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Hardwood Flooring Patterns: A Guide

January 13, 2021/in Uncategorized /by Mitch Nydish

Hardwood Flooring Patterns

You love the idea of having hardwood floors in your home. But before your beautiful hardwood flooring can be installed, you must decide on the installation pattern. The pattern design selected will ultimately play a major role in the look of the finished project and the overall style in the room. There are six primary installation patterns that you should learn about before you finalize your decision.

Straight

Through a straight installation design, the hardwood planks are installed either vertically or horizontally across the floor. Generally, they follow the direction of the longest wall in a smaller room or along the direction of the shortest wall in a larger room to take advantage of optical benefits. While this is a plain and common installation method, it continues to be popular because of its simplistic appeal.

Diagonal

If you prefer the long lines created by a straight design, a creative alternative is a diagonal installation method. The diagonal design generally runs at a 45-degree angle from the walls, but you can take creative license with the severity of the angle. Because of the precision needed to cut each board precisely, this design requires the skills of an experienced floor installer.

Random

The random design can be used in conjunction with straight or diagonal installation methods. While the straight and diagonal methods use boards with comparable dimensions, the random installation method uses boards with different lengths and widths. This results in a floor with fascinating personality.

Parquet Pattern

The parquet design may also be referred to as a brick design. It is appropriately named because the wood slats are cut into small pieces with equal lengths. These pieces are laid in a manner that visually creates square shapes. The flow of the slats alternates for a stunning and interesting visual effect.

Basket Weave

A variation of the parquet design is the basket weave style. It incorporates small square pieces surrounded by longer wood planks. The unique design creates a woven look that is both sophisticated and interesting. This type of installation design generally looks best when wood with deep color variations is used.

Chevron

The chevron design is both classic and increasingly popular in modern décor. The wood planks are installed in a V-shaped pattern that zigzags across the room boldly. The overall look of the design can be adjusted by the number of boards used in each V-shaped angle and by the dimensions of the boards.

Herringbone

The herringbone design is visually similar to the chevron pattern with one significant difference. The boards in the chevron design have mitered edges. The herringbone’s boards are not mitered. Like the chevron design, the herringbone look is visually fascinating. However, it may be slightly easier to install because no mitering is required.

Hardwood Flooring Style Selection Tips

With many beautiful design possibilities to consider for your upcoming floor installation project, how can you make the right decision for your space? While the overall look of the design is a matter of personal preference, you should keep in mind the shape of the room and the overall line of sight from common entryways. In addition, the installation recommendations from the manufacturer may reveal helpful insight. Your budget may also play a role in the design that you select. More complicated designs require more skill and time. Designs with more cuts may require the use of more materials.

Are you eager to see a beautiful improvement to your home’s décor? At Classic Floor Designs, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. During an initial consultation, we can help you to review the beautiful hardwood materials that may work well with the look that you have in mind. To schedule a consultation with one of our designers, contact Classic Floor Designs today.

How to Remove Wine Stains from Flooring

December 11, 2020/in Uncategorized /by Mitch Nydish

Few things can ruin a relaxing evening at home more quickly than a red wine spill. Red wine is well-known for causing permanent stains, so you may understandably believe that your floor is ruined after a mishap. However, whether your red wine spill is on carpet or wood flooring, you may be able to prevent permanent damage if you act quickly and use the right techniques.

Soak Up the Liquid Immediately

Regardless of the floor type, the most important first step is to soak up as much of the red wine as possible. Grab a roll of paper towels, and start blotting up the wine. Continue doing so with clean paper towels until all liquid has been absorbed. You should never scrub or even wipe the red wine. Doing so could cause the red wine to penetrate deeper into the material. This can make it more difficult to remove the stain.

If you are dealing with carpet stains, diluting the stain with clean water is helpful. Pouring a substantial amount of water on the stain can cause the damage to spread. To prevent this from happening, blot up as much of the liquid as possible. Then, add a small amount of clean water to the stain. Blot up the liquid again, and repeat this process until you cannot extract any more wine through the effort.

Strategies to Remove Wine Stains from Carpet

The specific composition of your carpet will affect which stain removal method is best for your situation. Because carpeting varies so dramatically, always consult with the manufacturer to get removal recommendations before you get started. If your carpet manufacturer does not have specific instructions for red wine stain removal, you can try a few different options depending on the supplies that you have on hand.

