Homeowners with hardwood flooring just love it. They couldn’t be happier. However, even though they love it, they notice early signs of warping and gapping. This has to do with variable moisture levels in your home. Your floors are also affected by what you bring inside with you when you come in. Although it is difficult to keep all the sticks, leaves and small stones outside, making sure you have an area rug right by the door will help protect your floors.

Since it tends to be drier outside during the winter, this also affects your indoor temperatures. It is warmer inside to stave off the cold. Over time, the hardwood dries out and the boards shift, leaving small gaps in the flooring. Dry, cold winters mean a lower moisture level, and when you remove moisture from wood, it shrinks. You know that horrid squeak you have in the middle of the living room floor that makes everyone jump in the middle of the night when the dog walks over it? Thank dry hardwood flooring for that, and take steps to increase the humidity level inside your home.

One way to increase the relative humidity in your home is to use a humidifier. However, before you invest in one and keep it running all the time, ask a flooring contractor what the level should be, ideally, for the climate you live in. For instance, if you live in northeastern U.S. area, you get really harsh winters, and a humidifier may be the answer to help keep your hardwood flooring from shrinking. Think stand-alone units or one that may be attached to your furnace.

Again, mats make all the difference in the world when making sure your hardwood floor stays as clean and debris free as possible. They also help absorb rain, slush and other gunk, like runny mud. Better to have it on the carpet that you can wash, than on your hardwood floor. A mat also keeps small stones embedded and off the floor, avoiding scratches and abrasions.

Although all of this might sound like a lot of work to keep a floor looking nice, it is well worth it. A home with hardwood flooring that is in good shape and has been well-kept, brings a better price on the market.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

It’s never a good idea to cut corners too much when it comes to buying Tampa flooring tile for you home upgrade. This isn’t to say it may not be a steal of a deal, but when it comes right down to it, it won’t last as long as you want and you’ll be replacing it sooner than later. That means you haven’t really saved any money at all, just delayed the re-install a few years and then you need to put more cash out to fix or upgrade the floor again.

Another thing many do when it comes to selecting tile for their next home renovation project is choose discontinued tiles. Those typically come in at a really nice price, and are often high caliber, high quality tiles that will last longer and look good. However, check the bargain bin, because you will also find every day, not so wonderful tiles in the mixture as well. If you get lucky and find discounted marble, granite or limestone tiles, you’ve hit pay dirt and your budget will love you.

Certainly buying discontinued, quality tiles is a smart way to go, but be aware there are a couple of things you should know before buying them. The first thing is discontinued actually means no more tile like the one you are planning to buy will come on the market any time soon. So, what you see is what you get, and what you get will be all that you can get.

If the tiles are neutral enough to go anywhere and look good for years, this isn’t a drawback if you take care of them. However, if the discounted tiles are an interesting, brash shade of red or perhaps green, you might want to rethink buying them, unless you don’t mind replacing them in a few years when you tire of the color or a new color trend hits the market.

You may also get lucky on a hunt to try and match existing tiles in your home; the ideal solution to do the flooring in that laundry room extension you have been planning for years. The bonus here is that what you find should match flooring already down, making the job that much easier.

Or, you might only need a few replacement tiles to take care of the flooring you have right now. It might not be damaged now, but you can’t predict if it will be blemish free in the years to come. Pick up extra tiles for the “what if” things that happen in the life of your flooring.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

Many Tampa flooring contractors choose slate for floors, walls and counter tops, and the reason for their choice is that slate is a natural material and no two tiles are the same. They can be used in a residential or commercial job and still look appealing and attractive. Slate tiles suit any décor.

One of the latest trends is slate flooring in all rooms of the house, but if you prefer, just do the kitchen and bathroom. Slate is very durable; making it an ideal choice for high traffic areas, and being slip resistant means a great choice of flooring. If you are not sure what to use in the room of choice, there are different kinds of slate. Choose what you want according to the theme of the room. For example, black slate will offer a nice contemporary ambiance.  The choices are endless and no matter what you choose, slate will do right by your interior.

You might even want to think about using slate for any countertops in either the bathroom or kitchen. This adds a nice touch of class to any room and you can have whatever look suits your fancy. Slate is regarded as being low maintenance and relatively stain resistant and you can match the countertop to the flooring or select a complementary color instead. You can’t go wrong with slate.

When the interior is done, consider the outside. What about the patio area? Slate does wonders for just about any outside area and provides an appealing touch of charm to any space. Simply choose the right color to suit a mood or theme and then choose the size and pattern that best suits your lifestyle preferences. It’s a slam dunk and will likely be the talk of the neighborhood.

But if you really want to capture people’s attention, use slate tiles on your roof. They’re ideal. Weather resistant and long lasting, not to mention a bit less expensive than other roofing materials you could choose, using slate also means replacing the roof less often; a real bonus in the long run.

In short, slate tiling is highly versatile, attractive, reasonable priced, long lasting, flexible, adaptable, easy to maintain, and looks good in any room. Try to choose the best quality tiling you can, as it will serve you well over the years. If you have concerns about installing it, talk to a local Tampa flooring contractor.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

You’ve finally decided to put in a tile shower. The plans look great, and the expectation is the new addition will make the room even more attractive. You have all the tiling you need and yen to get at it. You’re good to go. Well, wait. There is one more thing you need to take into account, and that is sealing the tile. This is where a large number of people make their first mistake. There is a difference between tile and grout.

The grouting is the “gunk” that is used to fill the gaps between the tiles. This gunk needs to be sealed because that protects it from mildew and mold, and means it is easier to clean. However, remember that you do not seal the group right away. You need at least one day for it to set. If you had the tiling installed by someone, the chances are that they did not seal it. This is a do-it-yourself job, but it is relatively easy. It is also something that needs to be done every few years or so, and not doing it allows water to leak behind the tiles, leading to mold. If you don’t want to replace all of the tiles in about two years or less, seal your grout.

Sealing the tile is optional and this largely depends on what kind of tile you use. For instance, if you choose slate, matte tiles, natural stone or marble, you should seal it. Most natural stone is porous and absorbs water. If you don’t want mildew in the bathroom, seal your stone tiles. On the other hand, if you choose to use ceramic tiles, you don’t need to seal them. Bonus. Sealing tiles means less cleaning.

There is one thing to consider. Sometimes sealing the whole tile causes issues. This is because some sealers cause tiles to darken, or they may become stained. It also takes a lot of time to seal a whole shower. However, having said that, some of the newer sealants on the market last for up to 15 years. Gone are the days of re-sealing every year.

Also remember not to seal your shower tiles or grout until it is completely dry. For an older shower, you may need to wait for up to five days, because there is usually moisture behind them and it needs to evaporate. If you don’t let it get completely dry, expect trouble down the line. When in doubt, ask a Tampa flooring contractor what works and what does not. They may also be your best choice to hire the job out and get it done professionally.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“It’s a no brainer when people have animals, whether it’s cats or dogs, or both, that their floors are going to take a beating. Claws just take the top off most floors, no matter how often you clip the dog’s nails. And cats, well, let’s just say that more often than not they manage to decorate the floor with their dinner, making for some tough stain issues, and that goes for dogs too,” added Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

Just about 60 percent, or more homes, in the U.S. have animals — that’s a lot of flooring issues, one way or the other. Hardwood floors are the worst when there are pets in the home, and carpets are nearly impossible to keep clean, although there are good stain products on the market today. Rather than pitch an uphill battle, cork flooring may be the ideal solution for pet owners.

Contrary to what many think, cork is highly durable and takes up to a 45 percent compression ratio and still rebounds to its original shape. “If you think of your cat that scratches the floor with their claws, you’d think it would shred it. It doesn’t. It compresses and releases, back to its normal shape. Even larger dogs with huge feet and longer nails will not make a dent in this type of flooring,” Dupre said.

Perhaps the best part about cork flooring is the fact that it happens to be water resistant. If a puppy pees on it, it’s not a major issue, other than getting it wiped up before it seeps under the tiles. Potty training with papers or pads, when combined with cork flooring, makes the dog duties easier. “That being said, you would, of course, make sure the house-breaking is completed to a point where there are fewer accidents over time,” suggested Dupre.

Cork flooring is also attractive for those who have allergies. In fact, it is often referred to as an anti-allergenic flooring.  It does not hold pet dander or hair, pollens or harbor dust mites and molds. Just remember to keep it clean.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“The kitchen seems to be the hardest room in the house to choose flooring for. Should it be vinyl for the spills, hardwood to be elegant, ceramic to be showy or carpeted and stain resistant? There are so many choices these days, it is hard to pick, but ultimately, no matter what you do choose, you want something classy and yet durable,” recommended Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

“Other considerations for upgrading the kitchen floor revolve around color, texture, materials and eye appeal, and whether or not to do more than just the floor while you’re renovating,” added Dupre. Often this is the best time to make other changes while there is a chance to get everything done at once. Should ceramics be chosen, one consideration is whether to use tiles to create a backsplash behind the sink, or a sunken cutting board in the counter. The possibilities are endless.

Ideally, the main aim of upgrading the flooring in the house, whether it be kitchen floors or other locations in the home, is to create a uniquely appealing visually attractive floor; something that will ultimately increase the value of the home on resale. Being creative, while a good idea, is something to approach with caution, as not everyone would appreciate vibrantly colored tiles in their kitchen. Moderation is the key to tackling floor upgrades, a durable, classy, pleasing floor that withstands the test of time.

“Aim for visually appealing patterns, but not a bright melange that screams the tropics,” suggested Dupre. “If you happen to be a minimalist, go for subtle, clean and sophisticated patterns. It’s up to you. Just remember that if you plan to sell in the near future, you want something that appeals to a wider audience of buyers. So also choose a floor that is easy to maintain, stain-free and does not take on the qualities of a skating rink when wet.”

For those who choose to do it themselves, read the instructions and follow them to a T. There is nothing worse than a nice looking floor that is crooked in the corner because someone did not know how to lay the tiles the right way in tight spaces. It is all in the look, the kind of flooring, the color, the accents in the same room, the ability to keep it clean and whether or not it will withstand heavy wear and tear over the years.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Some people don’t care for wooden floors, or ceramics or vinyl or even hardwood. They want to stick to tried, tested-and-true carpeting, because that is what they like. They want the warmth and durability that a good carpet offers. This more than makes good sense if your house happens to be built on a concrete slab. The bottom line is that carpets may be just as durable as other flooring choices. It just depends on your lifestyle and what kind of look you want inside your home.

Carpet has the knack for changing the whole ambiance of a room. It can make the floor cushy to foot traffic, depending on the thickness of padding. It can brighten up a room, give it elegance, and make a previously dull room come to life. It can also make a once forbidding looking den or office look like a relaxing place to be and work.

Many families with small children would prefer having carpeting in their home, as the kids are less likely to fall and hurt themselves. Of course, maintaining a carpet with kids in the house can be a drink spilling challenge, but there are some very good carpets today that will take drinks and other horrid drips and splashes with aplomb and still look good. This is the case for pet owners as well. There are ways to keep the carpet looking good, even after a “gift” was deposited.

Additionally, homes with stairs appreciate carpeting for the traction it provides. Wood is slippery and has the potential to be dangerous if you misstep. You may wind up at the bottom of the stairs at lot fast than you expected. This is the last thing you want when your kids are small and just learning to get around.

Either way you look at it, no matter what type of flooring you choose, it all has to be cleaned, one way or the other. That would include dusting, scrubbing, mopping, vacuuming, polishing, and so forth. So it all comes down to which method of cleaning is less arduous for you and what ultimately suits your lifestyle.

In the final analysis, you need to make a flooring choice based on many things, not the least of which is the budget. From there, you consider the “look” you want, the style and color that would work and which rooms need to be done right away. The choices you make will dictate the comfort and style you are looking for in a quality flooring.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

Most people ignore their floors and then wonder why, when they have done the painting, papering, changing fixtures and matching accessory routines, why the bedroom (or other locations), just does not quite “do it” for them. Look at your flooring. More often than not, the floor needs to be upgraded to match the rest of the modernized room. You just can’t have a glamorous bedroom with silk, satin and lace, and an old lino floor. It looks like a mish-mash and detracts from the rest of the room.

For the bedroom, you want something that says comfort, elegance and is pleasing to the eye, something with warmth and character and easy to care for over time. Many of the options on the market are expensive, and if you have the budget to go that route, more power to you. However, many people just don’t have that kind of money these days, and are looking for something less expensive, but still elegant.

Some of the more popular options are hardwood flooring, wood laminates, vinyl and ceramics. Which is the best choice for you? That depends entirely on the look you want to achieve and the amount of money you have to spend. Hardwood for instance, is hugely popular, but also a bit on the expensive side. In its defense though, it is one of the longest lasting flooring options you could possibly choose; a choice that will not let you down as time goes by. In short, it is quality flooring.

Wood laminates are also a good choice, and somewhat more reasonably priced. They look and feel like wood, are relatively easy to install, easy to clean (provided you get a good quality laminate) and retain their appearance quite nicely if cared for properly.

Another option, vinyl, is also quite popular and many homes these days have it installed for the ease of maintenance it offers. It comes in sheets and tiles, and depending on the look you want, and where it is to be installed, you have choices that would work either way. One neat trick to remember is that vinyl sheets (or tiles) are a great foundation for laying wood laminate. So if you want, you could lay both.

If you aren’t sure what would work in your environment, start asking around and checking with Tampa flooring contractors to see what the latest rage in flooring happens to be. You may like it. You may not. However, either way, any good contractor will have plenty of other ideas and options to show you. You’ll never leave a Tampa flooring outlet without tons of great alternatives to upgrade your home’s flooring.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

Hardwood is a hugely popular choice of flooring for many homeowners, as they know it enhances the overall value of their property. Hardwood is a smart investment, but it does need to be kept looking its very best, in order to allow the natural grace and beauty to captivate visitors and potential buyers.

Many think hardwood is difficult to keep. That is not the case. You do not maintain it, but maintenance is not that difficult. You just need to be aware of a few pointers. For instance, hardwood does not react well to moisture, so spills need to be cleaned up as soon as possible. Additionally, humidity, or the lack of it, will also affect hardwood flooring. Low humidity can cause the wood to pull apart at the planks seams. Simply using air conditioning will alleviate this issue.

If you’re concerned about moisture on the floors, particularly in the kitchen or laundry areas, then opt to use synthetic rugs, largely because they handle spills very well, and will protect your floor. They also act as a barrier to protect your floor from ground-in dirt, which cuts down on scratching and gouging if you have high-traffic areas where kids and pets wander. The best placement for a rug in a room with hardwood floors is to put it down by the doorway, where it acts as a debris collector. Remember to use synthetic rugs and not plastic, rubber or foam, as these materials may discolor the floor.

Once a day, vacuum or sweep your hardwood floors to get rid of debris that might scratch the surface, and move your area rugs around to prevent a rug outline on your floor from being in one spot too long. You do not need to use very much water. In fact, just use a mop that is barely damp, or use a specially designed spray cleaner and a microfiber mop.

Yes, hardwood flooring does take a bit of extra care, but the results and the look are well worth the extra effort. This type of floor is a major investment, but it will last you for years and remain elegant and inviting, provided you take the time to maintain it. If this isn’t something you want to consider, or are too busy to do the floor daily, you might want to look into other types of flooring that would suit your lifestyle demands.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

It’s easy to get carried away when it comes to home renovations. It’s exciting trying to find precisely what you want, in the colors you hope to use, and for a price that’s reasonable. Interestingly enough, most people, when it comes to home renovations, forget about, or leave the flooring, to the last minute. They’re completely focused on having the kitchen or living room look “just so.” What about the floor?

If you have tired, old lino in the kitchen, it does not blend well with your new, sleek, modern black and white kitchen interior. Let’s face it: the kitchen floor has seen better days, and now that there is a new look to the heart of the home, it’s time to upgrade the flooring, too. Perhaps you went country with a bit of city slicker blended together and want a floor that carries on that type of theme. You might want to consider antique heart pine flooring. Now, that would give your kitchen a stunning ambiance!

