Are you a homeowner looking for ways to protect your flooring? Have you noticed signs of wear and tear or even damage to the floors of your home? It’s important to recognize these potential issues before they worsen so that repairs or replacements can be made if necessary. Here are some common types of flooring damage, and offer tips on how to prevent them. Whether you have hardwood floors, laminate floors, marble tile, or vinyl tile – all materials are vulnerable to various types of décor-wrecking effects! Keep reading to learn more about protecting your beautiful floors from the elements.

Nails, Stains, and Scratches – Know your enemies when it comes to flooring damage:

When it comes to maintaining a beautiful and durable floor, it’s essential to know your enemies. Nails, stains, and scratches can all cause severe damage to your flooring, and it’s vital to take steps to prevent and repair these issues. Nails can cause unsightly holes and even structural damage over time, while stains can be nearly impossible to remove without professional assistance. Scratches, on the other hand, can quickly accumulate and dull the look of your flooring, even if they’re small individual marks. By understanding these potential hazards and taking preventative steps (such as keeping your pet’s nails trimmed and using furniture pads), you can ensure that your floors stay beautiful and functional for years to come.

Water Damage – Protecting against water damage is essential for your flooring.

Water damage can be a major headache for any homeowner, particularly when it comes to flooring. From hardwood to carpet, water can seep into even the smallest of spaces and cause significant problems. That’s why protecting against water damage is so essential. There are a number of ways to do this, depending on where you live and the likelihood of water damage in your area. Ensuring that your home is properly sealed and maintained can go a long way in keeping water out and preventing damage to your floors. Consider investing in waterproof flooring materials, such as vinyl or ceramic tiles, or using moisture barriers beneath your flooring to prevent water from seeping through. Whatever method you choose, it’s important to be proactive about protecting your home and your floors from water damage in order to prevent costly repairs down the line.

Scuffs and Gouges – Reducing scuffs and gouges from your flooring can maintain its look and health.

Flooring is an integral component in enhancing the aesthetics and overall feel of a space. However, scuffs and gouges can significantly reduce its lifespan and take away from its initial luster. Fortunately, there are various ways to avoid and minimize these wear and tear marks. First, invest in high-quality floor mats and rugs that protect high-traffic areas such as doorways, hallways, and kitchen spaces. Additionally, avoid dragging heavy furniture and equipment across your floors. Employing felt nail glides and protective pads will also help reduce the impact of heavy furniture. In conclusion, by taking preventive measures and being mindful of your flooring, you can prolong its durability and maintain its original appearance.

Warping and Cracking – Identifying warping or cracking in flooring materials can prevent future costly repairs.

Warping and cracking in flooring materials can seem like minor issues, but they can actually lead to expensive repairs if left unchecked. Luckily, identifying them early can save you from that extra expense. For instance, the warping or bending of a wood floor is often caused by moisture which affects the wood’s natural fibers. Similarly, cracking can be caused by a number of factors, including temperature changes, heavy furniture, and improper installation. Cracks can also become breeding grounds for bacteria and germs, which can be harmful to your health. By recognizing these issues, you can take proactive steps to avoid costly repairs in the future.

Repair or Replace – Strategies for deciding between repairing or replacing damaged floors.

Deciding whether to repair or replace a damaged floor can be a difficult decision for homeowners. There are a few strategies that can make the process more manageable. The first step is to consider the extent of the damage. Small scratches or minor discoloration can be fixed with a simple repair. However, if the damage is extensive, such as large cracks or warping, replacement may be necessary. Another factor to consider is the age of the flooring. Suppose the floor is nearing the end of its lifespan and has experienced multiple repairs. In that case, replacement may be a more cost-effective long-term solution. Ultimately, it’s crucial to weigh the cost of repair versus replacement, taking into account the overall value of the home and the impact on resale value. By carefully considering these strategies, homeowners can confidently decide to repair or replace their damaged floors.

Aging and Wear & Tear – Old flooring can not maintain its look and health. Using proper methods can avoid this issue.

Aging is inevitable, and so is the deterioration of surfaces such as flooring. As time passes, old flooring starts to lose its lustrous appearance, resulting in a worn-out look that can be unpleasant to the eye. However, the good news is that this issue can be avoided with the right approach. Making sure to use proper methods will significantly extend the life of your flooring and maintain its health. Investing in regular cleaning, adequate ventilation, and prevention strategies such as adding mats to high-traffic areas can help retain your flooring’s original glory years longer. Remember, taking action before damage occurs is the best way to tackle the aging process of your flooring.

Why Choose Texas Floors for All Your Flooring Needs

At Texas Floors, we strive to provide you with a quality experience for flooring installation Cypress. We provide you with quality flooring materials to choose from for installing in your space. Our wide inventory allows you to choose from types of flooring, including wood, tile, carpet, laminate, and vinyl. This inventory also includes products from many trusted manufacturers, giving you complete freedom to choose exactly what you like.

For more information about your flooring needs Cypress for your home or business, contact Texas Floors in Cypress, TX today. Whether you are hoping to install floors in your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or other space, we are here to help. We can also help you put together the perfect flooring for your space regardless of whether you prefer carpet, wood, tile, or luxury vinyl.

Our professional team is happy to work with you to ensure you get just the right look you are hoping. We are pleased to use our decades of experience to give you the floor you dream of. Get an estimate with flooring installation in Cypress for your vision today.

Flooring is an important decision for any home, given its considerable impact on a space’s visual style, comfort, and durability. There’s no one-size-fits-all choice to suit all climates and lifestyles, so it’s worth doing your research how climate affects different flooring. Wood flooring provides warmth and character to a space; however, solid hardwood should be avoided in areas of high humidity as it is prone to water damage when exposed to natural moisture levels in the atmosphere. Laminate flooring is a popular option that combines hardwood style with increased durability – valuable qualities in changing climates. Vinyl flooring takes this concept further; its waterproof composition makes it even more resistant to these fluctuations while providing an authentic look. Unfortunately, carpets can absorb large amounts of moisture that can cause mold and mildew; however, they remain popular in high-traffic areas due to their ability to muffle sound and create a cozy atmosphere. Ultimately, your individual needs will determine which flooring is most suitable for your situation.

