CERAMIC
The Look
Natural stone is the craze, but at
about one third the cost, ceramic
tile can provide a similar look. Large tiles 18 by 18s and 12 by 12s are
more popular than smaller ones. In addition to smooth glazed tiles, there
are ones that simulate stone. A variety of grout colors also provide
different looks.
The Strength
In Kitchens
and baths, ceramic is more practical than stone because advances in fired-on
finishes have made ceramic impenetrable. While chipping does occur, the
grout makes tile more forgiving of wear and tear than stone.
The Feel
A hard
surface
The
clean up
Damp
mopping is best. (Make sure Grout is sealed to prevent stains.)
Q:
What kind of flooring
would best suit my needs?
A:
Choosing flooring is all
about lifestyle and value. When choosing a floor where family and friends
most congregate, consider aesthetics, durability, comfort and maintenance.
Then factor in your lifestyle; for instance, do you have children or
pets, will there be a good deal of traffic in this area, and last but not at all least consider value, not just cost. Sometimes spending a
little more can add years to your flooring and save you money in the
long run.
The following information
about the different kinds of flooring available may help answer most
of your questions. However, keep in mind that this is by no means the
most comprehensive information about flooring, but it should help guide
you in your decision. For more detailed help ask one of our knowledgeable
flooring consultants, or go to the informative
Flooring College web site.