Pine is notably one of the toughest, most durable and strongest materials you could use. It has a long life, too, longer than carpet, vinyl or even tile. You just need to make sure you take care of it properly. If you don’t know what that would involve, make a call to a Tampa flooring contractor with extensive experience dealing with a variety of flooring materials.

Just remember, over time, even pine flooring will need a spiff up, and luckily, that is not a difficult task, because pine flooring is so dense. It is super easy to work with and can withstand just about anything you do to restore its original beauty. You can even easily get rid of blemishes, water damage or stains. You just need to know how to accomplish that task to preserve the eternal beauty of your pine flooring. Don’t be talked into getting the whole floor replaced if you just have a small area or two to restore.

Talk to the experts, ones willing to be honest with you and tell you exactly what you might need to do to restore the beauty of your antique heart pine floor. You’re dealing with quality flooring, so don’t cut corners. This is particularly important if you have plans to sell your home at some point. The better it looks as an overall package, the better the dollar value you will recover on a sale.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

It’s easy to get caught up in the process of choosing new fixtures and countertops for your kitchen. It’s exciting to see it all come together and pleasing to the eye. However, eight out of ten times, the floor gets ignored. This is a real shame, since it is the flooring that ties all the elements in the kitchen together. If you have a red and white lino floor and your countertops are granite, the kitchen is going to look odd. If you’re going to spend the money to upgrade the kitchen, then do the floor first.

Don’t know where to start? It’s not a huge problem, as there are a multitude of choices. Just keep in mind your lifestyle and what you find appealing. If you want to mix and match styles from the ‘50s and the futuristic look of all chrome or steel, then go for it. However, if you would prefer things to all pull together, then spend some time choosing what feels right for the way you live.

For instance, if you have a family and pets, you want a floor that takes a beating, cleans up well and is easy to maintain. In the kitchen, you will want something that takes a lot of traffic, spills and paw prints. This doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice beauty for utility, as there are flooring choices that would suit your requirements. First, what color is the kitchen? Will you change the color? Do you have prints or checks in your kitchen? Do you prefer ultra-modern or an older antique kind of look? Does your backdoor lead out to a muddy garden? Do the kids track in all manner of leaves, sand, dirt and grass?

Your first choice may be either vinyl or laminate flooring. Either is super easy to clean and is highly resilient, but still stylish while being functional. The nice thing about vinyl and laminate is that they have the innate ability to complement just about every type of kitchen. However, if you prefer a rustic feel to the kitchen, you would likely gravitate to wood flooring. It offers your kitchen a cozy ambience; homey and relaxing. Yes, wood takes a bit more time to maintain, but you may find the effort well worth it.

In the final analysis, if you are overwhelmed with the choices facing you for flooring for your new kitchen, check out kitchen design software. You get an instant visual by choosing various styles and colors, not to mention have a lot of fun.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“It’s not just color and type of flooring that drives consumers these days, it’s also texture,” says Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a http://www.champtile.com., Tampa flooring, and tile installation company. “Texture has the added advantage of setting the surface apart and making it more noticeable.”

Distressed Clearwater flooring may feature transformative aging, hand scraping, and even interesting character marks, all of which make it look not only rustic, but full of character. Some people do not like the idea of having what they feel is a pock-marked, or damaged look to their flooring, but others love the ambiance it creates in each room.

This kind of flooring is highly appealing; in nine cases out of ten, people upon first seeing this type of flooring get down on their knees to touch it. It also has more than one visual option. “For those that like rustic, they would love the knots and graining. For those who prefer a more classic look, they would like a smoother texture. It’s your choice,” said Dupre. But those are not the only two options for homeowners who like some adventure in their environment. There are other options employed to change the distressed look to a real character product, like adding a darker finish, or aging the flooring. It’s possible to be creative.

“Think creative, and the flooring of your dreams is just around the corner, particularly if you want to take the further step of having the flooring customized to get the look you want,” Dupre added. An added bonus to distressed flooring is that it comes in all varieties of hardwoods, and may also include other exotic options.

While it may boggle the imagination to think of flooring being beaten with chains, being bleached or pickled in order to achieve the finished look, that may be just what the house needed to provide it with more character.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

The inner beauty of your home is largely determined by your flooring. While it is nice to have good furniture and nice wall decorations, if the floor looks awful, the home loses its luster and appeal, not just to you, but to potential buyers. Walls can be papered or painted. Flooring is long-term and permanent, so be sure to do it right when you upgrade.

Keep in mind that there are at least three factors you want to consider when it comes to choosing your new flooring: location, use, and budget. Let’s say you live in Tampa, where it is hot and humid. Those are not exactly ideal conditions for wood flooring. You might want to consider granite, but again, your budget will determine what you ultimately purchase.

There are other flooring choices to consider, such as vitrified tiles, which are glazed clay tiles. They are joint-free, so you don’t get the gapping between adjoining tiles, and are larger and more durable than regular tiles, can be cleaned by acid wash and don’t hold stains. However, one main disadvantage is that they scratch easily, so if you have pets, this is not a good choice for you. Additionally, they are known to be slippery, not the best choice for bathrooms or for rooms where there is traffic by children or older people who may unsure on their feet.

Another choice is mosaic tiling, which comes in a veritable rainbow of colors and designs. If you can imagine a pattern, it’s pretty much guaranteed that you can find it. Additionally, mosaics are one of the more visually appealing tiles on the market. One drawback, though, relates to fading and powdering. If you’re up to polishing your ceramic tiles on a regular basis, this may be the flooring for you.

Or, you might want to consider ceramic tiles, largely because they are really versatile, have a nice range of finishes and are relatively inexpensive. They are considered to be stylish and very easy keepers when it comes to maintenance.  They have a minor problem, and that is if they are glazed, the color may fade over time.

Ultimately, it is your choice, and what a choice you have. It’s the best of everything: lots of choices, a range of prices and multiple options make upgrading your home a snap.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“If you’re working with ceramic tiles, you should be aware that they come in matt finish, high-gloss and Duraglaze,” advised Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater flooring, Tampa flooring, and tile installation company.

Most ceramic tiles, no matter what their finish, look terrific in any room, and are a favorite of homeowners for their reasonable pricing and colorful, appealing patterns. This type of tiling is best laid indoors, in areas where there in only moderate traffic.

“If you want a high-gloss finish, your final installation will have great beauty and a superior shine. If this was installed in a high-traffic area, be aware that you will need to keep on top of maintaining it, largely because it scratches easily. Depending on where you want to feature it, you might be best advised to install it on the wall, or use it for a backsplash for your kitchen. Some prefer the glazed tiles in the bathroom for their ability to repel water,” Dupre suggested.

On the opposite end of the shine spectrum is the matt finish, which is often preferred for high-traffic areas. If the homeowner wants to turn matt into a glossy finish, they only need add sealant. On the other hand, for an aged appearance, or a rustic look and feel, do not use sealant.

For those who want a Duraglaze finish, they will end up with a very durable surface, one that rarely chips or breaks. They are versatile and flexible and come in so many colors it may take some time to choose just one, which is part of the beauty of working with these tiles. They are hugely popular and reasonably priced. “Just make sure that when you install them that the grout color matches, and blends nicely, with the overall décor of the room. The grout should not talk louder than the tiles,” Dupre advised.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

There is nothing worse than spending money to upgrade your Tampa flooring to laminate tiles, and then discovering you installed them incorrectly. What’s the fuss, since there is no glue or nails? While laminate tile is relatively easy to lay and can go down on just about any surface, you still must take care to not lay them on carpet. Instead, they typically go on top of a thick, padded layer, which must be placed correctly and trimmed on completion in order to have a nice finished look.

The nice thing about laminate is that no matter what room you want to use it in — the basement, the kid’s rooms, the garage — it always looks good. In fact, it can look like stone or ceramic tiles or even wood flooring, but it isn’t. Rather, the tiles effectively mimic the look of pricey material, which does not stop them from being really durable and easy to maintain.

Want other ideas? Consider interlocking carpet floor tiles. They save time, are colorful, come in a wide variety of textures and are easy to install and take up again. These tiles come with padding under the tile, so installation time is just about cut in half. For a homeowner needing a quick job to upgrade their older wooden floors, carpet floor tiles are an ideal solution, and far less expensive than ripping out the old floor and starting all over.

You might also want to experiment with cork tiles, particularly if you are concerned about the environment. They are noted to add flexibility and a nice cushion to the rooms they are installed in, and they look terrific.

If you are looking for something that is slip resistant for use in a pool area, saunas, spas or showers, think interlocking vinyl tiles. They offer the right kind of drainage to make sure the water sloughs off. No matter what you want to accomplish on your tiling project, there is something on the market that will suit your project specs to a T.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

There are so many Tampa flooring options on the market, it is hard to decide what would look best in your home. Most often, what appeals to you personally is the right answer. Having said that, one of the newer options to consider may be limestone tiles from the southwestern part of Turkey.

These tiles are gorgeous, creamy, snowy white and unusually consistent in color, which makes any home renovation project far easier for the do-it-yourself homepreneur. These tiles are also an excellent choice for hallways, kitchens, bathrooms and laundry areas, as they offer a clean, contemporary and edgy ambiance.

The other unusual thing to note about the Turkish tiles is what is referred to as low-density fossiling. This makes them look quite similar to polished ceramic tiles; a point that many homeowners find very appealing, particularly if they love the texture and color of natural stone. The bonus with these tiles is that they are available in honed straight and smooth cuts, and semi-polished finishes. The straight and smooth cuts are usually used in kitchens and powder rooms, while the semi-polished are great for use outside.

In fact, many architects are starting to incorporate these tiles in their designs for building exteriors, driveways, garden landscaping and stone pavements. It’s an exciting and eye-catching concept, not to mention these tiles are excellent for use in the garden, as they are highly porous, meaning fungus or mould cannot grow on them. They create a certain ethereal ambiance in the garden and make it a place for quiet contemplation.

One word of caution; maintain these stones properly. They are prone to wear and tear, and you need the right kind of sealant before you lay the tiles. Additionally, if you have a space that typically gets heavy traffic, consider using the non-slip matte finish. Ultimately, the most appealing feature about the Turkish tiles is their price – considerably less than marble, but equally, if not more so, beautiful.

If you don’t know what kind of tile to choose, or even if it would work in your home, then consult with a professional Tampa flooring contractor. Get samples. Try them out at home. Ask questions. Ultimately, when you have enough information and are pleased with the “look,” you may make an informed buying decision.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

While many people love the look of hardwood floors, or natural stone when they upgrade their Tampa flooring, another nifty alternative is tile. In fact, designers are using tile for floors and walls, as they are impressed with their versatility. It is a trend that is beginning to sweep the nation, and if you want to get on the bandwagon early, now is the time to try tile in your personal living space, or office.

Some think that tiles are not that luxurious. However, if they are used in the right combinations, colors, styles and patterns, they become far more than just a hunk of clay. These seemingly small, but elegant tiles have the ability to turn a room into a work of art, add color, and add presence to a room. If you want to really get wild and crazy, plan tiles for inside and outside. Now that is a personal statement, and an eye-catching one at that.

There are a wide range of tiles and patterns on the market; enough to suit any budget. However, if you have a bit to spare, why not consider designer tiles. Get a bit of a kick with some extra character in each room you tile. And remember, you could do the floor, the wall or both. While designer tiles may cost just a bit more than the regular ones, it is worth it when you see the stunning results.

For a styling bathroom, why not have a tile mural created for one wall? Say seahorses, shells and a waterfall. It’s easy to do with tiles. Just create your design on paper first, and then make sure you have enough tiles to complete the job. To that end, always buy a few extra, so if you come up short, you’re covered.

Designer tiled walls are in. How about designer tiled floors? It’s likely the next trend. Imagine smooth tiles on the floor, creating a spa-like atmosphere in the bathroom. or pebble Tampa flooring in the laundry room. If you want to add some fresh style in your home, tiles are the way to achieve it, and tiles are easily installed if you want to install them yourself. Tile floors add style with class.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

Choosing colors can be a bit of a pain, so just remember that each room has its own ambience – and furniture – and plan accordingly. For instance, if the living room is done in reds and yellows, the last thing you want in there is pink flooring. However, having said that, the choice is are up to you, depending on what kind of look you want to achieve.

The main feature of quartz tile that people find appealing is their durability. This is important if you have kids, animals and want a virtually maintenance-free floor. Want them in the kitchen? Good choice. The bathroom? Even better choice. Experiment and bring home some samples. Try them in various rooms and get a feel for how they can make a room come alive.

Say you want white in your bathroom with red tiling accents. While this look can be achieved with a variety of other materials, like porcelain and granite, durable quartz tile will do you proud. And cleaning it is a breeze. Who doesn’t want a nice looking tile that is easy to clean? While white is popular, simply because it is adaptable to any other accent color, black would also be a good choice.

If you want a more modern look ian your home, try quartz tile for that unique and appealing combination that says classy and unique at the same time. And something else you might want to consider when choosing quartz tiles – they are easy to install, easy to clean and are relatively inexpensive. If you plan on doing the installation yourself, always remember to get more than you think you will need in case there is a problem installing them, or if you need to replace a tile later. Better to be safe than sorry.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“I’ve seen a lot of less-than-stellar flooring products over the years I have been in business, and some of them have been touted as being ‘brand new.’ New is nice, but if the quality isn’t there, why spend the money on flooring that will not last?” said Dean Dupre, owner of Champion Tile, a Tampa flooring and tile installation company. “It’s a waste of your hard-earned dollars.”

When homeowners head out to shop for flooring to upgrade their homes, they need to be aware that just because something is marketed as ‘new and improved,’ it does not mean it will meet expectations after it is installed in a busy home. Newer products have an unfortunate history of being slapped together with glue and rushed to the marketplace to start earning the manufacturer money. Often the goal is to make money, not make consumers happy with the product.

“Some customers get the new flooring home, install it and it looks great. Six months or so later, they realize their shiny new floor is cracking and peeling, swelling and chipping and separating. It looks like an army of elephants have been using it for a runway,” said Dupre. “This product, made on the cheap, was not made to last. It was made to be new and dupe consumers. Older products that have been around for some time and have a slightly higher price tag, due to their quality, are often the better choice.”

Over time, the marketplace has moved from making quality flooring that often outlived the homeowner to shoddy imitations. There is no mystery behind this change on the part of flooring manufacturers. They sell cheaper products that do not last as long because the consumer will need to come back and buy more to replace it.

“Before you decide you want to do something about your floors, take a hard look at what you have right now. If it is quality flooring, think about restoring it first. The last thing you want to do is rip up good but older and worn flooring and replace it with something that won’t last long and may give you headaches,” Dupre added.
To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“If you’ve moved into a house with soft wood floors and you have an active family, plus pets, you might want to consider redoing the floors to something that takes just about anything you throw at it,” said Dean Dupre, owner of Champion Tile, a Tampa flooring and tile installation company. His suggestion? Tile.

Life is about balance. For many parents, that balance means more time with family and less time spent cleaning the house. For those who want a virtually care-free floor, one option that performs like a trooper is tile flooring. It’s easier to clean and more stain-resistant than carpet. “With tile, you just need to pass the mop a time or two and perhaps sweep now and then, which takes minimal time out of the day, leaving more quality time with the family,” said Dupre.

Tile flooring is well noted for its longevity, so in reality, it pays back the cost of installation over the years it stays looking good and remaining functional. It is typically years before tiles crack or need grouting cleaned. In other words, tile flooring is a good investment that will carry forward its good looks, even if you sell your house at some point.

Tile flooring installation offers a wide range of choices from tiny tiles to larger formats. “It depends on the look you want,” said Dupre. “The size of the tile you choose can change how big a room looks. Plus, there is a virtually endless selection of patterns and colors to coordinate with your decor.”

Another great benefit of tile flooring is the lower cost compared to other materials. “If your budget is really tight, go for the tile flooring and install it yourself. If you get stuck or have questions before you get started, check with a flooring company and get straight answers so your job goes well,” said Dupre.
To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

While you know it’s time for home improvements, you don’t know what to do with your flooring. Hardwood? Bamboo? Cork? Rubber? Laminate? While all of these choices have benefits that may appeal to homeowners, the choice usually comes down to a personal preference for a certain look and feel in flooring.

