Learning Center 2022-03-22T20:33:32Z https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/feed/atom/ WordPress Build Direct <![CDATA[Laminate Flooring Thickness Guide – All You Need to Know]]> https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16648 2022-03-22T20:33:28Z 2021-09-08T14:00:27Z Laminate is a flooring material you’ve seen and walked upon a thousand times or more. From residential spaces like busy kitchens to lobbies, waiting rooms and offices, laminate is a true leader when it comes to flooring. That’s because laminate is a cost-effective solution that’s downright durable compared to some . . . Read more

The post Laminate Flooring Thickness Guide – All You Need to Know appeared first on Learning Center.

Related posts:

  1. The Pros and Cons of Installing Laminate in the Kitchen
  2. Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring with Pets
  3. Vinyl vs. Laminate: What’s the Difference?
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Laminate is a flooring material you’ve seen and walked upon a thousand times or more. From residential spaces like busy kitchens to lobbies, waiting rooms and offices, laminate is a true leader when it comes to flooring.

That’s because laminate is a cost-effective solution that’s downright durable compared to some of its common competition. Add in the fact that modern laminate comes in tons of looks that can mimic more expensive materials like natural hardwood and stone and you may be singing the praises of laminate to anyone who will listen.

 When it comes to choosing laminate flooring though, understanding the thickness required for your space, as well as how it can impact your installation, long-term durability and maintenance routine is vital though. Laminate thickness isn’t something most novices are too familiar with, however.

The good news is that we’ve put together a handy guide to help you understand more about laminate flooring and laminate thickness in general. Keep reading to get a grasp on choosing laminate flooring for your space today.

How is Laminate Flooring Made?

Laminate flooring is crafted using a multi-layer approach that provides a tough, resilient surface for commercial and residential use. Through heating and high-pressure, these layers are fused together to create flooring that’s incredibly durable and designed to last for a very long time with minimal care.

With laminate flooring, four layers are generally combined to create the product you’ll use in your space. Here’s how those layers look on their own:

•   Bottom layer (4). Sometimes referred to as the backing layer, the bottom layer of laminate flooring provides stability to the completed laminate board.

•   Inner core layer (3). The inner core layer, which is the thickest of all four layers, is typically made from MDF (medium-density fiberboard), HDF (high-density fiberboard) or particle board. This is the main structural component in vinyl flooring and makes up a significant amount of the weight of a vinyl plank or square when you hold it in your hand.

•   Wear layer (2). The wear layer, typically made of melamine, is put in place to help the complete construction of your laminate tile or plank resist wear. Most wear layers are coated to help prevent water damage as well.

•   Decorative layer (1). This is the layer that you see when walking on a laminate floor. It may be designed to look like wood, natural stone or have a completely unique pattern.

What is Laminate Thickness?

The concept of laminate thickness can be a confusing one. If you’re new to laminate flooring, you’d probably guess that this measurement is the total depth of a laminate plank or tile.

The reality is that laminate thickness is measured in millimeters and defined by the thickness of the inner core layer only. The cladding on some laminate planks shouldn’t be added when measuring the total thickness of any given material. While you can find a variety of products on the market today, laminate flooring is between 6mm and 12mm in thickness, with 6mm styles being quite thin and 12mm designs on the very heavy side.

Why is Choosing the Right Thickness for Laminate Important?

Most people imagine that ultra-thick laminate flooring must be the best, most durable option. While this sounds true on the surface, the fact is that thickness isn’t the only factor when it comes to durability. In fact, super-thick laminate flooring isn’t that much more durable than a well-made thinner product in most cases.

What thicker laminate flooring provides is a different look and feel than thinner laminate material. This may or may not be the look that you’re after.

When it comes to durability, a firm, strong inner core layer is by far the most important aspect – much more important than thickness, in fact.

Advantages of Thick Laminate Flooring

12mm thick boards and an AC3 durability rating for high residential and light commercial traffic. Featuring Lamton Laminate – Marquis Collection. SKU: 15272202

Now that you know ultra-thick laminate flooring isn’t indestructible, there are still a few advantages of thick laminate to be aware of. Those include:

•   Thick laminate can withstand extremely high foot traffic better than thinner laminate of the same quality on average. This is particularly important for high traffic commercial spaces.

•   Very thick laminate can feel more like other flooring materials, including natural wood. This may be of great importance to you if you choose a laminate product designed to mimic another material like wood flooring.

•   Heavy, thick laminate can reduce environmental noise, which can be a big benefit in high-traffic spaces and sensitive environments like doctor’s offices or health care facilities.

•   It can be a little more forgiving when it comes to installation. This is key if you’ve got a very difficult space or you’re considering doing the installation on your own without professional help.

Disadvantages of Thick Laminate Flooring

Thick laminate flooring is often a great choice for both residential and commercial spaces. There are a few disadvantages to be aware of though. Those include:

•   Cost. Thicker laminate tends to be more expensive than thinner laminate flooring. In some spaces, this added cost may not be worth it to you.

•   Environmental impact. Thicker laminate flooring may take longer to degrade, and since it requires more material, it does pose more environmental difficulty. However, in spaces where long-term durability matters, the extra environmental impact may be offset since the laminate will likely stay in place longer.

Advantages of Thin Laminate Flooring

The beveled edges provide a realistic and natural hardwood appearance. Featuring Lamton Laminate – 7mm AC3 – Freedom Collection. SKU: 15274534

Thick laminate flooring is often a go-to choice for builders and designers. Thin laminate flooring has its place too, however. Here are some of the advantages of using thin laminate flooring:

•   Cost. Thin laminate flooring will cost considerably less, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. It’s also a smart buy for back rooms or stock areas where customers won’t go in commercial spaces.

•   You can install thinner laminate over the top of existing concrete. This makes installation much easier. Installing thin laminate over concrete also results in very durable flooring that may rival thicker laminate on top of a different type of subfloor.

•   It’s a better environmental choice since less material is used to make thinner laminate. This is especially true for light-use spaces where durability isn’t a major concern or you’re dealing with a concrete subfloor that provides more than enough strength.

Disadvantages of Thin Laminate Flooring

Thin laminate flooring, as cost-effective as it can be, isn’t right for every project. Here are some of the disadvantages you’ll want to keep in mind if you’re thinking about installing it in your home or place of business:

•   It’s harder to work with than thicker laminate flooring. This is very important if you’re considering a DIY installation in your home.

•   Thin laminate thrives on a solid subfloor and is often best on top of concrete. Subfloors that are perfectly level can leave your thin laminate vulnerable to peeling and damage.

•   It may not last as long in high-use spaces. Over time, lots of foot traffic can wear down thin laminate flooring, leading you to replace it more often.

•   Thin laminate may not feel as good under your feet as thicker laminate. Many people describe thin laminate as having a somewhat plastic-like feel underfoot. This may not be a problem in high-use spaces or work areas, however.

Which Laminate Flooring Thickness is Best for Me?

Right before ordering laminate for a residential or commercial space, many people have one basic question: What is a good thickness for laminate flooring for my intended purpose. Like most things, it truly does depend on the application.

Here are a few common laminate thicknesses and what you should know about them:

•   6mm laminate. A more cost effective option of laminate flooring. It is also more environmentally friendly and can be installed over concrete. That being said, it isn’t as durable and shouldn’t be used for high traffic areas or commercial applications.

•   8mm laminate. Slightly better durability than 6 or 7mm, but it might not have the same pleasant feel as 10mm laminate. It is also a cheaper option than the thicker planks, but depending on the application it might need to be repaired more often.

•   10mm laminate. Often considered the sweet spot when it comes to laminate thickness, 10mm laminate offers durability, a good feel underfoot and low noise even in high-traffic spaces. Reasonable pricing generally makes 10mm laminate a smart buy as well.

•   12mm laminate. Extra-heavy 12mm laminate offers many of the same benefits as 10mm laminate, though it typically costs a little more. 12mm laminate is often reserved for high-traffic commercial spaces like hospitals since every bit of durability matters in such busy spaces. Budgets also tend to be higher for long-term commercial projects, so the price difference is often less of a factor.

Shop All Sized Laminate at BuildDirect!

Choosing the right laminate thickness, plank size or tile width can be tricky. After all, you just want your space to look and feel great. The good news is that our trained representatives are here to help.

With all laminate sizes and styles available, we can help you find the perfect laminate flooring option for your home or business. Reach out today and we can help you get started.

The post Laminate Flooring Thickness Guide – All You Need to Know appeared first on Learning Center.

