Your Flooring Can Help with Allergies!

There are so many things in life that cause allergies, don't let your home be one of them! Unfortunately, your flooring can help attribute to the allergens in your home, but with a few changes, you can improve this drastically! Here are a few flooring options we offer that can help improve the air you breathe.

Allergens That Invade the Home

There are several different allergens in your home, and if you know what they are, you'll be better prepared to fight them.

Dust Mites - Droppings, body parts, and husks can be found in any kind of fabric in the home, including your carpet. These little invaders are microscopic and you can't see them, but that doesn't change the fact that they are around...everywhere.
Mold - This can grow on any surface where there is moisture. This is especially true in areas that are frequently damp, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Warm Blooded Pets - They shed animal dander, and can contribute to allergies by salivating, urinating, and carrying things in from the yard. We love our furry friends, but to live peaceably with them we have to make a few changes sometimes.

Cork Flooring

Cork flooring is a wonderful option on many different levels. It's antimicrobial because of suberin, a naturally occurring substance that can reduce mold growth, mildew bacteria and other allergens. The hard surface makes it easier to clean with a dust mop, and even though it is a porous material, the finish prevents pockets where allergens can collect.

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring in Madison is the most beautiful and desirable of flooring. It's a great choice for people with sensitivities to allergens. The hard surface leaves no room for dust mites to hide, and it cleans like a breeze - leaving a dust and hair-free surface.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is easy to clean, and does not harbor or hide dust and dander, this makes it a great option when you're looking to rid your home of allergens. One thing to watch is that some laminate floors can have emissions from the adhesives used during the manufacturing process that can trigger allergies. If you have any concerns about this, ask our salesmen and they'll be able to help you.

Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo is an awesome choice for anyone with allergies for many reasons. It offers the same hard surface that protects from mites making a home in your floor, as well as being water proof to help with the mold and mildew. Not to mention bamboo floors in Madison homes are extremely beautiful!

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) Flooring

With similarities to cork, LVT flooring can be a wonderful option if you struggle with allergies. The easy care and cleaning, plus the hard surface make it a fabulous choice for your family!

Not only are these flooring options absolutely beautiful, but you'll find that they can help with the allergies you may be suffering from. Of course, flooring isn't just for helping with your allergies! A beautiful floor can add so much beauty to your home, as well as help with the value of your home. If you're looking to upgrade the flooring in your home, either for your health, or the beauty it can add to your home. Visit our flooring showroom in Madison and let our team help you choose a flooring that will add life to your home.

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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How to Pet Proof Your Floors

Your flooring will always receive a lot of wear and tear as you live life on it. Between kids, spills, dirt, shoes and food your floors are always needing to be cleaned and cared for, but throw a pet in the mix and now you'll need to be even more cautious. Some flooring types are better than others when you have pets, and there are ways to protect them! Here are a few tips for pet-proofing your floors!

Different Floors - Different Cleaners

Carpet - Carpet and rugs are probably going to show the most wear and stains if not cared for properly. Stains and smells can soak all the way to the padding, which can make them a challenge to clean. Some carpets do come with a sealant on them, and this can help repel stains. Your best friend will be a shampooer and a vacuum. You can get pet stain removers to get the stain out, and then we recommend a scheduled shampoo of the carpets and rugs to keep them looking nice, and reduce the chances of having to replace the entire thing.

Wood - If your wood floors are finished, you'll have less of a problem than with floors that are unfinished. The goal is to get the messes cleaned up as quickly as possible. Putting rugs down will help with protecting your floors, and always be sure to clean under the rug when messes happen. Untreated messes that seep through the rug can be disastrous.

Laminate - The coating on these floors can dissolve from urine, and moisture can make the laminate warp. Your best bet is to get the mess cleaned up immediately. Laminate isn't sensitive to cleaners, but it is to acidic messes.

Ways to Protect Your Floors

Carpet - A temporary way to protect your carpet, which can be a bit unsightly - but very effective, is to put a heavy plastic covering that sticks on one side over the carpet. If you are getting ready to install carpeting, a good solution is a moisture proof pad! You can also spray something such as Scotchguard on your carpet to create a barrier. You'll probably have to reapply it monthly at least.

