flooring

Trends in Tile

October 18, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Are you working on a new tile project at home? Are you redoing your kitchen tile, backsplash or a bathroom? If so, you’ll want to keep reading as we take a closer look at what’s trending in tile!

Think BIG

Large format tiles like 18″x36″ and 24″x48″ are what’s hot. Don’t be afraid to go big! Larger tiles have several advatages. One of those advantages is how large format tile can make a room feel bigger. The less lines that interrupt your line of sight, the larger and cleaner the space will feel. Other advantages include less grout, which means you are spending less time cleaning dirty grout. With less grout showing more attention is paid to the tile, which is what you’re paying for in the first place!

Hex’s are Huge!

These tiles are available in different sizes, colors and even textures. Think about using monochromatic hexagons or different shades together to create a look like the photo below. Hexagonal shaped tile can be used on the floor of a room, shower floor, accent wall, shower wall, backsplash, exterior feature wall or anywhere your imagination (or interior designer!) can think of. Love this look, but not sure how to incorporate it into your room? Ask us for help! It’s what we are here for! You can text us right from our homepage.

Make the Most of your design with Metals

Using metal tile in your tile design can be a creative way to get a designer look without spending big bucks. Think about using a more affordable tile in most of your area (also known as “field tile”) and using metal tile as an accent. This way you get the look if you can’t afford to use metal tile throughout your entire space.

If your budget allows it, use metallic tile to make a statement like this below! Note the use of lighter tile on the wall and contrasting darker tile as an accent in front of the metal chairs. The mix of metal finishes in this room gives it a high end designer feel!

If these tile trends excite you, let our experts work with you on how to incorporate these trends into your home or business. Make a statement! Let the tile do the talking! Show off your design style with tile! Let’s get started. https://www.iccfloors.com/contact

Five Questions to Ask Yourself When Replacing a Floor

September 7, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Ready for new floors, but feeling a bit overwhelmed? When it’s time to replace flooring in your home, the following questions may help make your shopping experience more enjoyable!

1. What purpose does the room have now and what purpose do you anticipate in the future?

Today’s den may be tomorrow’s nursery or once a child leaves home their room may become a guest room. Think about current and future plans for the room.

2. What expectations do you have for the new flooring?

Think about whether qualities like low maintenance and style are important goals to you. Write a list of your expectations in terms of performance and look. Your ICC salesperson can help narrow your search based on this information.

3. Has your taste changed over the years?

Make sure that you choose a flooring that is aligned with your taste that may have evolved or changed through the years. Think about what type of new flooring will allow you to make adjustments to your style in the future.

4. Are there any color requirements or preferences for the room?

Be sure to take into consideration family heirlooms or other items with color that may influence your choice in flooring. If you have new window treatments that you love and don’t forsee replacing, this could be a consideration for the color family of your new flooring.

5. What are your budget goals for replacing your floors?

Go into your shopping experience with a budget range in mind. This information will help your salesperson avoid showing you something out of your price range making you feel like you are settling for a product in your price range. However, you’ll want to keep things like the resale value in mind. You may be willing to spend a bit more if the flooring you choose will enhance the resale value of your home. Having a least a budget range in mind will help your salesperson direct you to the right flooring for your budget.

Finding the answers to these questions will help you be more prepared when it comes time to making your selection. All of these questions will play a part in making your flooring selection easier and more enjoyable.

Ready to get started? Click here!

What to Expect for Your Flooring Install

April 10, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

New flooring is an exciting process to revitalize your home’s design as well as tailor your space to your needs. The process from start to finish can take some time, and it can be a very exciting but difficult waiting process. So when you first go to see a flooring distributor, like ICC Home, there are several steps involved. To help you better understand the process, here is everything you need to know about the flooring process from start to finish:

The Measure

When you first decide that it is time to replace your old flooring, you will need to have a professional come out and measure your space. Every home and layout can come with its own set of challenges that need troubleshooting and analyzing. For instance, carpet may need to be discussed and figured where the seam will work best in a given situation, which can account for heavy traffic areas, entryways, doors, and even your furniture layout. Other flooring types like hardwood may need to be looked at to see your subfloor, whereas, for LVP or tile, you may need to see how transitions will accommodate the new flooring’s height. In conclusion, this process can have many variables that need to be analyzed to get the most accurate quote for the job. To receive a quote or estimate, visit us here.

