Tag: floor coverings

Epoxy flooring: Tips and tricks

Epoxy flooring: Tips and tricks

Epoxy flooring has become a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties, thanks to its durability, aesthetic appeal and ease of maintenance. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast looking to upgrade your garage floor or a professional seeking to provide the best solutions for your clients, understanding the ins and outs of epoxy flooring is crucial. This article will cover essential tips and tricks to ensure the successful application and maintenance of epoxy flooring, ensuring a stunning and long-lasting finish.

Choosing the right epoxy coating

Selecting the appropriate epoxy coating is the first step toward achieving a durable and attractive floor. Epoxy coatings come in various types, including water-based, solvent-based and 100% solids, each with its advantages and specific applications. Water-based epoxies are user-friendly and have a lower odour, making them ideal for indoor residential spaces. Solvent-based options provide a higher gloss finish and greater durability, suitable for commercial and industrial environments. Meanwhile, 100% solids epoxy is the most durable and resistant, offering a thick, hard finish perfect for high-traffic areas.

Surface preparation

The key to a successful epoxy flooring application lies in thorough surface preparation. The concrete surface must be clean, dry and free of any contaminants, such as oil, grease or previous coatings. Start by repairing any cracks or damages in the concrete to ensure a smooth application. Grinding or shot blasting the floor can also improve the epoxy’s adherence by creating a rougher surface texture. Ensure the floor is thoroughly vacuumed and cleaned before proceeding with the epoxy application.

Application tips for a perfect finish

Applying epoxy flooring requires precision and attention to detail. Temperature and humidity can significantly affect the epoxy’s curing process, so it’s essential to apply the coating under optimal conditions – typically between 50°F and 90°F with low humidity. Mixing the epoxy resin and hardener according to the manufacturer’s instructions is crucial for achieving the right consistency and ensuring a strong bond. Applying a primer before the epoxy coat can enhance its adhesion and longevity. When applying the epoxy, use a roller or squeegee evenly to spread the coating, working in small sections to maintain control and ensure an even layer.

Decorative flakes and finishes

Epoxy flooring offers endless possibilities for customisation through decorative flakes, metallic pigments and other additives. These not only enhance the floor’s appearance but also provide additional texture and slip resistance. When using decorative flakes, scatter them evenly across the wet epoxy surface and then seal with a clear topcoat to protect the design and ensure a smooth finish.

Maintenance and care

One of the advantages of epoxy flooring is its ease of maintenance. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water is usually sufficient to keep the floor looking new. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that can damage the epoxy surface. In high-traffic areas, consider applying a new topcoat every few years to maintain the floor’s appearance and protection.

Troubleshooting common problems

Even with careful preparation and application, you may encounter issues such as bubbles, peeling or uneven curing. Most of these problems stem from improper surface preparation or incorrect mixing ratios. If bubbles appear, using a heat gun over the surface shortly after application can help release trapped air. If the epoxy peels or doesn’t cure correctly, removing the affected area and reapplying after addressing the underlying issue is necessary.

Conclusion

Epoxy flooring is a versatile and durable solution that can enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of any space. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure a successful epoxy flooring project that stands the test of time. Remember, the key to a perfect epoxy floor lies in proper preparation, choosing the right materials and meticulous application. With a bit of practice and patience, you can transform any concrete surface into a beautiful and resilient floor that lasts for years.

[disclosure*]

Handy tips for artificial grass maintenance

Handy tips for artificial grass maintenancecredit

It’s a fact that laying artificial grass in your outdoor areas ensures that upkeep will be minimal. Still, you’ll need to carry out a modicum of maintenance if you want your artificial grass to be durable and look attractive for years to come.

Below, we’re going to go through some handy tips for both preparatory and post-installation maintenance.

Hire professionals to install the carpet

Dynamic companies like Perth Artificial Grass provide you with not only a range of choices but also high quality installation. They have an expert team that can advise about quantity needed, layout and fitting.

Although it may not seem a difficult task to lay artificial turf, it can often prove to be a tricky job. Engage a reputable retailer to avoid unnecessary pitfalls. If you choose to do-it-yourself and make a mistake, it can turn out to be an expensive or time-consuming decision.

3D render of artificial grass with a path running through

Prepare the ground for installation

Before you have the artificial grass laid, ensure there are no leaves, small stones or other loose material on the ground. Once this has been done, smooth and level the area building up a soft and humid base. Creating a sub-layer using a soil and limestone mixture will deter weeds and also discourage insects.

Have maintenance equipment

An artificial grass carpet doesn’t require costly cleaning tools to keep it looking good. It just needs a sweep and a wash. So you need to have some basic equipment such as a broom, scrubbing brush and bucket at the ready.