One option to remove red wine stains from carpet is to use a combination of detergent and white vinegar. Mix a few drops of a cleaning detergent with a cup of water. Apply this to the stain. Allow it to penetrate the stain for a few minutes. Then, blot the liquid. The next step for this process is to apply undiluted white vinegar to the stain. Cover the stain with a thick blanket of clean paper towels. Apply a book or something equally heavy on top of the paper towels so that they can absorb as much of the liquid as possible. Allow the vinegar and paper towels to remain in place overnight.

Another option to remove wine stains from carpet is to use a baking soda paste. Mix the baking soda and water together to create a thick paste. The amount needed will vary based on the size of your stain. Apply the paste thickly over the stain. Once the paste has completely dried, vacuum the remnants. If you notice any remaining discoloration from the red wine, use a stain removal product that is suitable for use with your carpet type.

Tips to Remove Red Wine Stains from Wood Floor

Red wine that remains on wood floor for more than a few minutes can cause staining as well. The stains may be more pronounced on light-colored floors. After you have thoroughly dried up as much of the wine as possible, clean the floor with Murphy’s soap or another oil soap. Mix the soap with water according to the instructions on the label. Scrub the stained area until the stain has been removed.

You can also try to remove red wine stains from your wood floor using mineral oil and baking soda. Using these supplies, make a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stain. After it has thoroughly dried out, use a clean cloth to remove the debris. If these efforts do not work, the floor may need to be refinished.

Contact the Professionals

At Classic Floor Designs, we want our customers to enjoy their home’s flooring. While red wine stains can be removed from carpet and wood floors in many cases, there are instances when replacing the floor is a better strategy. Contact Classic Floor Designs today to explore the many beautiful possibilities available for your home.

What’s the Difference between Berber, Frieze, and Plush carpeting?

November 18, 2020/in Uncategorized /by Mitch Nydish

Deciding between Berber, Frieze and plush carpet for your upcoming carpet installation project is not an easy feat. These are all beautiful styles with extensive benefits and undeniable appeal. However, they have unique benefits that you need to understand before you select a gorgeous material that is a good fit for your expectations and lifestyle at home.

Exciting Variations in Carpet Styles

Wool and nylon are popular materials used to make many types of luxury carpets today. The material used to make your carpet can impact stain resistance, wear and other factors. In addition to the differences in materials, there are variations in the thickness of the pile, if the loops are cut or intact and more. These and other variations affect everything from the look and feel of the carpeting to its longevity, its ability to hide dirt and more. Because the more popular styles of carpeting in homes today are Berber, Frieze and plush, a detailed review of these options is the next step in your search for new carpet for your home.

Berber Carpet

Berber carpet has a unique look thanks to its closed-loop design. The loops have a tight weave, and this makes Berber carpet highly durable against wear from foot traffic. The design also has reduced absorbency. Because of this, you will have more time to clean spills before they are set in the carpet. The loops also may feel soft and cushy underneath your bare feet.

Berber carpet does have some disadvantages. For example, the closed loops can snag easily, and this damage creates a frayed, worn look. Generally, Berber carpet is not practical for homes with children or pets for this reason.

Frieze Carpet

Frieze carpet, on the other hand, has an open-loop design. The tufts are wound tighter than with the traditional plush carpet that you may be familiar with, and the piles are cut to create an ultra-soft surface. The unique design of Frieze carpet results in the fibers laying in a haphazard fashion rather than straight up. As a result, Frieze carpet is ideal for rooms with heavy foot traffic. The carpet shows minimal signs of wear, and it also will not show vacuum marks. Because of these factors, the flooring may look clean and well-maintained for a longer period of time.

Plush Carpet

Like Frieze, plush carpet has open loops. The pile is available in a wide range of heights, and this impacts the overall softness of the material underneath your feet. An important difference between plush and Frieze carpet is that plush carpet is sheared evenly during the manufacturing process. All of the piles are one height and stand erect. As a result, plush carpet will show foot and vacuum marks more easily. Nonetheless, plush carpet can be durable in high-traffic areas when a quality material is selected.