Related posts:

  1. The Pros and Cons of Installing Laminate in the Kitchen
  2. Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring with Pets
  3. Vinyl vs. Laminate: What’s the Difference?
]]> Build Direct <![CDATA[Linoleum vs. Vinyl Flooring: Which One Should You Choose?]]> https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16642 2022-03-22T20:33:28Z 2021-09-06T19:43:23Z Durable flooring is important for many home and business owners looking to make an upgrade that will last. Whether you’re starting a new building project or renovating an existing space, there’s a good chance you’ve considered linoleum and vinyl flooring. Ready to upgrade your floor to a beautiful new look . . . Read more

The post Linoleum vs. Vinyl Flooring: Which One Should You Choose? appeared first on Learning Center.

Related posts:

  1. Vinyl Plank Flooring: Glue Down vs. Floating
  2. Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring with Pets
  3. Snap Lock Flooring Tips for Pros
]]> Durable flooring is important for many home and business owners looking to make an upgrade that will last. Whether you’re starting a new building project or renovating an existing space, there’s a good chance you’ve considered linoleum and vinyl flooring.

Ready to upgrade your floor to a beautiful new look at a low cost? Try Vesdura Vinyl Planks – Sterling Collection SKU: 15270181

Both are resilient materials that can take a beating and still look spectacular. That’s why these materials have been used in high-traffic commercial spaces and busy residential rooms like kitchens and powder rooms for many years.

Once you get down to the nitty-gritty though, it can be a little difficult to figure out whether linoleum or vinyl is a better pick for you. The truth is that most people don’t even really know how these two popular materials differ.

Luckily for you, we’re here to help you get a grasp on linoleum and vinyl flooring once and for all. Use this guide to learn the differences between linoleum and vinyl flooring, and why you should consider one over the other for your home or place of business.

Linoleum vs. Vinyl Flooring: Major Differences

Ask the average person what the difference between linoleum and vinyl flooring is and you’ll probably be greeted with a blank stare. The fact is that the average buyer probably can’t even tell linoleum from vinyl in pictures. There are some major differences between these two flooring products, however.

Linoleum is actually the older of the two materials, with the first patent appearing more than 140 years ago. Made from linseed products, the core materials used in linoleum are naturally occurring, though some manufacturing processes today add an assortment of other ingredients to the mix.

Vinyl flooring grew in popularity around the 1920s and 1930s. Unlike linoleum, vinyl is completely synthetic, made up of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. Most products utilize a fiberglass or felt backing, though other styles do exist today.

Appearance

Vinyl and linoleum may appear to be somewhat similar materials to the untrained eye, but they start to diverge when it comes to appearance. Here’s how these two materials compare in the aesthetics department:

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is made up of a color layer that’s kept protected by a clear wear layer on the very top of each plank or tile. That wear layer is actually what you walk on. That means that vinyl flooring is extremely versatile since almost any pattern, color or style is possible with vinyl.

Vinyl flooring can even be made to look like other materials including natural stone and wood. Mixing and matching different styles of vinyl is easy, allowing you to create your own unique pattern or craft a decorative border around your room, for example.

Wire-brushed texturing and micro beveled edges create a premium finish. Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 5.5mm SPC Click Lock – Vigorous Collection SKU: 15235047

 Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum flooring is a solid-colored flooring material that generally has much less pattern than vinyl flooring. That means that there are few options when it comes to your room design if you choose linoleum.

One benefit of linoleum when it comes to appearance however is that you aren’t likely to experience color change or fading as the linoleum wears down over time. That’s because every layer of the linoleum is the same color.

For most installations however, this amount of wear is many years down the road. Other damage may occur that facilitates replacement before this point as well.

Best Overall Appearance: Vinyl Flooring

When it comes to overall appearance, vinyl flooring is the clear winner because it can be made to look like just about anything under the sun. If you want the look of natural hardwood without the cost, you can get it using vinyl flooring.

You can also get unique patterns and a range of bright and dark colors that may not appear in natural flooring. That makes vinyl a versatile powerhouse when design is a top priority for your space.

Water and Heat Resistance

Water and heat resistance are important factors when it comes to installing resilient flooring. In commercial spaces and high-traffic areas within homes like the kitchen, mud rooms and powder rooms, a little extra water and heat resistance can make a big difference.

Here’s how the two flooring materials compare when it comes to water and heat resistance:

The perfect alternative to hardwood floor for wet rooms like your kitchen, bathroom or laundry room. Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 8.5mm WPC Click Lock – XL Ridge Collection SKU: 15262452

Vinyl Flooring

Practically waterproof, vinyl flooring is truly the king of waterproof materials. That’s why you see it in many damp spaces like residential basements where moisture might leave some materials buckled or warped. Modern vinyl flooring that includes a backing made from fiberglass is also impervious to mold, mildew and water damage.

Vinyl flooring provides reasonable heat resistance as well, and interior temperatures are unlikely to cause any damage to your flooring installation.

Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum flooring is a durable, water-resistant material. However, it isn’t waterproof like modern vinyl flooring. It definitely doesn’t compare favorably to modern vinyl flooring with a  fiberglass backing either.

This means that linoleum may not be the best choice for damp spaces like basements. It can be used in powder rooms, but it is more prone to buckling, curling and cracking in wet spaces. Long-term exposure to humidity can also be a concern for linoleum.

Best for Water and Heat Resistance: Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is waterproof and far superior to linoleum when it comes to potential water damage. That makes it a brilliant pick for wet spaces, damp areas like basements and areas of high humidity.

Linoleum edges out vinyl when it comes to heat resistance, but most tests that demonstrate this are quite extreme. Unless your home gets to over 200-degrees, the heat resistance factor is just about the same with both materials. That makes vinyl flooring the more versatile pick and winner in this category as well.

Care and Cleaning

Care and cleaning are both important factors when it comes to a new flooring installation. The good news is that both of these materials are relatively easy to take care of in residential and commercial spaces.

Vinyl Flooring

Incredibly easy to maintain, vinyl floors can be swept and vacuumed for light-duty cleaning daily without showing signs of wear. Almost any detergent will do when it’s time to break out the wet mop for a deeper cleaning as well.

For the best results, a cleaning solution made for vinyl flooring is often recommended.

Linoleum Flooring

Like vinyl flooring, linoleum is seriously easy to take care of. Basic cleaning requires little more than a broom and vacuum. Neither of these tools will scratch or scuff your linoleum.

For wet cleaning, a solution made specifically for linoleum is often recommended. That’s because cleaners with ultra-high pH levels may wear down the surface of your linoleum flooring over time.

Best for Care and Cleaning: Tie

Both vinyl and linoleum flooring are incredibly easy to care for. That’s why these resilient materials are used in kitchens, powder rooms and high-traffic commercial spaces like hospitals and waiting rooms.

The availability of specialty cleaning products for vinyl and linoleum is also high, so getting what you need to care for your floors like a pro is a breeze no matter which option you pick.

Sizes

Vinyl flooring and linoleum materials come in different sizes – some of which may work better for your space than others. Here’s the breakdown on sizing for these two popular flooring materials:

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is typically sold in sheet, tile or plank form. Standard sizing for sheet flooring is six-foot or 12-foot double rolls. Choosing the right one is simple based on your room’s square footage.

For planks and tiles, vinyl typically comes in squares or rectangular shapes that are roughly 9-inches to 18-inches in size. However, as vinyl popularity grows, more sizes are becoming readily available.

Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum sheet flooring, like vinyl, is sold in standard 6-foot and 12-foot double rolls. Linoleum planks tend to be 48-inches long, with a varying width from about 4-inches to 6-inches across.

Best for Size: Tie

Both vinyl and linoleum flooring materials come in sheet, tile and plank designs, making it easy to get the quantity of flooring material you need. Since both materials can be cut with relative ease, there’s no clear winner in the size category.

Installation

Cost of installation is a major factor when you’re installing a new flooring material. If you’re planning to go the DIY route, ease of installation is also extremely important.

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl plank flooring, particularly the peel and stick variety, is incredibly easy to install. That’s why it’s a big hit among DIY installers who want to do the work in their own home or place of business. Even glue-down vinyl flooring is relatively easy to work with compared to many flooring materials on the market.

Sheet vinyl flooring on the other hand is relatively difficult to install. However, pros that work with sheet vinyl flooring are fast and efficient, which means paying for installation is relatively cost-effective in this case.

If you like sheet vinyl flooring, hiring pros for installation is a smart choice that won’t run up your bill too much.

