Today's 10 On-Trend Interior Design Links You'll Love! | #KBIS2015 Edition!

In case you haven't heard, I just went on the most dazzling trip to the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Vegas!

Should You Replace Flooring Before Selling a House?

Dear Bob & Betsy, My husband and I are considering selling our house but we’re worried about the costs. The floors have buckled but they’re not too bad and can still be walked on comfortably. Should you replace flooring before selling a house? We’re not sure! – Stephanie L. Dear Stephanie, Great question! Many homeowners ...

The post Should You Replace Flooring Before Selling a House? appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

Hardwood flooring trends to watch out for in 2015

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, many people will choose to undertake a project in their home. If you feel like you need to breathe new life into your home, hardwood flooring is a great way to achieve this. With so many different options and types of wood available however, it can sometimes be tricky to know where to begin. To help make things a bit easier, the following are a few hardwood flooring trends you should watch out for in 2015.

Unfinished wooden floors

One of the many benefits of hardwood flooring is the ever growing selection of different finishes you can give wood – from waxes to oils and varnishes. Using one of these finishes not only adds a layer of protection, but also can change the appearance of your flooring, adding to its uniqueness.

However, recent years have seen more and more people seeking out all things vintage, whether this is clothes, toys or furniture. There has also been a rise in the popularity of reclaimed or “upcycled” furniture. Fitting with this craze, we expect to see more people going for unfinished looking wooden flooring this year, or flooring with a matte finish, rather than a glossy one.

Reclaimed wooden floors

In keeping with the current vintage trend, some people are deciding against buying brand new wooden flooring and instead opting to hunt out and recycle old floorboards. Not only will this give you that much sought after vintage look and feel, it is also environmentally friendly and can be cheaper than buying new. If you do decide to go with reclaimed flooring though, it is vital that you still contact professionals to take care of the installation for you.

Patterned wooden floors

If you’re quite artistic, or have artistic friends, painting directly onto your hardwood flooring can be a great way to customise it. This is something more and more people have started doing, and the trend is set to grow this year. For some, it is as simple as adding a pattern around the outskirts of the floor, while other prefer to add a unique pattern to the entire floor.

Create A Big Impact By Going Small

  

U.S. consumers have many options for where they will buy retail goods. U.S. consumers can purchase goods from small local businesses, regional chains or giant international companies.  Before you make your next purchase stop and think for a minute.  Does it make any difference where you make your purchases?  Do you want your dollars to create the biggest benefit for you and your family?  Read this information before you spend your hard earned money.  It could change your purchasing habits and improve your community.

When consumers patronize local small businesses, they are essentially giving money back to their local community. A thriving local business will generate high levels of revenue, which means that the business will pay higher taxes, including local taxes. This money is then used for local police and fire departments, maintaining roads, public parks, as well as schools and many other services we often take for granted. 

Did you ever think small business has a large impact on innovation and the sciences? Innovation is very possible in small businesses. In these smaller enterprises, employees usually work in close proximity to consumers and learn firsthand about their needs. Providing solutions to their clients’ needs is how small companies prosper.  Small businesses are big innovators.

The U.S. Small Business Technology Council reports that smaller firms employ 32 percent of scientists and engineers, whereas larger firms employ 27 percent. These professionals in small businesses produce more patents than their counterparts in large companies and universities. So, small companies are responsible for more innovation and creating more new products compared to their large counterparts.  Surprising to some - big business and big government aren’t creating new ideas and new product – it’s the small business that are driving product innovation.

Still not convinced that your spending habits can create a big impact then read more.

Here are some interesting facts about small businesses from www.IndependantWeStand.org:

•  Small businesses accounted for 65% of all net new jobs over the past 17 years.
• Small businesses employ 77 million Americans.
• 89% of consumers agree that independent businesses contribute positively to local economies.
• Residential neighborhoods served by a successful independent business district gained, on average, 50% more in home values than their citywide markets.
• Independent retailers return more than three times as much money per dollar of sales than chain competitors.
• Independent restaurants return more than two times as much money per dollar of sales than national restaurant chains.
• If independent businesses regained their 1990 market shares, it would create 200,000 new small businesses, generate nearly $300 billion in revenues and employ more than 1.6 million American workers.
• If just half the U.S. employed population spent $50 each month in locally owned independent businesses, it would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.
• For every square foot a local firm occupies, the local economy gains $179 vs. $105 for a chain store.

So before you make your next purchase, think about going local. It will help your local economy, you community and keep America vibrant.

Want to learn more about local businesses in Bucks County Pa?  Attend the Locavore~Buy Local event on February 26th.   RSVP Now

Superior Woodcraft is a local custom cabinetmaker located in Doylestown, Bucks County, Pa.