Wood - Vinyl tablecloths with a fabric backing can help when covering a large area. For absorption you can try newspapers or paper towels on top. If you're looking for something more permanent, you can use a water based coating to create a barrier that will help repel messes. Even with a barrier, you will still want to clean messes up immediately.

Laminate - You won't be able to apply a coating to laminate, but you can utilize the tips from above to help save your laminate from wear and tear.

These are a just a few tips that can help you protect your floors from your favorite, fuzzy family members! After a certain amount of time, some flooring just needs replaced - and when that day comes, we're here for you! Our flooring showroom in Madison is stocked full of flooring options that will leave your home looking beautiful! From carpet, LVT tile, laminate, hardwoods, bamboo and cork, we have MANY options for you and your family. We have the best flooring selection in Madison, and we can't wait to help you improve your home. Come visit the best flooring store in Madison and let us show you how beautiful your home can look!

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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What Do You Do With Water Damage?

It happens. Whether you left the kitchen sink on and forgot, or your water heater leaked, sometimes you will have to deal with water damage in your home. There's no use crying over spilled water though, your floors can be repaired or replaced. Here are a few things things you need to figure out before starting the repairs.

Are Your Floors Damaged?

Wood & Laminate Floors: When wood floors are damaged, you will notice cupping, with dips and raised edges in the planks. Dark spots may also be found in your floors; sometimes it's just part of the natural pattern, but it could also be mold. Your floor planks may bubble upward creating a crown shape, or there could also be buckling, with the planks being completely removed from the floor underneath. Be aware and pay attention to your floors after water damage.

Vinyl Flooring: If you notice any stains or discoloration that were not there to begin with, you could have damage and mold happening.

3 Steps to Repairing Your Floors

1. Remove Water - The first thing you'll want to do is remove all of the excess water. For large pools of water, you can use a wet vacuum. After you've taken care of those, you can point fans towards the area to assist with the drying. You may even use dehumidifiers to help remove the water from the air, and the floors. Sometimes just getting the area dry is all you need, but usually more work will be necessary.

2. Remove Damaged Flooring - After you've dried the area completely and have decided there is water damage, you'll want to remove the damaged flooring. With laminate, you can remove the boards starting at the nearest wall. Hardwood floors are a little more complicated; you'll use a saw to cut into the floor and a pry bar to remove the damaged planks. With your vinyl, flooring you'll use a utility to cut out the damaged area and then find something you can pry it off the floor with.

3. Inspect the Subfloor - After you've removed the damaged flooring, you'll want to inspect the subfloor. If it's plywood, it will likely have to be replaced. If it's concrete then you'll check if there is any remaining moisture. If you still find moisture, continue drying it with the steps from above and then reinstall new flooring.

Floors For Less

We certainly hope that you won't have to deal with water damage, but mistakes happen, and sometimes you can't prevent a flooded floor. Whether you're looking for a new flooring due to water damage, or because you're upgrading your home, we have the best flooring in Madison! We would love to help you choose a flooring that will compliment your home and be very functional as well.  Come visit our flooring showroom in Madison and let our experience make your home look better!

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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5 Flooring Types For Your Climate

When choosing a new flooring for your home, there are many things to consider: wear and tear, maintenance, ease of installation, and finally - your climate! Sometimes where you live can have a direct impact on the flooring you select. When choosing flooring in Madison, you may need to consider the cold weather as a factor in your flooring, though that doesn't have to be your MAIN consideration. Here are a few flooring varieties and how they can be influenced by your climate.

Comfy Carpets

Carpet is always a wonderful selection. It can come in rolls or tiles, and short or fuzzy fibers. There is a carpet to suit practically any of your needs! Everyday cleaning requires vacuuming, and you will find that carpet stains worse than other flooring options. You can steam clean your carpets regularly to help keep dust and dirt from inhabiting your carpet. You can also use a spray on carpet cleaner to help with stains. Whether you live in warm or cold climates, carpet is a great option. If you live in a wet, damp climate, be aware that carpet can harbor mold and mildew much easier than other flooring options.

