Whether you are creative or classic in design, one thing is certain – your new flooring will add value to your home.
If you love the classic look and style of wood but don’t love the high price tag that comes with wood flooring, Chicago homeowners should consider laminate flooring for their remodeling project.
Laminate flooring in Chicago has become a top choice for local residents. Its affordable cost, easy installation and durability help make it a leading flooring option worldwide. Laminate flooring in Chicago is offered in classic wood style planks, new ceramic tile-like designs and even a laminate that looks like stone.
In addition to the wide selection of styles, another popular perk of laminate flooring in Chicago is that it is one of the most durable flooring options available. Laminate floor planks and tiles are sealed with an aluminum oxide finish that protects the product from damage and offers the homeowner years of use with low maintenance.
Laminate is one of the easiest floors to care for and is basically maintenance free, with the exception of routine cleaning such as vacuuming, sweeping and dry mopping.
Homeowners looking for laminate flooring in Chicago may not be aware but laminate is also available in a variety of installation processes including click-lock, glue down and floating. Advancements have been made with the tongue and groove type of laminate flooring, making this the easiest and most popular installation type. Yet another perk is that laminate floor can be installed over most any sub floor including tiles or concrete.
If you love the look of stone, brick and rock, tile flooring in North Chicago may be the answer to your new flooring options. Masonry flooring materials such as stone and ceramic tile are among the most durable flooring options available. The many design styles, colors and materials available, make it one of the most versatile as well.
A number of flooring stores with tile flooring in North Chicago offer products in a wide variety of sizes, color options, materials, and price points to fit every budget and makes an excellent option for living rooms, kitchens, foyers and bathrooms.
The most common sizes of tile flooring are 4, 6, 12 and 18 inches square. In addition, new styles of decorative specialty tiles, arranged on a mesh backing, make design and color choice a breeze.
There are many design colors and styles for tile flooring in North Chicago and two distinct types: ceramic and porcelain. Ceramic, the most common type of tile flooring is made of clay baked in a kiln. Porcelain tile is made from fine white clay fired at a high temperature, making it harder and with more of a luster and is quite stain resistant.
When choosing a ceramic tile, you have the option of glazed or unglazed tile flooring in North Chicago. Unglazed tile has a more natural look and can be found in selections such as quarry or terracotta. The glazing process makes floor tile more resistant to stains and water and provides a more vibrant color tile.
The key to a successful tile floor installation starts with a solid, strong and flat sub-floor because tile is heavy and brittle. If not supported properly, it is subject to crack. Most homeowners will have a successful installation of this flooring choice, barring any major structural issues with your existing floor.
The last step for installing tile flooring in North Chicago is grouting the new floor. Choosing the right grout is key to a having the perfect tile flooring installation. Grout is added between the tiles to secure the tiles and make a cohesive floor. The most commonly used grout is a very fine, thin mortar that is often stained to match the floor color. Epoxy-based and silicone grout is often used in areas where mildew may be an issue.
Also, stone and tile floor materials are thicker than the old vinyl you may be covering. The addition of tile will change the height of the floor. This change will need to be addressed, especially near the entrances and transitions between rooms.
When selecting flooring, Chicago homeowners should consult a flooring specialist who can provide information about the types of installation options colors and styles so that you can confidently select a floor that is right for your home.