Non-Resilient vs Resilient Flooring Differences

Most residential and commercial flooring falls into two categories: non-resilient flooring and resilient flooring. Non-resilient means hard and inflexible, while resilient means elastic and flexible. At Elegant Floor Services, we install non-resilient and resilient flooring in the Washington Metropolitan Area. Read our guide to the differences between these two categories of flooring, and then call us to request a free estimate.

What Is Resilient Flooring?

Resilient flooring can be stretched, compressed, or bent and will still return to its original shape. It is highly durable, and because it is softer than non-resilient flooring, it is comfortable underfoot and ideal for high-foot traffic areas. It can be manufactured in tiles, planks, or sheets and made out of vinyl, linoleum, cork, rubber, or a composite material.

What Is Non-Resilient Flooring?

Non-resilient flooring is inflexible, hard, and doesn’t bounce back when pressure is applied. It is also highly durable and can withstand high foot traffic, heavy wear and tear, and extreme environments. It is made from rigid materials like ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, solid hardwood, engineered wood, slate, and laminate or composite materials.

What Is Hybrid Resilient Flooring?

Hybrid resilient flooring combines different flooring materials to create a surface that is durable, 100% waterproof, and comfortable to walk or stand on. It blends the characteristics of laminate and vinyl flooring, creating a surface that is rigid, durable, low-maintenance, and practical.

Differences Between Non-Resilient & Resilient Flooring Types

In order to make an informed decision about what type of flooring is right for you, it’s important to understand the key differences between the two. Here are some of the most common ways to compare the two types of flooring:

• Durability – If you are installing flooring in a high-traffic area that could be exposed to water, humidity, extreme temperature, or wear and tear, you should choose non-resilient flooring. If you are installing flooring in your home and the area won’t be exposed to a lot of foot traffic, resilient flooring is more cost-effective.
• Elasticity – Hard surface flooring is not very elastic or flexible, so it isn’t ideal for areas where people will be on their feet for long periods of time, like retail stores, hospitals, and dance studios. Resilient flooring is more flexible and bouncy, which makes it ideal for high-traffic areas.
• Comfort – Resilient flooring is more comfortable as it offers a slight give, while non-resilient flooring can feel harder and less forgiving.
• Versatility – Both options are highly versatile depending on the material used, and can be installed in a wide range of environments.
• Style – Both types of flooring are available in a wide range of styles, colors, and designs, and can be manufactured as tiles, planks, or sheets.
• Care and Maintenance – Non-resilient flooring is easier to maintain and may last longer with proper care.
• Cost – Resilient flooring is often less expensive depending on the specific material. It is also more durable, so it can last longer. While some types of non-resilient flooring are less expensive, you should also consider their maintenance needs and their lifespan.

Choosing the Right Flooring for Your Needs

So, which type of flooring is right for your home or business? There are a few factors you should consider when making your choice:

• Location of Installation – If you are installing flooring in a large commercial space, you should choose the most durable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective option so that it can withstand a lot of foot traffic and last as long as possible.
• Size of Installation Area – The size of the installation area will also affect the cost of your flooring and the level of upkeep and maintenance it needs. Larger areas may benefit from more cost-effective, low-maintenance flooring, while smaller residential areas can benefit from a more aesthetic, flexible flooring type.
• Who Will Be Using the Area, and How Will It Be Used? – If the flooring is going to be installed in a space that serves a diverse population, such as a retail store, shopping mall, grocery store, or hospital, you should choose the most durable and practical option. If the flooring is going to be installed in a residential setting, you should choose an option that complements the decor and style of the home.
• How Much Care and Maintenance Do You Want to Commit to? – While both types of flooring are relatively low-maintenance, large commercial areas will always require more care and cleaning than residential homes.

Call Us to Request a Quote for Flooring Services

At Elegant Floor Services, we can help you choose the right flooring for your needs and budget. We have over 40 years of experience in the industry and specialize in residential and commercial engineered hardwood, solid hardwood, concrete, luxury vinyl plank, and natural stone flooring. Call us now or contact us online to request a quote for the installation of hybrid resilient, non-resilient, or resilient flooring in the Washington Metropolitan Area.

