FLOOR WOW!!!!
By Mary Cusack, ASID
Hard surface floors are becoming the norm. Wall to wall carpet is being ripped out and replaced with tile, stone, wood, vinyl and other hard surface materials. This trend is being reinforced with many new materials that are quite innovative, fresh and extremely durable.
Wood floors of today are carefree compared to floors of many years ago. The urethane finishes make these floors scratch resistant. Some woods are impregnated with urethanes so that they will be applicable for commercial use. The industry has gone to yet another level by distressing the woods for an aged look. The best part is that any scratch or dent will never be noticed. Even the finishes have a satin sheen and so are less likely to show wear and tear – and even a little dust.
If you’ve been shopping lately, you will have noticed the huge selections of tiles – from multi textures and colors to smooth and sleek. Quality is as varied as styles. Generally porcelain is harder than ceramic. Metallic tiles are also being widely used. They have been on the market for a few years now – and so far seem to be holding up very nicely. Generally I only use them for floor accents such as a border or inserts. Glass tiles need to be reserved for wall applications as they scratch very easily.
Other floorings such as stone and slate are timeless. They are the crème de la crème of flooring. Vinyl has much better eye appeal today as the images printed are photo real. It is difficult to tell the difference between the real thing and its imitation. I like to use flexible vinyl strips that look like wood flooring and are installed in individual strips. There is not much that can harm these floors.
Let’s not forget the all time favorites for our South Texas area – Saltillo and Dehanis tiles. These clay tiles are uneven and earthy and will always be beautiful. The selections of flooring is endless and is only the beginning as these hard surfaces create a background for what is placed on them – be it furniture and/or rugs.
What about the WOW FACTOR? Area rugs can do that. A rug has the capacity to make the all important statement. Area rugs define an area. They soften and add acoustics to an echoing room. Rugs warm both visually and physically. Best of all they truly finish the space and create a fabulous ambience. Yes, it does cover some of the flooring, but in reality the flooring is complimented by an area rug.
When planning new flooring, consider area rugs as part of the total project. Your home will truly shine.