Choosing Carpet for Your Home

Most styles of carpet may look gorgeous in your home immediately after installation, but you want your carpet to continue enhancing the ambiance for many years to come. While color and style are undeniably important factors to consider when choosing new carpet, think about the type of traffic that the specific area of your home will receive. Will the carpet be exposed to mild foot traffic or heavy pet traffic? Are spills and stains likely? After defining these factors, narrow down the options based on your budget and style preferences.

Learn More about the Beautiful Carpet Options Today

At Classic Floor Designs, we are your full solution for quality home flooring. The many carpet styles available for you to explore in our current inventory include Frieze, Berber, plush, and many more. Contact Classic Floor Designs by calling (202) 872-9860, or connect with us online for more information about the beautiful flooring options available for your home.

2021 Home Design Trends

October 22, 2020/in Uncategorized /by Mitch Nydish

Today’s homes multi-task as offices, school rooms, and play areas. The latest home design trends aim to support these functions while still delivering fabulous style. Top 2021 trends in design cover the gamut from hardwood floors to lighting. If you’re spending more time at home, you’ll love this list of ideas for updating and refreshing your space.

Go Luxe With Navy Blue

In the past, designers used black accent walls, furnishings, and fixtures to lend glamour and sophistication to a living area. In 2021, navy blue is the new black for interior designs. Navy appears softer than black and coordinates with many colors without looking too harsh.

Navy blue enhances both contemporary and traditional living rooms. You’ll find the color splashed on accent walls with paint or pretty wallpaper prints. Get a thoroughly modern living room makeover with chairs and sofas that are upholstered in this velvety, rich color.

Brighten Rooms With Light Floors

You can’t broach the subject of interior design without challenging your flooring choices. If you love modern elements for your home, our designers recommend lighter flooring options. Light-colored floors work well with Scandinavian-style furnishings and fixtures. They also give industrial living areas a more spacious and bright look.

When creating modern interior designs, hard floors take center stage. You’ll see sealed concrete and natural stone tile floors throughout 2021’s modern homes. Hardwood flooring is a classic option that never goes out of style, and it has a wide appeal with both homeowners and home shoppers. Some hot hardwood species to consider for 2021 include white oak, birch, and ivory maple.

Modern Rustic Design Combos

If you and your spouse bicker about the benefits of modern over rustic interior design, 2021 can be a game changer for your relationship and your home’s look. Home design experts mix modern and rustic furnishings and fixtures for distinctive design combinations in 2021. There are several ways that you can get the look without making your home a total construction site.

If your spouse won and you’re starting with a completely modern living area, add some rustic elements to the space such as a sliding barn door, rough-hewn wood sconces, or a hand-made, glass-topped wooden table. Many modern spaces rely on bright, white walls as a backdrop for minimalist drama. By adding elements of dark, natural wood, you give the space a pleasant surprise with color contrasts and texture mixes.

Completely rustic spaces benefit from modern touches as well. The best way to pull off this look is by introducing sleek, natural elements into the space. Consider incorporating things such as stainless steel countertops, shiny metal-framed side tables, and lots of glass.

Get Glowing With Hidden Lighting

Lighting is the unsung hero of great interior design. With the right lights, you can make a space appear larger or smaller than it really is. You can also create a warm, elegant ambiance for a space, which is desired in both modern and traditional designs. Hidden lights top the list of 2021 trends in home lighting.

Hidden lighting goes beyond the standard recessed lights of the past. You’ll often see diffused, soft light coming from above a fixture or from its side, but you can’t see the source of the light. Hidden lights such as positional luminaries and multi-level lighting are found integrated into ceilings, walls, and floors.

Bring Indoor Comforts Outdoors

Our current pandemic situation makes a comfortable outdoor living area a must-have part of any interior design in 2021. Even if you don’t have the space or the budget for a complete outdoor living room, you can still enjoy the trend with a few decorative, weather-proof chairs, comfortable textiles, and some paint. Consider painting your porch a soothing color that you would see in an interior room such as slate blue or one that’s found in nature such as forest green. Adorn chairs with cheerful-looking cushions, lay out some textured throw rugs, and grab a cup of your favorite herbal tea for a delightful getaway without getting away.