Some like carpeting. Others like wood. There are even some who won’t use anything else but natural stone. That’s fine, but what do you want to do inside your home? Depending on the room, the amount of traffic it receives and your tolerance level for cleaning, you may want to choose laminate flooring.

Laminate is a synthetic material that looks like wood but is considerably less expensive. It is easy to clean, so if you have kids, this might be an option you want to consider. And if you are thinking about installing it on your own, this is a good DIY project that won’t end in catastrophe.

There are just a few things you need to know before making a final decision about laminate flooring. First, keep your floors clean, because if there is dust, dirt and grime on them, it will get ground into the floor and may scratch it. Second, keep the floor dry. If you leave moisture on laminate flooring, the planks may warp, so wipe all spills quickly. Also, if you have water that is as hard as nails, washing the floor may leave a white chalky residue, so check out special laminate floor cleaners to avoid this. Finally, if you re-arrange the furniture a lot, invest in felt pads for the feet  so they don’t scratch the floor.

Laminate flooring is a great choice for consumers who want the look of hardwood but the durability of a synthetic material.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

Maybe your vision of a rubber floor is black and boring. In reality, rubber flooring comes in a variety of vibrant colors and varying styles and thicknesses. You can buy it as a roll or in the form of interlocking mats. With so many options in color and design, your kids will be able to help decide how the flooring in their playroom looks.

Even non-residential spaces use rubber flooring to brighten up their play areas. Some business, like McDonald’s, can brand the matting with their logo and/or their design. It’s good advertising, plus it’s easy to keep clean. From pet accidents to spilled drinks, there is no challenge too big for rubber flooring.

Impact is not the only thing absorbed by rubber flooring; parents will love rubber because it absorbs sounds instead of reflecting them. While this does not mean sounds are completely eliminated, they are definitely toned down, which is music to the ears of parents.

As for maintenance, this is one easy floor to clean, largely due to the fact that it is stain and dirt resistant. Throw in a bit of routine cleaning with a broom, and you’re good to go. If you want to, you can use mild soap and water. That’s how easy it is to keep clean.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“If you want a long lasting floor, one that still looks good forever and a day and is cost effective, you might want to consider ceramic tile flooring. It’s easy to clean and maintain and takes a good beating. Just remember not to drop anything on it. If you have kids, this might not be a good choice for you, as they tend to drop mugs and glasses and if you wind up with chipped or cracked tiles, this may permanently damage your floors. So, before you invest in ceramic tile, figure out if it suits your lifestyle or not,” suggested Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

In a quieter environment, without the risks of floor damage, ceramic tiles stay delightfully cool during the summer months; a nice respite on a blistering hot day when standing on an oasis of cool is sheer bliss. The con side of that benefit is that these tiles are also cool to cold in the winter, depending on where you live. With that in mind, and before the flooring is installed, consider under-the-floor heating. “Your feet will love you for it,” Dupre added.

One other very appealing characteristic of using ceramic tiles is that the owner may create their own design to enhance each particular room. The tiles do not need to be laid in perfect symmetry. In fact, laying them with an avant garde pattern, such as a mosaic or zigzag pattern often creates a one-of-a-kind design, guaranteed to be the talk of the neighborhood. “

“If this is a do-it-yourself project, you might want to get smaller tiles that come on a mesh. This just makes them easier to lay down. However, this doesn’t mean you need to stick to a boring or routine layout. Mix and match things up for an eclectic effect,” Dupre suggested.”There is nothing quite like the finished design when you can step back and see the results of your hard work. If you are not sure how to do a credible job, contact a Tampa flooring contractor and discuss whether or not your surface needs to be leveled before laying tile.”

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“I’ve seen some nice flooring installed in a way that made me cringe. This was largely due to the fact that the person attempting to put it in used the wrong sealer, among other things. Not all flooring jobs need a professional installer, but many of the DIY jobs need one later,” added Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

For those considering installing marble or granite, the results upgrade a home’s interior immediately. A once ordinary home, kitchen or bathroom, suddenly take on a regal atmosphere. Add in granite or marble countertops, and each room becomes a sophisticatedly elegant room with personality. “In short, you really can’t go wrong with marble or granite to upgrade the interior of your home,” Dupre added.

The one main thing to remember about working with marble or granite is that each stone needs to be sealed from things like includes water, cooking spills and other items that land on the floor. “If you work without sealer, you can expect a disaster later,” indicated Dupre, “because the sealer protects the stone from staining; an important point if the flooring is in the kitchen where items like vinegar, bleach and various other caustic agents are stored.”

Sealer is not just used on granite and marble, so it is not an added expense, but a necessity to complete a job. Sealant may also be used for pressed pavers, concrete, reconstituted stone and natural stone, so if there is some left over, there is always a use for it later. Make certain the sealer both impregnates and penetrates below the surface of the stone.

Marble sealer that is applied the correct way does not affect how the stone looks. The impregnator is the component that gives the stone a polished and smooth surface. Just sealing marble or granite leaves it open to scuffing and abrasions, as it does not properly bond.

“There tends to be a whole lot of confusion around impregnating and penetrating. To simplify things, the impregnator protects the stone’s interior from staining. It acts as a barrier to keep acid from soaking into the stone, but it does not protect the surface. That is where the sealant comes into play, which protects the surface and provides a stain resistant exterior,” Dupre explained. “The process of sealing a marble or granite floor is fussy, but the end results are stunning. If you have concerns about doing this on your own, just ask us. That’s what we do.”
To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

These days, people are putting more into their homes to upgrade and invest in them, largely because their home is a major asset. One of the smartest moves to make, if you want to increase the value of your home for resale, or just want to make it look even better, is to upgrade your flooring. If you have a lively family that is always on the go tracking in and out of the house, you might want to consider Australian cypress flooring for your upgrade project.

While some prefer natural stone for their flooring, there are just as many others that love the look of wood flooring. For those with a yen for hardwood floors, you will love the unique look of Australian cypress, largely because it has an unusual variety of tones that make it stand out from the usual kinds of hardwood. It will make everyone who sees it, ask about it, if not get busy and do their own homes with it.

A word about the tones that lurk in this flooring. This refers to the wide variety of hues and shades this striking wood comes in. For instance, it ranges from honey brown to a rich cream, which, when laid, creates arresting contrasts and a variety of shades. It is so unusual, you will want to do more than just one room with the delicate, yet tough, intricately patterned hardwood.

Look for knots and whorls, various patterns, slashes of color, and tones of creamy coloring that create a homey ambiance in any room. If you are fond of the rustic look, this flooring will be the right choice for you. It is not only interesting, but seems to have its own story to tell as it takes up the job of making your rooms look their very best.  But, Australian cypress flooring is not just another pretty face. It is tough, rugged, durable and hard; a superb choice for those high traffic areas in your home. It stands up to just about anything, including dogs, cats, kids and the odd lizard or two.

For warmth, durability, quiet elegance and character, consider choosing Australian cypress flooring. You can either install it yourself, or if you have concerns about that, contact a Tampa flooring and tile installation company and discuss what you want done. You will love the unique look of this wood.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

There is nothing quite like slate tiles to make your home a really ‘with it’ place. Imagine using tiles both inside and out, adding that modest touch of natural, with the quiet whisper of nature in each room. Additionally, this is one of the easiest tiles to take care of, a bonus for those with hectic lives, kids and pets. Let’s face it, we all have enough to do these days to keep food on the table and a roof over our heads to spend too much time worrying about what our floors look like.

Slate tile is a natural stone, often cut from slabs of slate. In the raw, you will recognize this stone by its intriguing layers. It’s the layering that many homeowners appreciate, as each layer often contains bands of different color, created by different mineral deposits. This offers an interesting ambiance for your rooms, and often turns people’s attention to the beauty of your floors, as no two tiles are alike, but yet they all blend into an overall presence of elegance.

Resale value on a home with slate flooring is quite respectable too. If you want to make a difference in how your home presents for a possible sale, consider upgrading your floors and use slate tiles. Chances are when you see how great they look, you might decide to stay and get reacquainted with the new look of your home.

Families typically need flooring that is durable and can take what it thrown at it and drops on it. Slate is ideal, as it is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear over the years. In fact, the floor may last longer than the owner lives in the house, and if you have kids and pets, this floor does not show nicks, scratches, dings, denting, chew marks or anything else that would damage its beauty.

The nice bonus is that it is stain resistant and any spills or gifts from the pets that land on the floor are easily wiped up. All you need to do is use warm water and white vinegar to buff up your floor’s natural shine and get rid of any dirt build up over the week. In other words, unless your household is a high traffic area and you run a day care, you don’t have to do your floors daily. Once a week is enough and they will pass muster, even with your fussy mother-in-law.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“There are a whole lot of things you can do in the kitchen to upgrade the floor. Perhaps go with porcelain tile, a stone tile pattern, cork flooring or even laminate. But the most elegant of all the upgrades is a tile rug. They aren’t that common and are they ever a conversation piece,” suggested indicated Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, a tile installation company.

Redoing the kitchen is about giving the room a style all of its own. It’s the heart of the home, the gathering place for everyone and a special place to relax, visit and eat. What would be better than upgrading the floor to make it appear like there was a mosaic rug laid down? Mosaic tile used in a complimentary manner to offset the shape and design of the kitchen is hugely popular.

“You can start by using a large tile, and pair it with a complimentary mosaic tile. For instance, both could be the same material if you prefer, but in differing sizes. Or if you want to really make a statement, use a completely different material, such as glass. The nice thing about being versatile and thinking out of the box is that your tile rug will be one of a kind; a really appealing, eye catching addition to the kitchen,” Dupre added.

Plan the pattern for the tile rug before the materials are purchased. There is no sense buying too much or too little of the various components and finding out later the job comes up short. Also ensure the right type of adhesive is used by reading the instructions in advance of starting the job.

“If you tackle something like this on your own, work with a pattern. Take the time to plot it out with great care. It needs to go down right the first time and if you don’t read all the instructions, you might find yourself making a run to the store to get something you forgot,” remarked Dupre. Many homeowners, not really wanting to see if they have the chuztpah to do-it-themselves, will often consider hiring this kind of work out. They realize that getting a tile rug done the right way is pretty important in terms of the look of the finished project.

The idea of a tile rug is to create it under the main eating area. The pattern is laid in that area and can have a decorative border to set it off. Ideally, it will set off the rest of the kitchen and pull everything together in a nice, harmonious blend of color and textures. “Start laying floor tile in the rest of the room in the usual straight set pattern. When you get to the tile rug location, use your imagination and go diagonal, use a different material or a mixture of tile sizes. Play with it on paper first and when you get down to the nitty-gritty, you will know exactly what to do,” he said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“Marble is popular for a good reason,” indicated Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. “It is not only versatile and can look good in any room in your house; it is a useful natural stone that is beautiful at the same time, making it beautifully utilitarian.”

Marble is more than just a pretty face. It comes in an appealing variety of patterns and designs that may be used for just about anything a person can dream up. The other interesting thing about this natural stone is that it has been around since ancient times and held up under some really adverse conditions. There is nothing in a home these days that even comes close to what the Roman marble tiles were subjected to over time. Marble tells no stories or lies. It is what it is, and it is beauty in a natural form.

In fact, marble is a hot choice for today’s homeowners for redoing the bathroom or even creating a stunning table top. There are no limits to what people may use marble for in their homes and offices. It has withstood the test of time and will continue to endure for many reasons, such as they are water and heat resistant, as well as highly appealing.

“They come in a dizzying choice of colors and personalities, as every marble tile is unique unto itself. If your job is making your home spa look chic, marble with do you proud. If your project is your bathroom, marble will create a room of tranquility and charm,” Dupre added. “In fact, there is a really durable marble on the market, just coming into its own, the Bidasar brown marble. It comes naturally finished and is fire resistant.”

The Bidasar marble is a fine choice for use in the kitchen, is easy to keep clean and looking beautiful and it lasts a long time, probably longer than the original owner of the house. Additionally, this choice comes in different patterns and designs, and deep, rich gradients. “If you don’t fancy brown, try the Bidasar green marble, which is and isn’t green, as it ranges from deep elegant green to greenish yellow. It’s quite striking,” commented Dupre.

The most important thing to remember is that no matter what is envisioned for the kitchen, bathroom, laundry room or pool area, marble will enhance each location. Of all of the renovations possible, installing marble will greatly enhance the resale value of the home.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

The first thing people think about when upgrading their Tampa flooring is how it will look. They consider the room’s décor, whether it will last a long time, be easy to clean and moisture resistant. Next, they want to know how much it is going to cost them. Rarely, if ever, do homeowners consider how safe their floors are, which an important point to ponder, since we walk on them all day. We are in constant contact with them. If they are not water resistant, chip resistant and the like, we may end up flat on our faces on the very floor we wanted installed.

Does that mean you need to sacrifice beauty when you choose flooring? No, but it does mean you will also want to consider the practical points about your choice before you buy and install it. Remember, once you have it down, you will be living with it for a fair length of time. You want a long lasting, good looking, stain-resistant, durable, safe, and reasonably priced choice.

What are your options? Today, there are literally hundreds upon hundreds of choices, and the only limit is your imagination. Bamboo, cork, marble, rubber flooring, ceramic or traditional hardwood – it’s all out there. One of the most enduring choices of many American homeowners is tile.

Tile flooring comes in a wide variety of patterns, designs and varieties and can be used inside and outside to spiff up walls, on stairs and backsplashes in the kitchen. In other words the choices are unlimited and you can work with vitrified, vinyl, ceramic or mosaic tiles. Additionally, ceramic tiles only need minimal maintenance and are water resistant. Just keep in mind they need to be dead level on installation or the tiles will break over time. Grout properly or water will seep between the joints on the floor.

Another water resistant option is vitrified tiles, and they also happen to be more scratch resistant than ceramic tiles. Luckily, you can butt join these beauties and don’t have to worry about grouting. You don’t have to worry about them turning color over the years either. They keep their original color quite nicely for many years.

If you don’t like tiles, you might prefer vinyl, as it can be installed on top of your existing flooring. It is easy to care for, inexpensive and lasts for a long time, provided you maintain it properly. This isn’t to say it needs a lot of maintenance, but even just keeping it dust free and mopped now and then is good. The real people pleaser when it comes to maintenance though is mosaic flooring, largely because it’s darn hard to see any dirt or stains on the floor due to its design.

Flooring is about choices and convenience, and with the types of flooring on the market today, you will find precisely what you want.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

One of the latest and more popular choices for Tampa flooring is cork. Yes, cork, from the cork oak tree. What many people do not realize is that it is one of the toughest, most sustainable floors around. It’s also watertight, so it performs really well in places like the laundry room, the kitchen, the sun room and the bathroom. That doesn’t mean you have to limit where you put the flooring, because its natural color makes it a superior blend with just about any décor you have in mind. Talk about versatility.

If you have a family and pets, then you want durable floors. Oddly, since most people think cork crumbles easily, cork flooring is really tough and takes a lot of pounding. In fact, this kind of flooring will last for years and still look as good as the day it was laid. One of the main reasons cork flooring is so rugged is the production process. The wood’s volume is reduced using gas compression. When the pressure is released, it springs back, looking good, which explains why it can take the five dogs and seven cats thundering around on it, while playing with the kids.

This kind of flooring is really nice looking and very strong, but it has another feature that appeals to homeowners: insulation. If you want to reduce your energy costs, try cork flooring. It will also dampen down the noise level with the kids and pets. Nice.

You would think that flooring that is literally 50 percent air would not be all that tough. Contrary to that popular myth, the secret lies in the compression, and in the fact that it reduces body heat you lose through your feet. That also means heat loss in any room you lay cork flooring, will be significantly reduced. No more cold floors in the winter months and lower heating bills. Bet you could sure live with that.

