been revealed amongst the top 5 most value-adding property features to invest in right now. 

In this blog, we will be looking at 5 ways to add value to your home, including:

 

1. Loft conversions / extensions
2. New kitchen
3. Open-plan living
4. Real wood floors
5. Designated work from home space

 

1. Loft Conversions

 

Wanting to add value to your home whilst utilising your space to its full potential? Then a loft conversion may be your answer. 

 

Loft conversions are often one of the best ways to add value to your home. This is because gardens are a highly thought of and desired feature in a home. However, in the current market, open plan living is also a desired feature. In turn, people are extending out into the back of the home, which of course affects the size of your garden.

 

So making use of your loft space is a great alternative to adding value to your home whilst adding space. 

 

Using Your Space

 

Why not create a cosy guest bedroom, the perfect study to work from home, or an extra bedroom for your growing family. Whatever the reason for needing extra space, lofts are versatile spaces in the home and can be used for almost any room needed. 

 

Whilst we can’t put a figure on how much value a loft conversion will add to your house as lots of factors will affect this, industry professionals research shows that a loft conversion will add an average of 21% to the value of your home. 

 

Adds Value to Your Home and Lifestyle

 

Not only does a loft conversion add value to your home, it will add value to your lifestyle. If you opt for a comfortable working space, it will enhance your working from home experience. If you opted to convert a 3 bedroomed home into a four, you have the use of the extra space to facilitate a growing family perhaps. 

 

Thinking more fun? You could even persuade other members of your family to convert it into a cinema or games room!

 

Either way, whatever your reason for converting, the extra space will help you achieve it!

 

Other Considerations

 

When it comes to a conversion of this level, there can be many factors to consider beyond its purpose, that you should consider prior to beginning your conversion. This is because these considerations may affect your ability to convert your loft space.

 

1. Planning Permission – Always seek to get planning permission prior to making alterations to the structure of your home
2. Different uses of the space will have a different impact on the value added.
3. Different types of conversion will add different values to your home
4. A loft conversion may affect your insurance policy 
5. With this room being at the top of the home, flooring is a major consideration. Flooring such as EvoCore, or using Underlay will help with noise reduction for the rooms below. 

 

All in all, a loft conversion is a great investment when it comes to adding value to your home. It is one of those decisions that can often pay for itself when it comes to seeing a return in the value it has created, not only in space but in your lifestyle too!

2. New Kitchens 

 

Next on this list is the heart of the home, kitchens! 

 

Installing a new kitchen can add roughly between 5-15% to your property value. This range is quite large however many different factors can affect this. Size, design and style are just some of the factors that can affect the added value.

 

Considering the style and age of your property is essential when choosing your kitchen design. Having a period property and incorporating an all-singing, all-dancing kitchen with in-built LED lights and built-in speakers, may not correspond well with the rest of the property. 

 

If you’re investing in a new kitchen because you’re selling up, this may put off potential buyers.

 

Designing your kitchen 

 

Now the fun part; the design! There are many ways to add value to your home with a new kitchen design, doing the research into latest trends, and how to add value to your home with a new kitchen design is a great way to begin your design.

 

Below are some of our favourite options for designing your kitchen with adding value to your property in mind.

 

Light and Airy

 

Light and airy kitchen designs are currently a desired kitchen design. When you imagine your dream kitchen, does it have an island and bi-fold doors? Come on, we know it does!

 

This is easily achievable by opting for more neutral colours in your worktops, cabinets and flooring. 

 

Flooring actually plays a large role in the overall look and feel of your home. If it’s a light and airy aesthetic you decide on, Great!

 

This will open up your space and make your kitchen feel bigger. There are a wide range of flooring options available that offer lighter tones that you can incorporate. So you’re definitely not limited and budget shouldn’t be an issue when it comes to wanting to open up your room.

 

Make most of your space

 

Making the most of your space is a great way to impress with a new kitchen. 

 

We’ve all seen those swanky wine coolers built into an island, or the singular cupboards that pull out and transform into a multitude of organised compartments. Organisational heaven! 

 

Another way to make the most of your space is to conceal your appliances. Having an in-built dishwasher or fridge concealed within a cupboard space can help with space saving as having a large bulky fridge can give the illusion there is less space as well as taking away from the design and creating an eye-sore in some cases.

 

Maximising your space is the perfect way to make the most out of your kitchen space whilst adding value to your home.