How heat and cold affect your floors:

When exposed to heat and cold, the constant expansion and contraction of your floors, ,can cause significant damage. Without proper maintenance, your flooring can start to warp, causing buckling and cracks. Damage caused by extreme temperatures can not only make your floor look unsightly but can also reduce the durability of the surface. To avoid warping and cracking, use suitable materials depending on climate conditions. Wood floors tend to expand in damp weather, while ceramic tiles become brittle in cold temperatures, so winter may require an extra layer of insulation. Keeping your home at a moderate temperature will help slow down any changes caused by extreme temperatures. With regular inspection, you can identify potential risks or plan for any necessary repairs.

How To Select The Best Flooring Based On Your Climate

Depending on where you live, the climate can significantly influence on what kind of flooring is best for your home. When selecting flooring for medium to high moisture areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens, it is best to choose ceramic tile and vinyl that resist more moisture than hardwood or laminate products. For climates with higher humidity levels, look for floors made with engineered wood, which is much more dimensionally stable than other types of wood. In addition to looking at moisture-resistant material options, you should also consider the type of underlayment needed in areas such as basements and bathrooms. For example, rubberized underlayment works well in wet environments, while fiberglass is a better option in slightly damp areas. Regardless of what flooring material you select and where you install it in your home, choosing moisture-resistant and appropriate for your climate conditions is important.

Humidity Control Can Help You Maintain Your Floor:

Flooring is an integral part of any home; keeping it in good condition, regardless of weather conditions, can be challenging. But there are several simple and practical techniques for controlling the humidity level in your home to protect your floors no matter what the temperature or humidity outside. Adding a dehumidifier to the main living area is one way to reduce the amount of moisture in the air, which can prevent wood floors from warping or becoming stained with mildew. Installing exhaust fans and vents in bathrooms and laundry rooms also helps keep these areas dry and reduces humidity levels throughout the house. Ensuring proper ventilation between exterior walls and where the flooring meets outside walls can further reduce moisture build-up that leads to mold growth. These small steps will ensure your flooring looks excellent regardless of what lies beyond your doorstep.

Cleaning And Resealing Can Reduce The Effects Of Weather:

Proper maintenance of your floors is essential for ensuring they last for the long term. Cleaning and resealing them regularly can help keep them looking great and avoid needing a costly replacement. Not only does regular cleaning help to remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants – which can damage even the toughest of surfaces – but resealing also adds an extra layer of protection against wear and tear. Simple steps such as sweeping or mopping every week, followed by a more thorough cleaning with a degreaser, hot water, and soap every few months, can make all the difference when preserving your floors. And don’t forget to reseal them once per year to extend their lifespan! Proper care of your floor is an investment that will pay off for years.

Why Texas Floors?

We understand how difficult it can be to find just the right flooring for your home or business, and we are here to help! At Texas Floors, we can help you choose from luxurious Carpets in thousands of colors and patterns or the handcrafted beauty of Exotic and Domestic Hardwoods. We can also help you pick from our diverse styles and designs of intricate Patterned Tile or our durable Luxury Vinyl and Laminate Flooring. Located in Cypress, TX, Texas Floors provides so many choices for every room in your home that lets you express your personal style.

Call Us Today For Your Flooring Installation!

For more information about flooring installation Cypress for your home or business, contact Texas Floors in Cypress, TX today. Whether you are hoping to install floors in your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or other space, we are here to help. We can also help you put together the perfect flooring for your space regardless of whether you prefer carpet, wood, tile, or luxury vinyl.

Our professional installation team is happy to work with you to ensure that you get just the right look you are hoping for with flooring installation Cypress. We are pleased to use our decades of experience to give you the floor you dream of. Get an estimate for your vision today!

Do you feel it’s time to make changes, starting with your floor? Investing in new floors can do wonders for transforming the look and feel of any room, so understanding when investing in a replacement can help ensure you get maximum value from your investment. If you’re feeling less than thrilled with the state of your floors, there may be a few signs that they need to be replaced. These are the various signs that indicate you might need to replace your floor:

1. Creaky floorboards:

Creaky floorboards can be a nuisance, making it hard to get things done without having your footsteps announced by loud groans that can travel throughout the house. Unfortunately, replacing them is often the only solution. It may seem expensive and time-consuming, but understanding how to repair or replace them independently will save you considerable money and could become a rewarding DIY project. Without proper repairs or replacement, creaky floorboards not only serve as a distraction but can give way under the right amount of pressure and cause serious injury to anyone standing above them. So don’t wait – if you notice any odd creaking noises coming from your floorboards, take action before it’s too late!

2. Discoloration:

Discoloration in wood floors can be troubling, as it can take away from the beauty of your home. If you notice that your wood floors have started to dull or fade or are turning yellow, chances are there has been water damage due to a leak underneath the floorboards. It is essential to replace the planks right away. Otherwise, the discoloration can spread and make the floor irreparable. Furthermore, if left untreated for too long, it can also lead to mold growth which is difficult to remove and can cause significant health problems for your family. So make sure to check for leakages every once in a while and repair any existing ones quickly.

3. Gaps and cracks:

Gaps and cracks in the floor are not only unsightly but can also be dangerous. Walking on an uneven surface is difficult and hazardous, so filling and replacing any gaps or cracks that may have formed is essential. Not only does this improve the floor’s appearance, but it also helps to increase its durability – reducing the risks of unevenness or instability appearing in the future. Always take extra care when filling and replacing gaps, as doing so incorrectly can lead to further issues. Make sure you use proper epoxy to guarantee quality coverage, and it would be wise to consult experts to ensure you are filling your floor correctly.

4. Warped sections:

Warped sections of flooring can be an unwelcome surprise and can cause a variety of issues. Many times, warped sections are caused by water damage, over-sanding, or improper installation in the first place. This type of damage cannot permanently be corrected. It’s essential to choose the suitable materials and methods when replacing wood flooring to get a quality result free of any warpage or unevenness. If levels are off by over 1/10″ across a 10′ length, these sections should be replaced entirely for safety and stability. With the proper preparation, your replacement floor planks will look great and provide lasting satisfaction.

5. Dampness:

Unresolved moisture and water intrusion can cause deterioration of structural integrity, toxic mold growth, and unhealthy air quality. Dampness coming through your floor indicates water damage that should be addressed immediately. In most cases, this can lead to further damage if the issue is not taken seriously and remediation steps are not put into place. A reputable contractor will have the skills to look for underlying problems and provide solutions that will help protect your home’s value, comfort, and safety. Don’t hesitate – dealing with dampness in a timely fashion keeps you from having more significant problems down the road.