Luxurious Laminates

This flooring is up and coming in the world! Modern technology allows for laminate to duplicate the look and texture of wood in such a way that you can hardly notice the difference between it and the real deal. The upkeep of laminate is very similar to wood, you have to take care when using water and liquids to clean it, and keep moisture to a minimum. A dust mop will definitely help you maintain the luster of your new floor. As for your climate, laminate could seem chilly, and in warm climates that would be very welcome! If you live in a cooler climate, heating elements can be installed underneath, and there is no greater feeling than walking across a warm floor on a cold morning. If you experience a lot of moisture, beware that the edges can swell and you'll have to replace the panel.

Trendy Vinyl Tiles

Luxury vinyl tile can stand up to wear and tear. So you can mop this flooring to your hearts content! Vinyl tile is suitable for any climate. It can be chilly, so if it's warm outside, you will love that! The tiles are easily replaced if you damage one, and this product is eco-friendly! This flooring is a great option no matter where you live.

Honest Hardwoods

This is such a tried and true option for flooring. It has been around for hundreds of years, through many different climates. It will be cool underfoot which makes it a great option for warm climates. You can also install heaters underneath some wood floors, which will make it absolutely magnificent in the colder climates! Damp and dry conditions can cause issues for hardwood flooring, as the dampness will cause swelling and the dryness will cause shrinking, but high-quality sealers will help guard your floor against these cracks. Another great option is engineered wood flooring, which is great for all climates!

Our showroom has many beautiful flooring options for your home, no matter where you live!  If you have any questions you can visit our flooring showroom in Madison and let our team assist you with any concerns you may have. You can generally make any flooring work in any climate, but sometimes it's a good idea to double check first. When looking for great flooring options in Madison, we have some great styles in our showroom! You will also find many of our flooring options are very compatible with heating elements under your floors, which will make your Wisconsin winters SO much more bearable! Come visit our showroom today and let our expertise help you make your home beautiful.

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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The Sound of Silence: Soundproofing Your Home

A large reason that people are afraid of upgrading to hardwood or laminate in their home is because they fear it will be noisy. In addition, sometimes people put carpet over their hardwood floors because the noise level is much higher than they would like. At Floors For Less, we are here for all of your decisions about flooring in Madison, and we would love to answer your questions! Here are a few things you can do to help with soundproofing your rooms.

Soundproof From The Start

It's easiest to sound proof your home when you are first building, but not all hope is lost if your are re-vamping your current home. When you start from the beginning you can install sound isolating floor mats and anti-sound boards that are installed beneath your new flooring. It will help keep sound locked in place, rather than the sounds transmitting into the upper or lower levels of your home.

Absorbing the Sound

Obviously an easy solution if your home is too noisy is to add carpet. We have a great selection of beautiful carpet in Madison. Swing by and we'd love to show you how you can improve the noise level in your home by just adding carpet! If your looking for a quicker solution just changing some of the decor in your house can help! By putting a rug in your room, you will help absorb the noise in your home. You can also add nice curtains on all of your windows.

We want your home to be a place where you can relax, play and live, and we realize that your floors play a HUGE part in your lifestyle! Let our expertise in flooring save you the hassle and worry of having to figure flooring out on your own. Our flooring showroom in Madison has many options for you and your family. We are the experts on wood, laminate, carpet, LVT tile, bamboo and cork. We can walk you through the buying process and help you to create a space in your home that reflects everything that makes you unique. Stop by our showroom and let us show you what Floors for Less can do for you and your home!

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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FAQ About Hardwood Floors

The flooring in a home is a vital part of the aesthetics and functionality. When you find pre-existing hardwood floors, you generally feel like you've won the lottery! Yet it can feel intimidating when you choose to upgrade to beautiful hardwood floors in Madison. The investment may seem significant, but the benefits to hardwood are amazing, and a choice you won't regret. To help you with your research of hardwood floors, here are a few Frequently Asked Questions.

Is it safe to use hardwood flooring in a kitchen?

You can install wood in your kitchen, but you must use caution. If food and liquid spills aren't addressed properly, you can permanently stain the wood or damage the finish. If you do install hardwood floors in the kitchen, be sure to wipe up spills immediately with a dry, clean cloth. To help with the wear and tear you can put a large rug in the kitchen, and be sure to keep smaller rugs by the stove and the sink.

