From the Floors Up blog was created with the goal of providing a destination for consumers, designers and those interested in the flooring, design, … Learn More
Understanding Your Flooring: Carpet Tiles
Carpet tile is an excellent choice for commercial application. Where most carpet fails to keep up with heavy traffic, carpet tile succeeds. … Read More »
Understanding Your Flooring: Tile
Homeowners and business have been using tile in their design for centuries. This timeless flooring option has evolved way beyond just … Read More »
Understanding Your Flooring: Luxury Vinyl Planking (LVP)
LVP has come a long way over the years. Now being the fast grossing floor in the industry, this versatile option has many beautiful planks … Read More »
Should I Hire an Interior Decorator?
So you have a vision for what you would like your home to look like, but the big question is: should you decorate yourself or seek out the help of an interior designer? Before interior decorating became an industry, people just designed their homes themselves; however, we are not all gifted with the ability to decorate. If you are struggling to determine whether you should hire an experienced decorator, we have outlined some things you should consider. Let’s take a look!
Is It Right for You?
Many people think that only lavish, luxurious homes can benefit from the help of a professional decorator, and that is simply not true. Whether you live in a small cottage home or a big house, you can still have your space skillfully designed by a professional. On the other hand, others think that hiring an interior decorator is not in their budget. However, it does not have to break the bank. If you are hesitant to hire professional help because you think a professional designer will make your home reflect their own personal style and taste, you are wrong. A collaborative process is always encouraged.
Why You Should Decorate Yourself
There are many advantages to decorating your home yourself. Obviously, you can keep all your coins in your pocket if you decide to take this route. You can expect your home to truly reflect you and your family’s style, which means you get to take all the credit. Beware that the do-it-yourself route only works if you know what you like, what you hate, and how to work design elements.
Another advantage of decorating your home yourself is that you can complete the project in stages. Since it can be a challenge to decorate on a small budget, when done in stages, you can proceed as extra funds become available.
Benefits of Hiring an Interior Decorator
Of course, seeking help from a professional will make the job a bit easier. You can expect professional results without a headache. Designing your home yourself can be time-consuming, especially if you are a novice because there is a steeping learning curve. Plus, interior decorators have access to a large variety of fabrics and furnishings. Home goods found at your favorite outlets are only a fraction of what is actually out there. Through a designer, you will have access to showrooms.
All in all, the decision is yours. Weigh out the pros and cons of an interior decorator and determine if it is right for your budget and design dreams. If you feel incapable of doing it yourself, there is nothing wrong with asking for some assistance. An interior decorator can be life-changing.
Which Driveway Is for You?
Your curb appeal is made up of a complex formula containing many intricate details. Your siding, windows, plants, lawn, and driveway all can influence your home’s exterior. Functionality and aesthetics can both play a significant role in what driveway you choose. Your driveway is the first interaction most people will come in contact with when visiting your home, and not all driveways are created equal. Selecting from some of the many options available may seem like a daunting task at first because most homeowners do not replace their driveways very often. However, when the time comes, you may need to refinish or replace your driveway. Discover the pros and cons of different driveway options so you can best choose a selection that is best suited for you.
Asphalt
PROS
Asphalt is a more durable compound than stamped concrete or gravel. Many homeowners use asphalt in colder regions. This is because it is highly salt resistant, easy to remove snow, and slip-resistant.
CONS
Asphalt is a very common driveway material, and because of its frequency, it has a low curb appeal feel. It is not resistant to oil stains, yet its dark nature can hide some stains. While being durable, when it breaks down, it is no easy task to repair.
Stamped Concrete
PROS
Stamped concrete is very attractive and will help enhance the exterior look of your home. It is very durable as well. By switching from poured concrete to stamped concrete, your driveway will also be oil-resistant. While not as convenient as asphalt, you will still be able to remove snow fairly easily from your driveway.
CONS
If your stamped concrete driveway does crack; however, it is not an easy repair. It is one of the least slip-resistant driveway options as well. Also, to be noted, if you live in an area that treats driveways with salt, it can damage your driveway in the long run.
Gravel
PROS
Gravel will be your most cost-effective route to creating your driveway. It is extremely easy to repair, and you will not have to be concerned with slipping. Also, if you salt your driveway, you should have no concern.
CONS
While salting your driveway is easy, plowing and shoveling will not be. The driveway is one of the least durable options and lowest on curb appeal.
When selecting a driveway material, weigh out the pros and cons. If you are looking to get your driveway done at the most affordable price, gravel is your best option; however, if you are looking to get more durability and longevity from a driveway, consider stamped concrete or asphalt as an alternative method. For more insight on home improvements, make sure to subscribe.
How to Choose Tiles for Outdoor Spaces
Are you considering tiling your outdoor space? Whether it is a patio or another area, if you are thinking about upgrading your outdoor space by installing tiles, it is important to know that at all tiles are not created equally. So, what does that mean? According to the experts, the types of tiles that you would traditionally install in your home’s interior is not ideal for outdoors. When tiling outdoor spaces, it is essential to purchase tiles that are manufactured with materials that can stand up to outside elements.