6. Unpleasant smells:

Unpleasant smells from the floor can indicate more severe problems, such as mold or mildew. Both of these can cause damage to your floorboards and, if left unattended, could lead to costly repairs or replacements down the line. If you suspect that your floors are the source of any bad scents in your home, it is essential to take action and investigate further. Perhaps having a professional inspect the boards and remove any mold or mildew will save you from needing an unnecessary replacement – but it all depends on what is found beneath the surface. Regular inspections and cleaning can also help ensure that mold does not become an issue for your home.

7. Peeling Veneer:

Regarding laminate or vinyl flooring, peeling veneer can be a telltale sign of impending damage. Suppose you notice the edges of your floor beginning to lift or the veneer on top seeming to separate from its base. In that case, it’s likely that your laminate’s or vinyl’s integrity has been sacrificed and needs urgent attention. Don’t wait until it’s too late – sometimes, the damage may spread beyond repair, and you will need to replace your floor entirely. It is best to act fast and try to remedy the peeling as soon as possible to restore your flooring to its original condition.

8. Mold and Mildew:

Mold and mildew can cause health issues and should be taken seriously if it is detected in your home. Knowing the signs of mold or mildew growth is vital, as certain areas are more prone to moisture accumulation than others. Common symptoms include discoloration of the floor, a musty smell, and material warping. If any of these occur around your floor, you should consider getting a replacement. Hiring a professional to safely remove and dispose of the affected area will ensure the issue does not recur. Proper maintenance, such as vacuuming or mopping regularly to keep dust levels low, can help prevent mold from reoccurring. Taking action before it’s too late will save you money, time, and headaches!

Let Us Help You Install Your New Floors!

For more information about new flooring installation for your home or business, contact Texas Floors in Cypress, TX today. Whether you are hoping to install floors in your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or other space, we are here to help. We can also help you put together the perfect flooring for your space regardless of whether you prefer carpet, wood, tile, or luxury vinyl.

Our professional installation team is happy to work with you to ensure that you get just the right look you are hoping for with flooring installation Cypress. We are pleased to use our decades of experience to give you the floor you dream of. Get an estimate for your vision today!

Cold floors can lead to some big problems in the home. Not only is a cold floor unpleasant, but having cold feet can lead to some serious illnesses, such as respiratory issues and cramps. While walking around in socks all day is an easy solution, this might not be the way to go for other members of the household. Children, pets, and even some adults who don’t like things on their feet all day may need you to find an efficient way to heat your floors.

The Health Risks of Cold Floors

Winter weather can lead to sudden cold floors. It isn’t uncommon to get unexpected cold fronts in Texas, even in parts of the state that are typically warm the majority of the year. These colder temperatures can seep into your home and keep your floor cold for days or weeks at a time.

The sudden temperature change can cause several health conditions, including hypothermia. If your home has poor insulation, mold can begin to form in your walls, triggering respiratory issues.

Keeping warm is also crucial if you are already sick. Whether you are dealing with a seasonal illness, allergies, or a chronic condition, keeping your Texas floors at a consistent temperature is a must!

Identify the Cause of the Cold Floors

Before you invest in new flooring, rugs, or insulation, try to identify any issues in your home that could be keeping your floors cold this winter. Some rooms do naturally get colder than others, such as basements. Look for cracks in doors, windows that aren’t properly shut, or even holes in the walls.

The type of flooring you have in your home may also play a role in how warm the room stays. Carpet flooring, for example, tends to stay much warmer than tile flooring. Natural stone and ceramic tiles tend to be the coldest flooring types, so you will need to invest in a good quality heater if your home has these types of floors.

The quality of your flooring can also make a huge difference in how warm it stays throughout the year. For example, luxury vinyl plank flooring on top of insulated foam or cork padding will feel great year-round. In many cases, investing in a new floor can be the easiest way to heat up your space and add insulation.

Ways to Heat Your Home without a New Floor

While getting a new floor may be the easiest solution, it isn’t always the most practical. For example, carpet may not suit your basement floor, especially if it is prone to flooding. If you want to replace your basement floor or add insulation to it efficiently, you may need to talk to a professional. If you can’t get new flooring right away, you can use some of these tips to quickly warm up your room.

1. Add High-Quality Heaters

Floor heaters are a great solution if one room is more prone to cold floors than others. Small portable heaters are also a good choice for people who tend to stay in one room at a time. The problem is that these tiny heaters won’t heat your entire home. The right space heater can warm up a basement or tiled floor fairly quickly, even if the heat won’t spread to your entire home.

Larger heating solutions could also be the answer if you are able to install them. Below-surface heating, for example, can be an effective, permanent solution for tiled flooring. Under-cabinet or cove heaters can also be installed to help you tackle cold air in problem areas of the home.

Installing a fireplace can also be a good solution for large rooms. While this can be a costly endeavor, a large fireplace can add a lot of warmth and comfort to your space. No matter what type of flooring you have, your room should heat up very quickly whenever you have your fire going!

2. Check Your Heating Systems

If your home has a large heating system already, cold floors may be a sign that it needs maintenance or a filter change. First, check the filter and see if it needs to be replaced. Small filters tend to need replacing every couple of months while larger filters can last for up to a year. If you are still dealing with chilly floors, your system may need repairs. Large systems can be very complex, so it is usually better to work with an HVAC professional if you don’t already have some experience. An experienced professional may also be able to look at other areas of your home and offer personalized heating tips.

3. Change the Air Flow

Airflow can greatly affect the temperature of a room. Limiting airflow to a room, such as keeping doors and windows shut, can limit the amount of cold air and moisture entering your space. Utilizing fans to push the cold air away from you can also be an easy way to warm up your room. This is incredibly helpful at night, especially if you don’t want to leave your space heater or fireplace running for a long period of time.

Be sure to check windows and doors regularly for airflow issues throughout the winter. Harsh weather and temperature changes may eat away at some of the sealants, causing drafts. If you have recently replaced the sealant or weather stripping but are still getting a draft, you may need to replace the door or window entirely. Energy-efficient doors and windows are excellent at trapping air in your home, keeping your space warmer for a longer period.