Should I expect color variations in my hardwood flooring?

Every board is like a finger print, and every board will have grain variations. The wood also accepts the stain differently, which is what makes hardwood floors so appealing. The natural variation in the wood is stunning and beautiful. The lighter the stain, the more variation you will see. Whereas the darker stains tend to mask the grain and variation in the wood.

What can I do if the finish becomes dull?

When the finish of your flooring becomes dull due to foot traffic over many, many years, you can screen and re-coat the floors. Lightly sand them with 220 grit sandpaper just enough to roughen up the surface. Then re-coat the floors with a fresh coat of finish! This should solve the dull-ness, but it generally will not remove embedded dirt, scratch marks, or any dents. Removing those marks would entail sanding the finish off completely and re-staining and re-finishing the floors.

Is hardwood flooring a green environmentally friendly product?

Our Bamboo and Cork floors are not the only green, eco-friendly flooring in Madison! Hardwood flooring that is harvested in the US and Canada is one the of the best renewable materials. The harvesting process has changed so drastically over the years, and we are re-planting more trees now than there were 100 years ago. About 95% of all our forests generate four times the oxygen and clean up four times the carbon dioxide as the old growth forests. You can be assured that hardwood floors are a practical and beautiful flooring, but also very environmentally friendly.

Can I install hardwood flooring in high traffic areas?

No matter how durable the finish when grit, dirt and stones are tracked across your floors you will see premature wear and tear on the finish. To get the longest wear out of your new investment, we recommend heavy mats outside all exterior doors, with small rugs covering the wood on the inside. Regularly vacuum your hardwood flooring with a soft bristle brush and keep felt chair glides on all furniture. Cleaning your floors with a hardwood floor cleaner formulated for your floors can also help.

Which is better, prefinished wood floors or job site finished wood flooring?

Prefinished flooring allows for a strength and durability that only factory finishes can offer. Some finishes will have "aluminum-oxide-ceramic-titanium" particles mixed into the finish before applied giving it special durability to abrasive wear and tear. The installation time is also shorter with prefinished floors, sometimes they can be installed in just one day and then you can get your home back to normal. Site finished floors can takes up to 3-4 days to sand and re-finish, and then you'll have to stay off of them for a few additional days for the finish to dry. Each type has benefits, but pre-finished flooring has some major benefits.  

When you're looking to upgrade to hardwood floors in your home, we have the best flooring in Madison! We would love to show you the different colors and styles to bring out the best in your home. We have many other flooring options to choose from as well. Between our laminate, LVT tile and carpet you are sure to find a flooring that will add to the value and flow of your home. 

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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3 Tools YOU Need for Cleaning Laminate Floors

The day has finally come, you have done your research and picked out the best laminate flooring in Madison. You brought it home, spent time installing it, and now it's time to clean it. You want to make sure you have the right tools to accomplish this. Laminate floors are easy to clean, but doing it the wrong way can cause some serious problems. Here are three basic, but important, tools you want to keep in your closet for cleaning your beautiful investment.

Vacuum Cleaner

You would think a broom would be the best way to clean your floors, but they leave a lot of particles behind. Then when you go back to mop, you'll end up smearing dust and water across your floors, ending with a streaky look on your floors. The first effective way to get your laminate flooring clean is to set your vacuum on the the "bare floor" setting and get all of the dust trapped in your vacuum.

Dust Mop

The dust mop will pick up the final pieces of dirt that the vacuum didn't get. Run across the floors with the dust mop, and if you have a pile of dirt you can use the vacuum hose to clean the rest of it up. You can also spray a laminate floor cleaner on the dust mop before going across, but do NOT spray the cleaner on the floor, only the mop.

White Vinegar, Water, and a Bucket

You can mix 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar in 1 gallon of water, and if a vegetable oil polish has ever been used on the floor, double the amount of vinegar. You can dampen an old towel in the mixture and wring out ALL of the excess moisture. You can wrap the towel around a sponge mop head and clean the floors. The towel allows you to wring out more moisture than just the sponge mop. When too much water is applied, the moisture will work it's way in between the boards, then causing them to warp. So the goal is to use as little water as possible.

