Everything Old Is New Again: Black-and-White Checkers, Terra Cotta and Concrete Flooring

 Rather than chase trends when it's time to renew your flooring, look to traditional choices for lasting designs that never fall out of favor, including checkerboard patterning, terracotta tiles and poured or tiled concrete. If your notion of these options hearkens back to mid-20th-century implementations, freshen up your expectations and prepare to get excited...

Waterproof Vs. Water-Resistant Flooring: Vinyl Vs. Laminate

   "Waterproof" and "water resistant" may sound almost the same, but the two terms define very different capabilities. Water can't penetrate waterproof flooring, period. From outer surface through the core of the material, waterproof flooring won't buckle, swell or warp in response to liquid or humidity. It's a more-expensive option than water-resistant flooring,...

Use as Directed: Protect Your Floors and Preserve Your Warranty

  Before you admire the gleam of freshly installed flooring, plan how you'll protect this enduring asset with proper maintenance and care. In some cases, you may need to modify your habits to ensure that foot traffic and furniture don't damage your floors – and instead of your old go-to floor cleaning methods, you...

The Enduring Appeal of Dark Hardwood Flooring

 Dark hardwoods offer a rich depth of color, and add contrast – along with a formal touch – to the décor of your room, especially paired with light-colored walls and furnishings. Unlike lighter hardwoods, deeper-toned options prompt some decision making to assure a harmonious interior, successful color scheme and easy cleaning. If...

How to Create Healthful Interiors With Certified Flooring

You want beautiful floors that express your style and complement your décor. If you have children, suffer from chemical sensitivities or allergies, or simply want to use the most environmentally friendly options on the market, you can take flooring to a new level with certified products that help create a home that's as healthful...