Thursday, May 28, 2015

6 Types of Carpet Fibers

Carpet comes in many different shapes and sizes. From flat commercial carpet to soft, fluffy carpet you'd want in your bedroom, each style can be categorized by the types of fiber used to create it. To get the best performance and most enjoyment out of your Wisconsin carpet, it's essential to select a carpet fiber that fits your needs. Let's take a look at 6 types of carpet fibers and the benefits of each:

1. Wool


The most expensive of all carpet fibers is wool. This traditional favorite offers a deep, rich look and feel. While it is very durable, eco-friendly and soft, its usually double or triple the cost of other carpet. Wool fibers are naturally superior to synthetic fibers, as well as longer lasting, inherently flame retardant and resistant to dirt and crushing. Wool helps moderate temperature and humidity by absorbing and releasing moisture as needed. It is also soil and stain resistant, requiring less cleaning than synthetic fibers. Wool carpet can definitely add value to any room; it's the ultimate statement of style, success and comfort!

2. Nylon 


Nylon is considered to be the most durable for foot traffic and is used in approximately 65% of carpet sold in the US. In overall performance, nylon is the most versatile of all fibers, providing flexibility in creating a variety of carpet styles. Many nylon carpets are exceptionally soft and can be found in a variety of colors. While nylon is not stain resistant, most carpets made with nylon feature a stain-resistant treatment for protection against household spills. It is a great choice for the heavy traffic of an active family or a commercial building.

3. Polyester


Compared to nylon, polyester carpet fibers offer a nice "bang for your buck." It is naturally stain and fade resistant, and offers exceptional softness and color clarity. While polyester is not as durable as nylon, it still performs very well and resists wear. It offers a wide selection of textures and colors. Polyester is a good choice for lower to medium traffic areas such as bedrooms. If you're looking for a great value, consider polyester carpet fibers for your home.

4. Solution Dyed Polyester


Solution dyed polyester is a carpet that is actually made a color, rather than creating it white and dying it. Color selections of this type of carpet are limited because of the way it is constructed. If you can find a piece that you like, it is one of the best values available. It is almost stain proof, bleach resistant, UV resistant, color fast, green and made with very little oil, allowing for less dirt build up. It is a great choice for any room in your home.

5. Triexta 


Triexta is a glorified polyester carpet, one of the newest fibers in the carpet industry. There are several reasons why triexta stands out from your typically polyester. First off, it is more durable and resilient than conventional polyester. When it comes to looks, triexta would be more comparable to nylon than polyester. Triexta lacks a high luster and offers a more matte finish. It is incredibly stain resistant and is also significantly softer than both polyester and nylon. Generally speaking, triexta is very competitively priced.

6. Olefin 


Olefin, also known as polypropylene, is a more basic carpet fiber made from plastic. Unlike other carpet fibers, it will not absorb water, making is quite easy to clean. While it is very stain resistant, it's not as soft as other fibers and will crush quickly. However, color will not fade, even when exposed to intense sunlight, bleaches, atmospheric contaminants or other harsh chemicals or elements. Originally, this type of carpet was ideal for outdoor use and basements due to its resistance to moisture, mildew, water damage and staining. When constructed properly, Olefin provides an excellent value and good performance.

At Floors for Less, we can take care of all your flooring needs. Stop by the showroom of our Madison flooring company today to take a look at our different flooring options. From carpet to hardwoods, we can help you transform your space into the room you've always dreamed of!

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


1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200
Madison, WI 53713
Phone: 608-442-1200

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Thursday, May 21, 2015

7 Mistakes You're Making with Your Hardwood Floors

Madison hardwood flooring is a great way to add value to your home. With beautiful American Walnut or a lighter Natural Ash, Floors for Less has a variety of options to match your room. Our hardwood floors are relatively easy to care for if you avoid the most common mistakes. GoodHouseKeeping.com explains 7 ways you're ruining your wood floors:

1. Rotating Brush Vacuums. 


Vacuums with rotating brushes can be very abrasive to wood flooring. If using a vacuum on your hardwood flooring, be sure to either turn off the brush roll or use an attachment instead. However, you don't want to not vacuum at all. Gritty dirt and dust particles can scratch your floor when they sit for too long.

2. Using Steam Cleaners. 


When using steam to clean your hardwood floors, exercise caution. Skip the steam cleaning if your flooring has a wax finish or the finish is old and worn. Otherwise, use the lightest level of steam your appliance offers and keep it moving across the floor. Don't let the steam sit in once place for too long.