4. Get High Quality Rugs

Carpet flooring is one of the best ways to avoid cold floors this winter. Carpet fibers add a lot of insulation and warmth. The thicker the carpet, the more insulation it tends to provide. If you aren’t ready to invest in new flooring, try adding a few large rugs to your room. While this may not be as effective as a brand-new floor, the extra insulation can go a long way.

5. Add Insulation

Adding insulation underneath the floor can help you maintain temperatures year-round. In addition to adding foam or fiberglass insulation under the floor, you may need to examine other areas of your home. Most modern homes are completely covered with insulation to naturally trap heat inside. If you have questions about your home’s insulation or think there is an issue with the insulation you have, you may want to consider contacting a professional.

There are several ways to warm up a cold floor. While investing in new flooring is often ideal, there are several simple ways you can improve the heating in your home. To learn more about flooring options in Texas, contact us today.

A wooden floor can add a timeless aesthetic to your house as well as offering some flexibility from a decorating standpoint. For example, you can choose to cover the floor with a throw rug or paint it to match the overall color scheme of your home. If your home’s wood floors already have paint or stain on them, they can be stripped to let the natural grain shine through. Let’s take a look at some wood care tips that you can use this winter to keep your wooden floor clean.

What to Know About Moisture and Wood Floors to Keep Your Wooden Floor Clean

If you allow even a small amount of water to pool or stand on a wooden surface, it may cause the wood to warp or rot. During the winter months, be sure to take your shoes or boots off after spending time on grass or pavement or other outdoor surfaces that are covered in rain, ice or snow. This is because anything that is on the bottom of shoes or boots can easily be tracked throughout the house.

It’s also a good idea to have a rubber mat or tray to keep wet sneakers or boots in while they dry. This will prevent snow or ice from melting on the floor itself. Instead, it will be absorbed by the material in the mat. Even if water does accumulate on such an object, you can simply pour the standing water outside where it won’t cause any harm.

You will also want to keep an eye on the amount of moisture that is in the air. If the air is too dry, wood may also be susceptible to rotting, splitting or suffering other types of damage. Generally speaking, there is an inverse relationship between temperature and humidity. This means that as the temperatures outside get colder, the air will get drier. Therefore, it may be a good idea to use a humidifier to ensure that your floors won’t get damaged.

Don’t Let Spills Linger

If you do see any amount of water or any other type of liquid on the floor, make sure to wipe it up immediately. Even if it’s not enough to cause significant damage to the wood itself, allowing moisture to linger could lead to mold growth or draw out pests that may be wintering in or near your home.

Be Careful When Salting a Porch or Driveway

Rock salt is one of the most effective tools that we have to keep outdoor surfaces from becoming skating rinks during the winter months. However, it also has the potential to cause a lot of damage to wooden floors. Therefore, it may be in your best interest to use heated mats on porches, walkways or patios located near a main entrance to your house.

It may be possible to install a driveway heating system that can keep moisture from freezing when the temperatures get cold at night. It’s worth noting that sand, kitty litter or other substances that are often used to prevent ice from forming can also be harmful to wood.

Make Sure the House Isn’t Too Hot

Wood surfaces that are in close proximity to a heat vent may be at a higher risk for damage. This is because constant exposure to hot air can cause wood to become dry and brittle. Therefore, in addition to making sure that there is sufficient humidity in your home, you’ll also need to keep the temperature at a moderate level as well. An ideal indoor air temperature during the winter season is anywhere from 65 to 68 degrees. In addition to preventing damage to wood floors, you can also help improve indoor air quality and keep your heating bills to a minimum.

Engage in Routine Wood Floor Maintenance to Keep Your Wooden Floor Clean

During the winter months, you are more likely to run your furnace or other heating system components. Even if you keep your heating system clean, it can still kick up dust, dirt and other debris in its general vicinity. These airborne pollutants will then travel around your home through the various ducts that carry the warm air to each room.

Ultimately, these travelers will settle on furniture, countertops and your wood floors. Therefore, you will need to sweep them at least once a week to ensure that they stay as clean and shiny as possible. If you have pets, children or elderly guests in your house, it may be a good idea to sweep once a day to prevent dust, dirt or pollen from becoming ingrained in the wood itself. Regular cleanings may also help to keep those with allergies, asthma or other breathing issues safe and comfortable throughout the year. Mopping a wood floor can help to get rid of sugary or other types of sticky substances before they can do any damage. If you do choose to mop, be sure to use warm water instead of hot and to only use enough to adequately cover the surface that you are cleaning.

Standing water should be wiped up immediately with a dry and clean cloth. If the water you are using to perform this task becomes extremely dirty, you should dump it and refill your bucket. This will help to ensure that you are actually cleaning the floor instead of simply spreading dirt and debris around a given space. As a general rule, you can use a vacuum on a wood floor without damaging it. This may be an ideal solution if your home has a kitchen with a wooden floor right next to the living room or another space that has a carpeted floor. It can also be helpful for cleaning larger messes as vacuums tend to do a better job or quickly removing large amounts of debris in a sanitary and timely manner.

Nothing Lasts Forever

Like anything else in your home, wood floors can only last so long before they need to be repaired or replaced. This is true even if you do your best to get rid of standing water or keep your home at a proper temperature each winter. Fortunately, you can limit the extent and cost of future repairs by inspecting your floors at the end of the winter season. Taking such a step allows you to take action while any outstanding issues are still relatively easy and inexpensive to fix before the next winter season arrives.

Wood floors can often improve the look, feel and market value of your home regardless of how old they are. If you are looking to repair or refinish existing floors or put in new flooring as part of a kitchen or bathroom remodel, the folks at Texas Floors would love to help. We offer timely, professional and affordable floor removal and installation services to ensure that your home looks great for years to come.

A wooden floor can add a timeless aesthetic to your house as well as offering some flexibility from a decorating standpoint. For example, you can choose to cover the floor with a throw rug or paint it to match the overall color scheme of your home. If your home’s wood floors already have paint or stain on them, they can be stripped to let the natural grain shine through. Let’s take a look at some wood care tips that you can use this winter to keep your floors in good shape.

What to Know About Moisture and Wood Floors

If you allow even a small amount of water to pool or stand on a wooden surface, it may cause the wood to warp or rot. During the winter months, be sure to take your shoes or boots off after spending time on grass or pavement or other outdoor surfaces that are covered in rain, ice or snow. This is because anything that is on the bottom of shoes or boots can easily be tracked throughout the house.