If you want yet another benefit of going with cork flooring, you will be pleased to note that it does not allow fire to spread. It also does not release any noxious gases if it does happen to catch a slow burn. You also won’t find any termites or other bugs in this flooring. It’s a natural bug repellent.  You’re probably thinking this kind of flooring is going to cost a mint. Nope. It’s at very reasonably prices, and actually costs less than other kinds of wooden flooring choices. It’s even considered to be a great alternative to laminates and real wood. Now that is a pretty significant benefit on its own.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“Even in this tough economy, people still buy and sell homes; even those on a budget. It is possible, provided you choose with care. For instance, one of the best ways to remodel a home is by using marble mosaic tiles. You don’t have to go whole home; just do a bit here and there and keep working on it over time. The results will be quite amazing and very attractive,” assured Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

Marble mosaic tiles add style to a home with their beautiful artistry. Additionally, they come in ready-to-install sizes and shapes. What could possibly be easier? These mosaic tiles are not only easy to install, they are easy to clean and maintain. The polished tiles are typically the tile of choice, largely due to their water resistance. “So if you want to liven up a room or two, you could put these attractive tiles in the kitchen and bathroom or by the outdoor pool,” Dupre suggested.

Every home could have marble mosaic tiles on the same block and no one would have the same thing. They come in an enormous range of colors and texture, and a buyer can get literally anything they want. Whether they choose to buy online or visit a showroom, the price of marble mosaic tiles is still affordable, and the results are stunningly impressive.

“If you’re looking for long lasting tiles that are cost effective, decorative and easy to self install, marble mosaic tiles would fit the bill. Yes, it takes patience to install if you’re doing it yourself, plus an eye for detail, but it can be done. If you’re not certain about wanting to tackle such a job, you might want to call a Tampa flooring specialist and have them quote the job,” Dupre suggested. It is always better to hire an expert if there any doubts about the quality and ease of self installation.

There is a myth floating around that marble mosaic tiles take a lot of time to clean. Typically, if there are serious spills, frequent exposure to moisture and improper care, this would be true. However, if a homeowner takes the time to care for their tiles, they are easy to maintain. “If you want, you can cover the flooring with a rug and sweep it daily to keep the grit factor at bay. It would be a shame to cover such a beautiful floor with carpet, but the choice is ultimately yours to make. Just know that marble mosaic tile is a breeze to care for and will retain its beauty for years to come,” stated Dupre.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“The bathroom is likely the second most frequented place in the home, right after the kitchen. Why not make it look marvelous? After all, if you spend a lot of time in there, it might as well be appealing. If you’re thinking about upgrading it, take some time to sit down and sketch out some bathroom designs. For this, you will want to take a look at what is on the market in terms of bathroom tile, and visit a Clearwater flooring contractor to see what is popular,” suggested Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

There are so many different types of bathroom tiles on the market today that it should not be hard to find something to make the powder room come alive. The sky is the limit, and when considering what would work in the bathroom, go with what is appealing, colorful, unique and creates a relaxing atmosphere. “After all, it’s your bathroom and you can do what you want in it,” added Dupre.

For those that would rather let a Clearwater flooring contractor do the work, they might want to spend some time finding out what types of tile would work in their living space and what kind of tile would add value to the home and improve its overall appearance and presentation.

Selecting tile for the bathroom is more about determining the mood that makes everyone feel like they want to spend time in there. It is about themes, textures, patterns and eye appeal. “Based on what you want, like and feel comfortable with, you can pick anything that appeals to you, and even have it suit your budget as well,” Dupre indicated.

Remember that when choosing bathroom tile, making the right selection for the moisture levels is a main consideration. There are a wide range of tiles to consider, including natural stone tiles, glass mosaic tiles, ceramic and porcelain tiles. “If you want a very distinctive look and feel to the bathroom, you might want to consider natural stone tiles. They are in big demand, plus they are virtually ageless and will appeal to just about everyone,” he added.

For those that like the appeal of bright and bold colors, the world of tiles is full of choices. Consider different graphics, appealing and unique patterns, natural stones, vibrant tiles or something subtle and elegant. Ideally, staying away from darker colors is a smart move, as that can make an area look smaller. “If your bathroom is a postage stamp, try neutral colors or lighter shades. It will liven the whole room up,” Dupre suggested.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Despite what you might think, foam floor tiles are really a good choice for businesses and homes. Just ask your local Tampa flooring specialist about the advantages of foam flooring in a business where you have to stand for long periods of time. This flooring helps cut down on your level of fatigue and will also help you avoid injuries. If you run a daycare, imagine the degree of safety for the kids, not to mention that it is highly functional, durable and not that expensive.

Light weight, portable, soft, easy to install, easy to clean and available in a wide variety of colors, the foam floor tiles might be just want you need for your recreational area or even the children’s rooms. And, if you really want the floor to look like wood, but still be foam, you can do that too.

If you do have kids, you will be pleased with the choices offered in foam puzzle tiles. Think about the story you could tell the kids about the green tiles being made from recycled rubber and plastic bottles. Kids learn all about recycling at school, and understand far more than we usually give them credit for when it comes to being environmentally conscious. Pop into the play area and find thicker tiles for the rough and tumble of play time. Go outside and find playground tiles in bright, neon colors that kids find attractive too.

Not sure you want to put these tiles in your home? Guess what – they are easy to install and can be moved, as most people install these over an existing floor. If you have any questions, contact a Tampa flooring specialist and ask about these tiles. While they may not install them, they would be able to give you their opinion on what would work for you in your particular home environment.

Doing a self install? These tiles are easy. They all interlock, just like the puzzles you create on a table. Cleaning them is a snap, and all you need is a damp mop with a bit of household cleaner splashed in. If you get one big spill, like the bottle of juice hitting the floor the wrong way, you can move the tile and wash it in the sink. Imagine how convenient that would be? And if the stuff on the floor is something you just don’t want to touch – say the pup had an accident – cart the tiles outside and spray them with a hose.

Are you wondering why you never thought of these foam tiles before? Join the crowd. They are becoming very popular, thanks to how affordable they are, not to mention how easy they are to install. It might be worth checking out if you want something different in your home or business.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

If you are going to upgrade your flooring, then do not choose the cheapest laminate on the market. If you do nothing else, first talk to an experienced Tampa flooring contractor about your choices. They will make it perfectly clear why the cheap stuff is just that – cheap.

While you may want to save some money, the end result of putting down lousy laminate is not going to make you happy. The cheaper it is, the harder it is to clean no matter what anyone tells you. The cheap stuff is virtually impossible to do anything with, short of cursing the day you installed it. Vinegar, ammonia, bleach, specially formulated cleaners for laminate, plain water, cold water, warm water, dish soap, special soap, mop and glo, Swiffer sweeper, and the list goes on, do not work. You are only left with a floor that smears everything.

While the directions for cleaning a laminate floor are simple enough, always wipe in the direction the boards are laid. Laminate can and does offers a certain degree of elegance to your home, which is good for resale value, but for the effort, get decent flooring or you will be pulling your hair out trying to entertain guests at your house. Get 12 mm laminate, as it also helps to reduce noise in your home, and since it is wider, it tends to be easier to install yourself.

With a good laminate, the click-lock stuff, you get a virtually foolproof install. If you are hesitant to try this, talk to a Clearwater flooring specialist about hiring it out or getting some installation tips. It is actually possible to install at least 300 feet of durable laminate over a two-day period.

When the floor is done, you have a nice floor that won’t scratch (unless you really work at it), won’t dent and won’t fade. The nice thing about laminate is that most manufacturers are pretty sure you won’t do their product any harm, so they tend to offer an unheard of bonus – a ten year wear-layer guarantee (the top layer you walk on).

Now with the good stuff, you won’t have a problem cleaning it. You do not need to polish it. It is stain resistant to a high degree, and should you manage to get a stain, you only need water and mild detergent to get rid of it. This, hands down, beats having hardwood in your home, but then it’s entirely up to you which you prefer and what you don’t mind cleaning.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“I’ve had a great many clients chose travertine tiles when they wanted to upgrade their flooring. Basically, they wanted something elegant, easy to keep and beautiful. Travertine can do all that and more, and because it is in such high demand, you will find the price is a bit higher than other choices out there,” indicated Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

Despite that price though, travertine is a popular choice for its longevity, particularly if a homeowner foresees selling in the near future. It is also a highly favored choice for architects and interior designers, largely because it has such an interesting personality. “Travertine tiles tend to look warm and inviting and a bit on the worn side, almost like they have a story to tell,” added Dupre.

It is so interesting in fact that the demand for this style hovers around the 0.85 million ton mark in just the United States alone. What many Americans do not realize, is that travertine is not just found in Italy, but in the western U.S. region. This does tend to bring the price down somewhat since it is available domestically, but it will still be slightly more expensive than other floor tile choices.

“If you love travertine, you can get it in two finishes – natural stone and filled and polished. What’s the difference? The natural look is just that; natural with pitting and it looks worn and comfortable. The filled and polished style features a high-gloss finish, making it a breeze to maintain. This second category is the main choice of interior designers and homeowners,” Dupre said.

Interestingly, many have mistaken travertine tile for marble, as it looks like marble when it has been filled and polished. Others mistake the natural travertine for limestone. “Ultimately, the best thing is that travertine is a natural mimic that stands up to close inspection, graces a home with its natural beauty and can be called anything you like, but still remains utterly beautiful.”

To keep travertine floor tiles looking their best, just sweep the tiles with a soft bristled broom. After sweeping, wipe the floor with a damp mop. “Just how easy is that?” asked Dupre. “Travertine is really popular and if you think you might like to have it in your home, give us a call and we can discuss your project.”

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Let’s say you want to do your bathroom in some modern black and white tiles and you like the look of marble. You’d love the most elegant tiles, but before you call a Tampa flooring contractor, figure out a budget. While you may adore marble, it may not be something your budget can handle, in which case you will want to consider other alternatives.

There are so many styles of bathroom wall tiles on the market today, that even if you need to rule out something that is too expensive at the moment, you are bound to find something you love and can afford. If you are having trouble figuring out what would work in your home, when you call a Tampa flooring contractor, ask them for their recommendations. They have been in the business for many years and have done hundreds of bathrooms and kitchens. For sure they will have some great ideas that you can afford.

So let’s get back to the budget. You want to redo the bathroom, but do not want to go broke doing it. Figure out how much you are able to spend and then stick to the budget. Sure, it is always a good thing to have a bit extra, just in case. When you just pick a tile, assume you can pay for it and a then a problem crops up, you could be in a jam.

Once you have a price range in mind, you will need to decide if you are going to install it yourself or line up a Tampa flooring company. Either way, you will not have much of a problem choosing what you want, as the market is full of so many different choices – you could do a thousand bathrooms and still not have run out of choices. By the way, do not let anyone tell you that budget tiles are cheaply made and not durable. That is not the case. For instance, ceramic is a budget tile and it is not only waterproof and durable, but quite beautiful.

Start your search online and if you do not like what you find there, visit some tile stores. No matter what way you choose to shop, you are bound to find something that really makes your kitchen or bathroom look terrific.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

For those that may be considering selling their home in the near future, having tiled walls makes good resale sense. Thus, for homes with kitchens and bathrooms without wall tiles, it may be a smart idea to invest in getting those walls tiled to preserve them. There is nothing worse than a damp wall that has never dried out over the years and then one day, someone goes to hang a picture or something else, and a portion of the wall crumbles. “Why leave it until it is too late to do a credible repair job on the wall,” says Dupre, “when you can be proactive and deal with it before it becomes a problem later?”

The good news is that even if the bathroom is not tiled, the tiles needed to accomplish the job are not that expensive. “Usually, you’ll find ceramic tiles in a bathroom, and they are not that pricey,” Dupre commented, “plus they have such a wide variety of colors, styles and themes, that everyone can find something they like for a reasonable price.”

Other choices on the market are natural stone tiles, which have an intrinsic beauty and durability. Stone tiles look very appealing on floors and walls, and in some cases, are a better choice for a bathroom or kitchen depending on the amount of traffic each room gets. For those families with kids and animals, stone tiles may be the better choice.

“The interesting thing about tiles is that they were used extensively in ancient Egypt to dress up the interior of various buildings and residences. Their appeal has not diminished over the centuries, and they are still a popular choice for today’s homeowners,” Dupre said. History shows that thatched roofing was eventually replaced by ceramic roof tiles. Soon, someone discovered that glazing those same tiles made them even more appealing, because they repelled moisture.

“For a little bit of ancient Egypt in your bathroom or kitchen, you might want to choose glazed ceramic tiles and have a blast figuring out what pattern suits your tastes. Home renovations are a lot of fun when you get to play with patterns, textures and colors,” added Dupre.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Glass kitchen tiles are such a good choice because of their range of colors and styles and they can be applied to your walls, floors, the backsplash by the sink, and even be used as accents throughout the room. It is up to you what you like, but you will be absolutely delighted with the range of choices. If the heart of your home needs sprucing up, glass kitchen tiles may just be the answer to your dilemma.

You might not know this, but these tiles can be either porcelain or ceramic. This makes them ideal for domestic use, in particular as a decorative border or that backsplash you have always wanted. If you plan to do the floor though, those tiles need to be stronger in order to withstand high traffic.

Going to do this upgrade yourself or have a Tampa flooring contractor do it? Either way, the sizes you will likely want are 110 x 100 mm. However, having said that, it largely depends on what you like. Another favorite size is the rectangular tiles, which are 100 x 300 mm. Floor tiles are larger of course, and you can expect to find them anywhere from about 333 x 333 mm to 600 x 300 mm. Again, there are a plethora of sizes and styles, and all you need to do is choose what you like.
Speaking of style, most people choose a design and color that suits their furniture; something that either matches it or complements it. While that is what the vast majority of people do, you do not have to do that if you would prefer something completely different like a checkerboard pattern in black and white or an avant garde brick look in the living room. In other words, do what your intuition tells you to do and do not always follow what is in fashion. You are the one that has to live with your choices for years to come, so you need to love it.

Some people love country-style kitchens and will choose the appropriate kind of tile to achieve that look. For example, matt tiles look quite natural and add a certain quiet, charming elegance to a kitchen. Or, you may prefer a more modern look and want a style that says chic and trendy. The great thing about glass kitchen tiles is that there are no rules to follow. That is why homeowners really appreciate glass kitchen tiles for their versatility and attractiveness.

If you do not want to try and install tiles on your own, then make it a point to call a Tampa flooring contractor and ask them for their recommendations on how to change the interior of your kitchen. With the experience they have, you will love their ideas.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“It’s not hard to lay ceramic tile over existing tile, but you do need to take care and take your time if you want an exceptional result and look,” remarked Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

Typically, before even trying to put down a ceramic tile floor over existing tile, the condition of what is already down must be taken into consideration. If the existing tile is in good condition, the task will be a bit easier. Ceramic tile must be able to have a good and secure bond to what material is under it. “What you need to check to see if it is in good condition is to find out if the current flooring is still stuck to the subflooring and you don’t get hollow sounds underneath it. If those two things check out, you’re pretty much good to go,” Dupre commented.

The next step is to thoroughly clean the floor to get rid of any grease or dirt before putting anything on top of it. When done, scuff up the tile and grout to help the new mortar stick to the old tile. “Remember to trim your door jams as well, as adding tile on top of an existing floor usually raises the level,” cautioned Dupre. Throw in a new threshold plate and things should work well.

If the existing floor is not in good condition, then start the removal process by getting a sturdy pair of safety glasses. “This is not a fun job and if your eyes are not protected, you’re asking for trouble when you chip the existing tile away,” said Dupre.

If the subflooring is wood, and it was installed on cement backer board, this is a bonus. It is easier to remove. However, tasks such as chipping out the old flooring are better in the hands of a qualified Tampa flooring contractor, as they will ensure the results are professional.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“Home decor choices are important to give a house its own personality, and to reflect your tastes as well. So, if you’re looking for something different to use when you upgrade your flooring, then consider Botticino marble. You won’t be disappointed that you did,” suggested Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

Lately, this particular marble choice has been catching the eye of architects, homeowners and interior designers for a variety of reasons. It is just about unbreakable and is easy to maintain, two really good reasons to consider it for renovation projects. A slab of Botticino marble ranks very high on strength and durability, and that is what a cost conscious and smart homeowner is looking for to make their home stand out. “Whether you want to use it on the floor or for a wall, the end result is quite striking and you will have a look that lasts a lifetime,” added Dupre.