Source:

Superior Woodcraft, Inc.

Superior Woodcraft Blog 

DIY Notepad (& Free Printable)

A while back we shared a few of the ways we like to stay organised and by now you’ve probably already guessed that I’m a list keeping kind of person. For us, lists a vital part of keeping on top of things. I love them and always have a few on the go. They help me... 

Read More »

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Cheap Flooring Ideas to Spice Up Your Decor

Looking for a way to spice up your home decor? There are so many things that you can do with flooring to add a unique dimension to any room. Here are some cheap flooring ideas that you can do to add a unique touch to any room in your home. Create Interest When getting new ...

The post Cheap Flooring Ideas to Spice Up Your Decor appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

MUST-HAVE: Wood-Mode's Embassy Row Pet Parlor, Reviewed

Wood-mode is known for its unrivalled quality and finely detailed wood cabinetry. And they satisfy homeowner's storage needs by providing custom storage options that will always exceed your expectations. One such option is their Embassy Row Pet Parlor.

Coffee Table Styling

We don’t have a coffee table in our family room anymore, we took it out a few months ago because I was tired of it, but I’m looking at others with different proportions. I’m taking my time finding the perfect one, but I do so love a beautifully styled coffee table with an organized collection […]

Coffee Table Styling is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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How to Repair Scratches on Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is constructed to be durable and often withstand the common house hold mishaps such as stains, fading, and scratching. However, some mishaps can be more extreme than others, leaving an unsightly deep scratch in your beautiful flooring. Luckily, there are options making it available to repair scratches on laminate flooring. Use a Repair Kit ...

The post How to Repair Scratches on Laminate Flooring appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

MUST-HAVE: Wilsonart's Quartz and Laminate Products, Reviewed

It's becoming obvious that people are itching for something different. And, as evidenced by what I saw at KBIS, it looks like manufacturers have been listening, as there were more quartz options than ever before.

Kirkland’s Media Center + Giveaway

I just returned from a four day trip to Las Vegas where I had my Lasik eye surgery and worked on a few spaces in the fixer house. One of the projects was creating a media center in partnership with Kirkland’s Storage and Organization Event.  We needed a media center between the fireplace wall and […]

Kirkland’s Media Center + Giveaway is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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Is laminate flooring stain resistant?

Many homeowners wonder ‘Is laminate flooring stain resistant?’ The quick and easy answer is yes, laminate flooring is stain resistant. Laminate flooring has an aluminum oxide coating on the top layer of the laminate to protect it from stains. Things like coffee, wine, permanent marker, nail polish and lipstick are not a problem with laminate ...

The post Is laminate flooring stain resistant? appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

Project Spotlight: Walnut Hardwood Flooring

Curious what walnut hardwood flooring looks like inside an actual home? Here’s a project spotlight you won’t want to miss! Nestled in the Willow Glen neighborhood of San Jose, California, this abode features custom-made walnut planks, character grade wood floors and more (see photos on Houzz). The project included:

• Custom 8” hand distressed walnut planks
• Stained flooring from character grade wood
• Finished with Traffic Water-based finish
• One room finished with Lengo dal Dio floors to create a red hue

Inspired By…

With the new year is already in full swing (how can January already be almost over?!), it’s about high time that we actually started to tackle a few of our lofty goals for the year. We have so many projects planned for this year, but on a more personal level one thing we’d also like... 

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MUST-HAVE: Walker Zanger's 2015 Tile Collections, Reviewed

It's no surprise that Walker Zanger's 2015 tile collections are absolutely gorgeous. Everything looks so new and oh-so fresh! And I'm certain you'll agree with me after you see them for yourselves. Let's check them out...

Keeping a Gratitude Journal

I used to keep a written journal when the children were babies, mostly about their little milestones since they were changing from week to week, but I stopped when I started blogging in 2009, mostly because blogging was taking up most of my free time. I picked up that old journal and read a few […]

Keeping a Gratitude Journal is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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Understand Your Options

Two questions people always ask when thinking about hiring a designer are “what is this going to cost me?” and “how do I know this is a good price?” The fact is, though, that many factors go into costing a design project, and price is just one of them. Any reputable design professional is going […]

Decorator Review: Candice Olson

Candice Olson is one of the most prolific interior designers in North America. Her Toronto-based home-makeover show on HGTV (or the W Network if you’re Canadian) called “Divine Design” is one of the top watched shows. Beyond the TV screen, Candice has years of design experience. She freely shares this experience and her tips in ...

The post Decorator Review: Candice Olson appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

What We Have Planned For 2015!