It’s also a good idea to have a rubber mat or tray to keep wet sneakers or boots in while they dry. This will prevent snow or ice from melting on the floor itself. Instead, it will be absorbed by the material in the mat. Even if water does accumulate on such an object, you can simply pour the standing water outside where it won’t cause any harm.

You will also want to keep an eye on the amount of moisture that is in the air. If the air is too dry, wood may also be susceptible to rotting, splitting or suffering other types of damage. Generally speaking, there is an inverse relationship between temperature and humidity. This means that as the temperatures outside get colder, the air will get drier. Therefore, it may be a good idea to use a humidifier to ensure that your floors won’t get damaged.

Don’t Let Spills Linger

If you do see any amount of water or any other type of liquid on the floor, make sure to wipe it up immediately. Even if it’s not enough to cause significant damage to the wood itself, allowing moisture to linger could lead to mold growth or draw out pests that may be wintering in or near your home.

Be Careful When Salting a Porch or Driveway

Rock salt is one of the most effective tools that we have to keep outdoor surfaces from becoming skating rinks during the winter months. However, it also has the potential to cause a lot of damage to wooden floors. Therefore, it may be in your best interest to use heated mats on porches, walkways or patios located near a main entrance to your house.

It may be possible to install a driveway heating system that can keep moisture from freezing when the temperatures get cold at night. It’s worth noting that sand, kitty litter or other substances that are often used to prevent ice from forming can also be harmful to wood.

Make Sure the House Isn’t Too Hot

Wood surfaces that are in close proximity to a heat vent may be at a higher risk for damage. This is because constant exposure to hot air can cause wood to become dry and brittle. Therefore, in addition to making sure that there is sufficient humidity in your home, you’ll also need to keep the temperature at a moderate level as well. An ideal indoor air temperature during the winter season is anywhere from 65 to 68 degrees. In addition to preventing damage to wood floors, you can also help improve indoor air quality and keep your heating bills to a minimum.

Engage in Routine Wood Floor Maintenance

During the winter months, you are more likely to run your furnace or other heating system components. Even if you keep your heating system clean, it can still kick up dust, dirt and other debris in its general vicinity. These airborne pollutants will then travel around your home through the various ducts that carry the warm air to each room.

Ultimately, these travelers will settle on furniture, countertops and your wood floors. Therefore, you will need to sweep them at least once a week to ensure that they stay as clean and shiny as possible. If you have pets, children or elderly guests in your house, it may be a good idea to sweep once a day to prevent dust, dirt or pollen from becoming ingrained in the wood itself. Regular cleanings may also help to keep those with allergies, asthma or other breathing issues safe and comfortable throughout the year.

Mopping a wood floor can help to get rid of sugary or other types of sticky substances before they can do any damage. If you do choose to mop, be sure to use warm water instead of hot and to only use enough to adequately cover the surface that you are cleaning.

Standing water should be wiped up immediately with a dry and clean cloth. If the water you are using to perform this task becomes extremely dirty, you should dump it and refill your bucket. This will help to ensure that you are actually cleaning the floor instead of simply spreading dirt and debris around a given space.

As a general rule, you can use a vacuum on a wood floor without damaging it. This may be an ideal solution if your home has a kitchen with a wooden floor right next to the living room or another space that has a carpeted floor. It can also be helpful for cleaning larger messes as vacuums tend to do a better job or quickly removing large amounts of debris in a sanitary and timely manner.

Nothing Lasts Forever

Like anything else in your home, wood floors can only last so long before they need to be repaired or replaced. This is true even if you do your best to get rid of standing water or keep your home at a proper temperature each winter. Fortunately, you can limit the extent and cost of future repairs by inspecting your floors at the end of the winter season. Taking such a step allows you to take action while any outstanding issues are still relatively easy and inexpensive to fix before the next winter season arrives.

Wood floors can often improve the look, feel and market value of your home regardless of how old they are. If you are looking to repair or refinish existing floors or put in new flooring as part of a kitchen or bathroom remodel, the folks at Texas Floors would love to help. We offer timely, professional and affordable floor removal and installation services to ensure that your home looks great for years to come.

With fall quickly coming to an end, you’re probably starting to think about winter home maintenance. Keeping your home clean sometimes feels more challenging in the colder months. You and your family may spend more time inside, and it’s easy to track leaves, dirt, snow, or slush into the house. How to care for your carpet can be an especially big concern. Stained or dirty carpeting can instantly make a room like more dingy, and any moisture that gets trapped in the carpet can cause mold or mildew.

Being mindful of your carpets is essential during the winter. Here are eight winter carpet care tips:

1. Clean the Front Steps

The process of keeping your carpets clean starts outside the house. If your walkway, stairs, or front porch are covered in snow, slush, or mud, it will be far too easy to track dirt into the home. One of the best ways to care for your carpets is to regularly clean the area leading up to your front door. By reducing the amount of dirt your shoes pick up, you keep the snow and slush away from your carpets.

2. Take Shoes Off in the House

If you want your carpets to stay clean throughout the winter, you have to keep your shoes off in the house. It’s virtually impossible to keep carpets clean if everyone is frequently tracking dirt or slush through the home. Try to enforce a strict shoes-off rule for anyone who comes through the door. The more you and your family follow this rule, the more the habit will stick. Make it easy for you, your family, and your guests to immediately take their shoes off by placing a bench or stool next to the front door. If you have nowhere to sit near the entryway, you’ll be tempted to walk into the living room or kitchen with your dirty shoes. Additionally, consider keeping a pair of house slippers near the door so that you can keep your feet warm. You could even keep a bin of spare slippers or inexpensive socks for guests to put on when they take their shoes off.

3. Get a Boot Tray

You could store your shoes on a shoe rack or simply keep them on the floor, but a boot tray is an excellent investment if you live in an area that experiences winter weather. The snow and slush will pool in the tray so that your floor doesn’t get wet. The tray also serves as a subtle signal to guests to take their boots off when they come inside.

4. Use an Abundance of Mats

Many homeowners keep a single welcome mat either inside or outside the door. However, additional mats can be very helpful when trying to keep your carpet clean. Keep a strong, durable mat outside the front door for your household and guests to wipe their shoes on. Inside the door, place at least one mat on the floor for your guests to stand on while they remove their shoes. Test out the placement of the mats to make sure it’s easy to take off your shoes while staying on the mat.