There are many different cleaners on the market that will work as well as the vinegar, but whatever you decide, remember to keep moisture to a minimum. Laminate floors are an excellent way to bring in the look of hardwood without all of the cost, and installation hassle. Depending on the size of the room, you can have your laminate installed in a day, and fairly hassle free! Our storefront has many varieties of different and beautiful flooring in Madison, and we'd love for you to come in a take a look! Whether you're looking to upgrade to laminate, wood or tile, we have the best flooring in Madison. Let us help you choose a new flooring that will make your home beautiful!

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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5 Considerations for Purchasing Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors bring a beauty to a room that cannot be contested by any other flooring. The warmth it affords, along with the stylish appearance, and durability are what makes it stand apart. When choosing hardwood floors for your home, the first place to start is by visiting the best hardwood flooring dealer in Madison. We would love to walk through the process and show you some beautiful samples in our showroom! Hardwood floors are an investment that will last you an extremely long time, and when chosen properly will never be a regret. Here are 5 things to consider before you start your flooring remodel to make sure you make a good purchase.

Types of Wood Flooring

There are two primary types of wood that you'll see - solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. Solid wood flooring is made from solid wood logs that are joined together with tongue and groove. Solid wood can be purchased in pre-finished or un-finished planks and they will range in thickness. Engineered wood flooring consists of multiple layers of plywood and composite materials and then topped with hardwood. While both types of floors are wonderful, they are ideal for different parts of the home. Hardwood floors will expand and contract with weather changes, so the best place to use them is on the ground floor or above grade. Whereas engineered wood flooring is more stable because of the layers, and can be installed on many levels of the home such as your bathrooms and basements.

Wood Species for Your Home

With many different types of wood on the market, you'll need to know the differences. The harder the wood the more durable it will be. When putting wood in a high traffic area, you will want to be sure that you are selecting a harder wood. Red and White Oak set the benchmark for hardness in the U.S. and are very popular for domestic wood floors. There are many other popular choices of hard wood such as Hickory and Maple. Though Walnut is a softer wood, it is also just as popular. Many other exotic woods are top sellers as well; you will find Brazilian Cherry, Brazilian Koa and Cumaru are some of the hardest species available. The harder the wood, the better it will be for the those high-traffic areas in your home.

Grain, Color and Style

Wood flooring comes in so many colors, styles, species and finishes that it will be pretty easy for you find something that will fit the style of your home. From a rustic country home to a modern and classy cottage there are styles that will fit your home and taste. We have many beautiful selections in stock and our staff would love to help you find the best wood floor in Madison. There are many different widths varying from 2-1/4" to 3-1/4", the plank width can make a big difference in the final look of your home.

Finishing Touch

The finish is the determining factor in the look of your wood floors. The same wood species will look entirely different with a clear gloss versus a wire scraped, distressed or hand scraped finish. There are also many different gloss finishes that can change the look of your wood. Some wood comes with one to three coats of sealant, while others have up to eight. The number of coats will determine how glossy it looks. With pre-finished hardwood, the urethane finish is applied under factory controlled conditions using multiple thin coats. The urethane is instantly cured, first with UV lighting and then a ceramic based material. It is mixed into the urethane which in turn makes the water-based urethane much more rugged and abrasion resistant. The result is a floor that will hold it’s original beauty longer than a job-sanded-on-site application.

Installation

Wood floors are generally installed by nailing, stapling or gluing the planks to a sub-floor. There is also a new variety of "click" engineered flooring that can be installed easily and "floated" above the sub-floor. Installation can be intimidating and sometimes an expensive proposition, but don't let it scare you. Whether you are hiring someone to install your floors, or you are an adventurous DIYer, the joy you will get from this beautiful flooring can't compare.

Hardwood flooring is such a wonderful investment for you and your home. Upgrading the flooring in your home can offer the biggest return for your home value. When looking for the best flooring dealer in Madison, we are the place to come! We have a wide variety of flooring, not just hardwood, and can help you find the best flooring for your home. We would love for you to stop by and check out the great selection we have. Let us help you create the home of your dreams with just one change!

