Reclaimed Hardwood Flooring
Reclaimed or antique hardwood is a great environmentally conscious flooring choice beyond bamboo. It often comes from deconstruction, when old structures are demolished, and the hardwood is salvaged for re-use. Buildings such as abandoned factories, old farmhouses, mills or barns are common sources and lend a unique story to your new space. Since each piece of wood is being re-used and given new life, reclaimed hardwood truly is a green alternative to traditional hardwood flooring.
Additionally, the finish, color, and imperfections of reclaimed hardwood create its beauty. The distressing is authentic and can be weathered and aged with a high level of color variation for a one of a kind character. These combinations, along with the natural character of wood (grain pattern and burling) really make reclaimed hardwood a wonderful choice for flooring.
Porcelain vs. Ceramic Tile
Both porcelain and ceramic tile are made of fired clay. However, porcelain is made of a particular type of clay that is fired at a higher temperature than ceramic tile. This results in a stronger, more durable, and less likely to chip surface that is also more resistant to moisture and stains. These features make it the best choice of the two.
However, ceramic tile is a popular option because it is made from a less refined material than porcelain and therefore, often more cost effective. Ceramic tile works well for low traffic areas like bathrooms or for decorative elements, like a backsplash, where porcelain tile can be used for outdoor areas and cold weather climates where freezing may occur.
When selecting any ceramic tile it is important to look at the PEI factor (scratch resistance rating). Here's a breakdown:
- PEI 1: Suitable only for locations where softer footwear is worn or where shoes are not frequently used (residential bathroom or other areas with light traffic) and interior commercial and residential walls.
- PEI 2: Suited for general residential traffic. For areas that are walked on by soft soled or "normal" footwear with very small amounts of scratching dirt. Not for kitchen, entrance halls, stairs and other areas subjected to heavy traffic.
- PEI 3: Suited for all residential and light commercial areas such as offices, reception areas, boutiques, interior walls, countertops and residential bathroom floors. Not recommended for commercial entryway.
- PEI 4: Suited for regular traffic. Recommended for medium commercial, and light institutional use, such as restaurants, hotels, hospital lobbies and corridors.
- PEI 5: Suitable for areas with heavy traffic, abrasive dirt and moisture, and where safety and maximum performance are required. Examples are shopping malls, public buildings, building entrances, swimming pools, or shopping centers.
With modern refined finishing and manufacturing techniques, both ceramic and porcelain tile can be great material choices for your home and office. It is best to judge each tile individual for the application in your particular situation and when in doubt, ask the experts. Most tile showrooms can tell you the rating and durability of the tile you have selected to ensure it matches up with your space and lifestyle.
Cork Flooring
Cork is a rapidly renewable material that is taken off the outside of cork oak trees without harming them. The cork bark continually grows back and can be harvested every 6-9 years. Cork is as durable as wood (the oldest cork floor installation in the US is in a church near Chicago dating from 1898), and can be easily repaired if damaged.
Cork also gives your floor a soft touch. This is caused by the tiny air pockets in cork's cellular structure that creates resistance and is easy on the body, knees, and hips. Also a good conductor of heat and cold, it will be the same temperature of the rest of your house and will not be cool to the touch like hardwood or tile flooring. It also has great sound absorbing qualities (can be installed on the walls or ceiling) and is resistant to moister, dust, mould, mites, and bugs. It is a great soft flooring choice alternative to carpet for those with allergies.
What about durability?
Due to the unique structure of cork, a dent in cork flooring will spring back, however, a large cut will remain which is important information if you have active or playful dogs or cats. . When moving heavy objects, prevent deep cuts in the cork by , covering up sharp edges, and if you are going to place heavy furniture on cork flooring, placing a coaster under the legs is a good idea to avoid permanent dents.
Cleaning is easy with a broom or vacuum but it is important not use a wet mop on cork flooring and over time, the color can be affected by sunlight making it age similar to hardwood flooring.
When considering cork flooring it is important to make sure it's qualities match up with your lifestyle and family. In general, the advantages outweigh the negative drawbacks and we believe cork flooring can soften a space, increase efficiency, and help with allergies. As with anything, treat your cork floors properly and you'll be sure to enjoy the wonderful attributes of your floors for years to come.