Sturdy mats will absorb most of the moisture that gets tracked into the house. They can also trap pebbles, road salt, or other debris that might make its way inside. Be sure to vacuum the mats at least once or twice per month to keep them clean.

5. Keep Your Dog’s Paws Clean

If you have a dog, they may be responsible for tracking a great deal of dirt through the house. Unfortunately, getting a dog to wipe their paws may be more difficult than asking your family and guests to remove their shoes. Try to have a plan for your dog or other pets when they come inside so that they don’t get dirt on the carpet.

You could install a gate that keeps them away from carpeted areas until you’ve cleaned their paws. If you have a garage, consider setting up a cleaning station with a towel or a bucket of water. You could even try training your dog to wipe their paws on the mat before going inside.

6. Place Rugs in Highly Trafficked Areas

Even with shoes off in the home, dust and dirt can build up in your carpets. You can keep your carpets looking brand new by placing carpet squares or cheap rugs over the most highly trafficked areas of the house. It’s usually easier to clean or repair a small rug than an entire carpet, and replacing an inexpensive rug is more cost effective than new carpet installation.

7. Vacuum Frequently

You probably spend more time indoors in the winter than in the warmer months, so you might notice that more dirt and dust accumulate on the carpets. This is especially true if you have guests coming and going throughout the holiday season. Plan to vacuum more frequently in the winter than in the summer to keep your carpets in good condition. Once per week will probably be enough to keep the floors clean, but you might decide to vacuum more often in highly trafficked areas.

Try to empty the vacuum bag when it’s half full. When the bag fills up, the vacuum becomes less efficient and may cause dust to circulate in the air. Replace the vacuum filter at the beginning of the season to prevent dirt and dust from contaminating your home.

8. Clean Stains Immediately

The faster you clean any stains that appear on the carpet, the better. Keep a bottle of spot cleaner on hand so that you can treat stains as quickly as possible. If you clean the carpet right away, the stain might not set in at all.

You can purchase spot cleaner at your supermarket, or you could create a homemade cleaner. Warm water with a few drops of dish soap works well to remove stains. If the carpet has an odor, you could mix equal parts water and vinegar and add some dish soap. Hydrogen peroxide can also be an effective stain remover for light carpets, but it may have a bleaching effect on darker carpets.

Carpet care in the winter doesn’t have to be an enormous task. The best thing you can do to maintain your carpet is to prevent it from getting dirty in the first place. Avoid tracking dirt into the house, take your shoes off as soon as you get inside, and cover highly trafficked areas with mats or rugs. Then, all you have to worry about is regular vacuuming and the occasional spot cleaning.

Texas Floors provides hardwood and carpet installation services for homeowners. Contact us today to learn more.

A hardwood floor distinguishes a home more than almost any other aspect of décor. You can create any influence that pleases you with the versatility of wood. Hardwood floors, in winter, let you bring the warmth and beauty of nature indoors where it welcomes family and friends. At texas floors, you may choose an engineered floor that suits your preference for oak or maple, cherry or mahogany, teak or bamboo. We offer professional installation that preserves your warranty for the enjoyment of beautiful, durable floors.

Welcoming a Hardwood Floor into Your Home

You can achieve the look of solid wood flooring with engineered wood floors and satisfy your environmental concerns at the same time. Forbes Home notes that both require about the same maintenance to last almost as long with proper care. Our installation creates the same feel and appearance of a solid wood floor for your home.

Enjoying a Harmonious Environment Year-Round

Wood prefers the same temperature range and moisture level that you enjoy, making it a perfect choice for your home. As a natural material, wood reacts to its healthy home environment that maintains a level of humidity in the 40-50 percent range. During the winter, it may need to stay near 40 percent and increase to 50 percent during the summer months. The heat that keeps your family warm and comfortable tends to dry the air, making wood flooring lose moisture as well.

Considering Seasonal Concerns

Awareness of the changes in the weather can help protect the well-being of your elegant hardwood floors and prevent the need for repair. Wood reacts to environmental conditions, and it requires comforts similar to yours. As winter approaches, you can provide the protection that wood requires. For example, electric heat and wood stoves can create dry conditions that you may lessen by running a humidifier. Whether you choose a portable appliance or one that can treat your whole house, a humidifier increases the humidity level. Indoor plants thrive in moist air, and dampness in the air can provide other benefits as well. If you spend extended periods away from home for business, pleasure or to escape the weather, your engineered floors need care until your return.

Preventing Your Hardwood Floor from Splitting or Checking

Even as you may experience the painful condition of split lips in the fall or winter, wood can react to extreme conditions similarly. Dryness creates a level of stress beyond its ability to tolerate. As a result, wood weakens and becomes brittle. The unsightly result can appear on solid flooring as well as engineered wood. Low humidity creates small cracks that can appear almost anywhere on the floor’s surface and deface its beauty.

When you realize the commonalities that you share with wood, it can help you maintain awareness of its need for humidity and moderate temperature. The natural material in engineered products or solid flooring needs to retain the qualities that let it survive as a tree in the woods. During the fall and winter, a humidity level of around 40 percent can provide the conditions it prefers.

Taking Care to Prevent Gapping

Changes in the moisture level of the air in your home can create an unfortunate situation on your hardwood flooring that becomes noticeable. When the wood planks shrink as moisture diminishes, it creates gaps and open spaces. A repair may occur when the humidity rises to a proper level, allowing the boards to expand and close the gaps. Our expert installation services ensure the placement of planks with efficiency and professionalism.

Choosing a Fall or Winter Installation

Boards shrink during the winter when cold and dry air provides optimum installation conditions. Our expert installers acclimate the boards before carefully placing them in your home. Even though texas floors can install a hardwood floor in any season, we recommend fall as the best time. The cooler air has less moisture, and new wood reacts favorably to it. In addition, the atmospheric mix of temperature and humidity levels produces optimum conditions for installation. Our expertise and professionalism enhance your enjoyment of many years of durable, beautiful flooring.

• Providing the Care a Hardwood Floor Requires

A commitment to enhancing the loveliness of your home with hardwood flooring reflects your appreciation of nature’s beauty. The timeless elegance it offers blends well with all decors and creates an ambiance that reflects your knowledge and sophistication. A deep understanding of the enduring quality of wood reinforces the need to care for it.