Having shared how we got on with our 2014 projects, it’s now time we looked to the future. After all there’s no point dwelling on things – especially things that haven’t happened and this year we’re planning on getting things done! We’re going to try to give ourselves a huge push and really tick every... 

Read More »

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BOTB 1.25.15

I’ve been out of it for a couple days, I finally had my Lasik eye surgery (had to delay my original appointment) and it wiped me out for 48 hours but wow, it’s amazing that I can seeeeeee! I see mountains and leaves and birds and details I couldn’t see before without glasses or contacts, […]

BOTB 1.25.15 is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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Natural Wall Systems

The following are concrete and earth based wall systems that do not offgas toxins and are suitable for the chemically sensitive. Something a little different from the standard timber frame, spray insulation and gypsum boards:

lowcostgreenhome.com

Pumicecrete Walls

A mix of pumice and concrete are poured into forms to create these non-toxic walls. They can be made load bearing with a concrete beam. Test pumice for radioactivity and for odours that it may have picked up prior to installation.

Wikipedia.org

Hemp Crete

An interesting material making a comeback, Hemp Crete is blocks made of hemp and a lime based binder. The blocks are used to form the walls and act as insulation. They are not load bearing so are used with a timber frame.

faswall.com

Wood Insulated Concrete Forms

Forms are made of a mix of remineralised wood and concrete. Inside, rebar is used as reinforcement and then they are filled with concrete. Insulative fibers can be added or they can be filled with part concrete and part clay or a non toxic insulation. Brands include Durisol and Faswall.

aerconaac.com

Aerated Autoclaved Concrete

Concrete based blocks made from quartz, lime or cement, and aluminum powder. Test thinset mortor for sensitivity.

Is Concrete Non-Toxic?

Portland Cement should be used and it should be confirmed that it is free of admixtures such as air entrainment and water reducing agents, accelerants and retardants, and super plasticizers. Ceramic Cement (Magnesium Cement) is also a good option according to George Swanson.

 Which Concrete Aggregates are Chemical-Free?

Natural non-toxic mineral aggregates should be used. Toxic aggregates include crushed brick, crushed sandstone, concrete slag, fly ash, cinder, and volcanic materials other than pumice. (Prescriptions for a Healthy House).

Wall Boards

Magnesium Oxide Board is the cleanest option. I talk more about it in my post on Bathrooms.

A FAQ is whether there are non-toxic drywalls. Of the wall boards out there DensArmor Plus is recommended by some - it is low-toxin, but not non-toxic. I do not know of any zero VOC conventional drywalls.


Natural Building: Earth Based Walls

Cob, Adobe, Light Clay-Straw, and Straw Bale and Rammed Earth

Adobe house from trails.com

These are all different types of walls made of clay, straw, and sand. But instead of giving a comprehensive overview I will comment briefly on the suitability of these building materials for the chemically sensitive. Houses made of all natural materials feel great to be in and there is no need to worry about any offgassing. However there are precautions that should be taken to avoid mould. These types of builings might be best suited to dry climates so that there is no chance of mould forming. Some people seem to be doing very well in adobe houses in the south-western US.

If straw is used in the walls it should be carefully sourced to be free of mould and pesticides. When building with cob, adobe or light clay straw there needs to be a dependable dry season of three months for the walls to dry out properly. They are particularily suited to be heated with wood stoves as that dries out the walls well in the rainy and damp seasons (source: Econest). An above grade stem wall and proper drainage around the house is also very important to keep the walls from getting damp.

Rammed Earth from sirewall.com

Another natural wall system worth mentioning in a little more detail, Rammed Earth, uses sand, gravel and clay has had an interesting development recently. Foam has been added for insulation and steel for support, and 5-10% cement is added to the clay mixture. It's called Stabilized Insulated Rammed Earth.

Water does not penetrate the walls.






Paula Baker-Laport has more tips for mould free construction of earth based walls in her book Prescriptions for a Healthy House: A Practical Guide for Architects, Builders & Homeowners

Is Laminate a Pet Friendly Flooring?

Dear Bob and Betsy, I recently installed laminate in my home. Now, my daughter has pressured me into adopting a puppy. He is adorable, but I worry about my floors getting scratched up. Is laminate a pet friendly flooring? – Michelle S. Dear Michelle, Congratulations on the new puppy! You can rest a little easier ...

The post Is Laminate a Pet Friendly Flooring? appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

Decorating with Monochromatic Color

Do you ever look at a space and love it but feel overwhelmed in trying to recreate it? Often it’s the designers mix of pattern and color but there is one way to simplify the process and that’s with monochromatic decor. A medley of color is wonderful, but so is tone on tone or single […]

Decorating with Monochromatic Color is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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How to Decorate With Oak Colored Flooring

The color of oak is a rich, honey color that encompasses your room and warms it up. As beautiful as oak flooring is, it’s also one of the hardest colors to match. Dark furniture doesn’t always seem to go with the lighter oak color. Light furniture blends in too easily and doesn’t match. So where ...