Linoleum Flooring

Sheet linoleum, which is quite popular in commercial installations, is very hard to work with. If you go this route, you’ll almost certainly need to hire pros.

Click-lock linoleum flooring is considerably easier to work with, making it a top pick for DIY professionals. However, this type of flooring still requires more patience and time than common peel and stick vinyl flooring.

Best for Installation: Vinyl Flooring

While linoleum can be a reasonable material to work with even if you want to handle installation yourself, vinyl is the winner here because it’s soft and generally easier to deal with for novice installers.

Peel and stick vinyl is also quite easy to cut compared to linoleum, and placing it on the floor is easy to get the hang of in just a day or two.

Cost

Every project has a budget. Whether you’re dealing with a hospital flooring upgrade or redoing your powder room, money is a factor.

Here’s how vinyl and linoleum compare in the dollars department:

Rich, beautiful vinyl planks for less than $2.00/sq ft. Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 5.5mm SPC Click Lock – Vigorous Collection SKU: 15235050

Vinyl Flooring

Ranging from less than $1 per foot to more than $5 per foot for designer styles, vinyl has a wide range of pricing options. On average though, vinyl flooring material costs about $2 per square foot once you factor in the extremes on both sides.

Linoleum Flooring

Coming in at around $3 to $3.50 per square foot on average, linoleum is typically slightly more expensive than vinyl flooring. Linoleum may also cost slightly more to install, particularly if you choose to use sheet linoleum.

Best for Cost: Vinyl Flooring

About $1 less per square foot on average, vinyl edges out linoleum in the cost category.

The Verdict

Both vinyl and linoleum flooring are excellent choices for commercial and residential spaces. Cost-effective and durable, both have become mainstays in design for a reason.

Vinyl flooring, however, is the most versatile material when it comes to appearance. It’s also waterproof, which makes it particularly attractive for residential spaces. It doesn’t require any special cleaning or maintenance products either.

So which material is the king of resilient flooring? We think vinyl is the clear winner here due it’s style, strength and ease of installation and care.

Shop Vinyl Flooring at BuildDirect

Ready to re-do your space or start a brand new design project? Reach out to the trained professionals at BuildDirect today to learn more about vinyl flooring. You can also see our complete inventory of vinyl flooring products online today.

browse all vinyl flooring

The post Linoleum vs. Vinyl Flooring: Which One Should You Choose? appeared first on Learning Center.

Related posts:

  1. Vinyl Plank Flooring: Glue Down vs. Floating
  2. Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring with Pets
  3. Snap Lock Flooring Tips for Pros
]]> Build Direct <![CDATA[The 5 Most Common Flooring Installation Job Injuries and How to Prevent Them]]> https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16624 2022-03-22T20:33:29Z 2021-08-17T18:16:08Z Serious injuries sometimes occur on the job, no matter what business you’re in. There are safety hazards in almost every career on the planet, but employees who work in manual labor (like home building, remodeling, and flooring installation) are notably more vulnerable. Whether it’s exposure to toxic chemicals, on-site accidents, . . . Read more

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]]> Serious injuries sometimes occur on the job, no matter what business you’re in. There are safety hazards in almost every career on the planet, but employees who work in manual labor (like home building, remodeling, and flooring installation) are notably more vulnerable. Whether it’s exposure to toxic chemicals, on-site accidents, or improper training, there’s a lot that can happen on the job that may put workers and, ultimately, businesses at risk.

As with anything, if you’re prepared, pay careful attention, and follow safety protocols, you shouldn’t fall victim to these issues. But, of course, accidents happen, so it’s always good to know what you can do to prevent them. To help with that, we’ve put together a list of the five most common flooring installation job injuries and how to prevent them.

1. Toxic Chemical Exposure

Laminate flooring is created with wood-bonding adhesives that can be toxic to animals and humans. It is known to contain certain toxins, including formaldehyde, isocyanates, aluminum oxide, and cyanuric acid. Exposure to these chemicals may cause cancer, asthma, kidney damage, and other serious injuries.

Formaldehyde can also be found in the glues and resins used to adhere and bond the various layers of engineered hardwood. Formaldehyde is colorless, and exposure can cause eye, throat, and skin irritation and cancer.

80% of wood finishes contain toxic chemicals and VOCs (volatile organic compounds), including polyurethane and turpentine. As a result, flooring installers with long-term, consistent exposure to either of these types of flooring may be at risk.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t offer these types of floors to your customers. Instead, you should take precautions during the installation process. Here are a few ways to protect you and your employees from exposure to toxic chemicals:

  • Open windows and doors for ventilation.
  • Use industrial fans to keep the air circulating.
  • Provide safety tools and equipment, like masks, gloves, and eye protection.
  • Monitor and ensure employees wear safety tools and equipment during the installation process.

This probably goes without saying, but you should also take the time to educate your customers. That way, they know what they can do to prevent harm and exposure from off-gassing and prolonged toxicity build-up in their home.

2. Shoulder and Back Injuries

Due to the manual labor aspect of flooring installation, contractors and employees must be careful to avoid serious bodily harm, including shoulder and back injuries. Back and shoulder injuries are often caused by accidents, heavy lifting, repetitive motion, and inactivity.

To avoid these types of injuries, employees should be given proper training, guidance, and safety equipment, including back braces and back support belts. Employees should also know how to lift and move objects without putting strain on their back or shoulders and should practice good posture.

As with most manual labor, the healthier and more fit you are, the less likely you are to injure yourself on the job. So, if you’re an employer, you could consider offering gym memberships, nutrition programs, and wellness initiatives as fringe benefits for your employees. Proper training, eating healthy, drinking lots of water, stretching daily, and strengthening your core are all great ways to avoid injuries.

3. Supervision Errors and Site Negligence

It may feel like an intimidating task, but it’s the responsibility of supervisors, project managers, and business owners to ensure that safety protocols are always being followed. With long hours, project deadlines, and fatigue, some things may slip through the cracks – that’s completely understandable. However, job safety can’t be one of them.

Supervisors should remain hyper-vigilant and watchful to ensure their employees follow safety protocols and use tools and equipment properly. Additionally, site maintenance and cleanliness should be a top priority. This will help prevent fall hazards, on-site injuries, and other issues caused by site negligence.

4. Knee Injuries

Similar to back and shoulder injuries, a knee injury is another hazard that particularly plagues the flooring industry. Installers can often be found hunched over and kneeling while performing their job. This is obviously the most effective way to work on the floor, but kneeling on hard surfaces for hours at a time, day after day, can be incredibly taxing on your joints, muscles, cartilage, and bones.

The most effective way to protect you and your employees’ knees is by providing and using knee pads and shock absorbers. They will prevent scrapes, punctures, fractures, and shooting pains when you’re forced to kneel on hard and abrasive surfaces.

In addition, there are a few other things you can do to prevent chronic knee pain and knee injury. Stretching, working out, and eating healthy are great ways to stay in shape and avoid damage. You and your employees should always wear proper footwear and safety equipment. If your knees start to hurt, shift positions, or take a break to reduce the strain.

5. Hands and Hardware

When you’re working with hammers, nails, saws, drills, and other equipment used during flooring installation, you need to know what you’re doing. Training and education are the keys to a safe work environment. Inadequate training and improper use of tools can lead to abrasions, punctures, fractures, and worse.

The best way to ensure that employees are safely using tools and equipment is to offer them thorough training and on-the-job education. Supervisors should monitor employees closely for proper technique and correct poor form when they see it. Plus, it’s also great to invest in high-quality hardware. Better equipment leads to fewer accidents, safeguarding against injury.

Combat Injuries with Education, Attention, and Specialized Equipment

When employees are hurt, it can have a devastating impact on an organization. Not only are you potentially losing a staff member during a time when employees are difficult to attract and retain, but you may also be responsible for worker’s compensation and possible lawsuits. As a business owner, supervisor, or employer, you must remain constantly vigilant and provide ongoing training, education, and specialized tools to ensure that your employees stay safe at all times.

Are you a contractor or installer in search of flooring supplies at incredible prices? Consider partnering with BuildDirect. If you become a PRO Rewards Member, you get exclusive access to on-site delivery, 5% Credit, a 30-day money-back guarantee, unlimited samples, and more. Become a PRO today!

The post The 5 Most Common Flooring Installation Job Injuries and How to Prevent Them appeared first on Learning Center.