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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Fourth of July Fun Facts!

Fourth of July is finally here! This holiday is always full of so many fun traditions and events. Your Madison flooring outlet would like to wish you and your family a wonderful Fourth of July weekend! May it be spent with lots of food, fireworks, family, friends and GREAT flooring! To celebrate we're giving you 10 fun facts about the holiday.

1. The first recorded fireworks in England were at the wedding of King Henry VII in 1486.

2. A rocket can reach speeds of 150mph, but the shell can reach as high as 200 meters.

3. The record for the largest firework display consisted of 66,326 fireworks and was achieved in Portugal in 2006.

4. Dreaming about fireworks means that you like to be the center of attention and are showing off to others. It also symbolizes enthusiasm and exhilaration.

5. The earliest documentation of fireworks dates back to 7th century China. They were invented more than 2000 years ago in China.

6. Queen Elizabeth was so fascinated with fireworks that she created an honorary title, "Fire Master of England" for the individual who created the best fireworks.

7. A sparkler burns at a temperature over 15 times the boiling point of water. Three sparklers burning together generate the same heat as a blowtorch. When your sparkler goes out, put it in a bucket of water to insure that it is completely put out.

8. Firework sounds can be determined by different chemical combinations within the tubes. Cylindrical tubes can create whistling sounds, aluminum flakes make hissing noises, and flash powder creates the big, loud "booms."

9. Walt Disney World may just love fireworks the most. The resort consumes the largest amount of fireworks in the U.S. per year, thanks to nightly firework displays over the Magic Kingdom.

10. Americans LOVE their fireworks! The American Pyrotechnics Association says that U.S. consumers purchased 163.6 million pounds of fireworks last year alone and firework displays used another 23.1 million pounds.

Now you know 10 random facts about fourth of July that you can share with your friends this weekend! We hope your weekend is fun and safe, filled with lots of food and fireworks. If you are using your three day weekend to catch up on some house projects don't forget to stop in a check out our selection! We have the best flooring in Madison and we would love to introduce you to our products. We also have some beautiful options for eco friendly flooring in Madison, so when you want your projects to be good for your home and good for the planet, we would love to assist you!

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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What is LVT Tile?

LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile. This product is the hidden gem of flooring! It's not as famous as hardwoods and laminates, but it has so many benefits that we think it's high time to pull it from hiding. There are many flooring options to note, but LVT tile is a beautiful option, with some extremely practical uses. Whether you're looking for tile, laminate or wood, we're the best flooring supplier in Madison.

Set-Apart Difference

What makes LVT Tile so unique? It has the ability to look like your favorite stone, ceramic, granite and even wood! The realistic, photographic replication is incredible, and the texture is so similar to it's natural sources you won't notice the difference. There are no sacrifices with LVT tile, and many benefits! With any stone or ceramic, you are risking the life of your glassware. I'm sure we've all gasped in horror as our favorite dish slips from our fingers, and we watch it break into thousands of pieces. When using LVT tile, you aren't taking that risk. The tiles are four distinct layers that are fused together, giving you the final product! A resilient vinyl backing, a vinyl color layer, a photographic film layer, and a urethane or aluminum oxide top layer. These four layers add to the cushion and resiliency, which is great for your feet and your dishes! When looking to upgrade the flooring in your home or business, we have the best high quality flooring in Madison!

Installation & Benefits

LVT Tiles are a direct glue-down tile and are rated for commercial use. Whether you want to use it in your bathroom, basement, laundry room, commercial areas and water problem areas, this product will work great for them all! The product is made from 100% recycled LVT, so when building or refinishing your home or business you can guarantee that your are giving back to the earth with this Green Product! LVT tile meets the requirements of commercial flammability codes. It also meets slip resistant requirements and a variety of other safety codes. With the multi-layers of vinyl, as well as a resilient backing for the foundation, LVT tiles are more resilient under foot. They are easier to stand on for longer periods of time and are much warmer underfoot than ceramic!