Improve Productivity With More Storage Cabinets

If you’re working from home and/or home-schooling children, your quality of life can be affected if you’re not organized. A top 2021 trend in home design is adding more storage cabinets in your living and work spaces. By installing storage cabinets that match your room’s decor, you’ll declutter, reclaim space, improve your concentration, and increase your room’s aesthetic appeal.

Indulge in Sustainable Minimalism

Two of interior designers’ top loves have come together to form a leading home design trend for 2021. Minimalism in furniture, fixtures, and architectural design isn’t going anywhere in 2021. However, it’ll have a sustainable twist. You’ll find light fixtures with simple lines that are made of recycled materials. Cork and bamboo floors are set to be favorite options for those who want to incorporate sustainable minimalism design elements into their homes in 2021.

Conclusion

Quality flooring is the foundation of every distinctive interior design. Whether you’re the parent of a toddler who needs soft carpet for her first steps or you’re a senior who has a passion for exotic hardwood floors, Classic Floor Designs delivers on quality, style, and function. Call us today at 202-872-9860 to schedule your free design consultation.

Solid Hardwood vs Ceramic Tile with a Wood Look: The Pros and Cons

September 16, 2020/in Uncategorized /by Mitch Nydish

Do you love the sophistication and warmth of solid hardwood floor but are also intrigued by the idea of ceramic tiles that look like wood? Hardwood flooring is a popular upgrade that homeowners prefer, but it has a few downsides. Increasingly, homeowners are drawn to ceramic tile that has a wood look. Because of advances in the design and manufacturing of ceramic and porcelain tile in recent years, tiles mimic the look of solid hardwood. While you may not be able to initially tell the difference between the hardwood floors and wood-like tiles, there are critical difference that may influence your decision.

Pros and Cons of Solid Hardwood Flooring

Solid hardwood flooring is incredibly durable when it is properly maintained. Because it can be refinished numerous times, it can remain a desirable, attractive feature in your home for decades. It is generally one of the more expensive types of flooring materials to install overall, but the longevity of hardwood flooring makes it a great investment.

In addition to being long-lasting, solid hardwood flooring is available in a wide range of styles. The species of wood, the stain color and even the surface finish all impact the style of the flooring. With so many options, there are likely several that would look amazing in your home. Aesthetically, hardwood flooring often makes a home feel more spacious and warmer at the same time. Compared to ceramic tile, it is more comfortable to walk on as well. Because of its broad appeal, it generally adds value and appeal to the home that can be recouped when you sell the house later.

However, solid hardwood flooring is not the perfect material for all areas of the home. Hardwood flooring is prone to scratching, such as from pets’ nails or from moving furniture. Exposure to standing water and even high levels of humidity can damage the wood as well. While solid hardwood flooring can be refinished many times before it needs to be replaced, the fact that it shows wear and damage easily is not ideal for some homeowners. Here at Classic Floor Designs, we prefer hardwood flooring in most areas of the home with the exception of bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements that may flood or have high humidity.

What to Expect from Ceramic Tile with a Wood Look

Ceramic tile can be produced to mimic the look of a wide range of high-end materials, and this includes solid hardwood flooring. In fact, ceramic tile with a wood look is available with smooth, hand-scraped and woodgrain surfaces. Whether you are searching for a material that looks like bamboo, cherry wood or other popular wood materials, you can likely find it in the many ceramic tile options.

While ceramic tile with a wood look delivers all of the aesthetic benefits of true hardwood flooring, this material has the physical traits of ceramic tile. It is resistant to damage from water exposure. Because of this, it can safely be used in kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms. Pets’ toenails and furniture will not scratch it. Because it is tile, however, it can crack if a heavy or sharp object falls on it. Compared to solid hardwood, it may feel slightly harder and cooler under your feet.

Tile is more affordable than solid hardwood flooring in many cases. However, installation usually takes longer because of the mortaring, grouting and sealing processes. Another difference between solid hardwood and wood-like tiles is that grout lines will show between the tiles. To ensure that your flooring has a true wood look, you can stain the grout to match the wood. You can also use a thin grout width to reduce the appearance of the grout lines. Many people skip this step, but in order to maintain the integrity of the tiles the grout needs to be sealed annually. However, depending on the level of traffic in specific areas the timing of when to seal may differ. We recommend sealing grout every six months in high traffic areas and every two years in low traffic areas.