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]]> Build Direct <![CDATA[Teach Your Renters How to Care for Their Wood Floors]]> https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16512 2022-03-22T20:33:30Z 2021-06-17T19:49:46Z There’s no denying that renters are generally harder on homes than property owners. Most renters know they’ll eventually move, and many hope to own their own homes one day. As a result, they aren’t as invested in the property as the property owner is. That’s why one of the key . . . Read more

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]]> There’s no denying that renters are generally harder on homes than property owners. Most renters know they’ll eventually move, and many hope to own their own homes one day. As a result, they aren’t as invested in the property as the property owner is.

That’s why one of the key challenges property owners face is protecting their investment from damage caused by renters.

When you’re dealing with beautiful and costly hardwood floors, it can become even more challenging to keep your investment intact. How can you protect your property and hardwood floors from tenants? 

Wood Floors Are a Common Feature in Many Homes, But They Need to Be Cared for Properly

Handscraped hardwood stuns in upscale kitchens. Featuring Mazama Hardwood Handscraped Tropical Collection in Oak Blackmoon Random Length SKU: 10071146

Wooden floors are beautiful, classic, and a huge draw for potential tenants. However, most long-term renters have never had any experience with wooden floors. Many times, they’re unaware of how to care for the hardwood at all, so the damage isn’t intentional; it simply comes from a lack of knowledge.

As you’re probably aware, hardwood floors require quite a bit of maintenance to keep them in top shape. They’re susceptible to moisture and temperature damage and can be ruined if they aren’t maintained properly.

That’s why having a good maintenance plan and a cleaning technique is paramount to making hardwood floors last. In the case of renters, it’s important to teach them what they need to do to keep the floors looking great. Teaching your tenants how to care for hardwood can go a long way towards protecting your property. 

The Most Important Thing Is to Keep Wood Floors Clean

The most essential lesson you want to impart to your tenants is to keep the wooden floors clean. Hardwood requires regular cleaning to stay in good shape. Here are three cleaning tips you’ll want to pass along:

Use a Vacuum Cleaner with a Brush Attachment

There are vacuum cleaners specifically created to vacuum hardwood. Encourage your renters to use one of those on the floors. Vacuuming can actually be better for the hardwood than sweeping because it cleans deeper, and you don’t have to worry about the broom scratching up the face of the hardwood. Encourage your tenants to use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment at least once a week. 

Clean Spills as Soon as Possible

Moisture is like kryptonite to wooden floors. Explain the importance of promptly cleaning up spills to your tenants. If liquid hits the floor, it should be cleaned immediately. 

Use a Damp Mop or Cloth

Due to the potential for water damage, you never want to use a wet mop on wooden floors. Mops can dull the hardwood’s finish, and the water can get in between the boards, causing warping and mold. Instead, urge your tenants to only use a damp mop or cloth to get rid of stains.

Provide Tips to Prevent Scratches

Hardwood floors are also susceptible to scratches. So, you want to employ several strategies for avoiding them.

Recommend the Use of Furniture Pads

Tell your tenants to avoid dragging or pushing their furniture. Instead, they should consider using furniture pads. Go for felt or fabric pads because rubber pads can actually leave scuff marks. You might even consider giving your tenants a few furniture pads as a move-in gift. 

Tell Your Tenants to Consider Area Rugs for High-Traffic Areas

Encourage your tenants to use area rugs in high-traffic areas. This will help decrease the chance of scratches and reduce the amount of dirt and dust build-up on the floor. 

Recommend Removing Shoes When Indoors

Another quick tip for keeping hardwood floors free of scratches and damage is to take your shoes off when you enter the home. Be sure to share this tip with your tenants, too, because it’s a simple way to keep the floors from getting scuffed up. 

Let them Know About Polishing and Optimal Care

Regular cleaning and avoiding scratches are just part of what it takes to keep hardwood floors in the best shape. 

Use a Wood Floor Cleaner Monthly

You also want to clean hardwood floors every month with a hardwood floor cleaner. Depending on the finish and type of hardwood you have, you might also need to regularly varnish or polish the hardwood as well. All hardwoods can only tolerate certain cleaners and polishes, so you need to be open with your tenants about which chemicals they can and cannot use on the floor. 

By Helping Your Renters, You Help Your Property

Teaching your tenants how to care for hardwood is a terrific step for ensuring the floors stay in good shape for many years to come. Be sure to include a thorough how-to guide, including approved cleaners, directly in the lease agreement.

By putting them in the lease agreement, you have the opportunity to go over all these details with them before they move into the property. Additionally, if they fail to comply, you’ll be able to use their downpayment to fix the floor.

The great thing about hardwood is that it can be sanded and refinished if damages occur and can last for many, many years. Taking the time to help your renters understand the needs of hardwood floors will only help you in the long run.

Get the best deals on hardwood floors for your property when you become a BuildDirect PRO Rewards member. Our PRO Rewards members get unlimited samples, 30-day money-back guarantees, 5% credit, access to exclusive deals, and more. Become a PRO today.

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]]> Build Direct <![CDATA[The Best Vinyl Plank Flooring Options for Rental Properties]]> https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16504 2022-03-22T20:33:30Z 2021-06-10T19:50:32Z When choosing the ideal floors for rental properties, there are many factors you must consider. The most important among these considerations are cost, appearance, and durability. Rental property floors have to be visually appealing because they’re meant to attract new tenants, and they have to be durable because they’re subject . . . Read more

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]]> When choosing the ideal floors for rental properties, there are many factors you must consider. The most important among these considerations are cost, appearance, and durability.

Rental property floors have to be visually appealing because they’re meant to attract new tenants, and they have to be durable because they’re subject to a lot of normal wear and tear. It is critical that they are cost-effective, because rental property floors have to be replaced more often than ordinary floors.

Pair natural woodgrain vinyl planks with earth tones and plenty of sunlight. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks Sterling Collection in Birchwood Peel & Stick SKU: 15136005

Thankfully, there’s a long-lasting, affordable, and aesthetically appealing flooring solution that’s ideal for rental properties.

4 Reasons Why Vinyl Plank Flooring is Perfect for Rental Properties

Whether you’re a tenant, landlord, builder, or property manager, vinyl plank flooring is the perfect flooring option for your rental properties. It comes in a wide range of styles, colors, and patterns. It’s among the most affordable, high-quality flooring on the market.

Let’s dive into four of the primary reasons why vinyl planks should be at the top of your rental property wish list. 

1. Scratch- and Moisture-Resistant

Click lock vinyl planks are the perfect addition to any modern kitchen. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks Gradient Collection in Azusa Click Lock SKU: 15181324

Moisture, humidity, and water can be a floors’ worst enemies. Excess water can soak into hardwood or carpets, causing mold to grow. Mold can be highly toxic to people and pets, which can cause severe health conditions. That’s the last thing you want to happen.

Since vinyl planks are water-resistant, it becomes less of a concern. In fact, some types of vinyl are even waterproof. Beyond that, vinyl floors are incredibly durable. They’re resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impact damage. When you choose vinyl planks, you’re getting a reliable, durable flooring option that can last decades. 

2. Low-Cost

When you choose vinyl planks, you combine low cost and high quality for the best floors on the market. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks Elevation Collection in Rosetta Click Lock SKU: 15262456

Another essential consideration for rental properties is cost-effectiveness. When running a multi-family residential property or commercial office space, you’re saddled with many expenses, like property taxes, amenities, property turnaround, marketing, and employee salaries.

Maintenance costs are one of the most significant budget drains faced by rental properties. When something breaks, landlords have to fix it. Of course, tenants may be held responsible for some types of damage, but it’s not always their fault or responsibility. 

That’s why property managers and landlords need high-quality and cost-effective flooring solutions. Vinyl plank flooring fits both of those descriptions, so it’s a perfect choice for any residential or commercial rental property.

3. Easy Installation

Elevate the look of your bathroom with water-resistant vinyl planks. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks Old Town Collection in Mirage Click Lock SKU: 15260965

Vinyl planks are straightforward to install – especially for professionals. This is important because floors in rental properties need to be easy to install for a few reasons. First, if someone is occupying the property at the installation time, you’ll need to coordinate with their schedule. If you’re doing multiple properties at once with active tenants, this can be highly challenging. 

Second, time is money, so when floors are harder to install, the labor costs increase. If you’re trying to be cost-effective, this can become a real problem. Easier installations cost less money. It’s as simple as that.

Third, if you do have to replace the floors after a tenant moves out, you need to be able to replace them quickly. Otherwise, you risk losing out on potential rent installing floors for the new tenant.