The post How to Decorate With Oak Colored Flooring appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

MUST-HAVE: Top Knobs' Transcend Collection, Reviewed

Discovered by Carla Aston at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS): Top Knobs' new Transcend Collection is must-have! Click through for my review, product specifications, pictures, and much more!

Meister Parket

In 1930 gestart als kleine timmermanszaak, groeide Meister sindsdien, dankzij expertise, meesterschap en innovatie, uit tot één van de grootste spelers in zijn markt. Het Duitse bedrijf biedt intussen oplossingen voor zowel vloeren, muren als plafonds en doet dit met het grootste respect voor de natuur, bijvoorbeeld door geen gebruik te maken van tropische houtsoorten.

Klik hier voor meer info

KBIS Coverage - Products & Trends Decorating The Kitchen And Bath Industry Show

Full coverage of KBIS, the 2015 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. Featuring all of the best images, videos, and articles from the best kitchen and bathroom industry event there is!

Broiled Salmon with Vegetable Quinoa

One of the things I’m so much better at this year is healthy eating. A year ago my habits were really bad, I got lazy grabbing anything that was quick and easy, I ate a lot of processed and fried foods filled with excess fat and sugar, but last year that all changed. I’ve been […]

Broiled Salmon with Vegetable Quinoa is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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Can I Stain Laminate Flooring?

Sometimes you may wonder, Can I stain laminate flooring? Whether you’ve changed your mind about your flooring color, wanted a change after years of the same style, or simply just feeling like being crafty, keep in mind it is a terrible idea to stain laminate flooring. Laminate flooring cannot be stained as it has an ...

The post Can I Stain Laminate Flooring? appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

Combining Marsala with Hardwood Flooring & More

Once again, Pantone has announced their color of the year! Last year we shared a few helpful ways to incorporate the 2014 hue, so here are some tips for incorporating this year’s shade, Marsala, with your home’s carpet, tile, linoleum or hardwood flooring.

Why Marsala?

But first, are you curious why Marsala was chosen this year? As Pantone explains, "The rich and full-bodied red-brown Marsala brings color warmth into home interiors...The impactful, full-bodied qualities of Marsala make for an elegant, grounded statement color when used on its own or as a strong accent to many other colors."

What is angle angle laminate installation?

Laminate flooring is known for easy and DIY friendly installation and angle angle laminate installation is one of the most well known methods. Angle angle installation is a method of installation which allows laying the floor without the use of tapping blocks (tapping the planks together).   When purchasing a laminate floor, be sure to ...

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MUST-HAVE: Thermador's MicroDrawer Microwave, Reviewed

Carla Aston reporting LIVE at KBIS: Thermador's new MicroDrawer Microwave is must-have! Click through for my review, product specifications, pictures, and a recommendation on where you can buy it at a great price!

DIY Home Decorating Ideas for Your First House

The paperwork is finalized and you’re ready to move into your first house! Now’s the time when you are staying up late to explore ideas the home decorating ideas of your dreams on Pinterest, chatting with friends, and searching the Internet. This is your first house and it has to be perfect! We get it. ...

The post DIY Home Decorating Ideas for Your First House appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

Remodel Woes: Kitchen Ceiling and Cabinet Soffits

We’ve owned and rented homes over the years with kitchen cabinet soffits, those boxy sheetrocked rectangles that take up space above kitchen cabinets. They’re a common element in many a subdivision kitchen built in the 1980s and 1990s and I’m not a huge fan of them, so in a remodel, removing them or disguising them […]

Remodel Woes: Kitchen Ceiling and Cabinet Soffits is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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Designer Review: Master Craftsman, Tim McClellan

When you think of a designer, you probably don’t think of a master craftsman. But soon-to-be HGTV Design Star contestant and founder of Western Heritage Furniture is just that. Tim McClellan did not aspire to become a designer. Interior decorating wasn’t a passion of his – until recently. One day, he bet his girlfriend that ...

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Curing a Funk

I couldn’t put my finger on it for a few days but then I realized that coming down off the holiday high followed by the excitement of a new year coupled with gloomy weather made me feel like I was in a funk. I know I’m not alone, friends and relatives have mentioned it too. […]

Curing a Funk is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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LIVE Coverage of 'Modenus Talks', Where Interior Design's Future Is Discussed!

Live-blogging the most intriguing interior design ideas, insights, and inspirations experienced at 2015's "Modenus Talks", at KBIS 2015!