Regular and loving care allows wood flooring to maintain its lustrous shine for many years to come. Maintaining a humidity level of around 40 percent in the fall and winter helps protect your hardwood floor from dryness. The quality of your maintenance routine can help prevent the need for repair over the long term.

• Sweeping, Vacuuming and Deep Cleaning

Your choice of cleaning equipment matters and prevents creating scratches on the beautiful surfaces. A vacuum that has a soft floor attachment gives you an easy way to remove any speck of dirt on the floor.

Advances in dry mop materials give you choices of microfiber products in convenient forms. Occasional deep cleaning with a commercial hardwood cleanser can provide the effect you want without damaging the surface.

• Cleaning up Spills

When you think about an old remedy that recommends using Coke to remove battery acid, it can provide a warning about spills. Your floors deserve the attention that you give to your favorite rose. While durable, tough and hardy, both respond well to your understanding of what they need.

• Decorating with Area Rugs

Dirt, grains of sand and moisture that clings to feet as friends and family come inside can cause extreme damage to hardwood flooring. A rug at each entry guards against potential damage. A choice of style and fabric may enhance the entrances and encourage everyone to use them to protect the floors.

In the interior, the need for rugs to prevent furniture from damaging the surface offers appealing decorative options. Whether you prefer a traditional American influence or one from Japan, Spain or Scandinavia, you can find elegant rugs that protect your floor. The presence of area rugs can prevent the tendency to move furniture, creating scratches that mar the beauty of nature’s elegance.

Choosing a Trustworthy Flooring Contractor

At Texas Floors, our owners qualify as Master Certified Floor Inspectors, and their insistence on excellence guides the quality that makes us a leader in the field. We provide a hands-on experience that ensures each customer receives the personal attention of one of our owners. Friends since high school days, Ryan and Jason built a reputation for keeping promises and building customer relationships built on excellent work. Our pricing reflects our dedication to honesty and transparency, and we offer finance options for qualified customers. We honor a long-standing commitment to serving the community with quality, integrity and professionalism.

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is a great option for your home. This type of flooring is a quality product because it’s durable, long-lasting and beautiful. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is also easy to maintain. When you take care of your Texas floors properly, you’ll enhance their beauty and extend their lifespan. Here is how to care for your LVP flooring.

Step 1: Eliminate Dirt and Debris

Dirt and debris may scratch LVP flooring. Care for your floors by sweeping, dust mopping or vacuuming the busy areas of your home each day. If you take the time to clean your floors daily, then you’ll protect the finish. This step also keeps your floors hygienic.

If you decide to vacuum your floors, protect them by taking out the appliance’s beater bar or purchase a vacuum that doesn’t have one. This part of the cleaner may damage the surface of your floors.

Keep dirt and debris away from your floors by using doormats. It’s especially important to place them in high-traffic areas.

Consider investing in shoe shelves that you can place near your home’s entry door. This will give you a dedicated storage place for everyone’s footwear. It will also prevent people from walking across your floors in dirty shoes. Mud is a tough substance to clean.

Step 2. Clean with Safe Cleaning Products

There are cleaning products on store shelves that claim to safely clean LVP flooring, but before using one on your floor, read the label.

Don’t use cleaning products that contain abrasive substances like ammonia because these products may damage your floors. Also, formulas manufactured for mopping and ones developed to create a shiny surface may leave a coating behind that attracts soil, making them an unsuitable cleaning product for laminate vinyl plank flooring.

The best cleaning products for your LVP floors are commercial cleaners formulated for this type of flooring or a homemade cleaning solution. It’s easy to make a safe cleaning solution at home using vinegar or liquid dishwashing soap.

You can use white vinegar to clean many surfaces in your home including vinyl floors. Apple cider vinegar is also a substance that you can use to clean LVP floors. The product contains an acidity level that easily and quickly removes the build-up of dirt and debris. If you decide to use apple cider vinegar, then be sure to dilute it with water. Using full strength vinegar can dull your floor’s finish. Keep in mind that you can’t polish LVP floors to restore their shine.

For grimy floors, use liquid dishwashing soap. Just add two or three drops of dishwashing soap into your regular cleaning solution. This combination will make your floors shine. Be sure to use a microfiber mop when cleaning LVP floors to prevent standing water.

Step 3. Ready Your Cleaning Mixture

If you decide to use apple cider vinegar, mix one cup of the vinegar with one gallon of clean water. Submerge your microfiber mop into the cleaning mixture and wring it out. You are now ready to clean your floors. While cleaning, rinse your microfiber mop out regularly in hot water. Use white vinegar to disinfect your floors.

If you have a slippery kitchen floor, go with a liquid dishwashing soap such as Dawn. This brand of soap features a degreaser element that can eliminate cooking spills and stains.

Fill a sink or a bucket with warm water, and then, add a few drops of liquid dishwashing soap. Use your microfiber mop to clean your floors.

Avoid overusing your cleaning solution because an abundance of suds may make it tougher for you to clean. Too many soap suds may also create a film over your floor that attracts dust or debris.

Step 4. Rinse Your LVP Floors

If you decide to use a commercial cleaner, then you won’t need to rinse it unless the container directs you to do so. You shouldn’t need to rinse with any cleaner unless you accidently add too much soap. However, if the luxury vinyl plank flooring feels sticky to the touch after you’re done cleaning, you can rinse it using water and white vinegar. After rinsing it, allow your floors to air dry.

Step 5. Fix Scratches and Scrapes

If you’re conducting an LVP inspection and spot a small mark, you should be able to fix it with a little bit of buffing. You can also purchase a spot floor repair kit that will help you get rid of the mark. For larger scrapes or scratches, use a vinyl floor sealer after cleaning to conceal the mark.

One unusual way to get rid of scratches and scrapes on LVP flooring is to rub a tennis ball over the mark and polish it away. Other substances that may remove marks are jojoba oil or WD-40.

If your floor has experienced severe damage like a deep gouge or a dent, then you may need to call an LVP flooring installation company to come out and replace the plank. You may also need to replace a plank if a furniture piece has worn away your floor’s protective layer. For instance, if a chair leg has moved forward and back over the same spot, then you may need to replace that section of the floor.

Step 6. How to Clean Stains from LVP Floors

If there are stains that remain after you’re done cleaning with vinegar, a commercial product or dishwashing soap, then there are other stain removing techniques that you can try to get rid of the stain.