Chairs on artificial grass

Brush frequently

The ‘blades’ of synthetic grass can become flattened after being constantly walked and played upon. This means that you’ll need to brush them on a regular basis to get the surface to stand high and look fresh again. For best results, use a broom with soft, synthetic bristles.

Clean regularly

Debris such as particles of food, sticky drink spills, animal mess etc are to be expected and will need to be cleaned up. If they’re not, they will decay and begin to smell. Cleaning can be done simply & easily using a sponge & warm water with soap, mild detergent or disinfectant.

Bright green artificial turf

Avoid fire, heavy and sharp items

Discarded matches and cigarette butts will likely melt and burn your artificial grass, leaving unattractive black spots. Heavy objects such as vehicles or can press your grass down and damage it permanently. Additionally, sharp items such as stiletto heels and some garden tools can pierce, cut, slash and damage your carpet for good.

Remove leaves and other garden material

Fallen leaves, especially in the autumn months, can accumulate on the ground in no time. Once it rains, they get soggy, turn to mush and will quickly rot on the surface of your artificial grass. Avoid this happening by clearing them up frequently.

Pull up weeds

Weeds can establish themselves on even the thinnest layer of soil that may settle on the surface of your artificial grass. Be vigilant, inspect your turf regularly and remove any unwanted shoots as soon as you see them emerge.

[disclosure*]

6 best options for bathroom floor coverings

6 best options for bathroom floor coverings

If you’re renovating your bathroom, one of the most important decisions to make – after choosing the suite – is what kind of flooring to lay. There are lots of different types out there but you will need to decide on the one that will work best for you; your taste, your budget and your DIY skill level. Following are some of the best options for bathroom floor coverings – and we’ll point out some of the pros and cons for each choice.

Vinyl flooring

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring is one of the most affordable choices of material. It’s sold in either rolls or tiles and can be laid by a confident DIYer, eliminating any labour costs. It is a very versatile material; it comes in lots of different colours and patterns and is suitable for tiny or expansive bathrooms in equal measure. It can mimic the look of wood or stone at a fraction of the price. Vinyl is a warm material and often has a foam or padded underside, making it extra comfortable when walking on it barefooted.

Black rubber flooring with raised circular patterncredit

Rubber

Rubber flooring is available with a raised, patterned surface which makes its textured finish very slip resistant. Similar to vinyl, rubber is sold in rolls or as tiles in a huge array of colours. Again, it’s a warm material that stands up well to a wet environment such as a bathroom. Rubber flooring requires specialist installation knowledge, so it’s probably best to get the experts in to lay it.

MArble floor in vaulted bathroom

Stone

Manufactured stone flooring can be either ceramic or porcelain – the latter is more suitable for bathrooms as its composition is denser and therefore less porous. Stone floors also encompasses naturally occurring materials such as marble, slate, granite and limestone. Generally available as tiles in various sizes, stone floors are cold surfaces so should be laid in conjunction with underfloor heating. Stone floors look amazing but can be the luxury choice. Stone tiles need to be cut and laid by expert fitters and can be expensive to buy, especially Calacatta marble and Jura limestone. However, reclaimed tiles and flagstones can be bought from salvage companies at a much more affordable cost. Although a very durable material, some stone floors can stain easily and often require a lot of specialist maintenance such as cleaning using specialist products and regular sealing.

Concrete floor, bath and twin hand basinscredit

Concrete

Concrete is a relatively cheap material, so a good choice if you’re on a limited budget. Like stone, concrete can be cold underfoot, so it should be poured on top of pre-laid underfloor heating. Concrete can be painted in an almost endless array of colours or polished to a fine finish. It’s one of the most durable flooring surfaces if maintained properly.

Planks of bamboo flooringStilfehler – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, credit

Bamboo

Bamboo is a grass so it’s a natural, renewable resource and is therefore a good, environmentally-friendly choice. Although a more unusual material choice, it’s becoming more popular and easier to find. Treated bamboo flooring is more water resistant than many wooden floors. Bamboo flooring comes in click-to-fit planks so can be easily fitted by a proficient handy-person.

Herringbone cork flooringcredit

Cork

Cork flooring is available in rolls or as tiles in a variety of colours. Cork is a natural, renewable material taken from the bark of tree trunks; so this makes it another of the eco options. It’s slip resistant and water resistant – perfect for a room where there will be wet feet and possible puddles. Cork is also a sound deadening substance; a great advantage if you live in an upstairs flat.

Now that you know a little more about the possibilities of bathroom floor coverings, you can make a much more informed choice about which one is best for you.

[disclosure*]

Which flooring would work best for your living room?

Which flooring would work best for your living room? | H is for Home

The foundation of any room, both literally and aesthetically, the choice of floor you make will play a key role in determining the style you end up with. There are practical concerns, price concerns and, of course, you want to know how well it’s going to go with the rest of the room. Here, we’re taking a look at five flooring options for your living room, their pros and cons, and which might be the right option for you.