These are just a few of the benefits that LVT Tile can bring into your home or office space! LVT Tile has the strength and durability you need, with the comforts you won't have to sacrifice. You can't go wrong with this flooring option! Floors for Less is the best place to buy LVT Tile in Madison. We can assist you with any questions you may have about this flooring for your home. We would love to have you come in and see why our flooring is the perfect fit for you and your family!

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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What To Know About Cork Flooring

Isn't it enough that we have to wake up in the morning? But then we have to walk across a cold floor too?! Make your mornings nicer by installing a floor that will soak in some warmth and keep your tootsies toasty. Puttering around on a cold Wisconsin morning never sounded so good as when you cruise across a beautiful Cork Floor! Floors for Less provides the most beautiful selections on Cork flooring in Madison, Wisconsin. When looking for a unique and beautiful floor, cork is the way to go!

Harvest History

Our cork flooring is harvested from the Cork Oak in Portugal. This region is noted for it's higher cork density and longer life. The tree is not harmed in the process removing the bark, so when looking for Eco-Friendly flooring, this is a great option. Properly harvested, cork recycles itself in 12 years, a great renewable material. When produced, cork bark and other cork waste from manufacturing is ground into small pieces. During the manufacturing process, all the raw materials are used, either for the finished floor, or for an energy source. Any waste created in the production, such as dust and tree trimmings are burned in furnaces that then supply heat to bake the cork. The waste from the process is extremely low, and when looking for the perfect eco-friendly flooring in Madison, Wisconsin, Floors for Less has the perfect option for you!

The Stylish Difference

At Floors for less we have three different color options: Artimus Brown Cork, Artimus Natural Cork, and Amore Natural Cork. This flooring is a snap together, floating floor. The unique colors give you several choices for your home. And the beautiful Urethane wear-layer gives a beautiful glossy finish to this floor. A cork floor can add a beautiful, Green, and warm atmosphere to your home, that cannot be compared to any other wood flooring out there. Among the visual differences, cork floors are also great with acoustics.

The Durable Difference

Cork Flooring is a very durable option when looking for your flooring. It stands up to foot traffic and the spongy character makes for a more cushioned walking surface. Cork also stays warmer than most hard floors, and in Wisconsin, that is a HUGE bonus. Cork is naturally resistant to invasive organisms like mold and mildew. Being a more hypoallergenic flooring than it's competitors makes it great for anyone suffering with allergies. If that isn't enough, cork floors are naturally fire resistant and don't release toxic gases when combusting. When properly maintained it's a very durable option. All of our corks also have a water based Urethane wear-layer, so they are safe and easy to maintain.

When you're looking for a beautiful flooring that will make a difference in the world, but also a difference in the all around look of your home, be sure to contact us! We have some beautiful selections for economical flooring in Madison, Wisconsin, and we would love for you to come in and take a look. Our prices are competitive and our service is exceptional!

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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Laminate Flooring FAQs

If you've been dreaming about Wisconsin hardwood floors, but can't seem to justify the cost, consider laminate flooring. Laminate is a very popular alternative to actual hardwood floors that is about half the price. If you've never gotten up close and personal with laminate, you may have some questions and concerns about it. Floors for Less brings you some of the most frequently asked questions about laminate flooring:

1. What is Laminate Flooring? 

Laminate flooring is a multi-layer synthetic flooring product fused together with a lamination process. Laminate flooring can simulate tile or stone, but most commonly looks like wood. The layers are topped with a high-resolution photographic image of a natural wood floor. It's then finished with an extremely hard, clear coating made from special resin-coated cellulose to protect it from wear and tear.

2. What's the Difference Between Laminate and Hardwood Flooring?  

Hardwood flooring is made from natural, durable woods, such as oak, maple or hickory. While laminate may closely resemble this hardwood flooring, it is actually composed of wood residues, such as sawdust, shavings and wood chips. This material is ground into a pulp to which a melamine-urea-formaldehyde resin is added. It is then dried and pressed into panels. While hardwood lasts longer than laminate, hardwood in not necessarily superior.