Choosing and Ordering Your Flooring

Once your home is measured and you know which flooring can work for your home, you now have the privilege of selecting your new floors. Remnants and in-stock flooring will have the quickest install times. However, ordering the color choice from a manufacturer can increase the wait time. When an order is placed, it can take several business days for your flooring to arrive and be ready to install.

Selecting an Install Date

This step is when you have to opportunity to select an install date. The right installer and team will be chosen for your job to guarantee the best work for your time and flooring needs. Picking a date can be relatively quick once your flooring arrives, depending on your schedule.

The Installation Process

The installation process can take serval hours or multiple days, depending on how much flooring you are doing in your home and what flooring option you chose. Every room will need to be empty of furniture and prepped for a new installation. In certain instances, some flooring can allow furniture to remain in the room and be moved around during the installation process. Different flooring may call for underlayment, seams, old flooring demo, and much more.

The flooring process can take several days from start to finish, but it is very exciting. Whether you choose hardwood, carpet, LVP, tile, or sheet vinyl, each flooring can come with its own set of needs. Remember, having a new floor installed right will ensure longevity for years to come!

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Purchasing Flooring

February 28, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Flooring is an excellent investment in order to make a house feel like home. In fact, it allows you to add your own personal touch to an atmosphere while letting you tailor your space to your daily demands. However, no one flooring fits all. It would be best if you considered all options when looking at flooring. Each flooring option can bring its own sets of pros and cons to an environment. So if you are looking to invest in your flooring, here are several questions you may want to consider before purchasing your new floors:

Are You Considering the Resell Value?

What are your intentions for your home? Are you planning on living there for a long period of time or planning on reselling it? This factor is essential to consider because it is not always the best option to tailor your space to your own needs if you plan on selling. Sometimes, it is best to see what the most trending homes on the market have to see what will help sell your home.

How Much of a Concern Is Maintenance?

Maintenance can also be a considerable factor. Some flooring can be extremely durable and low maintenance, while others may take some time to clean and treat. This factor can become an annoyance to some homeowners or not a dilemma at all to others. Therefore, ask yourself, does the maintenance of a flooring concern you? If so, you may want to look into low-maintenance flooring options.

Will You Be Hosting Guest or Events?

What are you planning on doing in your home? Flooring can be manufactured in residential grade or commercial. You may need a more durable flooring option if you will be hosting events or guests frequently.

What Purpose Does the Room Serve in Your Home?

The purpose of each room can also be a huge deciding factor. Are you using a room for a home gym or an office? Different spaces respond best functionally and aesthetically with certain flooring options. Make sure your floor corresponds with the room’s initial purpose.

Does Age Restriction Prevent Certain Flooring Options?

What ages are the members of your household? If you have children who may make messes or scratch specific flooring options, you may need to find another flooring choice. Likewise, elder folks may struggle to get over certain flooring transitions and flooring options when limited to wheelchairs or walkers. Always consider your home’s demographics before investing in a floor.

Do You Have Pets?

Likewise, pets can also have a significant influence on what floor works best. Pets can create accidents and scratch some flooring. Make sure if you have pets that your flooring is up for the tasks ahead of you.

Will Your Flooring Be Exposed to Water?

Water can be extremely detrimental to some flooring options. If you are in a space prone to water, you must find a waterproof flooring option. This factor can help save you money and increase the longevity of your investment.

Remember, one floor will not fit all. You need to make sure the flooring you choose can be reliable for your daily tasks. Ask yourself these questions when browsing our flooring selection, and make sure to check with your ICC Home flooring representative for more insight and concerns you may have. Thanks for reading!

Different Types of Tiles and How to Choose the Right One

February 14, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Tile has been used for centuries as a decorative floor and wall covering. Not only do many tiles offer the benefits of unmatched aesthetical appeal and substantial durability, but many tiles can be used in wet environments. This feature makes tile a very versatile flooring option. However, there are many different types of tiles on the market. Knowing some of the common tile selections and their pros and cons can better help you tailor the right selection for your home.