Finally, not every property manager or landlord has the ability to hire a professional installer. They may elect to install the floors themselves. While we highly recommend that you hire a professional, vinyl planks are much easier for someone with limited experience to install, so they’re a better option for DIYers of any experience level. 

4. High-Quality Aesthetic

Revolutionize your floors with low-cost, durable, and gorgeous vinyl planks. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks Vigorous Collection in Tregeseal Click Lock SKU: 15235046

Property managers and landlords need their floors to look appealing, inviting, and luxurious if they want to attract high-quality tenants. That’s why vinyl plank flooring is perfect for rentals. It carries the sophisticated look and texture of natural hardwood, with a much lower price tag. 

Vinyl planks are also incredibly versatile. They come in many different patterns, colors, and styles to mimic the look of whatever wood species you like most. No matter the desired design aesthetic, vinyl planks will elevate your rental property into something chic, modern, and high-end.

Our Top Recommendations for Vinyl Rental Property Flooring

Searching for the best vinyl plank flooring for your rental property? Here are some of our top recommendations, based on cost, aesthetics, ease of installation, and overall appeal:

Vesdura Vinyl Planks from the Sterling Collection in Birchwood. Elevate your rental properties with the look and feel of natural hardwood. The Sterling Collection is gorgeous and cost-effective, making it ideal for rental properties.

Vesdura Vinyl Planks from the Sterling Collection in Rustic Grey. Embrace those rustic, farm-style vibes with grey vinyl planks. This is the perfect way to elevate the look of your rental property without breaking the bank.

Vesdura Vinyl Planks from the Gradient Collection in Dark Brown. The Gradient Collection takes style to the next level. This luxury vinyl flooring contains a WPC core that repels water and moisture, making it perfect for rental properties.

Vesdura Vinyl Planks from the Gradient Collection in Pale Brown. Finished and styled to match natural hardwood floors, our Vesdura vinyl planks are the ideal addition to your rental property. Attract new tenants with affordable, sophisticated, and luxury vinyl floors.

The Best Way to Shop for Vinyl Flooring

Light onyx vinyl planks are the perfect match for your industrial, modern office setting. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks XL Omnia Collection in Light Onyx Click Lock SKU: 15263501

Vinyl planks are the optimal flooring solution for rental properties because they are cost-effective, aesthetically appealing, easy to install, and incredibly durable. Low cost shouldn’t mean low quality. Vinyl plank gives you the best of both worlds.

If you want a better way to shop for vinyl floors, consider signing up for our PRO Rewards Program. Our PRO members get exclusive access to 5% credit, on-site delivery, unlimited samples, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and more. Become a PRO today!

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]]> Build Direct <![CDATA[How Often Should a Landlord Replace Carpet?]]> https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16498 2022-03-22T20:33:30Z 2021-06-02T19:48:23Z All carpets are susceptible to tearing, staining, and water damage. Even without anything disastrous happening, time itself can take a toll on the condition of the carpet, and an old and faded carpet is not something you want in a rental property. Since landlords and property managers are responsible for . . . Read more

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]]> All carpets are susceptible to tearing, staining, and water damage. Even without anything disastrous happening, time itself can take a toll on the condition of the carpet, and an old and faded carpet is not something you want in a rental property.

Since landlords and property managers are responsible for maintaining the condition of the carpet, it often falls on their shoulders to replace it if something happens. How often should a landlord replace the carpet? Well, that depends.

Signs of Wear and Tear

There’s no definitive rule about when a landlord should replace the carpet. Some states have guidelines that landlords have to follow, but not all of them. With routine care and zero catastrophic accidents, carpets can last for more than ten years, but that’s not always possible. 

Proper carpet maintenance can be expensive and hard to manage. It’s difficult for landlords to make this happen when working with multiple tenants and busy schedules. Routine maintenance and cleaning require the property to be relatively clean and sometimes vacant for long periods. It’s not easy to ask families to vacate the premises for something that may not seem entirely necessary.

Landlords are often forced to wait until carpets need to be replaced before they can take action. Due to the general nature of carpets and floors, there’s no set time limit for this. Our research suggests that carpets in rental properties should be replaced every seven years, on average, but that’s an estimate. It’s all dependent on the type of carpet and its condition, which changes day-to-day. 

Most of the time, landlords have to base their decision on the amount of wear and tear present in the carpet. Here are a few signs of wear and tear and an indication that it might be time to replace the carpet: 

Stains

A guest spills a glass of wine at a dinner party. A child accidentally drops their cup of juice on the floor. Someone tracks in mud or dirt from outside. These are all things that can happen to any tenant, ultimately causing a carpet stain.

Obviously, it’s easy to remove and clean most stains. A thorough shampoo can work wonders. However, sometimes a stain or collection of stains is entirely unmanageable, and drastic measures must be taken. 

Accidents happen. There’s no stopping that. Unfortunately, you can’t partially replace standard carpet. If the stains become too much, the carpet needs to be replaced.

Mold and Water Damage

There’s even less forgiveness for mold and water damage. Let’s say a pipe bursts under the bathroom sink while a tenant is at work. That causes water to flood the property, thoroughly soaking the carpets. Eventually, someone will catch this and turn the water off, but unfortunately, extensive damage has already been done.

Excess water can ruin carpet. If moisture is left for too long, it can cause mold to grow, which can negatively impact a tenant’s health. If damage happens and mold occurs, you have to replace the carpets immediately before the mold spreads. 

Worn Areas

Over time, even with regular foot traffic, carpets will start to wear thin. Eventually, all the fibers will disappear, and you’ll be left with bald spots, like what’s depicted in the above image. 

Once this happens, there’s no saving the carpet. And, like we already said, since you can’t partially replace carpet, you’re going to have to do a total replacement. On the bright side, if any part of a carpet gets to this point, the rest is probably not far behind, so trying to salvage it wouldn’t be a good idea, anyway. 

Smell

One of the significant downsides to carpeted floors is that they are infamous for picking up and trapping smells. If moisture gets trapped under the carpet pad or in the fibers, it can create a musty or mildew smell. 

If tenants smoke cigarettes indoors or their pets use the bathroom on the carpet, then these strong odors can get trapped within the carpet fibers. Once this happens, it’s challenging to get them out, which means a full replacement is definitely on the horizon. After all, no tenant wants to move into a home or office with a funky-smelling carpet. 

Age

The average lifespan of a medium-grade carpet ranges from five to fifteen years. For an apartment-grade carpet, it can be even less than five.

Carpets get a lot of everyday use, so they’re going to wear down over time and will eventually need to be replaced. This happens to most flooring materials, though carpets have a shorter lifespan than other options, like vinyl, engineered hardwood, and laminate.

When Should a Landlord Replace the Carpet?

Elevate the look of your home office with elegant, ocean blue carpet tiles. Featuring Sonora Carpet Tiles Prominence Collection in Ocean Blue SKU: 15273938

Landlords should replace the carpets on their property when the carpets have reached the end of their lives. This is relative to its condition, the type of carpet, the cushion, the fibers, and how much use and abuse the carpet sustains on a regular basis.

If the carpet has stains that can’t be cleaned, water damage, mold, strange and intense odors, or worn-out areas, it’s time for replacement.

The Best Way to Buy Rental Property Carpet

Update your dining room with revolutionary, stylish, and easy-to-install carpet tiles. Featuring Sonora Carpet Tiles Pinpoint Collection in Chestnut SKU: 15273947

One of the most significant downfalls of standard carpet is that it requires complete replacement when even just a portion is ruined. If you’re going to replace the carpets in your property, why not choose an innovative and more affordable solution, like carpet tiles?

Carpet tiles are a fantastic innovation that has revolutionized the way we think about carpeting. They’re easy to install, long-lasting, durable, and simple to replace. They also come in a wide variety of colors and styles, making them one of the most versatile flooring options on the market.If you’re interested in replacing the carpet at your property with carpet tiles, consider signing up for our PRO Rewards program. At BuildDirect, we offer exclusive deals for our PRO Rewards members, including 5% credit, on-site delivery, unlimited samples, and more. Become a PRO today!

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]]> Build Direct <![CDATA[When is it Time for Property Managers to Replace the Flooring?]]> https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16222 2022-03-22T20:33:31Z 2021-05-25T18:15:20Z Floors are a primary fixture of every property. After all, everyone who enters a room interacts with them in some way. When tenants are scouting for new properties, they always closely examine the floors. It’s one of the first things most people see when they walk into a new space. . . . Read more

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]]>

Floors are a primary fixture of every property. After all, everyone who enters a room interacts with them in some way. When tenants are scouting for new properties, they always closely examine the floors. It’s one of the first things most people see when they walk into a new space.