For instance, if there is a stubborn food stain, such as tomato sauce or red wine, then you may be able to use baking soda to remove it. Combine two tablespoons of baking soda with one teaspoon of water to form a paste. Then, spread it over the stain with a microfiber cloth. Rub the stain gently. After the stain is gone, rinse away the paste with water and dry it using a towel.

It’s possible to remove cosmetics, makeup, ink or grease stains from LVP flooring with rubbing alcohol. Moisten a clean microfiber towel with the rubbing alcohol and begin wiping the stains from the outside edge moving in. Shift the cloth into the middle as you go. This prevents the stains from spreading. Hair shampoo may work to eliminate these types of stains if you’re out of rubbing alcohol.

To remove products like nail polish, latex paint or dry-cleaning fluids, gently remove the substance from the floor once it has dried. Then, use a cleaning stripper recommended by the floor manufacturer to eliminate the stain. Mineral spirits may also work with these types of stains.

Dos and Don’ts of LVP Floor Maintenance

When spills occur, be sure to clean them up right when they happen. Also, never clean a vinyl floor with steel wool. Using this type of cleaning product will damage your floors.

If you need to move furniture, don’t drag it across the floor. Instead, place furniture pads underneath the furniture legs to protect your floors.

Limit the amount of water that you use to clean your floors. Avoid using detergents to clean because they will leave a film behind that will dull your floor. Before using a cleaning product, check the manufacturer’s label to prevent voiding the warranty. Also, don’t use a steamer to clean your floors, even if they are labeled as waterproof.

Regular LVP Floor Maintenance

Regular floor maintenance will help you keep your luxury vinyl plank flooring looking beautiful for many years. Use these helpful cleaning tips to make sure that you’re safely cleaning and caring for your vinyl floor.

For every homeowner, there comes a time when you have to choose whether you should get hardwood or carpet floor. Both of these flooring styles are timeless classics that have their own unique perks. The best choice really just depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle needs. To decide whether you should get a carpet or a hardwood floor, you need to carefully consider these factors.

What Style Works Best With Your Budget?

One of the first things we recommend homeowners do is consider costs. Getting an idea of what you can afford will help you narrow down your choices and avoid falling for something entirely outside your budget. Costs vary quite a bit depending on the product you select. Generally speaking, wood floors cost more than carpet floors. Carpet tends to be around $6 to $12 per square foot while wood is around $12 to $20 per square foot. Not only are most types of carpet cheaper, but installation is simpler and less expensive as well.

However, something to keep in mind is that carpet is associated with more ongoing costs for cleaning and replacement. In the long run, wood can be cheaper than carpet. So if you’re trying to decide whether you should stretch your budget, investing in wood now can save you money in the future.

Is Carpet or Hardwood Floor More Durable?

Wood might be a little pricier at first, but the nice thing about wood is that it lasts a very long time. Even if you have high-quality carpet that you carefully maintain, it needs to be replaced somewhat often. The delicate fibers eventually wear out, so you have to reinstall the carpet every 10 to 15 years.

Meanwhile, hardwood floors have extremely high durability rankings. Depending on the wood you select, it will survive somewhere between 50 to 100 years. As long as you pick the right protective coating, your wood will look gorgeous for decades.

Which Is More Stylish?

Of course, not every homeowner is concerned about following trends. However, if you want to make your home as stylish as possible, there are a few things to know. Without a doubt, hardwood floor materials are definitely trending right now. In fact, wood flooring is so popular that the majority of home buyers are willing to pay extra for homes with wood floors.

This doesn’t necessarily mean all homeowners have to banish carpet though. Wood flooring trends come and go in cycles. For example, decorative wood flooring was the ideal style during the Roaring Twenties, while shag carpet was the favorite choice in the 1970s. Carpet’s bound to come back in style eventually, so you should go ahead with whatever works best with your personal design preferences.

Is Carpet or Hardwood Easier to Maintain?

Cleaning up dust and grime is equally easy on wood or carpet. A brush or vacuum is enough to remove everyday buildup. However, wood does come with some unique maintenance benefits. It doesn’t stain as easily as carpet, so a tipped-over cup of juice won’t ruin your whole living room forever. When you want to do a deep-clean, mopping a wood floor is often simpler than shampooing or steam-cleaning a carpet.

That being said, carpet does perform better in some situations. Carpet doesn’t really get scuffed or scraped as quickly as wood does. A pet running around with untrimmed nails won’t cause noticeable dings in your carpet. Ultimately, whether wood or carpet is easier to clean will just depend on the types of messes you make.

Which Is More Eco-Friendly?

Trying to build a green home? Despite the fact that you have to cut down trees to make it, wood is more environmentally friendly. Wood is a renewable resource while many types of carpet are made with petroleum byproducts. However, if this is a concern for you, you can find some carpets with natural fibers that are almost as eco-friendly as wood.

Another sustainability concept to think about is each style’s insulating capabilities. Carpet is a far better insulator than wood. The fibers tend to block temperatures better, and unlike wood, carpet has a thick backing and no gaps between individual pieces. This makes it easier to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Not only does it reduce energy usage, but it ensures your utility bills are lower.

Is Wood or Carpet Better for Your Health?

Since wood is easier to clean, it can be better for people with allergies or breathing problems. Though carpet won’t pose a problem to the average person, it can trap a little extra dust or pet dander. This can be a bit of an issue for those who need their indoor air to be as pure as possible.

However, if you otherwise prefer carpet, you don’t necessarily need to let this feature stop you from getting it. A very rigorous cleaning routine can mitigate carpet’s tendency to hold onto pollen, dust, and other irritants.

What Flooring Style Is More Comfortable?

When choosing your flooring, don’t forget to consider how it feels when you walk on it. Hardwood has a firm, dense texture that is typically cool to the touch. Meanwhile, carpet is soft and plush, and it doesn’t feel chilly in the winter. Which style you prefer is entirely a matter of personal taste, so it’s impossible to say one is more comfortable than the other.

Ultimately, both carpet and hardwood can look great in your home. To figure out which style is right for you, you just have to think about your decor style, budget, and other preferences. Carpet is ideal for those who want something colorful, low-budget, or soft to the touch. Meanwhile, wood can be low-maintenance, stylish, and durable. Whatever style you choose, Texas Floors makes it easy to create your dream home. Check out our products now to find the perfect flooring for your needs.