Ceramic

Ceramic tile has been around for a very long time. It is created by heating clay inside a kiln to harden it. It is not baked nearly as hot as porcelain, however, and is easier to chip or get damaged by frost.

Porcelain

Like ceramic tile, porcelain is clay heated in a kiln. However, it is baked at a much higher temperature, making it much more durable and less porous. Being less porous also makes this tile more difficult to stain. This is why toilets and sinks are commonly made from porcelain.

Glass

Another option to use when tiling your home is glass. Glass offers a translucent glaze, which can be very aesthetically pleasing. It is typically marketed for backsplashes or accent pieces. Additionally, glass can come in a large variety of colors and adds character to any backsplash or shower wall.

Marble

This natural stone is quarried and cut into tiles. It is full of character, with each piece being unique and individualized through their pebbly spots and veining. Marble is great; however, it is very easily stained and vulnerable to etching when it encounters acidic materials.

Mosaic

Mosaic tile is a category of tiles that are combined on a small mesh sheet for installation purposes. Mosaic tiles are typically accent pieces, which can be fun to add to walls or backsplashes. Additionally, mosaics can be made of glass, ceramic, stone, or other materials. They are very timeless and can add a charming pattern to your room.

Limestone

Limestone is a very decorative tile option with beautiful texture. Limestone is made of calcium carbonate. Limestone can also be soft and porous, which makes it vulnerable to staining or damage. However, limestone offers a beautiful, elegant look.

Quarry

Another durable option is quarry tile. This tile is made the same way that brick is formed. It is a very impervious tile, which is extremely hard. Quarry tile is not considered to be slippery when wet, which is why it is used in some outdoor places like ski resorts.

Different tiles can be used for various applications. From outside tiles for patios to indoor tiles for backsplashes, each tile can offer a distinct set of advantages. If you are having trouble choosing the right one for you, our team at ICC Home would love to assist you. We have a knowledgable staff ready to answer all and any of your questions. Visit us today, and let us help you find the perfect tile.

Solid Hardwood Flooring Pros & Cons

January 3, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Hardwood is a timeless flooring option that can increase your home’s value. Many people love the authentic look and styling hardwood has to offer. Even flooring options like tile and luxury vinyl planking mimic this highly-sought-after flooring. If you are considering authentic solid hardwood in your home, there are several things you should consider. While every floor comes with its own set of benefits or drawbacks, hardwood is a beautiful flooring option. To help you determine if it is right for you, here is everything you need to know about solid hardwood floors:

Pro – Durability

Hardwood is timeless and for a good reason. This flooring option is not only beautiful but extremely durable. While it can scratch and gouge, typical foot traffic will not damage this flooring.

Con – Costly

Hardwood flooring is a highly-desired flooring. Being made from trees, there is a process in which each plank must go through to be created. This process can make hardwood a pricey option. Therefore, if you are looking for the most cost-effective option, solid hardwood flooring will not be the best choice. Instead, you may want to consider looking into engineered hardwood.

Pro- Increases Market Value

Though the initial investment is expensive, there is still a significant return-on-investment with hardwood floors. In fact, solid hardwood flooring is a home improvement investment that can increase your home’s market value!

Con – Scratching

Hardwood floor is durable, but not indestructible. Moving heavy furniture or animal claws may scratch the floor. Be educated in the type of wood that is used. Some woods like pine can be softer than a hardwood like hickory.

Pro – Can Be Refinished

Hardwood can scratch and scuff over time. Fortunately, your floors can be sanded and refinished over and over. Solid hardwood can be refinished several more times than engineered floors, making it look brand new.

Con – Cannot Be Installed in Every Environment

Hardwood is wood and can expand and contract. Water can be a significant variable on how the floor responds to where it is installed. This factor can also be due to the humidity in the air or moisture coming up from the subfloor. If your floor is glued, it may be able to be installed over concrete. However, you need to test for dryness and perhaps install a moisture barrier. Hardwood is truly limited to the application and environments in which it can be installed.

In essence, you will want to learn what wood is used in your hardwood flooring. Each wood has its own set of benefits. Some woods are less or more susceptible to staining or damage. Hardwood is a great option, nevertheless, and will look great in any home. For more information on ICC Home‘s hardwood selection, you can view our online catalog here.