What Goes With Oak Colored Flooring?

Dear Bob and Betsy, I’m moving into my fiancé’s house and he has oak colored flooring. I don’t know how to redecorate with this floor coloring and I’m wondering if I should put in new floors. Can you tell me what colors and furniture goes with the oak color? – Rochelle N. Dear Rochelle, Congratulations ...

The post What Goes With Oak Colored Flooring? appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

A Sneak Preview Of The 2015 Kitchen And Bath Industry Show (KBIS)

Because I’m a member of the BlogTour team of interior design bloggers who will be covering the event every step of the way, I have access to insider-material that teases what’s to come. Click through to learn what's to come!

Our (more or less successful) 2014 Projects

As always around this time of year, we start to look ahead at our goals and plans for the next 12 months. For us, this is also a great time to check what boxes we’ve ticked sofar and see how successful (or not) we were on our list of planned projects for the previous year.... 

Read More »

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Do You Know What to Look For in Flooring Companies?

You’re ready to replace your floors, but where do you start? Perhaps you’ve looked online at flooring colors. Maybe you’ve already done your research on the type of flooring you want to install. Now, you need to find the right business to purchase your flooring from. Your new flooring isn’t a small investment. You deserve ...

The post Do You Know What to Look For in Flooring Companies? appeared first on Bestlaminate Flooring Blog.

FLOR Rug Giveaway

I’ve been under the weather for the past few days, some sort of bad cold or flu, it seems everyone I know has had it too so I need another morning in bed and an afternoon of hot tea. I welcome the break so it’s perfect timing for a sweet giveaway from FLOR, the masters […]

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Can I use laminate flooring sealant to make it waterproof?

Laminate flooring is typically not waterproof. Although many floors have moisture protectant cores and surfaces, it is not 100% waterproof. This may sometimes bring up the question, Can I use laminate flooring sealant to make it waterproof? Laminate flooring has an aluminum oxide surface that should never be tampered with. This meaning, applying a sealant ...

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STOP! Before You Remodel Your New Home, Ask Yourself These 5 Questions

Far too often I'll run into someone who is so incredibly excited about remodeling their newly purchased home that they fail to consider a laundry list of areas within that desperately need to be addressed and included in the scope (the plan your designer/contractor goes by) of the job. 

Choosing your wooden flooring – Hardwood or Engineered Wood?

When it comes to wooden flooring, every home is different and people have a unique take on what will or won’t work in their home. Choosing between solid hardwood and engineered wood therefore requires a little research, and with this in mind we discuss the two, so that you can make up your own mind about what sort of flooring would suit you best.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood comprises of 3-15 layers of wood, and varies from 13mm to 22mm thick, with the top veneers varying from 2 to 8mm. The layers are bonded together by way of extreme pressure and cold glue (far better to use cold glue than hot glue, so always ask the question!). The top layer is generally hardwood, with the lower layers normally being made up of plywood material.

Easy to install and environmentally well thought of, it is quite popular with those on a lower budget. Although the cost is comparable to hardwood flooring, you would be wise to check every detail of the makeup of engineered flooring, as if the veneers are too thin, then the likelihood of the floor standing the test of time is much lower than it is with solid wooden flooring. Similarly, if the veneers are not well made they can warp over time, making the flooring much more uneven. Checking the core layer material is also wise, as the use of fibreboard/MDF may compromise the floor’s stability.

Hardwood Flooring

Solid hardwood tends to be a popular choice for many homes. Simply milled from one piece of hardwood, then treated to a protective coating, the pieces tend to come in a thickness of about three quarters of an inch.  This means that the boards can be re-sanded and treated many times over, without damaging the wood itself, which carries the benefit of ensuring a long lifespan for this type of flooring.

Hardwood flooring is installed by simply being nailed or bonded to the subfloor. Installers will leave a small gap between the floor and walls to accommodate the usual expansion and contraction of wood that comes with the change in humidity of your home throughout the year.

Hardwood flooring is available in a number of different styles and types of wood, meaning there is something for everyone. It can have a really positive effect on the value of your home, as hardwood flooring is seen as a mark of quality in a house, and you’ll tend to find that houses with hardwood flooring installed can command a higher price tag than those without it.

Ultimately, the decision between the two is a matter of personal choice, but there are numerous technical reasons for picking either option. We at Just Wood can supply all the information you need, for you to be able to make an informed choice.

Meet the Manufacturer: Provenza Floors

Do you want beautiful, high-quality hardwood flooring in your home? If so, here’s a manufacturer to consider: Provenza Floors. In addition to a wide range of styles and designs to choose from, their custom work can reflect the vision and style you have for your home. Keep reading for 6 fun facts about this hardwood flooring manufacturer.