Guide to Protecting Your Floors from Furniture Damage

When you invest in expert flooring installation, you want to protect them from scratches, gouges, stains, and other damage. You can reduce the risk of damage by using the right floor protection. At Elegant Floor Services, we specialize in floor protection for all types of flooring materials in the Washington Metropolitan Area. Keep reading to learn more about how to prevent damage to flooring from furniture, pets, children, and more.

The Importance of Protecting All Flooring

Protecting your flooring from damage will extend its lifespan, maintain its beauty, and reduce the costs associated with flooring repairs and restoration. Damaged flooring can reduce the resale value of your home and make it less comfortable. Areas of damage can even cause safety hazards, such as splinters, trips, slips, falls, and other injuries.

Common Causes of Damage to Floors

The best way to protect your flooring is to take a proactive or preventive approach. Understanding the most common dangers to floors will help you avoid or minimize damage:

• Water and Moisture – The most common cause of damage to any type of flooring is water. Water and moisture can cause mold, mildew, stains, discoloration, warping, swelling, and rotting. Water damage can occur due to a leaky pipe, overflowing appliance, flooding, and poor drainage.
• Humidity – High humidity levels can damage natural wood flooring, luxury vinyl tiles or planks, and engineered hardwood flooring. Excess humidity will cause planks or tiles to expand and contract, which can lead to cracks, gaps, and warping.
• Wear and Tear – Flooring in high-traffic areas is susceptible to wear and tear, such as scratches, gouges, stains, discoloration, chips, and other damage.
• Heavy Furniture or Other Objects – Heavy furniture, exercise equipment, and other objects can put too much pressure on flooring, causing dips, depressions, and gouges. Moving heavy objects across floors can cause scratches, gouges, chips, and damage.
• Improper Cleaning and Care – When you don’t care for your floors properly, they are at a higher risk of damage. As dirt, rocks, dust, and other debris build-up, your floors are more likely to become scratched or gouged.
• Pests – Pests and insects can also damage flooring, either from damage from their urine and feces or from them gnawing or clawing at the floors.
• Kids and Pets – Kids and pets can damage floors during play, causing scratches, gouges, chips, and spills and stains.

Understanding the Different Types of Floor Protectors

You have many different choices for protecting your floors. The method you choose will depend on the flooring material, the location and function of the room the flooring is in, and what you are protecting it from. Here are the most useful types of floor protectors:

• Felt Pads – These are small circles or squares that can be adhered to the legs of furniture to protect the floors from scratches and scuffs.
• Furniture Pads – These are foam, plastic, felt, or rubber mats that can be placed underneath large pieces of furniture or exercise equipment to limit or prevent damage.
• Furniture Sliders – These are fabric, felt, or rubber mats used to move furniture into a home or from one place to another without damaging the floor.
• Plastic or Rubber Mats – These are mats or sheets that can be placed in high-traffic areas to protect floors from shoes and wear and tear.
• Carpeting and Area Rugs – Carpeting and area rugs can be used to protect the flooring beneath from damage from kids, pets, shoes, and foot traffic.
• Rolling Chair Mats – These are plastic or rubber mats placed underneath rolling chairs to prevent the casters from damaging the floor.

Care & Maintenance to Protect Your Floors

High-quality floors require special care and maintenance to extend their lifespan, prevent damage, and maintain their beauty. Here are some tips for cleaning, caring for, and maintaining your flooring:

• Use floor mats and furniture pads to protect floors from furniture.
• Use area rugs or mats to protect high-traffic areas from foot traffic.
• Keep pets’ nails trimmed and keep them away from expensive flooring.
• Put down area rugs or play mats in areas where children will be playing.
• Regularly vacuum, dust mop, or sweep flooring to remove debris.
• Clean up spills right away to prevent stains and discoloration.
• Use the right type of cleaner and cleaning tools for the flooring material.