Wooden floor with pair of feet wearing brown trainers

Hardwood

Wooden floors have started becoming a lot more popular recently, as people clamour to get an authentic natural look in their homes. Part of the reason for hardwood popularity is the endless variety of options they provide. This flooring is available in different styles, colours, types and looks.

As such, hardwood flooring has never gone out of style due to its versatility. Therefore, more people are learning about the different types of hardwood, including vinyl, laminate, parquet, solid and engineered hardwood flooring.

And having access to enough information on these types of hardwood floors has made it easier to buy and install them. For instance, you can learn more about parquet flooring installation, one of the easier hardwood floorings to DIY. Whichever type you choose to use when refurbishing or adding value, it’ll make a wonderful addition to your space.

There are many different kinds of woods used for flooring, including oak, maple, pine, and walnut, each with their own properties. There is also the option to have a combination of woods. For example, on Onlineflooringstore.com.au, the timber flooring they provide has a combination of a real hardwood surface with a multi-layered core of plywood. In general, however, they all have the benefit of being very hard-wearing, as well as being long-lasting and having a high resale value.

Wood is great for insulation, too. It is, however, one of the priciest options around and wood can also be easily damaged if water or other liquids are allowed to be soaked into the board. Resurfacing wood that has been damaged or replacing damaged boards can be expensive, so care does need to be taken.

Wet & dry vacuum cleaner on a beige carpet

Carpet

Traditionally the most popular choice around, carpet has been giving way to the other kinds of flooring more, lately. However, they’re still much loved for the softness and warmth they provide and how they can make a room feel more sumptuous.

Aside from the comfort, carpets are also a favourite thanks to their ability to dampen floor sound by muffling your footsteps. As such, it’s perfect for living rooms with creaking or squeaky floors.

Additionally, carpets are often the safer option as they prevent damage during a fall by providing a safe landing. Therefore, if you have toddlers or babies, they won’t be in as much pain every time they fall.

And with living room floors being more susceptible to distortion, having a carpet that can hide it is ideal. You might still feel the distortion through the carpet, but you won’t be able to see it making it perfect for hiding damages. Some aren’t a fan of the cheaper carpets that feel a little scratchier, but luxury carpet options tend to be much, much more comfortable underfoot, and don’t become damaged under repeated foot traffic anywhere near as easily. Carpets do stain a little more easily with spills and it can be tough of people with allergies due to how fabrics can attract allergens like pollen, dust and dander; but it’s easy to clean and maintain, requiring nothing more than regular vacuuming and a little shampooing.

Man laying a vinyl floorcredit

Vinyl

Although this might be a more common choice for the kitchen or the bathroom, also known as the ‘wet rooms’ of the house, vinyl flooring has been becoming more popular in the living room due to its ability to mimic the appearance of real wood, stone and tile. Add to that the fact that it’s one of the least expensive flooring options around and it’s not hard to see why so many are opting for it. Older and cheaper vinyl flooring has been known to contain VOCs, harmful chemicals that get released over time, so it’s important to make sure that you check the manufacturers for a guarantee their own floors are free of these. Though vinyl is inexpensive, it’s difficult to repair. A damaged section would have to be ripped out and removed entirely.

Laminate flooring samples

Laminate

This material is, like many kinds of vinyl, designed to look like real wood. The laminate has high-resolution wood grain image printed onto it, and is then glued into fibreboards. Like vinyl, it’s one of the cheaper options and can be easily and quickly installed, even over older floors. It also has the benefit of needing only a sweep and a mop to maintain it. However, it’s not as effective at resisting all water damage like vinyl. Also like vinyl, it’s come under fire for releasing toxic chemicals in the home. For that reason, if you do consider purchasing laminate floors, you have to make sure the manufacturer guarantees that it’s safe for the household.

Bamboo canes growing

Bamboo

An option that’s a little less well known, but fast becoming a popular choice. Bamboo can look and feel like wood floors, but it’s actually made of bamboo grass strands that have been tightly compressed together. Unlike laminate and vinyl, it carries a lot of the resale value that wood has, too. However, it’s easier to repair than any of them because it can be easily sanded. However, as popular as bamboo is, the cheaper products on the market tend to be much more poorly constructed. Do your research, as lower quality bamboo flooring can start degrading very quickly. It’s also not a great choice if you have a spill-prone family, as it suffers water damage very poorly indeed.

There’s no ‘one size fits all’ solution to the question of which type of flooring you need. Consider both your needs and your preferences, see which flooring fits your lifestyle and the style you’re implementing in the room and choose the best fit as you see it.

[disclosure*]