 

Multifunctional Spaces

 

Being the heart of the home, this room tends to attract a lot of love for having time spent here. This has created a need for multifunctional spaces. 

Creating a space where you can cook, eat and entertain is a great way to make the most out of your kitchen, which is why this design is a desired option. 

 

Tip: Being frequented a lot by the whole family, this makes this room of the home a high traffic area. A versatile flooring such as EvoCore can not only withstand the pressures of a high traffic area of the home but also the demands of a kitchen whilst looking stunning in the process.

 

Hopefully some of these design ideas get the creative juices going when it comes to your kitchen design and adding value to your home. Doing the research into the best design for your home is paramount. 

 

3. Open Plan Living 

 

The home improvement that can add value to your home we will take a look at is Open-plan living. 

 

This living style has grown in popularity, providing the space and opportunity for families and friends to spend quality time together whilst eating, living, cooking, cleaning, entertaining. 

 

Whatever you’re doing, open-plan living allows you to combine multiple functional rooms together seamlessly without the transition of door or hallways.

 

Time with family and friends is of high value, and that combined with the stunning finish an open-plan design can offer, is what makes this home improvement in high demand. So if you’re selling up, this style of living might be a desired one when it comes to potential buyers. 

 

Some homes have multi-use spaces. One of these uses often being the kitchen with desired modern designs typically compromising of an open-plan layout creating a light and airy vibe, as well as adding a social aspect. 

Add an extra layer to your design and introduce flooring zones. This can often be a way to create distinctive areas depending on usage and distinguish between areas whilst still housing them in one space. 

Take an open plan kitchen diner for instance. Zoning can be a great way to separate the two, having defined areas with their own vibes. In addition, adding a tiled flooring in the kitchen, flowing to a wood flooring in the dining space of the room could be just one of the many kitchen flooring ideas that could enhance your space.

 

 

Mix and Match Designs with EvoCore 360

More open to open-plan living? Great! This home improvement is pretty much guaranteed to improve your home and quality time with your loved ones. Which are all added benefits after adding value to your property. 

 

EvoCore 360 flooring is a great way to exercise zoning within your open plan living spaces. It’s 360 omni click system allows for an easy installation and unique patterns and styles to be achieved, including the popular Herringbone design and the ability to fit wood to tile.

 

4. Real-Wood Floors

 

Real Wood Floors are a sought after flooring option for many homeowners. They offer a timeless design, complimenting any décor, period or contemporary, as well as providing a luxurious feel.

 

Not only that, the longevity of wood flooring is exceptional, with them lasting a lifetime when looked after property. So when it comes to a worth while home improvement, this one is definitely worth it!

 

One of the beauties of wood flooring is that you can sand and reseal your wood flooring if it starts to look worn. 

 

Due to the quality of this type of flooring, it’s of a higher expense than your Laminates or LVT’s. However, its elegant appearance and longevity are enough to warrant the higher cost.

 

Real Wood flooring is available in a wide range of colours and styles, even offering captivating parquet designs. So there is something for everyone when it comes to aesthetics and preference.

 

Because of the benefits Wood Flooring offers, this in turn adds value to your home, making this another home improvement that is worth the investment!

 

5. Designated Working From Home Space

 

Last but not least in ways to add value to your home is adding a designated working from home space to your property.

 

Working from home space is not something that everyone requires; however, it may attract potential buyers. This is because many people have families with children that may need a place to do their schoolwork, they may be self-employed and need somewhere to work themselves or it may be used as a place to support hobbies such as artistry or writing. 

The possibilities are endless.

 

The great thing about this investment is that it is usually not a large expense, and you can often use a space that already exists in your home. 

 

An attic, an annex, a spare room or a sun house are common rooms converted into designated working from home spaces. 

 

Top Tip: If your designated working from home space is in fact housed within your sunroom, ensure that you have got the correct flooring to support the pressure of this room. Be aware of temperature moisture and fluctuations if this room is not fully regulated. EvoCore is the perfect flooring option to meet the demands of a room such as this as it is not affected by either of these issues.

 

Who knew working from home would be beneficial? In the name of adding value to your home, it can add around 5% to your property. So pull out the desks and filing cabinets, and make a start on your home office now.

 

Ready to start improving your home? Hopefully this blog has given you some ideas on how to add value to your home. Whether it’s to enhance your lifestyle whilst you’re living in your home or to add value to sell up and attract potential buyers, these ideas may help you decide on the best investments for you. 