6 Fun Facts About Provenza Floors

1. This manufacturer prides itself on using each piece of wood’s own character (such as grain and knots) to create a genuine masterpiece for your home. They like to call it, “Art for your floor.”
2. The environment is important to us at San Jose Hardwood Floors; this manufacturer has plenty of products made from naturally sustainable wood for you to choose from. In fact, they have a whole line of FSC certified reclaimed hardwood flooring you can consider!

Feb. 26th - MEET YOUR LOCAL FOOD PRODUCERS AT THE LOCAVORE~BUY LOCAL EVENT

    
About this Bucks County, Doylestown, Pa  business networking event: Thursday, February 26th, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Superior Woodcraft, 160 N Hamilton Street, Doylestown, Pa 18901

Locavore - It is part of the concept of local purchasing and local economies, a preference to buy locally produced goods and services - particularly related to food economies. Learn more about locavore. 

Buy Local - Support yourself: Several studies have shown that when you buy from an independent, locally owned business, rather than a nationally owned businesses, significantly more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers and farms -- continuing to strengthen the economic base of the community. Encourages local prosperity. Learn more about buying local - Bucks County, Pa.

Join us for an evening of networking; make valuable new contacts, generate leads and reconnect with familiar faces. 

Network and mingle with other businesses, find new opportunities and generate leads while sampling locally grown and produced delicacies provided by the producers who carefully crafted it.  Learn more about your local community.

Free event, coincides with Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce and open to anyone who would like to grow their business. This is a great opportunity to learn a little about the 'Locavore' movement; once you've tasted, you'll quickly appreciate the amazing bounty in our own back yard
 
 
Click to receive future information about the Locavore~Buy Local Event - A Bucks County Business and Community Event. 

                                                                              RSVP NOW

Sneak Preview of the Featured Local Food & Beverage Producers

Blue Moon Acres
Buckingham Valley Vineyard
Bucks County Preserves
Castle Valley Mill
Confection Perfection
Doylestown Brewing Company
JustFood
Laurie's Chocolates
Olive Oil Etc.
Rabbit Run Farm
Sweet Victory
The Market at Del Val College
Wycombe Vineyard

Check back to see what other local delights will be featured on February 26th.

For info - call 215-348-9942 or email mailto: buylocal@superiorwoodcraft.com


                                                 RSVP NOW

Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce - 
Business & Community Networking Event
Thursday, February 26, 2015
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Hosted by:
Superior Woodcraft, Inc.
160 N Hamilton Street 
Doylestown, PA 18901 
215-348-9942
buylocal@superiorwoodcraft.com

 PARKING DOYLE AND BROAD STREET

Superior Woodcraft is a local custom cabinetmaker located in Doylestown, Bucks County, Pa.

Source:

Superior Woodcraft, Inc.

Superior Woodcraft Blog 

Laundry Room Refresh

Every two months I partner with Better Homes and Gardens products for Walmart. Since January is all about a fresh start, it was the perfect opportunity to give the laundry room at the Las Vegas house a refreshed look for the new year. The makeover took only a few days, it was simple and budget […]

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How to make laminate flooring joints more waterproof

Many homeowners wonder how to make laminate flooring joints more waterproof. Typically, laminate flooring is not meant to be glued – however, in applications with high risk of moisture exposure, it is okay to glue the joins. A good quality laminate glue and silicone caulk can help seal your laminate to help make it more resistant ...

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Creating Cute Home Decor for Your Baby’s Nursery

Congratulations! Your little bundle of joy is due to arrive in only a few months and now it’s time for you to create the perfect space to welcome your baby home. Perhaps no better room is well suited for cute home decor than your baby’s nursery. This is the spot in the house where all ...

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Don’t Get Left in the Cold in 2015

Finally, for the first time in quite a while we can start the year with more than just hopeful optimism that the economy is improving, at least in the U.S. As always, there are uncertainties in the world, and we’re part of a global economy, but the evidence is there – home prices have stabilized, […]

Home Remodel: Six Month Progress Report

Last week marked the six month date of when we started remodeling the house we bought in Las Vegas, looking back we’ve accomplished a lot given it’s been a ‘back and forth across state lines’ process but we’ve loved every minute! From the beginning, we’ve approached this renovation as a full overhaul since the home […]

Home Remodel: Six Month Progress Report is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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Is Orange-Toned Wood On-Trend?

Is orange-toned wood back on-trend? Or, did it ever leave at all?

Decorator Review: Creating a Home With Taylor & Taylor

Building a foundation, four walls, and a solid roof is easy. Creating a home takes passion, inspiration, and smarts. That’s the philosophy behind Taylor & Taylor, a design firm based in Florida and managed by William & Phyllis Taylor. The Taylors didn’t start their career together. Each designer in this power duo apprenticed separately in ...