Contact Elegant Floor Services to Learn More

At Elegant Floor Services, our contractors have years of experience in flooring installation, repair and restoration, and maintenance. We work with residential and commercial customers to enhance the beauty and comfort of their property through quality flooring. Call us now or contact us online to request an estimate, explore your options for floor protection in the Washington Metropolitan Area, or learn more about our flooring repairs and restoration services.

Guide to Luxury Vinyl Waterproof Flooring

Luxury vinyl flooring (LVF) is designed to mimic the appearance of natural stone or wood. It is a highly durable, versatile, and low-maintenance option for people who want a cost-effective alternative to natural hardwood or natural stone flooring. At Elegant Floor Services, we offer a wide range of colors, styles, and designs for luxury vinyl plank in the Washington Metropolitan Area. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of this flooring, and then call us to request a free estimate.

What Is Luxury Vinyl Flooring?

Luxury vinyl flooring is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a plastic manufactured from crude oil. The planks are constructed of many layers: a foam or cork backing, a PVC layer, a glass fiber layer, a print layer, and a wear layer or top coating. LVF can be manufactured into planks or tiles in a wide range of colors, textures, designs, and finishes that mimic the appearance of more expensive hardwood or natural stone flooring.

Are There Different Types of Luxury Vinyl Flooring?

There are many different types of LVF. The type you choose will depend on where it will be installed, your home’s architecture and decor, your budget, and your personal aesthetic preferences:

• Stone Plastic Composite – Made from limestone and stabilizers to create a rock-solid core that is highly durable and flexible. Perfect for areas with heavy foot traffic or that could sustain a lot of impact, such as living areas, kitchens, and bathrooms.
• Wood Plastic Composite – Made from wood pulp, plasticizers, and a foaming agent to create a lightweight yet dense core. Ideal for enhanced comfort while still maintaining durability. WPC is 100% waterproof and can be used in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, living rooms, bedrooms, laundry rooms, and utility rooms.
• Loose Lay – Manufactured in thicker planks with a special adhesive backing for grip and easy installation. There is no need to use glue, nails, or click-lock methods. They can be easily replaced if damaged and are ideal for use in rental properties.
• Glue-Down – Thinner planks or tiles that require adhesive for installation on the subfloor. They are more permanent and less expensive, making them ideal for commercial spaces or areas that get heavy foot traffic.
• Rigid Core – Manufactured with a dense core that enhances firmness, rigidity, and durability. It can be used in almost any space for any application and is highly resistant to dents or impact damage.
• Interlocking – Uses a click-lock system for ease of installation. Planks or tiles can be easily clicked into place without the need for glue or adhesive.
• Embossed in Register – This is a finishing technique used to improve the surface aesthetics of the flooring. It can add a premium texture that mimics wood grain or natural stone marbling for enhanced beauty.

How Is Luxury Vinyl Made?

LVT is made from layers of raw materials that are mixed, melted, and fused together and fed into an extruder, which forces them through a die to create a sheet. The sheets are then cooled, stabilized, and stacked on top of each other, then fed through continuous lamination equipment, like a rotocure machine, or large heat presses, like a static press. This equipment heats and presses the layers together to create multi-layered sheets of flooring and a polyurethane top coating is applied to enhance durability. These sheets are then cleaned, cooled, and cut into smaller sections called slabs. The slabs are cut into tiles or planks.

Benefits of Installing Luxury Vinyl

There are many reasons that more and more people are choosing to install luxury vinyl flooring. The biggest benefits are:

• It mimics the appearance of more expensive flooring, such as ceramic tile, porcelain tile, natural stone flooring like marble or terrazzo, or hardwood flooring.
• Is pet-friendly and kid-friendly.
• Can withstand heavy foot traffic without sustaining damage.
• Is waterproof and unlikely to develop stains or discoloration or cause mold or mildew growth in damp or high-humidity areas.
• It is resistant to scratches, stains, gouges, and other damage.
• It is low-maintenance and doesn’t require any special products or tools to care for or clean.
• It is highly versatile and can be installed in almost any environment and over any type of subfloor.