3. What are the Advantages of Laminate Flooring? 

The most obvious advantage of laminate flooring over hardwood is the price. Laminate is typically half the cost of traditional hardwood flooring. Laminate is easier to install than solid hardwood and many people can even install it themselves. In many cases, laminate can be more resistant to stains, scratches, moisture and even general wear and tear than actual hardwood.

4. Where can Laminate Flooring be Installed? 

Laminate flooring is extremely versatile and can be installed in almost every room of your home. Along with basements and living rooms, laminate flooring is recommended for areas that are regularly used by children and pets. Laminate can even be used on steps with special installation. While very versatile, laminate should only be used in climate controlled rooms that avoid extreme temperature swings and excessive humidity. You should also avoid areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, saunas and enclosed porches.

5. Which Direction Should Laminate be Installed?

When choosing which direction to lay your new Madison laminate flooring, you should consider incoming light. Typically, it is best to install laminate flooring with the planks running parallel to light coming in windows or glass doors. The starting wall should be as long and straight as possible.

6. How Do You Clean Laminate Flooring? 

Laminate flooring is pretty low maintenance. For the most part, you can keep it clean by simply dust mopping or vacuuming with a soft brush or wood floor accessory to remove dust, dirt or grit. A damp cloth can be used if needed, but be sure not to saturate it. Make sure to clean up an spills or water immediately, don't let excess liquid sit for an extended period of time. Don't use abrasive cleaners, or steel wool or other scouring pads that could harm and scratch the flooring.

Now that you know a little more about laminate flooring, you'll be able to make an informed decision when you visit our Madison flooring store. Floors for Less offers many different flooring options, including a variety of laminates. Stop by our showroom to take a look today!

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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12 Grout Cleaning Tips and Solutions

Tile, whether on the floor or as a backsplash, can add beauty to your home. However, keeping that grout clean can sometimes be tricky. With the right cleaner and a little scrubbing though, you can get it looking fresh and new. While bathroom grout is typically affected by mold and mildew, kitchen grout could be subject to a combination of food stains, general household traffic and grime, and mildew. No matter what the cause of your dirty grout, start with a simple solution and only move up to the harsher chemicals if you're having trouble getting it clean. Floors for Less brings you a few grout cleaning tips along with some ideas of solutions to use!

Grout Cleaning Tips

1. Start by just using warm water, this will remove any loose surface debris. Allow it to dry before proceeding with cleaners. 
2. Never use bleach on colored grout, as it can become discolored. 
3. Use a stiff brush for scrubbing the grout. While old toothbrushes are too soft, metal bristles can wear away the grout, so find a happy medium. 
4. When using any chemicals to clean, make sure the room is well ventilated. 
5. Use gloves and protective eye wear when working with any chemical-based cleaners. 
6. Test your grout cleaning method in an inconspicuous spot first to make sure it will not erode or damage the grout. 
7. Never mix cleaners together because chemical reactions can cause noxious fumes or burns if the mixture touches the skin. 

Grout Cleaning Solutions

1. Simple Household Solutions - Use vinegar diluted with an equal amount of water, or make a paste of baking soda and a bit of water to clean the grout with. 
2. Generic Household Cleaners - Mr. Clean, Lysol, or powder-based cleaners can also work on tile grout.
3. Steam Cleaning - If you own or have access to a steam cleaner, try using it on your grout. The pressure of the steam cleaner can loosen debris and stains that cleaners can't dissolve.
4. Commercial Cleaners - Try to find a cleaner that is pH balanced so that the chemicals in the product won't erode the grout with continued use. To get the best result from a commercial cleaner, spray it on and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
5. Bleach - For heavy duty stains, use even stronger products such as oxygen bleach powder, hydrogen peroxide, or chlorine bleach. These products should be well diluted before use. Be sure to read labels carefully and follow directions to the letter.

By following these tips above, you'll have your Madison tile floors and backsplashes looking as good as new in no time! However, if you're looking for some new flooring, stop by the showroom of our Wisconsin flooring company. We have many different tile, laminate, wood and carpet options to fit your individual needs!

For all your flooring needs, contact the BEST flooring company in Madison, WI! 

Floors for Less

1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200

Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-442-1200

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FOLLOW Us on Twitter

CONNECT with Us on LinkedIn

FOLLOW Us on Google+