3. Too Much Wet-Cleaning. 


Unless your hardwood floors get a ton of foot traffic, you don't need to mop them more than once a month. Instead, keep them well swept or vacuumed and spot-clean as needed. Be sure to clean up any spills right away, don't let it sit until you're ready to wet-clean for that month.

4. Drenching Your Flooring. 


While today's Wisconsin wood flooring finishes are much more water resistant than before, you don't want to drench them in water and cleaning solutions. When it comes to cleaning your wood floors, a little goes a long way. When its time to wet-clean, do it in patches. Be sure sure to use a damp, not wet, mop or cloth and then dry the area promptly.

5. Wrong Type of Rug. 


Rubber-backed rugs and mats or rubber mesh pads can dull your floor's shine and even cause discoloration. To protect your flooring, use a combination felt and rubber pad instead.

6. Sun Exposure. 


Too much sun exposure can also cause discoloration in your wood flooring in Madison. When the sun is at its strongest, be sure to keep the blinds or shades closed. This will limit the color change and also the drying out of the wood's finish.

7. No Caution with Sharp Objects. 


Hopefully you already know that sharp objects and wood flooring don't mix. However, there are a few sharp objects that are often overlooked. This includes your pets' claws and high-heeled shoes. To avoid scratches and other issues from these sharp objects, keep your pets' nails trimmed and take your heels off at the door.

Following these tips will help you keep your new hardwood floors in Madison Wisconsin looking great! At Floors for Less, all of our hardwood comes from local distributors, allowing us to offer you great product at an even better value. Stop by the showroom or give us a call today at 608-442-1200!

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


1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200
Madison, WI 53713
Phone: 608-442-1200

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Wednesday, May 13, 2015

6 Things for Homeowners to Consider When Purchasing New Carpet

While many people are into Madison hardwood flooring these days, there are some advantages to having carpet. They can easily create a cozy atmosphere in your living room or bedroom. Carpet is easy to maintain, has the lowest total cost of flooring options, is quick to install and is versatile enough to match the decor in any room. However, with the vast amount of carpeting options, choosing the perfect Wisconsin carpet for your home can be a daunting task. Here are 7 things to consider when picking out that new carpet:

1. Carpet Durability


The most important aspect of any flooring really is the durability. There's more to a carpet's durability than just the way it feels though. Durability, when it comes to carpet, is directly related to the thickness or density, the fiber it's made from and the way it is constructed. When looking for the most durable carpet for your budget, consider the following:
  • Carpet Density - This is how close the fiber strands of carpet are to each other. The denser the carpet, the longer it will stand up straight. However, the more dense it is, the less soft it will be. You will have to decide which is more important to you or try to find a balance between the two. 
  • Carpet Fiber - There are many different fiber types of carpet. Wool is most expensive, but also most durable. Nylon is considered to be the most durable for foot traffic. Polyester gives you a nice bang for your buck when compared to Nylon. The list goes on. 
  • Carpet Construction - Carpet comes in numerous different types and styles, each serving a different purpose. Carpet fibers can either be looped or standing straight up, plush vs. berber, and then you have the shag! The carpet type you choose will depend on your needs and wants. 

2. Stain Resistance


No matter where you'll be putting the carpet, stains can occur anywhere in the home. Stain resistance is very important. Carpet can either be made with a fiber that does not absorb (or absorbs very little) liquids or it can be treated with a stain treatment. The better the stain treatment on your carpet and the less oil used in manufacturing, the better your carpet will repel dirt. This not only extends the life of your carpet, but also the look of it.

3. Price of Carpet


One of the biggest factors that goes into determining what type of carpeting in Madison, Wisconsin you'll choose is the price. Usually the price is directly related to the quality of the product, but that's not always the case. Once you get above a certain benchmark, you're spending more on style than quality. Beware of very stylish carpets that cost a lot, but are made of lower quality fibers. It's a good idea to work with an honest, reputable Madison flooring company to make sure you're getting a good value.

4. Softness/Feel


The feel of your carpet is the most fun aspect because it's what you feel when you're walking barefoot across or laying across it. The feel of the carpet adds comfort and coziness or stiffness and durability. As long as your fiber, construction and thickness are good, you really can't go wrong with the softness. While a tight carpet will last longer, we're not talking about a significant difference. Therefore, you should purchase something that you're going to be happy with.

5. Look & Style


The primary reason why most people choose a specific carpet is based on the limitless choices in color and style. Before drowning in all of the options, consider the room space, other room furnishings, the overall targeted feel and your future plans. If you're planning to sell your house, choosing a neutral color and tone is your best option.

6. Functionality

Carpet can instantly improve the home's aesthetic value and bring a new look and feel to any area. In choosing which type of carpet is right for you, think about floor traffic and room usage. Once you determine these factors, it will be easier to purchase carpet correctly suited for that room. If you're unsure of what the room's use will be, make sure to choose a carpet that will work well in any application.