Care & Maintenance of Luxury Vinyl

With proper care and maintenance, your flooring can last for decades before it needs to be replaced. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining luxury vinyl flooring:

• Sweep or vacuum your flooring regularly to remove dust, dirt, rocks, pet hair, and other debris.
• Clean up spills right away with a soft mop or soft microfiber cloth.
• Use a non-abrasive, no-rinse floor cleaner that is designed for use on LVF.
• Avoid using excessive amounts of water and only mop with a damp mop.
• Do not drag heavy furniture over the floor.
• Use furniture sliders or protective mats to reduce damage to flooring from furniture, athletic equipment, and other heavy items.

Call Our Vinyl Plank Flooring Installers

At Elegant Floor Services, we have over 40 years of experience as vinyl floor installers in the Washington Metropolitan Area. We specialize in flooring for commercial and residential installation, and we also offer kid and pet-friendly flooring options. Call us now or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our flooring contractors and get a free estimate for professional installation of luxury vinyl plank or luxury vinyl tile flooring.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

Are you looking for a versatile, stylish flooring option that won’t break the budget? Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is a great choice that can offer durability, a wide range of design choices, and a simple installation process. With LVP flooring, you can opt for professional installation or install your new flooring yourself. Here’s a closer look at what you should know about luxury vinyl plank flooring installation in the Washington Metro Area, along with some helpful tips from our pros to get the job done right.

Why Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Is a Smart Choice

LVP flooring is a great choice because it is resistant to scratches, waterproof or water-resistant, budget-friendly, and resistant to fading and UV damage. Plus, luxury vinyl plank flooring offers seemingly endless design choices, as it can mimic the look of natural stone and wood in all types of stains and grain patterns. It’s also a popular choice for homeowners because it is one of the easiest types of flooring to install, so you might choose to install it yourself.

Pre-Installation Essentials You Can’t Skip

Before installing LVP flooring, you must remove everything from the room where the flooring will be installed. LVP is a floating floor, so it can be installed over many types of existing flooring, but if the space currently has carpet, vinyl flooring with cushion backs, or damaged flooring, the existing flooring will need to be removed. Prior to installation, the subfloor should be thoroughly cleaned.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Vinyl plank flooring clicks and locks into place, making it easy to install without a big mess. Here are the steps you need to follow:

• Measure Your Space and Determine the Flooring Layout – Measuring your space will let you determine how much flooring you need. Be sure to consider the orientation of your vinyl planks when taking measurements. It’s generally best to install planks parallel to the longest wall in the room.
• Gather Your Tools – You’ll need a few specific luxury vinyl plank flooring installation tools, including measuring tape, a level, vinyl cutters or a utility knife, a pencil, a rubber mallet, and a straightedge.
• Check Your Flooring for Defects – Before installing your flooring, inspect it for any defects or imperfections. Then, shuffle the planks to create a more natural appearance, as each one will have a unique grain pattern.
• Prepare the Subfloor – Make sure the subfloor is rigid, level, and clean before installing new flooring. You may need to sand down raised areas or fill in gaps to make a smooth and even surface.
• Lay Down Your Planks – Once your subfloor is ready, you can begin to lay down the planks. You’ll need 1/4” of buffer space between the edge of the floor and the wall. You will likely need to cut planks along the edge to get the right fit. Use the cut pieces to start the next row so that you achieve a staggered look for a more pleasing grain pattern. Work from right to left on each row. Lightly tap the planks with the mallet to lock them in place.
• Reattach Baseboards and Molding – After your flooring is in place, you can reattach your baseboards and molding. Apply caulk to the seams for a smooth and flawless finish.

What Should You Do After Installation to Keep Your Floors Looking New?