That’s why it’s crucial to know when floors are in tip-top shape, and in some cases, when they need to be replaced.

The Duty of Responsibility: When is It Required to Replace Flooring?

Revitalize your rental property with our moisture-repelling, beautiful vinyl plank flooring. Featuring Lamton Long Length Legendary Collection in Simply Taupe SKU: 15162377

As a property manager, it’s your responsibility to ensure the safety and security of your tenants. You may not be able to protect them from all dangers, but there are some things you can control.

Health Risks

Floors (tiles, hardwood, carpets, etc.) can be a breeding ground for mold, dirt, allergens, bacteria, and other toxins. If they aren’t properly maintained, fixed, and cleaned, they can cause severe damage to an individual’s health. 

From skin rashes to respiratory issues to certain types of cancer, there’s no limit to the harm prolonged exposure to these toxins can cause.

Safety Hazards

Bad floors not only pose health risks but also present various safety concerns. Poorly laid floors can create tripping hazards. When a floor isn’t level or even, it can cause people to feel off-balance and may result in falls. When you’re trying to ensure that your properties are accessible and safe, terrible floors can be a significant issue and could result in legal ramifications.

8 Signs it’s Time to Replace Rental Property Flooring

How do you know when it’s time to replace the flooring in your rental property? Here are the eight tell-tale signs that your flooring might need to be replaced:

1. Cracks, Bulges, or Dents

We’re not referring to just one damaged tile or a spot in the carpet. You should always replace or fix trouble spots. If your floors show significant cracks, bulges, and dents, it might be time to replace them.

2. The Flooring is Outdated

Ideal flooring should be under 10 years old unless you have stone, concrete, or hardwood floors. In rental properties, you may not have an entire decade. As floors age, they succumb to years of foot traffic and normal wear-and-tear. When’s the last time you had the floors replaced in your property?

3. Ceiling Leaks and Water Damage

Whenever there are ceiling leaks that create pools of water on your floors, you might be in trouble. Water damage can ruin floors. Don’t let that problem spread. If you have any doubts about whether they need to be replaced, hire a professional to check them out.

4. You Want to Sell the Property

Whether you’re selling or trying to attract new tenants, this is a smart way to upgrade your property. People love new floors. This could help you sell or lease the property faster and could ultimately increase the value.

5. Insect Damage

Termites aren’t exclusive to walls and attics. They are known to ruin floors as well. And they aren’t the only critters you need to look out for. If you’re having issues with insects or vermin, it might result in devastating damage to your floors.

6. You Want to Charge More Rent

This goes hand-in-hand with point #4. With a higher property value and better aesthetic appeal, new floors may allow you to charge more for rent. If you’re looking to make upgrades, you might start with the floors. 

7. The Floor Creaks or Moves

Do your floors feel unsteady when you’re walking on them? Do they creak and moan with every step? If so, then it might be time to replace them.

8. There are no Matching Plank Replacements

This goes for any type of flooring. If you can’t find a matching replacement for a damaged tile, plank, or area of carpet, then you may need to replace the entire flooring. No one likes the look of mismatched carpet, wood, or tiles. 

How to Time New Flooring Replacement

Alter the design and energy in your commercial or living space with stylish and durable laminate flooring. Featuring Lamton Long Length – Legendary Collection in Pitch Amber SKU: 15162380

It’s best to replace flooring when your properties are unoccupied. Of course, that’s not always possible. Since new floors are a great (and welcome) addition to any home or commercial property, many tenants won’t hesitate to adjust their schedules to accommodate installations.

If you have to work around a tenant’s schedule, you should try to interrupt their lives as little as possible. Talk to them about the time and days that work best for them and give them plenty of time to prepare.

What is the Best Material for New Rental Property Flooring?

If you decide to replace your floors, there are fantastic flooring options that are perfect for rental properties.

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring is scratch-resistant, water-resistant (and in most cases waterproof), and highly durable against wear and tear. It’s also incredibly affordable, modern, and stylish, making it a perfect choice for rental properties.

Laminate

Laminate has been a popular flooring option among professionals and DIYers for decades. It’s easy to install, which means you’ll save money on labor costs. Also, it looks great! This is likely the most affordable option you can choose from.

Engineered Hardwood

Redefine the aesthetic appeal of your rental property with high-end and luxurious engineered hardwood floors. Featuring Jasper Engineered Hardwood – Planet Hickory Handscraped Collection in Natural Hickory Handscraped SKU: 15055273

Are you wanting that high-end, luxury aesthetic of hardwood floors but trying to stay on a budget? If so, engineered hardwood is the perfect choice. It gives you the look and feel of natural hardwood without all the maintenance and fuss.

The Best Place for Durable, Cost-Effective Flooring

If you’re going to replace the floors in your rental property, you should partner with BuildDirect. We offer modern and beautiful flooring, hand-picked by experts, at affordable prices. 

Become a PRO Rewards member today, and you’ll even get exclusive access to 5% credit, flexible on-site delivery, unlimited free samples, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and more. 

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]]> Build Direct <![CDATA[The Pros and Cons of Carpet Tiles for Property Managers]]> https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16215 2022-03-22T20:33:31Z 2021-05-18T18:08:44Z In addition to being comfortable to walk on, carpet is a great way to add warmth, tone, and texture to any room. Whether you manage a residential or commercial space, it could be a wonderful addition to your property.  The traditional way to fit and lay carpet is called “broadloom . . . Read more

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]]> In addition to being comfortable to walk on, carpet is a great way to add warmth, tone, and texture to any room. Whether you manage a residential or commercial space, it could be a wonderful addition to your property. 

The traditional way to fit and lay carpet is called “broadloom carpeting.” This process requires measuring and cutting large sheets of carpet into the dimensions needed for any given room. That’s not necessary anymore due to an innovation that has skyrocketed in popularity since its invention – the carpet tile.

Carpet tiles are an amazing way to update your space with a modern take on classic carpeting. Featuring Sonora Carpet Tiles – Nexus Collection in Tan SKU: 15203801

What are Carpet Tiles?

Carpet tiles (commonly called “carpet squares”) are simply small pieces of carpet that can be placed side by side to cover a room. Typically, they’re created in layers that range in materials, including polyester, nylon, cotton, polypropylene, and recycled material.

They were created to make DIY and self-serve carpet installation affordable and straightforward. They’re built to last, come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics, and are a wonderful option for someone who wants to carpet a room on a budget.

The Pros and Cons of Carpet Tiles for Rental Properties

Revolutionize the way you view carpet floors with chic, self-adhesive carpet tiles. Featuring Sonora Carpet Tiles – Pinpoint Collection in Shadow SKU: 15273949

If you’re considering having carpet tiles installed in your property, you should know what you’re facing. There are many advantages to choosing carpet tiles, but they aren’t right for every space. 

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using carpet tiles in your rental property:

Pros

Cost-Effective

Carpet tiles are incredibly affordable. They’re easy to transport, low on waste, and don’t take up a lot of space. The installation costs are also much cheaper than wall-to-wall carpeting projects because they require less time and effort. Saving time and money is a significant advantage.

Easy to Install

Installing carpet tiles is simple and easy. That’s why they were created in the first place. Whether you hire a professional contractor or decide to do it yourself, carpet tile installation takes far less time than almost any other flooring option.

Easy to Maintain and Clean

Carpet tiles are incredibly low maintenance. They’re typically “low pile,” which means the fabrics are short and closer to the ground. That’s a wonderful advantage because it means they pick up less dirt. Simply run a vacuum over them during your regular cleaning routine, and you’re good to go.

If something devastating happens and a carpet tile is damaged or otherwise ruined, don’t worry! Thanks to the convenience of a carpet tile, you can just replace the individual square. There’s no need to recarpet an entire room for one trouble spot. This is particularly helpful when you’re dealing with rental properties.

Versatile

Carpet tiles can be installed anywhere. They can fit in any room, no matter the size, and since they come in a variety of colors, fabrics, and styles, they can match any interior design theme. As a result, they are an incredibly versatile option for any property.