How can you find the right tile that fits your needs? First, it is essential to conduct a detailed inspection of the area you are planning on installing the tile. Consider factors such as:
- Temperature
- What Type of Grounding (Your Base)
- Moisture Level
Choosing the Right Type of Tile
If you enjoy the look of hardwood and want to extend it to the outside area, you should opt for wood-like tiles made from porcelain. As you may know, other flooring options other than tiles are not an ideal flooring solution for outdoor environments.
Light or Dark Tiles
Deciding what type of tile design you are going to install in an outdoor space can be challenging. If you are stuck trying to decide whether to opt for light or dark toned tiles, you should observe the area at different times throughout the day. If the area is well lit during nighttime hours and the sunny during the daytime than dark, earthy tone tiles can look great in the area. On the other hand, lighter-hued tiles, like white or cream-colored tiles, will brighten up a space making it ideal for outdoor spaces that are not well light during the day or night.
Consider Installing Natural Stone
Natural stone such as slate, limestone, and quartzite are ideal flooring choices for outdoor environments. Such flooring is made up of natural materials that easily complement the area. You can use natural stone to create a pathway to the garden, or front door, and it can really bring the design of the patio together. Authenticate the look by choosing a natural stone with colors that harmonize with your landscaping features or elements in your home’s exterior.
We hope you found these three tricks helpful. Be sure to visit us weekly for more expert advice. Thanks for reading!
The Top Effective Home Improvement Projects
Homeowners love to customize their homes and make personalized home improvements. But sometimes, it can feel like a never-ending project when creating your dream home. Eventually, the demand for more space may become a concern. So when investing in your home, you want to know that you can receive a return on investment.
Some projects can significantly improve your home, yet not raise market value at all. Since some larger-scaled home improvement projects can be expensive, you want to know which can help increase your home’s value. Today, we are going to discuss the top most effective home improvement projects.
Bathroom Remodel
Times are changing. Many styles have become outdated and are no longer trending. If your bathrooms look like they are a thing of the past, consider a bathroom remodel. These projects can be expensive, and you should consider getting a contractor. A bathroom remodel can consist of adding a walk-in shower, new backsplash, cabinets, floors, and a vanity. Be sure to create your own luxurious getaway in the master bath by taking your bathroom remodel to the next level.
Kitchen Remodel
Another large project is a kitchen remodel. Kitchens are the heart of the home, and often times, many homeowners will put this project off for some time. However, kitchen remodels can have a high return on investment. If you are looking for ways to help save on the project, consider just replacing your cabinet doors. Kitchen remodels typically will include a sink, flooring, backsplashes, cabinets, and countertops. With so much to consider, it is best to hire a contractor for this project as well.
Patio or Deck
Space is a very important element when it comes to the housing market. It is becoming more common for homeowners to indulge in the opulence of exterior space they can facilitate. Nothing makes a home more inviting outdoors, quite like a deck or patio. Search your market to see which is more common in your area. Spend some money in helping create the atmosphere outdoors. A quality deck or patio is a significant investment not only for the next buyer but your home experience as well!
Where you live, the real estate market, and local demand can all play roles in your home’s price. While these projects do not guarantee a rise in price, they are great guidelines, especially for a home, you plan on living in for some time. Investigate the housing market in your area. Find what trends are increasing home value. If every household in your area has tile flooring, installing hardwood may not increase your market value. You need to pay attention to what is helping other homes sell as well. For more insight on home improvement and increasing your home’s resell value, make sure to subscribe.
Is Granite Going out of Style?
Granite is the number one choice for countertop solutions by many homeowners and businesses. With a beautiful aesthetic appeal and extreme durability, granite has become a staple by giving any design a more luxurious and complete look. However, design is always changing. We see some trends come and go in the industry too often, but granite is a natural material which has reign superior for an extremely long time. However, with improvements and desire in quartz and marble, is granite still in style or just fading away as another trend?
Why Granite Countertops?
When it comes to selecting a countertop, there are several material options available. Every alternative comes with its own set of pros and cons, and granite is no exception. While it can withstand extreme heat, will not scratch from cutlery or knives, and can add value to a home, it still has two significant setbacks. Granite is not the most inexpensive option available, and granite is porous. It being porous means that it can stain if not treated with a sealant annually. So, has this annual maintenance began to deter consumers from investing in these countertops?
The Evolution of Interior Design
We see all the time that interior design and home preferences are changing. Even in fashion and grooming styles, we notice trends come in and out of style, and each generation brings forth new favorites. Sometimes, children do not like certain flooring styles or wall colors because they remind them of “what their grandparents had.” This logic is understandable and is one of the main reasons we see the evolution in trends. However, granite countertops have been around for a very long time. As the decade turns, many styles begin to fade with it. Is granite an exception?
Is Granite Trending or Forever?
The truth is, quality and durability will never go out of style. Granite is arguably the most versatile option when it comes to countertops. While granite does have some annual maintenance, so do many things of value in our lives. It is hard to see granite going out of style any time soon with its superior quality and beauty it brings to every home.
So, all in all, investing in granite countertops is an excellent decision. They work with almost every design style and can truly make your home feel more inviting and beautiful. This investment can be one of the most effective ways to transform your kitchen into a sophisticated style.
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