Vinyl floors are easy to maintain. Regular sweeping or vacuuming will remove dirt and dust, and occasional mopping with a mild cleaner can remove tougher grime. Clean up any spills right away.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Installation

Although the installation process is relatively straightforward, there are some common mistakes you should avoid:

• Not cleaning and leveling the subfloor
• Not leaving a ¼” expansion gap around the floor edges
• Using too much force along the joint edges
• Not staggering plank seams on each row
• Inaccurate measurements or cuts

Expert Tips to Make Your Installation Easier and Flawless

To prevent your LVP flooring from looking like a failed DIY project, follow these helpful tips from our pros:

• Undercut door jambs to allow the planks to fit underneath.
• Let your planks sit in the room for 24-48 hours before installation, so they don’t expand or contract significantly after installation.
• Measure each room carefully.
• Plan the layout before installing your planks to avoid ending up with an extremely narrow final row or gaps in the flooring.
• Purchase 10-15% more flooring than you need to cover the room’s square footage to allow for mistakes, waste, and future repairs.

Find the Right Flooring for Your Home

If you are considering luxury vinyl plank flooring for your home, contact Elegant Floor Services to explore our selection and get a free estimate for your flooring project. Whether you choose DIY or professional installation, we can help you find the right vinyl planks to suit your tastes and budget. Contact us today to get started.

Travertine floors are a popular choice for homeowners because they offer a warm and elegant appearance and can last for decades with the right care and maintenance. One of the essential components of travertine floor care is professional floor sealing, which protects the porous surface of the natural stone tile and provides a beautiful, high-shine finish. Elegant Floor Services can take care of your stone floor restoration needs in the Washington Metro Area. Continue reading for a closer look at the signs that your tile floors need professional sealing.

Get to Know Your Travertine Tile Floors

Travertine is a type of natural stone that is formed in mineral springs and caves. It has a light tan color and a unique textured surface that adds depth to your flooring. Travertine tiles may be buffed for a glossy appearance, or they may be honed for a smooth matte finish. With either style, travertine tiles need to be sealed because the tile is porous, so it can absorb water, chemicals, and spills, which might stain, discolor, or degrade your floors over time.

Key Signs Your Travertine Floors Need Professional Sealing

Your floors face regular wear and tear from foot traffic, pets, cleaning, and tracked-in dirt and grime. Additionally, humid weather and heat can further stress your floor’s finish. As the sealant on your travertine floors wears down, the tile may become damaged with scratches, stains, or etch marks that need to be polished out before the floor is resealed. To prevent long-term damage to your floors, routinely inspect them for common signs that the sealant has worn down and needs to be reapplied:

• Increased Porosity – Sealant creates a watertight barrier over your travertine tile, so if you notice that the tile is more porous, the sealant has likely worn down. A quick test to assess the porosity of your tile is the water test, in which you will pour a small drop of water onto a clean spot on the floor. If the water beads up, the sealer is working properly. If the water soaks in and darkens the stone, plan to reseal your floors.
• Dull or Faded Appearance – You might notice that the floors begin to look uneven, with higher traffic areas appearing darker or duller. Areas might look chalky or lack their smooth and vibrant finish.
• Stains and Discoloration – Sealed travertine is resistant to stains, as liquids will sit on the surface of the tile, so you can easily wipe them away. Without a proper seal, liquids may penetrate the tile and leave behind stubborn stains.
• Increased Need for Cleaning – Another common sign that your travertine floors need sealing is that they seem to hold on to more dirt and grime, so you have to clean them more often.

Benefits of Professional Sealing Over DIY

By seeking out a professional for stone floor restoration, you can ensure the best possible results while minimizing potential damage to your floor. Our professional team will help you choose the right sealer, deep clean the entire surface of the floor, repair any damage to the tiles or grout, and then apply the sealer evenly and smoothly.

How to Maintain Sealed Travertine Floors

When you keep your floors sealed properly, travertine tile cleaning and maintenance is simple and easy. Simply sweeping and mopping will remove dirt and eliminate buildup. You should also address any spills right away, especially if you spill something that’s prone to staining, like oil or red wine. Using door mats, hallway runners, and area rugs will help protect your tile in high-traffic areas and provide a buffer between your heavy furniture and the floor.

Restore Your Stone Floors With Elegant Floor Services

Elegant Floor Services provides comprehensive stone floor restoration, cleaning, and sealing, so you can maintain the beauty and value of your natural stone flooring. If you need travertine tile sealing in the Washington Metro Area, contact us today for a free quote.