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Our Noisy Secret!

We have a secret and it’s a rather noisy one! Last year, amongst a load of other projects, we attempted to tidy upstairs hallway. Whilst it is looking better than before (yes, we still need to finish stripping and painting the last bit of dado and skirting), there’s something much less pretty hiding underneath our... 

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Hakwood Duoplank

Hakwood is een bedrijf dat zich reeds sinds 1979 toelegt op de productie van kwalitatief samengesteld parket en deze markt heeft ingepalmd met de Duoplank. Deze  vloeroplossing is typisch voor Hakwood, dat zich specialiseert in brede, lange vloerplanken en intussen gerenommeerd is voor de kwaliteit ervan. 
 
De kwaliteit het samengesteld parket is het resultaat van de structuur van de plank, die specifiek werd uitgedacht om zaken zoals krimpen, verbuigen en opzwellen te vermijden.

Voor meer info lees verder op www.gebroedersjanssen.be

BOTB 1.9.15

Hello and happy weekend! I spent my entire day cleaning and organizing at the fixer house here in Las Vegas before leaving town, and also finishing up a few projects, I’ll share a progress report next week. I’m excited to get home and relax after a week of painting, researching, and running around. The playoffs […]

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What is Engineered Flooring?

Dear Bob and Betsy, I’m looking for new flooring for my loft and I’m overwhelmed with the choices. What is engineered flooring? How is it different than laminate? – Betsy C. Dear Betsy, Engineered flooring typically refers to engineered hardwood flooring. This is a specific product that consists of several layers of wood. The top ...

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The Newlywed’s Guide to Sifting Through Flooring Options

Congratulations! You exchanged vows, promised to love each other until death do you part, and now you are knee deep in fixing up your future home. One of the first projects you’ll likely do is decide on the flooring options for each room. Flooring decisions are difficult. There are colors, types, and styles that you ...

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More Ways to Update a Bathroom

I spent the day painting laundry room cabinets at the fixer house, it’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do, I’m excited to share that space with you next week! Meanwhile let’s continue the topic of bathroom renovation from yesterday’s post on five ways to update a bathroom with four additional ways to […]

More Ways to Update a Bathroom is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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How to Restore Laminate Floor Shine

Ever take a look at your laminate flooring and just think it looks “blah” and dull? Over time flooring can lose its shine and spark that it once had leaving you unhappy with your homes appearance.. Between the constant flow of traffic and the usual day to day mishaps, you might notice your floor starting ...

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REMINDER: These 7 Items Should Be Considered Before You Remodel Your Home

Are you thinking about remodeling? Are you considering tackling a project in your home sometime soon? Before you begin, don't forget to...

All About Floor Finishes, Wood Dyes & Stains

When you pick out your hardwood flooring, there’s more to think about than just the species of wood and style of planks. It’s important to think about how you want the floors dyed, stained and finished. Fortunately, we’ve put together this handy guide about floor finishes, wood dyes and stains!

Wood Dyes & Stains

There’s a basic difference between wood dyes and stains:

• Wood dyes penetrate the floor to give a deep, rich color to the grain; stains are more like paint
• Wood dyes can be used to enhance stain

First the flooring is dyed, and then a couple of days later the stain goes on. Depending on what color you want, you may need two coats of stain to get the shade just right. Once the stain is dry, the finish is applied to protect your floors for years to come.

Five Ways to Update a Bathroom

I have renovation on the brain this month with two kitchens and two bathrooms in the works, so I’m dedicating this week to the topic of remodeling bathrooms! As we all know, updated bathrooms increase a home’s value and help sell your home quicker than similar houses in the market. A fresh coat of paint […]

Five Ways to Update a Bathroom is a post from Centsational Girl Republishing this article in full or in part is a violation of copyright law. © 2009-2015, all rights reserved.

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Is there a special way to install laminate flooring in the kitchen?

Installing laminate flooring in kitchens is very common, and there are a few tricks and tips if you want to install laminate flooring in the kitchen. Laminate is very suitable for kitchen application and gives a rich and finished look to the space. There are certain precautions that must be taken when installing in a ...

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Winter Care Tips For Improving Your Indoor Environment

Proper Indoor Climate Control Is Healthy for You and Your Wooden Furnishings

Winter has arrived.  The children are excited about snow and you anticipate relaxing by a nice warm fireplace during the winter nights.  Sounds enticing. 