Flooring is an integral part of any home and many people overlook it in favor of that latest hot painting or sculpture, choosing vibrant colors for the walls and accents, but neglect the floor. That one mistake can change the whole feel of a room. “Make no mistake about it, flooring is far more important than some may even imagine,” said Dupre. “In fact, I’ve had customers tell me that they regretted not having their floors upgraded before they moved in, figuring they could get around to it whenever or do it themselves.”

While many homeowners are handy do-it-yourselfers, the vast majority would not know what to do with marble and grout to make it look professional. For this reason, should Botticino marble be chosen for the kitchen or bathroom, then consult a professional Tampa flooring contractor. “This is a job that needs to go well and have good results,” commented Dupre.

Botticino is a good choice for another reason – its moisture resistance makes it the ideal choice for use in showers, bathrooms, pool areas and kitchen backsplashes. Provided the marble is sealed properly, meaning the grout, there are no concerns about mold and mildew. An added bonus with this choice of marble is its stain resilience and ability to ensure heavy objects being moved on it. “Just sweep it regularly to keep ahead of the dust and hair and if you see a small stain, you may use oxygen bleach,” Dupre suggested.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

You might not like hardwood, and that is perfectly fine, as not everyone does. However, if it is something you would definitely consider when upgrading your interior floors, then you will be pleased to note that it is making another comeback. The nation has, once again, fallen in love with hardwood. Whether you know it or not, it is one of the oldest materials available for floors.

However, being old does not mean being blah – far from it. Today, hardwood is customized and detailed, much like buying a new car with options, and you can have pretty much anything you want. The benefits of hardwood? It is long lasting, durable, beautiful, easy to keep clean, and improves the value of your home.

What are the latest trends on the market? They are pretty exciting and will offer you a wide range of choices. For example, wider boards are all the rage and the advantage here is the ability to make a smaller room look bigger. The bigger boards are typically 3 ½ inches wide, as opposed to the usual industry standard of 2 ¼ inches, and this creates a nice, spacious looking room.

Try reclaimed exotic wood for your flooring. The beauty is timeless and the colors are rich and interesting. Additionally, exotic woods are in great demand because they are unique. However, in an ever green conscious world, consumers are starting to demand reclaimed exotic wood, instead of destroying threatened rainforests. Reclaimed wood also has a story; one that will make you feel proud of being green and making an environmentally sustainable flooring choice.

Another trend today is to choose the lighter tones in hardwood, and to ensure they are, like the exotic woods, reclaimed oak. You might not know this, but oak flooring comprises about half of the hardwood flooring industry. If you chose the reclaimed oak, you would have flooring that came from a shipping container, a barn or even an old gymnasium floor. Did you know that the reclaimed oak is tougher than newly harvested trees? This is because the material culled from old buildings used old-growth heartwood.

The whole idea when installing hardwood flooring is to make it look antique and this is a very popular trend to make the new look old. This is where vintage and weathered finishes are coming into play. There are a number of ways to make a new floor look old, such as hand-scraping or using an industrial press, but honestly, this is not something you want to try to do on your own. Check around and talk to contractors if this is the look you want.

Above all else, the leading choice of new flooring for most people is eco-friendly, so if you choose to upgrade your flooring, try the green options. It is a good thing to do and you can choose what is suited to your budget and still feel good about it.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

Those who love porches will know they are an essential part of a home that is used for nice days to sit and admire the weather in sheltered comfort. Many also kick off their shoes before entering the house, so porches play an important role in keeping your home clean and presenting a welcoming ambiance to visitors. Trouble is, many people considering upgrading their Tampa flooring tend to forget all about the porch. The end result? Nice looking inside floors and porch flooring that has seen better days.

When it is time to do some remodeling or upgrading, why not consider tile, marble, hardwood or even carpet. The choices are endless and you can choose what best suits your living style. For instance, if you have animals, carpet is not the wisest choice, as you could be forever trying to get the grit out of it. On the other hand, tile is easy to sweep and clean, plus, no one gets their nails caught on it.

Let’s assume you have already decided to do something about your porch, but are not sure where to begin. One of the things to keep in mind when upgrading your porch flooring is the age of your home. Flooring that is historically representative of the era it is from can be a great choice. If you have a home built in 1949 with a porch, you may want to consider dark, rot resistant wood such as old-growth Cyprus or longleaf heart pine. If your home is even older, for example old enough to be on a registry, you will need to work with a Tampa flooring contractor to select the best impermeable lumber on the market.

What happens if you rip up the existing carpet or flooring on the porch to prep it for a new look and you find concrete? No worries. Yes, it is a bit difficult to work with, but not impossible. For instance, did you know you can paint or stain concrete and make it look simply smashing? You can also nail into concrete with the right materials too.

Slate is another good selection to upgrade your porch. However, be careful which variety you ultimately choose as some are slick when wet. The last thing you need is to fall on wet slate. If you like how it looks, opt for slate with a rough pattern for traction. Not into slate? Perhaps you would like tile instead. It is very popular right now and the options range from non-skid to frost and water resistant, and it is so easy to find a color scheme you will love.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“There really is no limit to the kind of things a creative homeowner can accomplish on their own,” pointed out Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. “In particular, with the wide selection of various tiles on the market today, they are sure to find just exactly what they want to suit their style and personality.”

Many people do not realize that adding ceramic tiles in different areas of the home increases the value of their home later. This is because the extra style and flair make rooms with the tiles conversation pieces and add an air of elegance to what could have been something ordinary. Intricate styles often capture the attention of buyers who appreciate quality workmanship.

“So, if you do it yourself, do it right the first time, and take the care needed to make the project look stunning when it is completed,” added Dupre. “In other words, measure and work out the details of what you want at least twice before you proceed.”

One of the nice things about ceramic tiles is that they come in just about any size and shape a person could imagine. In fact, they have far more versatility than laminate or wood flooring, which is a very personal choice for a homeowner. Ceramic tiles are easy to use, and there is very little waste when a project is done, particularly if it is done the right way.

“What do you do to ensure things are done the right way?” asked Dupre. “No joke, but measure your available space at least twice before you buy any supplies. This will give you the parameters of what you need and the sizes and types of tile to use. Also, if you’re going to be working in a wet room, this limits your tile selection. So make a note of that when you go tile shopping.”

Once the project details are worked out, assess the different tile options available. What tiles will look good in the space? Get samples and take some home to try them out before buying anything. “You will have to live with your project for many years to come, so make sure you really like the tiles you choose,” Dupre suggested. If all the information for the project is available before it is started, this prevents the installer from running out of materials.

In the final analysis, if a homeowner does not want to try installing ceramic tile on their own, they can always make arrangements for a professional Clearwater tile installation.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“You might recall that glass mosaic tiles have been on the market for a length of time,” remarked Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. “The interesting thing with those is that, over time, their popularity has been growing. The range of colors offered, the different sizes and the various choices of styles and shapes offer homeowners a really wonderful opportunity to get wildly creative doing home upgrades.”

Lately, there has been some controversy over the installation of the newer glass mosaic tiles, which has some contractors apprehensive. Overall though, with good planning and an understanding of how to install glass mosaic tiles, those apprehensions disappear once the job has gotten underway. It certainly is not the kind of project a homeowner would want to undertake on their own, and consulting with a Clearwater tile installation company will sort out any questions that may be on a homeowner’s mind.

“Generally speaking, these tiles offer a superb alternative for bathroom flooring, kitchens, patios, and entries. The designs are endless and the results can be quite striking,” added Dupre. For an installation to go without a hitch, good mortar mixing and spreading techniques and careful, accurate placement of the tiles is required. One problem that often occurs during placement is that the tiles lose bond. “More often than not, this is because high quality liquid latex wasn’t used; the kind that was specifically made for cement mortars,” said Dupre. “So, it takes more time to install and more care, but the end results are worth it.”
Take care in choosing the right kind of tile for the right kind of application. In other words, although you may use glass mosaic tiles just about anywhere from the spa to a pool and from the kitchen to the patio, it should be noted that high-quality tiles are the key to a superior finished product. Tiles are made to meet what is referred to as ANSI ratings for residential and commercial use and for inside and outside installations.

“The sky is the limit when it comes to choosing something you like when shopping for glass mosaic tiles. It’s an exciting world out there today, and it just keeps getting better and easier for homeowners to find something really smashing to enhance their living space,” said Dupre.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Marble is grand, elegant, timeless and almost ethereal in its look. It can add so much character to your bathroom, so make it a serious contender on the remodeling check list. It has been around for centuries and will be around for at least that length of time or longer.

This type of rock is easy to work with, polishes to perfection and gives every room it graces a visual punch that all will appreciate. While most often it comes in white, there is a rainbow of other colors and hues to choose from, including purple and brown. And the thing that really enhances its beauty for homeowners and Tampa marble contractors are the crystal swirls embedded in the stone. Yes, marble is highly sought after. However, there is another, more budget conscious alternative.

You might want to consider marble tiles made from composite, which is marble dust bound with resin. It is a nice alternative to solid marble and may suit your budget better. These days, you might want to check out something called Dark Emperador marble tiles. Honestly, it is difficult to tell the difference between natural marble and a composite.

In fact, try this test if you want to see for yourself. Find a showroom and look at Cappuccino tiles cut from natural marble, and then examine manufactured Cappuccino composite tiles. You will be hard pressed to tell them apart, as visually they are just about identical. You may be pleased with the composite or artificial marble, particularly if your remodeling job is subject to budget constraints.

Composite marble is often used for bathtubs, bathroom fixtures and shower trays, which can provide a home owner with a substantial savings on their renovation bill. And as for the Dark Emperador marble tiles, they originate from Spain and China, and they are strikingly beautiful in large kitchens and bathrooms. However, if you do not like the idea of using a dark tile in either room, consider the lighter beige tiles (like the Cappuccino ones). Their tone is mid-range and they are easy on the eye if you prefer less stark colors like white.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

Are you thinking about selling your home, or it is just time to do renovations and update it, think about hardwood Tampa flooring. It will boost the look of your home, brighten a room, give it a whole new ambiance and yes, increase the value of your home. Think all hardwood is the same? It is not, and the wide variety of choices available makes it so appealing.

Of course, you do not just decide instantly to install a hardwood floor in your house. You do some research, check out what your friends have, visit some flooring stores and go over a few magazines with home makeover articles in them. The hardwood floors you saw really impressed you and the various looks and colors of hardwood were really appealing. But what will work for your home?

This is a good question that you do need to spend some time considering. This is largely because every house has its own unique personality. You would not want black hardwood floors in a home with red and yellow walls. Or, if you do, then your decorating might be a touch eccentric and you like experimenting. However, generally speaking, most homeowners prefer the warm wood color of quality hardwood.

Hardwood has numerous variations in grains and wood coloring. For instance, there are some dark cherry hardwoods that are gorgeous and can do wonders for your home. On the other hand, some are lighter and have creamy, honey tones. These look marvelous in the sun and can be a favorite place for cats and dogs to soak up the rays will inside on your warm hardwood flooring.

What kind of home do you have? Will its look be enhanced by hardwood? For instance, what if you have a home built in 1949 and it still has original doors and light fixtures from the 1940s? Hardwood would make this place come alive. Linoleum, carpet or something else would kill the atmosphere.

Want hardwood throughout your home? You can definitely do that, but before you do, walk through your home and try to see the rooms with fresh eyes. Are there lots of windows? Do you want contrasting colors in the rooms? Do you already have certain accent pieces of furniture and wall hangings that may dictate what color of floor you could have installed? Ultimately, you choose what feels right to you, but you might want to talk to a Tampa flooring installation expert to see what they recommend.

In the end, choosing hardwood flooring is not always about how it looks, but more about how durable it is and how long it will last and still look good. Select the type of Tampa flooring that will address your needs and once it is installed, enjoy the look.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“Everyone walks on their floors hundreds of times a day, and thousands of times over a year,” stated Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and Tampa tile installation company. “The wear and tear, stains and spills, scratches and scuffs and cracks and peeling will all start to show. The kitchen and other rooms in your house may look knock out wonderful, but if the flooring looks destroyed, it doesn’t matter what the room looks like. In other words, the floor is the foundation of your home. Take care of it and it will help you sell your house.”

What options are available for upgrading flooring? Typically, there are four and they include tile, laminate, carpet and hardwood. Many people choose tile just for their bathroom and kitchens because it is easier to keep clean and water resistant. “It also does very well in high traffic areas,” Dupre added. “Unfortunately, it does not retain heat all that well and if you live in a colder climate, you might need instant heating elements under it.”

Carpet certainly has its pros and cons, and largely, the choice of carpet depends on a homeowner’s lifestyle. If an individual has younger children, or cats and dogs, then carpet is not a good choice. A carpet trying to survive under those conditions would fail miserably.

Kids are notorious for spilling things and animals have their own unique contributions that get deposited on the carpet. For a family with no kids, carpet might just be the ticket. It warms a room’s atmosphere, comes in striking colors and a wide variety of styles and designs. A good realtor in the area can let a homeowner know if there is a demand for a certain type of flooring in the area.

Laminate looks like hardwood, but is a lot cheaper than hardwood. It does not last as long as hardwood, but for those on a budget, this is the ideal solution to adding a bit of style to their homes. Laminate can make a room look larger but it does have one drawback that irritates people – it is not all that easy to keep clean. It streaks if it is washed in the wrong direction and finding a solution to clean the floors is a challenge.

Hardwood is often touted as the ultimate kind of flooring to have. It is appealing, eye-catching, comes in a variety of colors and is highly durable. While it is often a pricey investment, that investment will be reflected in a higher selling price for the home. It is also easy to clean and maintain.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“While you may well have great ideas for your home, you might be stumped when it comes to knowing what kind of flooring is right for you,” said Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. “Honestly, just dive right in and go see for yourself what a terrific variety of choices you have. Just consider your lifestyle first and foremost, and go from there. For instance, if you have dogs, you don’t really want soft pine flooring. Or if you have kids, you will want something that withstands heavy traffic, toys, playing and other things thrown at your floor.”

“Is your budget a concern? No problem, you can tailor your project to your budget. Don’t like some of the wilder styles out there? No problem, you can choose something a little less ‘out there,’” added Dupre. “What you want is out there, all you need to do is match it up to your lifestyle and you’re good to go.”

Here are a few tips that will help in finding the right kind of flooring. What room will the new flooring go in? What does it look like now? How much is that room used? Once those questions are answered, consider how much maintenance the flooring needs and do not be afraid to ask tough questions at the flooring store. What other things need to be taken into consideration when upgrading flooring? Take the time upfront to figure out what is needed and the selection process will go smoothly.

“Before buying anything, consider the price,” Dupre cautioned. “Set a budget and be prepared to stick to it. Add a bit of wiggle room into it just in case there is a flooring option that might only be a couple of extra bucks that really grabs your attention. Remember to add installation costs to the tab if this is not a DIY project.”

Hiring contractors is not always an easy thing to do, but start by asking around for references and speaking to people who have used the company being considered. If there are no references forthcoming, move on and choose another company. The last thing anyone needs is to get ripped off by a flooring contractor who says they will show up and then they don’t, despite having been paid. Any reliable and reputable contractor will not charge up front. They should bill at the end of the job only when the work meets the buyer’s approval.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Make no mistake, concrete flooring is still a mix of water, aggregate and cement. When dry it looks like stone and has superior durability in any location such as retail floors, driveways or in homes. In a home it is ideal for high traffic areas and works well if you have animals with long claws such as a dog.

What is on the market in terms of concrete flooring? Let’s take a quick look at some of the options you can choose for concrete flooring. For instance, stained concrete can have a really interesting speckled and blotchy appearance achieved with stains and acids. This may not be for everyone, but you have a variety of really colorful textures and designs you can try. It is the stain that etches and grabs the color, adhering it to the surface of the concrete.

