Traditional Flooring Materials

COMMENTARY

• Saltillo tile in homes is noted for its vintage character for patios but impractical for foot traffic
• Old finishing tricks included linseed oil and transmission fluid for Saltillo tile durability
• Brick floors had unique maintenance of a mix of motor and transmission oil
• Carpets gained popularity for comfort but often hid dirt and grime over time

Sunken Rooms & Vinyl Plank

TEXTS

• The installer of our luxury vinyl plank didn’t remove the wood stain base for molding. He left an expansion joint all the way around the room. We installed quarter round molding, but it looks terrible. Any suggestions?
• Two story home, slab on grade.They have glued-down vinyl squares which are starting to pop. Wife wants tile but I’m thinking some type of vinyl. What would you suggest?

COMMENTARY

• Filling a sunken living room requires permit approval, concrete pouring and termite treatment
• Highlighting differences between low end and luxury vinyl plank flooring
  • Low cost thin thickness can fail quickly with crumbling joints
  • Thicker, well installed luxury plank has superior durability in high traffic areas
  • Warranties can be offered up to 50 years
• Large format tile mimics wood well but grout remains a maintenance challenge

CALLER

• Dave has a tile floor with pillow/rounded edges. The depth of the grout below the edge in the flooring is like the depth of a credit card. The question is on the amount of how far below the grout is. Can the grout be filled higher

RESOURCE

• Prism SGC Premixed Sanded Grout

Moisture Barriers

COMMENTARY

• Importance of moisture barrier (6-mil poly) under vinyl flooring on concrete slabs to prevent moisture migration
• Spill barrier carpet cushions protect carpets in homes with pets or children from stains and odors
• Cost breakdown for quality carpet including cushion and installation with expected lifespan of 20-25 years