All of a sudden you start to see changes in your home.  You notice wider gaps in your wood floors and maybe panels on wooden doors appeared to shrink and wooden drawers appear loose.  You might see some unfinished wood or finishing lines in cabinetry and furniture.  You are wondering - what happened?

In a nutshell, the wooden products in your home are adjusting to the humidity level in the atmosphere.  During the winter months the air is “dry” because cold air retains less moisture and when we heat the air the relative humidity becomes lower.  When you have “dry air” moisture is actually being drawn out of the wooden furniture in your home until an equilibrium state is reached.     That is why you will see gaps in your wood floors, doors, cabinets and why doors and drawers aren't quite as tight.  In more severe situations you might even experiencing splits and cracks in your wooden furniture. 

The opposite affect happens when that moist spring and summer air rolls in.  Warmer air holds more moisture and the dry wood in your home will absorb that moisture until an equilibrium state is achieved.  This causes wood to swell, or become slightly larger. In technical wood geek terms, wood is hygroscopic, which refers to its property of changing to atmospheric humidity.

To control the expansion and contraction of wood, you want to establish moisture/humidity control in your home.  Moisture is controlled in homes with proper ventilation, control of air infiltration, heating, cooling and controlling humidity with either a dehumidifier or a humidifier, which adds moisture to a home.  With an inexpensive thermometer and hygrometer you can measure the temperature and humidity level in your home.  You can consult a qualified specialist to help you design an indoor environmental control system that is appropriate for your home.

The environmental protection agency recommends that homes maintain a relative humidity level between 30% and 50%.  The EPA recommends normal indoor temperatures for winter to

range between 67.5 F and 75.5 F and summer indoor temperatures range between 73 F and 80 F.  If you really want to maintain pristine environmental climate control you can look at museum quality standards.  Generally you can think of museum quality climate control as keeping  the temperature at 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity at 50% (Rh%).  Ideally, these two conditions do not change or do not change more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit and 10%Rh within 24 hours.  Whether you target EPA guidelines or museum quality standards one of the important points here is to try to maintain the stability of the temperature and relative humidity in your home.  Remember that the moisture content in your wood is trying to reach equilibrium.  Keeping a consistent temperature and relative humidity level will allow the wood’s moisture content to be stable and therefore your wood will be stable – no more (or a lot less) expansion and contraction. 

If you prefer interior wood details that remain constant between seasons, then keeping a stable indoor climate will increase your enjoyment of your wooden home furnishings and interior wood elements.  But, keep in mind, you don't need a sophisticated moisture control system in your home to enjoy beautiful floors, cabinets and other interior wood elements, as long you understand that wood is a natural product and will respond to the loss of or introduction of moisture from season to season.

Easy Solution Tips:

• Buy an inexpensive monitor to measure indoor temperatures and relative humidity 
• Keep your indoor temperature stable and don't allow indoor temperatures to  fluctuate more then 10 degrees F within 24 hours.
• Programmable thermostats are a great way to control the temperature in your home and save money.
• Maintain relative humidity levels between 30% and 50%
• If you need to raise the relative humidity levels simply place an open container of water in a room and allow it evaporate.
• House plants and aquariums can also introduce moisture into a home, which might be appropriate in the winter time, but unwanted in the humid summer months. Monitoring your indoor temperature and  relative humidity will let you know if house plants and aquariums introduce too much moisture.

Implementing these indoor climate guidelines will certainly create a sound environment for your wooden home furnishings, but more importantly they will also create a healthier living environment for your family.  

Superior Woodcraft is a local custom cabinetmaker located in Doylestown, Bucks County, Pa.

Source:

Superior Woodcraft, Inc.

Superior Woodcraft Blog 

Our 2015 Calendar (For You!)

Happy New Year! With 2015 now already in full swing, it’s high time that we shared our 2015 calendar with you. As always we already have a load of projects planned for the year and for us, having a calendar is always a vital part of staying organized. This year, each month’s design has a... 

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FACT: Without A Coffee Bar, Your Home Isn't 'House Guest Friendly'. Here's Why...

Really, there’s nothing quite as welcoming to house guests as a well-stocked coffee bar. Here's why...

Decorator Review: Caitlin McCarthy

When a network, such as HGTV chooses a designer to watch, we listen! The Overall Winner in 2014 for HGTV’s Fresh Faces of Design was Caitlin McCarthy. This designer took a small space and turned it into a work of art using her chic style and smarts. Caitlin McCarthy isn’t new to the design world. ...

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Builder Grade to Floating Vanity

Welcome back to a new year and a brand new week! First I must say "Yay for the return of Downton Abbey!" I’ve ignored all spoilers and enjoyed the beginning of Season 5 last night with a cup of tea as a Sunday evening January tradition! I thought I’d kick off the year with one […]

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