Whether your aesthetic is modern, classic, or somewhere in between, carpet tiles are a perfect match for any design style. Featuring Sonora Carpet Tiles – Sequence Collection in Sky Grey SKU: 15273980

Cons

Grid-like Appearance

When not installed properly, carpet tiles may not fit together uniformly. The patterns may shift from square to square. They may look just slightly different. As a result, you get a grid-like appearance. However, this disadvantage is only applicable if the tiles aren’t installed correctly.  

Professional Installation is Recommended

Just because anyone can do it, that doesn’t mean they should. Though installation is simple and straightforward, we still advise that you hire a professional installer. Here’s why: they know what they’re doing.

Someone who’s never installed carpet tiles won’t know the tricks of the trade and might miss crucial steps required to install them properly. Things like acclimatization and adhesive bonding are important parts of carpet tile installation that an amateur might not know or understand.

Sometimes, it’s best to leave the technical stuff to the professionals. If you planned on doing it yourself, then hiring a professional might be outside of your budget.

Less-Than-Luxury Perception

Unfortunately, many people have a negative perception of carpet tiles. They believe them to be less luxurious and less comfortable to walk on than traditional carpets. Manufacturers have risen to meet that challenge, creating higher quality carpet tiles with increased comfort and sophistication.

Are Carpet Tiles the Right Choice for Your Property?

Add life to your rooms with carpet tiles in a variety of modern styles and fun colors. Featuring Sonora Carpet Tiles Pinnacle Collection in Ocean Blue SKU: 15273990

Ultimately, it’s up to you. Are you looking for an affordable option that takes less time to install? Have you seen or felt any carpet tile samples? If so, what did you think? 

Only you can answer these questions. It’s imperative to do your research and make the decision that makes the most sense for your property and budget.

The Best Place to Shop for New Carpet Tiles

If you decide to use carpet tiles for your rental property, you should partner with BuildDirect. We make the highest quality and most luxurious carpet tiles on the market, that are available in various colors and styles. Become a PRO Rewards member and get exclusive access to on-site delivery, 5% credit, unlimited free samples, and more. Become a PRO today.

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]]> Build Direct <![CDATA[What Are the Most Cost-Effective Options When Renovating a Rental Property?]]> https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16087 2022-03-22T20:33:32Z 2021-04-30T17:24:12Z Maintaining rental property can be expensive, but not keeping your rental filled with paying clients is even more expensive. The rental market is very competitive and quality candidates for your property want to be in a place that makes them feel at home.  That means that you need to keep . . . Read more

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]]> Maintaining rental property can be expensive, but not keeping your rental filled with paying clients is even more expensive. The rental market is very competitive and quality candidates for your property want to be in a place that makes them feel at home. 

That means that you need to keep your property clean and up-to-date if you want a vacancy rate near zero. Ifyour property is aging, there are still ways to modernize without breaking the bank. Let’s take a look at some cost-effective ways to renovate your rental property:

11 Cost-Effective Options for Renovating a Rental Property

1. Paint

Without question, paint is the number one way to spruce up an older building. It is costeffctive, an easy DIY project, and you can choose to paint some or all of it, on the inside and outside.

The nice thing about painting is that there are so many opportunities to improve your property.  The easiest way to spruce up the place is to use accent colors on the interior walls by painting the trim a different color than the walls, or paint the old kitchen cabinets a fresh new color.

On the exterior of the home you can add painted shutters, or if you have wooden windows, paint them a different color. If painting is not your thing, find a good painter and leave it to the professionals. You may want to repaint the entire exterior of your home.  Though expensive, it will improve your curb appeal and attract renters looking for high quality properties.

Whichever option you choose, there will be a positive impact on the looks of your rental property.

2. Add Modern Handles and Knobs

This is a simple project that can be done in a few hours and will make a big difference in the look and feel of your home. Interior decorating styles are always changing and upgrading the door knobs is a project that can bring an older property into the 21st century without the need for a professional carpenter. There are great new colors to choose from and the number of styles available is almost endless. Consider the new thin round designs in colors like matte black and matte brass or matte nickel. The crystal knobs with fancy turned back plates that were popular in the 1920s, are also popular now.

Complete your update by replacing the knobs on the kitchen and bath cabinets while you’re at it. Get rid of the old worn knobs and brighten up the rooms with bronze, brushed nickel, or shiny stainless steel.  Try a few different styles and see which fits the property best.  You can’t make a mistake because there are no hard and fast rules about knobs and pulls.  If they are new and you like them, odds are that your renters will too.

3. Update the Blinds

Even if your properties don’t have fancy window treatments, they probably still have blinds, and nothing draws negative attention faster than old, dirty yellowing window blinds. Install new cordless blinds which are much safer for renters with small children, and they are much more attractive than the cheap stick-on paper blinds or the corded models with the strings that never seem to be at the right height. Wood and aluminum blinds are still popular and may fit in your renovation budget. For higher end blind treatments you can install motorized blinds with remote controls that will work with Alexa and Google Home. 

4. Install New Vinyl Flooring

The largest area your prospective tenant sees when entering the home is the floor and you want your prospect tenant(s) to be impressed. In the past, many owners would upgrade the flooring by adding laminate flooring to give the home a new interior face. Laminate is still a viable option, however, there are some great vinyl flooring selections available that imitate wood, stone, and ceramic while providing the added benefit of being mostly waterproof. 

Vinyl is easy to install, and it can be a DIY project. 

Some flooring options have warranties of 15 years or more, making new vinyl flooring a long-term solution.  The finishes are stronger, resisting dents and tears from articles dropped on them, more scratch-resistant for those that own pets, and they are easy to maintain – only needing occasional damp mopping to keep them in top shape.

Wood-look vinyl flooring contributes to a warm and inviting space. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks Vigorous Collection in Boscawen SKU: 15235049

5. Make Outdoor Upgrades and Clean up Landscaping

Before you can impress your potential tenant with all the work you’ve completed on the inside of the home, you need them to approve of the yard. Outdoor living space is a big draw for renters, if that is available.  Do you have decks that can be upgraded with new composite materials that are beautiful and eco-friendly? Perhaps you could add an arbor or a pergola?  How about planter boxes for flowers or a small garden?

Green grass is impressive, but it requires a lot of time to maintain. Consider a landscape design that includes mulch and pavers in addition to small grassy areas that add appeal to the yard without requiring much effort.  Maybe a new front door or storm door can be an eye catcher and improve the curb appeal in addition to the landscaping. 

Another project that can add value without breaking the budget is new concrete. Old sidewalks and driveways that are cracked and breaking might still be functional, but they do not help influence your potential renter to sign a contract. This may be on the list of bigger projects, but if it needs to be done, it can more than pay for itself by attracting and keeping long-term renters.

6. Purchase New Appliances

For most applicants, the kitchen can make or break the deal. Old, stained appliances are unattractive and not energy-efficient. Your tenants want to save on utility bills just like you do, so having new appliances will serve both of you. Stainless steel is a very popular finish, and though it does the same thing as a white appliance, it may get you a higher rent than a painted model.  Stainless also looks more modern than white.

This would be a great time to think about upgrading the kitchen sink and faucett.  There are many attractive models in the mid-price range that will complement the new range and refrigerator you just installed and complete the new modern look you are trying to achieve.

7. Replace Outdated Windows

Replacing the windows is a big project, but it may be absolutely necessary. If your property has older wood or aluminum windows, you may be scaring off potential clients without knowing it. Old windows are not energy efficient, they don’t block street noise and they are not attractive. Old wood windows may not even open. Installing new wood or vinyl replacement windows will make your property more valuable and save on utility bills for your tenants.  They are also easy to clean because the sashes tilt into the room where they can be reached without a ladder.  Vinyl windows are maintenance-free and some wood replacement windows offer maintenance-free exteriors as well.

8. Replace the Backsplash

There are 3 options to choose from when it comes to replacing the backsplash:

  1. Ceramic or porcelain tile
  2. Peel and stick tile
  3. Paint over the area with a contrasting color

Option 3 will be the easiest and least expensive, but probably not the greatest option. Let’s talk about the other options.  

If you are handy, tiling a backsplash is not overwhelming.  You’ll need a few tools and some patience, but there are plenty of videos online that can walk you through the project. However, if you are determined to never touch a tile job again, there is a newer product on the market that is like peel and stick wallpaper and the patterns are on ceramic tiles. This is a DIY install and will add pop to the kitchen and be one more reason your renters will stay.