If the stained look is not your style, then you might like polished concrete flooring. This is treated with a chemical densifier, followed by 12 other steps to finish it that involve grinding and polishing. Needless to say, the grinding and polishing is done with diamond and resin grits. The results are quite esthetically appealing and offer a glossy look. Other bonuses include it is easy to clean, always looks neat and will not allow anything to penetrate it.

Want a wood look? No problem. This is done by combining stained and scored concrete to mimic natural stone surfaces, and yes, you can have it in whatever color you want. Who knew concrete flooring could be so interesting? After all, consider some of the advantages of having a concrete floor. It is strong, cost effective, really easy to keep clean, very hygienic, and highly stain resistant. It is likely that you will not need to replace it any time soon as concrete flooring does not chip, peel, fade or crack.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

The one thing you need to remember though is that the tile will get a very steady flow of water on it. Thus, it is imperative to have the right tiles in this room. They must be water resistant and not be susceptible to cracking over time. More often than not, these types of tiles come in slabs and in a wide variety of pleasing colors, designs and textures. In other words, if renovation is on your mind or it is time to upgrade, you will love these tiles.

One really smart choice for a wet room includes granite. Not only will it offer you a very unique look, but it has an advantage over other types of tiling. This natural stone has an antibacterial surface that does not hold onto the soap scum, shampoo and other grungy things that fall on it. And of course, the tiles are waterproof and do not need sealing except along the grout line. While granite is a major expense, it is worth it for a variety of reasons. Granite increases the resale value of your home in the future, is very attractive and will last a long time.

For those with a limited budget, there are other attractive and cost effective choices such as ceramic or porcelain flooring. These surfaces have the ability to give a wet room a real lift thanks to the remarkable array of designs and colors. The sky is the limit when choosing ceramics or porcelain. Both are tough and water resistant and when the day is done, they make a statement about your style. Either tile may be sealed for that extra protection against residue build up and water.

Other options include travertine and even slate. The one thing you should know about these surfaces is that they need resealing on a frequent basis – usually every six to 12 months. If this is not something that bothers you, then the only limit to what you do in your wet room is your imagination.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“There are so many flooring choices on the market today it is often really tough for a consumer to know what to choose,” remarked Dean Dupre, owner of Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. “Here’s an idea – consider laminate flooring. It is a cinch to care for and long lasting. With the wide variety of selections, it really boils down to going the budget conscious route or spending a bit more for top quality. It is all up to you.”

Try not to just buy any laminate flooring or the results might not be what you expected. Even for those on a budget, it is best to shop around for reasonably-priced quality laminate, or the results can be lackluster. Wearability is certainly an important feature to consider as well. “Choose a reliable company, check around with family and friends to see if anyone else has bought laminate from a particular supplier, and make sure the company has a superior customer service department – just in case you run into problems of one kind or another,” added Dupre.

For those looking for a quick fix for floors that desperately need help, they should consider quickstep laminate flooring. It is a good choice for just about any room in a house and is highly versatile. It is also a very popular product because the panels connect easily. As with any other type of flooring, it needs to be cared for and looked after properly to preserve its beauty.

“There are at least three things you can do to keep you laminate flooring looking its very best, and the first one is to clean up spills as quickly as you can,” added Dupre. “Use a damp cloth and deal with things right away if you can.” And for those high traffic areas or locations where spills are guaranteed, such as the bathroom or kitchen, add a rug.

Make certain laminate flooring is swept regularly and use a dust mop to eliminate dust and those tiny particles of grit that make their way into the home on the bottom of shoes or a pet’s paws. It is easy get the dust and dirt up fast, but grains of sand can scratch a floor over time.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

For the best look you could possibly ever want in your home, consider using marble tile. It is an elegant addition and not that hard to install. In fact, it is accomplished in much the same manner as installing ceramic tiles. The major difference of course, is the difference in the look when you are done.

The nice thing about marble is that it is a totally natural material that is mined from the earth. It is a type of limestone and has been around for centuries. Marble is a timeless, revered stone that originally adorned churches. So when it comes to beautifying your home, it can be stunning.

Marble is loved for its versatility and natural color variations. People are most impressed with the color variations when they use marble to redo their interior spaces. There is one thing you should be aware of, and that is that the natural veining present in marble is a small crack, which means these locations can possibly develop cracks later.

If you are a dedicated do-it-yourself type, then be careful when installing these tiles and make sure the base is solid and completely flat so there is no give. If you do not take the time to lay it correctly, you can end up with cracked tiles.

Another thing to watch out for is something installers refer to as lippage. What this means is that there is a variation in the height of the tile edges when installed. This is directly due to the fact that when the tile is ground from the slabs, the heat generated during the process results in different thicknesses in each tile. While this is not a huge drawback to self installation, you do need to be aware of this and correct for it.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“Virtually everyone loves hardwood flooring, but many people feel they cannot afford it,” said Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. “You are in luck. These days there are a variety of affordable options, priced just for you and your budget. While it might not be genuine hardwood, the look-a-likes are quite appealing.”

Hardwood flooring captures the hearts of many homeowners, but when money is tight, alternatives are out there. “However, if your heart is set on hardwood, you will be pleased to know that you are not just buying it because it is beautiful, but because it has several other benefits you will be thrilled about,” added Dupre. “For instance, it is easy to maintain, rarely stains and ages well no matter what gets dumped on it. It did not used to be that way, but new finishes have made hardwood floors easy to keep.”

Additionally, depending on how much a person wants to spend, wood flooring is fairly reasonably priced. Thanks to the wide variety of hardwood styles, material and colors, a homeowner has just about unlimited choices for their home renovation project. “Tight budget? No worries, there is something out there for you,” Dupre pointed out. “And remember, hardwood flooring holds its value really well, as it is durable and stylish. When it gets scuffed and you can just refinish it and you’re back in business.”

Real estate statistics indicate that homes with hardwood floors get a higher price than those with carpet. Interestingly, even if a home has hardwood hidden by carpeting, it will still get a better price. People love their hardwood floors. “So if you are thinking about selling, then spend the money to install hardwood floors and get a better price when you sell,” suggested Dupre.

For the environmentally conscious and green aficionados, hardwood flooring is making use of a natural resource, and may be used over and over again. Some hardwood floors are salvaged from recycled building materials, barns and other sources. “And if you have animals or allergies, hardwood floors do not collect gunk and are easy to keep clean,” said Dupre.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Let’s face it. You cannot have the same bathroom day in and day out, year after year, without starting to hate the way it looks. When it is time to do something about it, it does not take a whole lot of cash to accomplish the look you want. The perfect choice for your bathroom when you remodel or even just focus on one part is the tile. It is ideal for the shower, the walls and, yes, even the floor.
At one time, there was not a large selection of tiles to choose from and it got kind of boring. Now, the sky is the limit when it comes to style and design, and, in fact, you may find yourself having a hard time making up your mind. One thing is for sure though – you will definitely find what you want to add some life, texture and panache to your bathroom.

Ceramic tiles have many attractive features. Just remember that the glazed ones are not such a smart choice for areas that have a lot of water. Remember the expression, “Slippery when wet?” This applies to glazed ceramic tiles, so you want to make that the last choice for a floor. So, what is the best choice instead?

You could consider porcelain, which is typically made from fine-grain clays, and a big bonus is that it is moisture and stain resistant. What more could you ask for? It is also a product that takes a lot of traffic and yet still looks great. It is definitely worth a look and its vivid colors and unique designs can give your bathroom a completely new look. Bathrooms are a place where you can mix and match, and use decorative tiles to accent a solid background. Redoing the look is a fun project and not that expensive.

The only thing that might slow you down is if you choose to tile the floor. Tile flooring takes time and a great deal of care. For instance, it is at least a three day project from start time to laying the last tile. If this is what you are going to do, then choose a wear resistant tile that ranks at 5, the highest level. Tiles ranked at 1 are the lowest on the scale, so you would likely want to stay away from those in the bathroom. However, what you choose will depend on your lifestyle, how much traffic you get in the bathroom, and if shoes will be used in there.

What else can you choose for the floor? Try slate, sandstone or even granite, which is rated highly for its finish and how safe it is in bathrooms. When wet, these surfaces are still safe to walk on and less slippery than ceramic tiles. The other nice feature about the choice of stone is how it makes the room feel earthy and comfortable. As you can see, the choices are endless. The prices are reasonable depending on your selection and bathroom size. Tile will make you love your bathroom again. Bravo!

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“Typically, when people want to do something to upgrade their home, they start with the kitchen. It’s the best place to start, as they can get just about everything in it made over to their preferences, from cabinets to countertops. They could also buy flooring and install it on their own. While this is doable for the handyman, we don’t recommend it, because often, less expensive flooring options won’t stand up to what you need it for in the home. In other words, you get what you pay for. If you’re going to spend the money on flooring, why not spend it on vinyl planks, that are far more durable than cheap flooring tiles,” said Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

The luxury vinyl planks on the market today are ideal for high traffic areas, and if there are also animals in the home, they are even better. They do not scuff, scratch, get scraped and do not mind things being spilled on them. Talk about versatility.

“This product is well known for how fast it bounces back from any damage it may sustain, and it’s very popular as an alternative to vinyl tiles and laminate flooring. It doesn’t warp or buckle easily and looks good for a very long time. It’s stain resistant, cleans like a dream and easy to live with,” Dupre said.

The other nice thing about vinyl planks is the old flooring does not have to be taken up. So long as the floor is level, the planks can be cut to size before installation and glued down. Simple. Easy. Very appealing. Add base molding, and the overall look is quite clean and professional looking. This flooring does not take all day to install; yet another reason why homeowners really like it.

Caring for vinyl planking takes mere minutes, and only requires generic cleaning supplies. The only way to damage this flooring is to overuse bleach or other caustic chemicals. “How quick and easy is that? And, unless someone gets down on their hands and knees and feels the floor, no one will know the floor is vinyl planking. They will only know that it looks like stone, marble or hardwood flooring. Sweet,” Dupre said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“Without exaggerating, there are so many choices on the market for flooring these days that people just take one look at the selections and throw up their hands in despair. What to choose? Pre-finished, unfinished, laminate, carpeted, engineered, antique planking, marble, ceramic tile – well, you get the idea. It’s daunting, but it does not have to be,” said Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

There have been a number of changes in the market place, in that pre-finished and unfinished solid wood are not the only kind of flooring that may be considered to be hardwood. “There is now something referred to as laminate floors and engineered floors. These two newer players on the block have given homeowners more options in terms of style and affordability,” Dupre said.

Solid hardwood consists of every plank being crafted from one piece of wood, which is about three-quarters of an inch thick. Hardwood also reacts to changes in temperature and the humidity in the air, which means the planks expand in the summer months and contract in the winter months. “You would not want solid hardwood on top of concrete floors or in basements. Yes, hardwood is expensive, but for the areas that you can use hardwood, if you can swing it with your budget, it’s a good investment. It holds its value very well on resale,” said Dupre.

Laminate flooring is a surprise for most people, because they are not aware that it is made by pasting a photo to high density fiberboard, using heat and pressure. The picture is then covered with polyurethane, for scratch resistance. The better quality laminate a person buys, the better it is at resisting scratching, because it is infused with aluminum oxide. Laminates are very versatile, can be installed just about any place with a solid surface and contracting and expanding is not an issue. Bonus, they are less expensive than hardwood and never have to be refinished, largely because laminates cannot be refinished.

“The choice is yours. Have a bit of fun with it, and you will have a floor that suits your lifestyle and budget,” Dupre said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Time to choose something different for your tired old floors? Can’t decide what to choose? That’s not unusual, as there are so many different things you could pick that trying to select something can give you a headache. No worries. First, start with something that really appeals to you. It does not have to be the latest trend or the hottest color or material. It just has to be what you want and like. After all, you will be living with it for a lot of years, so might as well get something you just love.

One thing to think about is what you want to do in every room. Each room does have its own personality, and what you choose for the kitchen may not work for the living room and vice versa. Equally as important is what to put in the bathroom, as opposed to the bedrooms. Not all flooring is ideal for the whole house, and taking a few minutes to figure out what each room really needs will save you some frustration when you are looking at various options.

On a budget? Then pricing is an important consideration for you. You would not want hardwood right through your house, as it would be too expensive. Have medical issues and need assistance walking about your home? Then you will want to plan for a smooth transition from the flooring of one room to another. You need the safety of being able to use a walker without having different levels of carpet and floors from one room to another. It’s best if you figure all this out before you make any purchase decisions.

How many people live in your house? If it’s just you, you don’t need to be worried so much about heavy wear and tear on the floors. However, if you have ten people in the house and animals as well, then you will want flooring that stands up to anything you can throw at it. It will all come together when you take your time selecting what you want for upgraded flooring.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

If you have been in your home a long time and are bored out of your mind with how it looks, why not consider upgrading your floors? Don’t stick to the tried and true or what everyone else is doing. Go for something completely different, like antique wood. The end results are spectacular.

Antique wood has been reclaimed from old buildings that have seen better days, but the wood that built them made it through the centuries, all burnished, time weathered and unique, looking to become a part of the green movement for the 21st century. Antique plank flooring adds a certain ambiance to your home and nothing else even comes close to duplicating its visceral warmth and beauty.

Imagine the conversations about your flooring choice, stories you could tell those who admire your choice about where the wood came from; perhaps a 200-year-old church or a farmer’s old dairy barn. The wood will hold all kinds of tales to share with its new owners. Reclaiming old wood and re-introducing it to the market in an elegant form like plank flooring is a smart way to make use of abandoned buildings and be creative at the same time.

The best thing about antique plank flooring that is over 100 years old, is that the wood that built the original structure(s) was the best of its kind available at that time. You just do not see wood like that anymore. For instance, it’s rare to find American Chestnut, and when you do, you know you have the “best of the best” for flooring options. It adds character and charm to your home, by bringing history to life and giving the wood a second chance to shine.

Imagine how elegant an antique plank floor would be, as compared to an engineered wood floor, meaning the wood is layers of plywood held together with a finishing veneer. Not that there is anything wrong or bad about this choice in flooring. It is just that some homeowners may prefer to install reclaimed antique wood, knowing that with the wood, comes a hint of history and mystery. Expect to pay a bit more for antique wood flooring. However, in the long run, this may be precisely the look you want in your home, and well worth the extra money.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“Life happens, and yes, sometimes marble tile floors will crack because of the wear and tear they have received over the years. If you notice your tiles cracking, it’s time to do something about it, before it gets too far gone to repair,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

The sub-flooring needs to be completely even and completely clean. This is because the tiles will come into direct contact with the floor. If there are any spaces between the sub-floor and tiles, this increases the tile’s susceptibility to pressure; hence, cracking is more likely. To repair a crack in marble tiles, the sub-floor needs to be resurfaced, likely because the grout has become unstable or is disintegrating.

“You’ll need tar paper, replacement tiles, grout, a chisel and sweeping brush. Take out the cracked tile, and the ones next to it. Make sure the sub-flooring is even and don’t stop scraping and chiseling until it is completely level. Then get rid of the dirt and other debris. Cut the tar paper to fit the whole you’ve opened up in the floor. Start grouting, and then, set tiles from one side to the other. Do not put the middle tile in first. You are positioning them first to make sure they will all fit when you are done,” Dupre said.

If the cracks in the tile are not serious enough to take the whole tile out and redo it, there may be a chance to repair the crack by concealing it instead. For this task, try epoxy glue, but make sure it is used right between the crevices. For completely broken off or chipped pieces, wipe the edges with acetone, and then use the glue or marble repair cement to replace the broken piece. Keep a steady pressure on it until the glue dries.

”Not into glues? Try a marble sealer or other concealing agent, such as powders. They hide cracks very well and all you have to do is apply glue, apply the agent on top to make the colors blend and voila, you are done. Just make sure to remember to follow the grain of the marble when using a concealing agent,” Dupre said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“If you want a really elegant home and one that will hold its value on resale, think natural stones – granite, travertine and marble in particular,” said Dean Dupre, who owns Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. “For those little touches that make a house stand out, you will appreciate the fine beauty of natural stones.”