 

If you have any questions regarding the best flooring for any of these spaces, get in touch with one of our flooring experts today who will be more than happy to help you. 

 

The post 5 Home Improvements to Invest in During 2021 appeared first on Direct Wood Flooring Blog.

Preventing damage to your flooring is one of the best things you can do to keep your hardwood floors in great condition for years to come. It’s unrealistic to think your floors will never get damaged, because light wear and tear is normal. However, there are a few key steps you can take to prevent more damage than necessary. 

Source: Unsplash

Preventing hardwood flooring damage starts even before you install your flooring. If you are in a position where you can pick your own flooring, it’s best to research what type of hardwoods will work best for your house. Some hardwoods naturally have character and more “imperfections” that are better at hiding scratches. Species like White Oak and Red Oak and Hickory are known for these characteristics, and might be a good option in high traffic areas with kids or pets. You can read more about hardwood flooring textures here. 

Understanding where species of wood falls on the Janka scale is also important. The Janka scale rates the durability and hardness of hardwood flooring, which is an important factor in understanding how different styles of floors will hold up long term. 

Source: superiorflooring.ca

After you purchase and install your hardwood floor, moving furniture as minimally as possible is crucial. Dragging larger pieces like tables and sofas give a greater possibility of scratching. If you do see yourself having to move furniture periodically, it’s best to invest in felt pads or protectors that attach to the bottom of furniture. Even if you don’t plan on moving furniture, adding these small preventative elements can help protect your hardwoods from accidental sliding. Remember, if you do need to move a piece of furniture, you should always lift and never drag. 

It’s also critical to maintain consistent levels of moisture and humidity in your home. Excessive moisture in your home can cause your floors to expand, while too little moisture can cause hardwoods to contract and shrink. In order to maintain proper humidity levels, we recommend using an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or a humidifier in the winter. Wood species will react differently in different geographic locations, so make sure you understand what types of hardwood flooring works best for your climate before you buy. 

Other ideas to keep in mind are to try and prevent any water damage from occurring in the first place, and installing curtains to minimize sun exposure. It’s best to occasionally rearrange furniture (with protective padding!) every few years to prevent sun damage in isolated areas as well. 

Also remember to be cautious when cleaning. No vinegar and water! Some products, like Rejuvenate, have been known to destroy certain types of hardwoods. We highly recommend our very own MacDonald Easy Hardwood Floor Cleaner to ensure no damage is done to your floors. With these tips in mind, your hardwood floors should be glowing for years to come.

There’s no doubt that the term “western style” will evoke a John Wayne-esque image in your mind of a room filled with cow hides. But a more modern western style home has evolved from floor to ceiling wood and antlers as decoration. While you can use these elements in moderation, western style today plays into its classic heritage while also incorporating more modern elements. Below, we’re explaining the best way to achieve a tasteful, western decor in your home.

Photo by Christian Harder, Elle Decor

Choose your Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood floors lay the perfect backdrop for any western styled home. Because elements in this style of decor tend to feature bold patterns and colors, a neutral floor is a good base for your room’s palate. A more traditional approach may feature warmer oak, hickory and light maple species.

However, it’s important to note that any hardwood flooring can match your ideal western decor if you plan ahead. Even cooler colors like a dark maple can work well in a western home. It’s important to understand the overall aesthetic you’re trying to achieve first, which is why hardwood flooring is one of the most important styling decisions you’ll make throughout your home designing process.

Photo Courtesy of tidbitsandtwine.com

Don’t Forget Lighting

Warm lighting is key when creating a western style home. Unlike sleek, minimal designs, western influence is reminiscent of cozy cabins and fireplaces. If you’re going full western, look for copper lanterns and pendants with farmland scenes on them. If you’re going for a more subtle look, embrace tableside lamps in warm, neutral colors.

No matter how far into the western aesthetic you’re going towards, comfort lighting is key. You wouldn’t associate fluorescent lights with this decor, so embrace the cozy and gravitate towards warmer hues.

Photo by Sante Fe Properties, a member of Luxury Portfolio International

Texture Brings the Room Together

One of the best parts of a western style home is the amount of playful patterns and textures you can incorporate. While colors in this type of home generally lean more neutral – with deep red and orange accents – texture is where you can have more fun.

Consider accents like cowhide rugs and throws mixed with vibrant quilts. Dark leather makes for great sofa and chair materials. Turquoise accessories can add subtle pops of color throughout a room. Whether you’re fully committing to the style or choosing a few key pieces, western accessories can tie any home together.