9. Update Handrails and Balusters

Stair railings are functional but they are also a work of art. The handrails and balusters can either blend together as a single pattern or contrast with each other for a more interesting look.  This project can have three parts: either update the handrail or the balusters, or both. You will need to assess which element of the staircase makes the home look old.  If you can leave the handrail on and paint it to give it a new look, you can change out the balusters from wood to aluminum or steel that gives you a modern feel for a small cost. Changing out the balusters is also a DIY project. 

However, if you decide to change out the handrail, you should hire an experienced trim carpenter, since this type of project requires special tools and skills.

10. Add or Upgrade Crown Molding

Crown molding makes any property look more stylish.  The secret is to size the crown to the ceiling height.  The higher the ceiling the larger the crown molding needs to be.  For an average ceiling height of 8’, a 3 ⅝ – 4 ⅝ crown molding is perfect. 

You may be thinking that you don’t have the skills or tools for all the fancy cuts that are needed to install crown molding, but times have changed.  Many companies that sell crown molding offer moldings that cover the inside and outside corners. This means that you only make straight cuts and then nail it in place. If you are handy with a hammer and saw, installing crown molding is simple. You tenants will love the look and you will have added significant value to your rental property.

11. Update Light Fixtures

Changing out light fixtures is another upgrade that can be accomplished in a day if you are comfortable working with electricity. If your property was built in the 80s or 90s, it’s possible that every light fixture or ceiling fan is boring. Replacing light fixtures is as simple as removing a few screws and wire nuts and attaching the new fixture.  The styles and colors available today offer any budget a wide selection.  While you are looking for new styles, be sure to consider LED options.  They are brighter, more energy-efficient and last much longer than standard light bulb fixtures.

Partner with BuildDirect for the Best Deals on Rental Property Flooring

Upgrading the flooring in your rental property will require careful thought and will take up a good portion of your renovation budget. We have a wide selection of flooring that includes wood, engineered wood, vinyl, ceramic, and more. We can save you money because we buy directly from the manufacturer. We offer free samples and can ship your flooring anywhere in the U.S.  Our online Learning Center is also a great resource to help you make the right decision about which flooring option to choose. 

Contact us today to find out how we can help you save money on your next renovation project.

The post What Are the Most Cost-Effective Options When Renovating a Rental Property? appeared first on Learning Center.

Related posts:

  1. A Review of Thumbtack Pro for Flooring Installers
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  3. The 2022 Trend of Green Home Décor
]]> Build Direct <![CDATA[7 Multi-Family Flooring Trends for 2022]]> https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16060 2022-03-22T20:33:32Z 2021-04-19T17:19:25Z If you are trying to decide on flooring for your multi-family property, there are several important things to consider. The flooring you select needs to be durable, long-lasting, low-maintenance, cost-effective, safe, and comfortable. However, it can be challenging to find cost-effective floors that look great yet can withstand the demands . . . Read more

The post 7 Multi-Family Flooring Trends for 2022 appeared first on Learning Center.

Related posts:

  1. A Review of Thumbtack Pro for Flooring Installers
  2. Exotic Hardwood Flooring Design Inspiration
  3. 7 Flooring Software Trends for 2022
]]> If you are trying to decide on flooring for your multi-family property, there are several important things to consider. The flooring you select needs to be durable, long-lasting, low-maintenance, cost-effective, safe, and comfortable.

However, it can be challenging to find cost-effective floors that look great yet can withstand the demands of a multi-family property. Thankfully, the flooring industry has come a long way in the last decade, and in 2022, there’s no shortage of impressive options.

These seven trends are dominating the multi-family flooring market in 2022:  

1. Waterproof Engineered Hardwood

Engineered hardwood is a durable alternative to real wood floors. Featuring Jasper Waterproof Engineered Hardwood Varuna Collection Smoky Pearl SKU: 15269179

Engineered hardwood is the perfect choice when you want hardwood, but you don’t want to mess with the maintenance. It has a top layer of hardwood veneer laid over a hardwood, plywood, or high-density fiber core. Engineered wood looks beautiful and boasts many of the same benefits of hardwood, including durability  and lifespan.

In 2022, waterproof engineered hardwood is all the rage since there is no worry about warping, cracking, mold, or rot. Engineered hardwood is about the same cost as regular hardwood, so it’s relatively pricey. However, it’s a beautiful, long-lasting option that’s perfect for luxury multi-family properties. 

2. Handscraped Textures

Handscraped textures add intrigue and uniqueness to any space. Featuring Mazama Hardwood Handscraped Tropical Collection Maple Natural Toast SKU: 10093346

Move over one-toned, uniform flooring! Handscraped textures are what renters want. Handscraped textured floors refer to wood floors that have a handscraped texture effect or surface. In real wood, this look is created by dragging a grooved tool across a board’s surface to create shallow and broad grooves.

Handscraping adds depth and intrigue and makes each flooring board unique. This trend started with hardwood, but it’s gotten so popular that you can now find it on many different flooring types. Laminate floors are also printing images and adding texture to get the same look.

3. Dark Colors

Dark-colored floors merge luxury and comfort. Featuring Lamton Laminate Phoenix Collection Cement Gray SKU: 15192056

After nearly a decade of renovators and designers calling for grey-washed floors and light hardwood, the tides are changing. Dark-colored floors are trending. They can make a place feel cozy and inviting. Some dark floors can even add sophistication and interest.

Thankfully, flooring manufacturers have seen this trend coming, so you can find dark-colored flooring in tons of materials, including laminate, vinyl, porcelain, and more. You can even stain hardwoods with bold, dark stains to get a dramatic look.  

4. Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tile can look like wood. Featuring Cabot Porcelain Tile Volcanic Series Egg Shell SKU: 15271150

Some say that porcelain tiles will never go out of style, and we think they’re right. Now that porcelain tiles can mimic any other flooring type, it’s easy to see why people want this sturdy flooring option in their homes.

Porcelain is hard to break and easy to clean. If a porcelain tile does crack, you simply replace the individual tile. There’s no need to replace the whole floor, so it’s clearly a good choice for multi-family properties. Porcelain tiles are most common in bathrooms and kitchens. However, since they can now replicate hardwood, it’s more common to find them in other parts of the home, too. 

5. Luxury Vinyl

LVT is the top choice for multi-family properties. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks Elevation Collection Uluru SKU: 15262457

Luxury vinyl has been the top choice and will continue to be a top choice for use in multi-family properties. It’s durable, moisture-resistant, and won’t dent or ding. It looks great, and it’s a breeze to install and maintain, too.

Renters love the way luxury vinyl looks and how easy it is to clean. Property managers love how simple it is to install and how cost-effective it is relative to its long-term value. It’s easy to see why this flooring material continues to dominate in the multi-family property world. 

6. Wide Plank Flooring

Open up any room with wide plank floors. Featuring Vanier Engineered Hardwood Bonafide Supreme Wide Collection Lombardy SKU: 15174831

Wide planks work wonders for smaller spaces. They help create an expansive and open feeling, which can make small spaces feel larger. In larger rooms, they add rustic charm. 

Wide planks are larger than the standard two-and-a-half to four-inch boards. (Average wide plank flooring ranges from six inches to twenty inches wide.)

The most popular wide plank flooring is distressed and handscraped to add a vintage effect. Wide planks work great to make smaller units appear larger and keep your building on the pulse of what’s trending in home design. 

7. Carpet Tiles

Carpet is no longer a faux-pas with carpet tiles. Featuring Sonora Carpet Tiles Pinpoint Collection Ivory SKU: 15273951

Despite all the advancements in flooring options, many renters still crave the warmth and coziness that carpet provides – especially in their bedrooms. However, many multi-family property managers know that carpet has a bad reputation for durability, maintenance, and harboring allergens.

Modern advancements make it possible to have carpet that looks great and makes sense for multi-family properties. Carpet tiles are easy to install, durable, cost-effective, low maintenance, and they’re stylish, too. Carpet tiles make it easy for renters, homeowners, and property managers to have their cake and eat it, too. In other words, carpet tiles make it possible to have carpet without all of the headaches! 

The Best Place to Buy Multi-Family Flooring

If you’re looking for flooring for your multi-family property – you’ve come to the right place.

At BuildDirect, we specialize in high-quality flooring at a price point you can afford. Plus, as a PRO Rewards member, you get unlimited samples, on-site delivery, money-back guarantees, and more.Become a PRO Rewards member today.

The post 7 Multi-Family Flooring Trends for 2022 appeared first on Learning Center.

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  1. A Review of Thumbtack Pro for Flooring Installers
  2. Exotic Hardwood Flooring Design Inspiration
  3. 7 Flooring Software Trends for 2022
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