Choosing the right carpet is not an easy task and you're going to have to live with your decision for years to come. However, with the right information and a knowledgeable staff guiding you through the purchase, carpet can create beautiful, functional spaces. Stop by our Madison flooring showroom today to take a look at what we have to offer.

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


1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200
Madison, WI 53713
Phone: 608-442-1200

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Wednesday, May 6, 2015

North American Hardwood Flooring

For hundreds of years, North American forests have been providing more than 20 different species of hardwoods, perfect for flooring, furniture, cabinetry and more. Species distribution varies by region and each type requires a particular set of conditions to thrive. This includes everything from specific types of soil and nutrients to certain amounts of moisture, warmth, sunlight or shade.

North Hardwood


More than half of all American hardwoods are Oak. However, American hardwood forests have also provided many other species suitable for flooring and cabinetry, including Maple, Ash and Birch. to date, eco-inspired designs have utilized hardwoods as a natural, renewable resource well. When you're planning your next home project, consider our Wisconsin hardwoods.

Wisconsin American Hardwood


If you're looking for some "green" hardwood flooring, look no further than Floors for Less. What makes our North American Hardwood so green? Managed forests, about 95% of all our forests, generate 4 times the oxygen and clean up 4 times the carbon dioxide as does old growth forests. These are the active growing trees that keep our air clean and fresh! The replacement cycle is 30 to 50 years depending on the species and purpose, but forests managed in the USA are sustainable. We even export wood without loosing any acreage. There is plenty of wood!

One of the newest benchmarks is distance raw materials travel to consumers homes. What can be better than Wisconsin hardwood flooring...local product, local labor and very competitively priced! Stop by our showroom today and let us help you get started on your next home improvement project!

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


1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200
Madison, WI 53713
Phone: 608-442-1200


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Friday, May 1, 2015

How to Remove Carpet Stains

Whether you have kids or not, you're bound to spill something on your carpet sooner or later. Our Madison flooring company is here to provide you with the expertise you need to keep your floors looking great! From wine to candle wax, here are some tips from ThisOldHouse.com to get different types of stains out of your carpet. Be sure to always test cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous spot and never scrub the carpet because you'll risk ruining the carpet fibers.

Water-Soluble Stains


For water-soluble stains, you can use a simple cleaning solution made up of 1/4 tsp. of non-bleach detergent (or white vinegar) mixed with 32 oz. of water. Water-soluble stains include:

  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Berries
  • Colas
  • Food Dyes
  • Gravy 
  • Ice Cream
  • Jelly
  • Milk
  • Mud
  • Washable Ink 
  • Wet or Latex Paint

Urine


For urine, absorb as much as possible with white towels, then blot with a damp, cool cloth. Next, spay or blot with a solution of one part white vinegar to one part water. Finally, apply a solution of 1/2 tsp. of clear, mild, non-bleach detergent mixed with 32 oz. of water, rinse and blot dry.

Other Water-Soluble Stains


Some water-soluble stains are special and take a little more work. Try 1 tablespoon of ammonia mixed with 1 cup of water. (However, don't do this on wool or wool-blend carpet; instead, use mild detergent and water.) If that doesn't work, you can try one part chlorine bleach to five parts water, but only on solution-dyed carpets, such as polypropylene. Bleach will harm other types of carpets; check with the manufacturer if you are unsure what type of carpet you have. These special stains include:

  • Blood
  • Chocolate
  • Coffee
  • Mustard 
  • Tea
  • Vomit
  • Wine

Fat, Oil, Wax and More


For fat, oil and wax, place a paper towel over the carpet and iron on warm setting. The stain should come up off the carpet and stick to the paper towel. For glue, moisten a cotton ball or soft cloth with rubbing alcohol and press it on the stain. Once the glue residue is thoroughly moistened, gently wipe it off and repeat until the carpet is clean. For gum, use ice to freeze it and then shatter it with a blunt object, such as a spoon. Vacuum before the pieces soften, and blot the carpet with a white towel. For nail polish, blot the area with a rag dipped in nail polish remover.

If your carpet is too old and stained beyond repair, come see us at Floors for Less!  Our showroom features the best flooring in Madison, Wisconsin. We can help you replace your carpet or even switch to hardwood or laminate. We have flooring to meet everyone's needs. Whether you're planning to install it yourself or have a professional do it, we have the knowledge and ability to help you get started!

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


1017 Applegate Rd., Suite 200
Madison, WI 53713
Phone: 608-442-1200


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