When homeowners consider renovations, many of them these days are thinking about marble. In some way, shape or form, it is present in millions of homes across America. It can be used for tables, walls, countertops and flooring and comes is a rainbow of attractive colors.

“You only have to look at a home with marble in evidence in a room or two, to know that the look speaks of the finer things in life. Plus, it’s pretty easy to take care of as well,” Dupre said.

A good alternative to marble is travertine tiles. It is a rock, as well, and usually incorporated into patios, paths, garden stairs or even bathroom floors for an unusual look. The appealing texture and character of this stone means it stands out no matter where it is laid. In other words, it is quite distinctive, whether it is inside the home, or outside in the garden.

Granite is also a good choice for some homeowners, as they are attracted to the grainy texture, making it a natural choice for worktops, floors and even tables. It too comes in a wide variety of colors and designs. The only limit to working with granite is imagination.

“If you want to do some thinking a bit outside the box, start considering any of these natural stones for your business location. That gets people’s attention and adds an air of professionalism not always readily found these days, at least when it comes to a business. Building a home or building a business is an investment, and one that people want to maximize to the full potential. Choose your materials well to enhance your environment, and you won’t regret your decision,” Dupre said.
To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Many people are quite taken with the look of wood flooring. It’s a bit of serenity and elegance, and adds that certain touch of mystery to many homes. We’re not talking about the old-fashioned hardwood floors – although those are also becoming very popular again – but instead, we’re referring to wood flooring that looks like the way it used to look way back when. This is a real trend for homes these days.

May of the newer Tampa flooring options that look like hardwood are very reasonably priced, and super easy to clean. Not like the wood floors of old that grandma used the floor polisher on. Easy to clean has got to be one of the most loved attributes of wood flooring today, because really, who has time to spent on their floors when life is passing them by at the speed of light.

Attractive feature number two is that wood flooring nowadays doesn’t soak up stains like the old floors. It used to be that if you spilled juice or something else, it would seep into the floor and leave a horrid mess. Now, you can, more often than not, just wipe the spill up and get on with your day. The secret lies in the new types of coating floors come with – easy to keep looking good and easy to keep clean – two attractive selling features.

The other thing about wood flooring is that if you are on a budget, this will appeal to you. It’s pretty darn reasonable and you have a whole range of options, depending on your tastes. Not only that, once you have done the deed and upgraded the flooring, it will hold its value very well and you do not need to replace it every few years. Think resale value of your home when you use attractive wood flooring.

And last but not least, the environmental value of wood flooring warms the heart of those who think “green.” Wood flooring hails from a natural, renewable resource and they may be recycled at some point. Interestingly, some wood flooring these days actually comes from recycled building or barns. And think about this too. If you have allergies, wood flooring is a godsend to keep allergens at bay.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

Carpet is nice when it’s new. Over time, however, it becomes a place where all kinds of weird things hang out in the fibers; things you might not really want to know about. Also, if you have cats or dogs, the little gifts left behind on the carpet do not do anything to enhance its beauty and longevity. So, if you want to upgrade, consider oak flooring.

Certainly, hardwood floors are elegant, even attractive, but with animals and kids, they may not hold up to the paws, claws, spills and thrills of the traffic. Oak flooring, on the other hand, looks good and wears well. Here’s a hint, try the wide plank look. Nice! This will be a conversation piece for years to come.

There is a long history of using hardwood. It was once considered to be the standard thing to include in a new home. Depending on your age, you will probably remember growing up with hardwood floors, but over time, trends changed, new Tampa flooring came out and nicer carpets were the “in” thing. The trend to put carpet over the hardwood caught on like wildfire. A bit of a shame, but if you find hardwood under your carpet when you go to renovate or upgrade, you at least have options these days. One of them is to replace the carpet and hardwood with oak flooring.

If you’re around long enough, you tend to see trends repeat themselves roughly every 20 years or so, and the same can be said about floor coverings. The younger generation loves wood flooring and thinks it’s the best thing to have in their homes. For the older generation, they’ve been there and done that and just want something different, durable, appealing and reasonable – like oak flooring. And the interesting thing is, since we’re talking about trends, is that wide planks are all the latest rage.

You can DIY your oak flooring if you have the skills to do so. If not, no big deal, you can hire it out. You’ll be really pleased with the results, as the look will be very appealing and add an air of authenticity to your home. Solid wood floors just add that certain touch of quiet elegance that many find very attractive. If you’re going to DIY, and want it to look superior, give some thought to engineered oak flooring. It’s real, it’s just that it’s finished already and you only have to install it. And, get this, for the thick boards, you just have to glue them down, not nail them.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“Marble flooring isn’t just something you look at and love, it’s something you live with, enjoy, and take great pride in. It’s a choice in flooring that will provide durability, style and yet, is ultimately cost effective. Despite the stiff competition on the market of new flooring materials, marble has retained the number one spot in people’s hearts,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

While it is true that marble flooring has good and bad points; that is also true for many of the other types of flooring on the market today. “Marble is not noted for its stain resistance, so if you have dogs and cats and kids all at once, you have to know you will have stain issues. This may not be the flooring for you, at least, not in the kitchen. That does not mean you could not consider it in other locations of the house, like the bathroom,” Dupre said.

Choosing marble for a home will definitely increase the resale value later, and for this reason, many feel it makes sense for them to splurge now and reap the benefits later. It is a personal call to choose marble and many do so because they like the wide variety of patterns, colors, styles and designs. Marble has the unique ability to blend with just about any home décor and make it look stylish, downright gorgeous and very appealing.

When it comes to cleaning, marble is pretty easy to take care of with a bit of commitment to regular sweeping and washing with warm, soapy water. “If you’re into the ‘greening’ movement, then you may like marble for another reason – it’s a natural building material. Since the environment is vitally important now and for the future, what we choose as building materials is important,” Tampa flooring’s Dupre said.

Marble has been around for centuries and it has all the appearances of being around for many more centuries, yet another reason to have marble as part of a home’s interior. The timelessness of this stone is well worth the initial investment; an investment that has the potential to pay off handsomely later, not to mention the sheer pleasure of reveling in the beauty of a stone that has many stories to tell.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Let’s give that thought some consideration for a minute. Who hasn’t, at some point in their life, wrestled with a roll of carpet? Fun, wasn’t it? Good news, there is an alternative on the market: carpet tiles, which are simply carpet pieces crafted into squares or tiles. Some of them have an adhesive backing and some do not; your choice, depending on what you want to accomplish.

Thinking that the carpet tiles might not have as much variety as regular carpets? Think again. These tiles have a rainbow of colors available and come with a lot of advantages for today’s budget conscious, do-it-yourself kind of homeowner, who wants to do something with their house, but does not have a great chunk of cash.

What are the advantages of using carpet tiles? One is certainly installation. This stuff is really easy to install by just about anyone, if that is the route you want to go. If you want to hire a pro, that works too. It is just that if you want to do-it-yourself to save money, it is certainly something that will not drive you up the wall with problems on the install. The other thing you might like is that installing carpet tiles goes really fast, even if you have a complicated room to tackle.

Just keep one thing in mind when you are considering installing carpet tiles, and that is they do not much care for humidity. In fact, they are best at room temperatures that range from 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. In other words, this type of tile would not do that well in a high humidity area like the bathroom or laundry room.

If you are going to tackle installation on your own, be sure to keep the tiles warm before you start working with them. It makes it easier to cut, and the tiles will be more flexible while laying them out. Get extra tiles, because sure as the sun rises every day, you will either make a mistake on several or have not done the right calculations and some up short. There is nothing worse than running out of tile with only two left and when you get to the store, they don’t have that color left any more or it’s been discontinued.

This type of alternative flooring is really easy on the budget and for this reason, as well as the fact that it is easy to do, people are starting to use it for kid’s rooms, rec rooms and family rooms. They are really durable and take a pretty good beating. Hint: if your kids or the dog creates a stain on one of more of the tiles that you can’t get out, it is too easy to just replace the tile square. How convenient is that, rather than having to get rid of the whole carpet? Certainly worth considering, that is for sure.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

These days, with budgets being tight, but creativity being at an all time high, why not consider wood look ceramic tiles to give your home a much-needed updated look? Easy to use and easy on the eye and budget, these tiles are really popular and best of all, durable. What does that mean for you? It means they look nicer longer and do not lose their shine and beauty; a good value for your renovating dollar. Here is the best part: interceramic Timberland tiles look just like wood grain tiles. Sweet.

Another thing consumers will appreciate about these tiles is that they come in a wild variety of colors, such as country suede, mountain timber, nature valley and golden saddle. These tiles are loved by those who like the look of wood, but want the buff and shine of porcelain. And you don’t just have to put them on the floor. That’s right; you can also set these tiles on walls. If you are thinking small tiles, laid by hand and painstakingly set into a pattern, think again. These beauties come in a rectangular shape, 6 x 24 planks – easy to lay out.

Two things that are added benefits with this type of flooring is that it offers total resistance to any chemical action between the layers of the floors in your home, and it bars moisture from coming up from the earth into the tiles. The advantage of that is, it will stop any breakaway-action of the tiles due to moisture.

Let your imagination run wild when it comes to making changes to your rooms. Want a whole wall done in wood tiles? You got it. It will blend into the floor and create a whole new ambiance for your room or rooms. The natural look of the wood, which is really ceramic tile, is appealing, classy and most of all, easy to keep clean. Gone are the days when you have to try and figure out how to clean wood floors, unless you want to that is. It’s a clean and simple, yet elegant look that many are opting for as an alternative to colored tiles or other materials such as bamboo.

Want to know the best feature of wood look ceramic tiles? The price. It is very reasonable and competitively priced; something that a great many people find attractive in this economy. If you want to upgrade the look of your home with something really unique, why not consider wood look ceramic tiles. You’ll be glad you did.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“It’s no secret that many homeowners these days are choosing marble flooring to bring that extra special atmosphere to their living space. They also realize that down the road, if they need to sell their home, that having marble flooring enhances the resale value,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

Marble flooring is naturally beautiful and beautifully natural and eminently suited to everyone’s lifestyle and living spaces. The most endearing feature of marble flooring though is its durability; that it will be there long after the homeowners have moved on.

“This is perhaps one of the main reasons why people prefer to spend the time and money on choosing marble tiles to punch up their homes appeal. It’s hard to not like marble flooring when it adds so much more to a home,” Dupre said.

Marble is aesthetically pleasing and one of the most popular choices for home renovations, even in a tight economy. People realize the investment value of using marble. Another equally elegant stone to choose as an alternative would be granite; a popular choice for kitchens and a nice modern touch to add that extra something special to a home.

Many people are worried about their walls, furniture and other appliances matching and being good looking, but in the process of choosing colors and deciding where to place things, the floor often gets overlooked. If the floor is an afterthought, the whole balance of the room is off. Spend time deciding what the floor should look like and the rest of the décor will fall into place. Marble flooring is a good place to start for an end result that makes a home look really pulled together.

“Whether or not you choose honed or tumbled tiles is up to you. It just depends on the look you want when you are done. This is why you want to have a solid mental picture of what the room should look like when you are done. That will also save you trying something on a whim and then not liking it later. Choose wisely and your flooring will do you proud for years to come,” Dupre said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

For a really distinctive look in your home, give some thought to using hardwood floors in beech or bamboo. They are possibly the most irresistible flooring out there and offer homeowners a nice, light and airy look and feel that they appreciate. Certainly, there are a wide variety of options out there to upgrade flooring, but if you really have your heart set on something different, the American hardwood frenzy might just be the thing you need.

Beech offers a nice ambiance you will not always find with other types of Tampa flooring and it is certainly something worth considering. If you do not know where to start when you are on the hunt for new hardwood floors, take a good look at what beech has to offer.

It is one of the nicer options for many homeowners, because it has a wide range of eye appealing colors from pinkish brown to pale cream. When it goes down on the floor it brightens up any room thanks to its sheen. Is it hard to install? It may be if you do not have experience handling beech, but if you get in touch with a skilled Tampa flooring contractor, there will not be any problems laying it.

This particular type of flooring is a real winner when it comes to wear and tear, meaning beech wears well and it stays smooth and satiny to the touch. It is actually a great choice for a high traffic area. In fact, did you know that beech is what is used for basketball court floors? Not that we are promoting a basketball court in your kid’s room, but that it will take a good beating and still look good years later.

If you want to go in a different direction and try something that adds a touch of variety and style to your floors, then another alternative for you may well be bamboo. It is interesting and very appealing, but it does have some cons that you need to be aware of before you buy it. For instance, it is not suited for high traffic areas. Also, many of the reviews you will read online will tell you it is flooring that you should take your shoes off to walk on.

The other thing, for those that are environmentally aware, is that bamboo is a treated, imported flooring product. In fact, it has been treated with formaldehyde. If you have concerns about being exposed to formaldehyde over long periods of time, this may not be the flooring for you. And so, the ultimate choice of Tampa flooring is yours.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“When it comes time to sell your home and move on to greener pastures, you might want to think about adding the elegant touch of marble to your new home. Just by adding this naturally beautiful stone to your rooms, you will increase the resale value of that home for the future,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

It is a real win-win situation when the walls and floors of a home meet in complete harmony of color, texture and elegance. This may be achieved with the haunting and timeless beauty of marble. “And these days, pricing is not usually a barrier to getting what you want. There are many options out there that are priced reasonably and still offer that look of class and distinction,” Dupre said.

Even though America seems to be in love with ceramic tiles, marble is one of the best options for a highly durable and good looking floor. Time and time again, marble flooring is chosen because of its well-known properties of strength and durability. It does not need to be kept on the floor, as it elegantly blends into one’s surroundings in the form of tabletops and on kitchen and bathroom walls.

“Design wise? Consumers have choices in this area and they include sand tiles, polished tiles and honed tiles. The honed variety has a matte finish, meaning they are not polished to a high shine. Polished marble, as you may guess, offers shiny, glazed looking tiles and if you want an antique-type look, sand is mixed into the marble. It’s quite the interesting look,” Dupre said.

Do not think that marble tiles come in uniform patterns and colors though, because they do not. That is the whole beauty of marble in the first place. It is unique in patterning and because of its veining, done courtesy of Mother Nature. This is actually one of the main reasons people love marble so much – because it has character hidden in the depths of its beauty.

Flooring designs have unlimited potential and can become the focal point of any room or even just an accent. The choices are up to the homeowner. While they are deciding what would look best in their living space, they might be interested to know that when it comes to marble tiles, there are usually two varieties to select from – glazed and unglazed.

“If you are partial to the glazed marble tiles, then you might like a gloss, matte, satin or dull finish in black, white, green or blues. They are water resistant and would do well in showers and bathrooms or kitchens backsplashes,” Dupre said. Just remember that when choosing marble tiles, keep in mind which room it will be used in, and make an informed tile choice to suit the room.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

You might just like this idea – carpet tiles for a new and different look in your home. It is innovative, kind of a classy new thing to do and you can have as much or as little variety in your results as you want.

The nice thing about carpet tile is that you are able to buy it in a wide variety of designs and materials. You can do pretty much whatever you have in mind, and that would include bamboo, geometric or even bordered. The makeover potential for this kind of alternative flooring is phenomenal and may well wind up being a conversation started when guests arrive.

Before you get carried away with the idea of transforming your room(s), figure out what you want to accomplish and make sure to get accurate measurements. Of course, before you get this far, you should know precisely where you will be doing the installation. Carpet tiles are unique in that they are wider and have cushioning, and that makes a difference in measuring and how to lay them. If that does not appeal to you, then consider hiring the job out to an experienced Tampa flooring contractor.

Carpet tile has a few other nice benefits for you as well. For instance, the soft surface is ideal for homes and they offer an energy insulation factor. It all depends on the thickness of the carpet tile that you lay, as to how well it performs for you. An example would be thinner tiles would likely be needed in high traffic areas or your office. In the bedroom, you would likely prefer thicker tiles for comfort and the feel on your feet. An added bonus? These tiles will last for a long time.