Contact Us

Do you want to explore some of the beautiful flooring options available for your home? At ClassicFloorDesigns.info, we have a large selection of solid hardwood and ceramic tile with a wood look for you to discover. Browse through the possibilities on our website, and feel free to reach out to us by phone at (202)872-9860 for personalized assistance.

Classic Floor Designs Answers the Top 10 Questions about Hardwood Floors

August 13, 2020/in Uncategorized /by Mitch Nydish

Hardwood Floors Are More Popular Than Ever

If you love the idea of having hardwood floors in your home you’re not alone. In fact, hardwood flooring is so popular, the wood flooring market is expected to register a growth rate of 4.8% from 2018 to 2024. Whether you’re making the switch to hardwood floors or wishing to revamp your existing flooring, the professionals at Classic Floor Design are here to help.

So you’re ready to get started, but you’re not sure what you’re looking for when it comes to the ins and outs of hardwood flooring options. Here are 10 frequently asked questions we hear a lot related to installing or refinishing hardwood floors.

Which Wood Species Is Best?

Simply put, your personal preference will determine what the best option is for you. To achieve a cozier aesthetic, we recommend going with oak or hickory. If you’re more interested in establishing an open, airy atmosphere, maple or ash will do the trick. No matter your style, we’ll help steer you in the right direction.

Prefinished Vs. Unfinished: What’s The Difference?

Much like its name suggests, prefinished hardwood floors are sealed with multiple coats of finish in advance. Aluminum oxide, which is the second hardest substance after diamond, is included in the final coats to ensure optimal protection. Meanwhile, unfinished floors are finished after the installation. Aluminum oxide isn’t used because the particles within would sink to the bottom of the finish.

Can A Hardwood Floor Be Floated?

A floating hardwood floor refers to a floor that doesn’t need to be glued or nailed to the subfloor. Some prefer this method because it allows the wood floors to change based on the room’s humidity without buckling. A solid hardwood floor can’t be floated, but an engineered hardwood floor can.

Are Wood Floors Worth It?

As hardwood floor installation experts, we’re well aware of how beneficial this flooring solution can be. In addition to increasing the value of your home or building, wood floors are also easy to maintain. Best of all, they’re durable, customizable, and unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.

Will Pets Ruin The Hardwood?

Depending on the pet you have, you may want to consider a more durable hardwood floor. Bigger, more playful dogs will warrant more protection, while an outdoor cat won’t be much of a problem. We recommend using the Janka hardness test to determine what type of wood will hold up against your pet. Between this proven method and our industry insight, we’ll help you make the ideal selection.

How Do I Prevent Wood Floors From Fading?

Much like cheese, wood floors get better with age. In other words, while it’s essential to care for your hardwood floors, they do an excellent job preserving themselves. To increase their life span and prevent fading, periodically move furniture, rugs, etc. to limit their exposure to the sun.

Can A Hardwood Floor Be Installed Over A Concrete Slab?

Thinner wood floors can be installed over concrete, but standard wood floors shouldn’t be because excessive moisture can cause swelling and contracting. Engineered hardwood would also work because it’s less likely to expand and warp over concrete.

When’s The Best Time To Install Wood Floors?

Unless you’re building or restoring a home or property, any time is a good time to install wood floors. Otherwise, you’ll want to wait until the renovations are nearly complete before moving forward. Installing wood floors prematurely makes them more susceptible to damage.

To Sheen Or Not To Sheen?

Once again, this is entirely up to you. A gloss finish will deliver a shiny finished look and reflect the greatest amount of light. A semi-gloss finish will produce the same effects, but they’ll be subtler. For the lowest level of shine, a matte or satin finish will be your best bet.

How Much Do I Have To Order?

For your peace of mind, we suggest ordering about 10 percent more wood flooring than is needed. Ordering the exact amount is ill-advised because you’ll need extra to account for corners, stairs, doors, etc. By purchasing more than you need, you’ll have enough when it’s time to trim, cut, and fit the floors into your desired space. At Classic Floor Designs, we’ve mastered the art of hardwood installation. No matter your questions or concerns, we’re qualified to answer and address them. Give us a call today at 202-872-9860 to see how we can assist with your installation needs. If you prefer, you can also fill out our online form by following this link.