If you are thinking about doing a child’s room, then you might want to take a look into carpet tile made of plastic, rubber or even linoleum. They are perfectly suited for the wear and tear a kid, and even pets, may hand out. Also, if you are on a budget, and who isn’t these days, the pricing for carpet tiles depends on their density and thickness, so choose thinner tiles to save money.

Ideally, the price range for carpet tiles is anywhere between a $1 per square foot to $40 per square foot. If you have extra money to splurge, by all means do so, you will love the results. But having said that, even the $1 a foot tiles can make a significant difference in your home. Gone are the days of wall-to-wall carpeting when you discover the beauty, durability and portability of carpet tiles.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

This particular marble has the added benefit of being adaptable enough to be used in kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and even powder rooms and laundry areas. It is a stone that is consistently chosen by property developers and architects when they are working on a project aimed at appealing to those who appreciate the fine look of marble.

Cappuccino marble tile is often one of the first choices made for an area where the homeowner uses water frequently – the kitchen, bath or powder room or laundry areas. It is stain proof and nonporous and easy to clean; another advantage to time pressed homeowners trying to hold down a job and still keep their house clean.

“The interesting thing about this type of tile is that because of its coloring, it always looks clean, even if you do not have the time to wipe it down,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

This tile is very popular, largely because it is neutral and will go with just about any theme or motif the homeowner has in mind. Residential and commercial properties are ideal for cappuccino marble tiles and its smooth look, cut and appearance set the tone and ambiance no matter when they are installed. They offer a classic look with a modern edge that appeals to many looking for something just a bit different in their homes.

“If you do not care for the cream and honey colors, you have the option to choose light walnut, honey, light brown and beige. The only limit you have is your imagination, after that these tiles take over and make your living space something very special. They are also very durable and will last a very long time,” Dupre said.

For the finest in natural looking marble tiles that give elegance to any room, consider cappuccino marble tiles. They may be just the thing to make a home over into a refuge of quiet splendor.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Typically, people love to see marble in a bathroom as it gives it that slight hint of class and refinement you do not find in every powder room you might visit. In fact, a marble vanity or marble floor tiles make your bathroom a thing of true beauty and aesthetically pleasing. It used to be that cleaning Tampa marble floor tiles was a major pain in the rear, but these days, with the advent of modern sealants, the risk of that has dropped dramatically.

Yes indeed, the simple and yet elegant marble floor tiles have won a place in many homeowners’ hearts when they see how refined their bathrooms look after the floors have been re-tiled. Imagine a rock so lovely that it transforms a room into something ineffably beautiful. And its adaptability does not stop there, as marble tiles may be used inside and outside and done in any color of the rainbow. Like it mottled or banded? Green and pink? Plain white? Red or black? The choice is yours.

Thanks to recent innovations in the industry, specifically how the marble tiles are made, many homeowners who once could not afford marble are finding the price is within their budget. Go wild in the bathroom with various designs and colors. Make your sink marble and make a statement. There are an endless number of things you could do with Tampa marble flooring, limited only by your imagination.

Marble may also be used for a shower wall. Think about that for a minute. What supreme luxury and a look that will stay timeless. Got a Jacuzzi? Wrapping it in marble tiles will make the whole room a place of elegance. Just remember that if you use marble tile in the bathroom, traction is an issue and you will need rugs with rubber backing to provide you with safe footing.

Hint: tumbled marble is catching on very quickly as it makes the tiles appear rustic, more like travertine and add a bit of an offbeat look to any room. Use them as backsplashes, flooring, in showers or spas, as their hand-carved appearance lend your room a slightly formal air with a touch of the whimsical.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“Cork flooring is typically regarded as sustainable flooring and it has the neat ability to offer some terrific benefits to the home owner and the environment. Consider it to be green flooring, if you will,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

The nice thing about cork is that it is a really terrific alternative to hardwood floors. The cork hails from cork oak trees, typically grown in the Mediterranean. Part of the interesting story about cork oak trees is that the tree is not harvested for 20 years, as that is when its bark is ready to use. It is taken off the tree by hand, so as to not damage the tree.

It will take another nine years for the bark to grow back, and thus goes the cycle of harvesting cork bark. The trees are rarely cut down, unless they are more than 250 years old and past their prime for offering viable bark. This spectacular tree provides benefits to the environment during its life cycle; benefits for the animals and people where it is harvested and for those who make use of its bark in various forms. “If you want a really unique floor, then cork is a good choice for you,” Dupre said.

Cork is actually a better choice for flooring, simply because it does not need to be killed or cut down to harvest, unlike hemp, rattan, jute and bamboo. “Interestingly, hardwood trees take up to 120 years to mature. Cutting them down is a pure shame because replacement and re-growth is a major issue,” Dupre said.

The process to make cork into floor tiles is relatively easy, which also keeps down the expense for the homeowner. Once the bark is off the tree, it is ground up and mixed with low VOC (volatile organic compound) adhesives, then compressed into blocks and cut into flooring tiles. “You will like the fact that the cork flooring looks like hardwood, because it has a natural tan color and also sports a grain – just like hardwood. But its properties are different,” Dupre said.

One of the most outstanding qualities of cork flooring is the way it acts as an acoustic and thermal insulator. Cork makes for nice quiet floors, even if you have the kiddy and critter parade, and yet it is not hard on the feet or pads. It is a great floor to use for high traffic areas, largely because when weight is added to cork, it snaps back into shape when the weight is removed. This elasticity is one of the more endearing facets of choosing cork flooring for your home.

“For those with allergies or asthma, you will love the fact that cork has suberin in it; a substance that makes it anti-microbial and mold and fungus resistant. It also means your floor will be water resistant and fire retardant. The only other choice for flooring with people that need non-allergenic floors is bamboo,” Dupre said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Why not consider porcelain when it comes to updating your home’s Tampa flooring? It may be a surprising choice, because you think of porcelain as something the bathtub is made out of. Well, it’s true, the bathtub and the toilet are usually made out of porcelain, but porcelain is also a type of ceramic. It is durable, tough and sturdy, not to mention, in most instances, twice-fired.

Porcelain is different, because of its composition, density and its translucent appearance; a look that may brighten up any room you may have in mind. The reason it has such luminosity is that light passes through the surface and then diffuses. It is almost eerie, but has a lovely touch of beauty that makes any room just about glow in the dark.

While porcelain is made of clay, just like many other ceramics, it also has feldspar in it – a crystal-like mineral that makes the finished product, the porcelain, even more translucent. It is a great choice of flooring for something totally different in your home and a real conversation piece. The nice gleam you will get with this kind of tile will make it look like the floor was just recently polished. True enough, many people like to use this kind of tile in laundry rooms, bathrooms and kitchens, but really, creatively speaking, you could use it in other areas as well.

If you want something that is durable, this would be a good choice for you, since it is far denser that other ceramic tiles. This means its potential in high traffic areas is superior and it will take a beating and still look good. It will not chip on you, either. And, if you want to do something completely different, then consider putting porcelain tiles on your walls. Why? Well, in part, porcelain is acid-based, which means bacteria and molds do not like it and do not hang around. The fact is, that is why you see porcelain tiles in hospitals.

Like warm feet in the winter and cool feet in the summer? Porcelain is the best selection for either season, as it warms and cools rapidly, typically staying around room temperature. And, when it comes to color, there is no problem matching the tiles should you chip or break one inadvertently. Why not go for something different and think porcelain for your next home upgrade?

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“To make any kind of change in your kitchen, to the floor, the backsplash or the counters, one of the first things you need to take into consideration is what the final product should look like. In other words, you need to have a design in mind before you start. Calling a Tampa flooring contractor and telling him to just do something nice in the kitchen really won’t work all that well,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

It is not that the flooring contractor does not have a wealth of ideas to run by any enquiring homeowner, it is just that it makes more sense for the owner to have something in mind first to discuss. If the kitchen is the room that needs to be revamped and updated, it is usually a good idea to start researching what the current trends are in kitchen makeovers. “Contrasting colors are taking off right now, particularly in the kitchen, as the various textures and colors really make a dramatic statement and change the atmosphere of the heart of the house,” Dupre said.

The kitchen is often a good place to start updating, simply because most kitchens adapt well to having several patterns and designs in the same room. While that may sound eclectic, it is often very visually appealing and blends into a look that freshens up the whole room. A little imagination goes a long way when it comes to redoing kitchen. “Think mix and match tiles, different shades of the same color, contrasting colors and a unique design that acts as the focal point for the room. Kitchen with lively tiles that light up the room have a personality all of their own,” Dupre said.

Most homeowners will want to not only do the floors, but also want to include the counter and throw in a backsplash. The counter and backsplash may act to draw the eye to various points in the kitchen to enjoy the various delightful accents in the room. “This isn’t to say you would want a wild child flowered or patterned design or something that was louder than the family dog, but having a focal point or two in the room is an appealing diversion and makes a subtle statement,” Dupre said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

If it Is about time to do some upgrading in your home and you want to tackle the floors, one of the best changes you can make involves choosing ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles may be used in just about any location in your home, but typically, most homeowners will opt for laying ceramic tiles in the living room or the kitchen. These kinds of tiles are not only reasonably priced; they are easy to keep clean. In this day and age when the family is on the go just about all day, every day of the year, having an easy-to-clean floor is a big bonus.

The thing with ceramic tiles is that if you want to tackle this as a home project, you could. Just make sure you have all the proper tools to accomplish what you want. Many homeowners, afraid of not being able to do justice to ceramic tiles when they need to be cut, opt for hiring a skilled Tampa flooring contractor who can get the job done in no time flat. It is another alternative, if you want the job done by a professional.

Ceramic tile is really durable, so choosing this for high traffic areas, like the kitchen and living room, is a smart move. In addition, they are so decorative that you may choose any color you like that brings out the warmth and ambience of your home. Want to go European in style? Spanish? Italian? The choice is yours. With the right choice, your home takes on an instant personality all of its own. Hiring a Tampa flooring contractor will also allow you even greater freedom in deciding what you want done to update your home.

Do not know where to find what you want? Easy, start buy visiting stores to get an idea of size, shape, color, texture and price. Try hunting online for other unique kinds of ceramic tiles. Take your time and make sure you choose what you love. It will give your home a bright new persona, liven the whole house up and be the talk of the town. What more could you ask for when it comes to improving the resale value of your property?

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“If a homeowner wants to sell and needs to upgrade their interior, we generally recommend they start from the floor up. Why? Typically, the floor is the canvas or backdrop for every room in the house. If you change the floor, the whole room often undergoes a major transformation,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

Oddly, even when it comes to interior design these days, most consultants tend to overlook the value of the floor. In fact, often the floor is one of the most ignored features of a home. “If you stop to think about that, it won’t make much sense, particularly when you consider that if your living room features old, beaten up wood planking that hasn’t looked great in a long time, and you merely change the wallpaper, pictures and furniture, you still have the beaten down flooring. If you’re going to invest in your home, invest in the floors and choose something like Tampa marble,” Dupre said.

As underrated as they may be, the floors in a home play an enormous role in every family’s life. Every event in their lives happens on those floors, from the time they move into the house until the time they leave it. The floor is a direct reflection of the whole room built on it. If the floors have style and class, the rest of the room will reflect that back. It does not take much to make an enormous difference in a home by just changing the flooring. If the floors are changed to marble, the effect is instant, breathtaking beauty. Think the Frog Prince when it comes to the transformation.

“While many homeowners may be thinking that upgrading their Tampa flooring is pricey, it doesn’t have to be. Even with marble as the stone of choice, they can definitely afford to invest in something that will suit their budgets. We have customers call us all the time asking about marble flooring,” Dupre said.

Homeowners may not know where to start to get the information they need to make an informed decision about making a move to marble flooring. Start first by getting samples from a contractor and laying them on the existing flooring. This will provide a bird’s eye view of what a new floor could look like. Marble is a good choice for more than just its inherent beauty. It is durable, smooth, elegant, classy and easy to keep clean, not to mention the fact that it really increases the value of a home when it comes to selling it.

To learn more, visit Champtile.

If you are one of those people who adore being outside rather than in the house, you might want to get totally creative with your outdoor living spaces by dressing them up with mosaic tiles. You want eye appeal, color, unique presentation and a conversation piece that is also useful and will stand the test of time.

The answer to all of your prayers for color, affordability, flexibility, eye appeal and durability is to opt for mosaic tiles. Why mosaic tiles? Most people love using this type of Tampa flooring because it lets them get wildly personal and creative. Who doesn’t want to put their personal stamp on their home, inside or outside? It is something that we can do to make a place totally ours.

For the look that lasts, you will want to choose the best material that works for you and for your budget. If you are going to be doing the work outside, or having the work done outside, choose the type of tiling that will give you a long lasting and good looking end product. It will save you time and money in the long run if you do your project the right way the first time.

Mosaic tiles are very popular because they offer such a wide range of colors, designs, textures, finishes and prices. Mix and match, go all one color, go with a solid color and a contrasting border or create your own design. You are only limited by your imagination. Just think of it as colors without borders and go wild. After all, it is your living space. There is one thing you might want to do first before pricing out your Tampa flooring and that is draw out what you want the finished product to look like. It always helps to have a map in mind.

Typically, the most often tricked out outdoor area is one around a swimming pool and patio area. The mosaic tiles can transform the whole area into an inviting and relaxing area. It does not have to cost a whole bundle to do the design of your dreams. If you are a DIY kind of person, do your homework first to find out what you need to do. If you prefer to deal with a Clearwater flooring contractor with experience, then contact one that has a good reputation and can help you decide what would look the best in the area you want to makeover.

If you happen to have a fountain outside, consider mosaic tiles for around the base and on the rim. Now that is stylish and classic. The main thing is to just have fun with your tiles and choose something that you can live with and love for the long-term.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

Now and then there comes the time when you want to do something really different in your home; to make a statement and create a space that you resonate with on a personal level. The perfect solution for those looking to make a really interesting change in their décor is to consider wide pine flooring. It Is a look that Is coming back, big time.

Wide plank pine flooring goes with just about any décor you have in mind, which is what makes it so popular these days. It Is definitely a country, but yet very contemporary look. Imagine pairing it with leather, antiques, bright colors and attractive wall tiles to compliment the overall ambiance. This is the true definition of “Home is where you hang your heart,” and that heart is country.

While there are a good number of choices on the market, it is not quite as confusing as choosing tiles. The first thing to start with is to choose a style you like and a stain color that will suit your home. Try showrooms if you like or call an expert contractor who could make some suggestions. Where possible, try to get samples to set on the existing floor that you want to change.

Try to get a wide variety of planking, ranging from narrow to wide. Just because the latest trend is to wider planks, it does not mean you may not prefer the narrower ones. There are several shades you may choose from in light, medium and dark stains. Before you choose a stain, give some thought to what they whole room will look like when you are done. Use the mental picture to decide on what would work best in that particular room.

If you like Clearwater flooring with some personality, then wood planks are the real deal for personality plus. You can get them sanded to perfection and smoothness or opt for the character boards with knotholes and other strange things happening in the plank. For example, many people like old recovered and well-weathered barn wood or salvaged wood from old churches. It is a great conversation piece to have a new floor made from a supposedly haunted old church. Not only that, you are thinking green and recycling wood. Good on you.

If you want to try to install this new plank floor on your own, you can certainly try it, but you might want to keep the phone number of an experienced Clearwater flooring company handy – just in case.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“We find that one of the quickest and visually appealing upgrades inside a home is to install new tile flooring. It is a look that can lift years off the appearance of any room and a look that is easy to maintain without a lot of extra work,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

These days, tiles come in a rainbow selection of shapes, forms and colors. This means homeowners can create any look the like for their home, no holds barred. The only limitation to their creativity would be their imagination and in some cases, depending on what they want to spend, how much money they have on hand. The other huge benefit of tile flooring is that is provides a new look for home owners on a budget, but does not look cheap.

The choices are literally endless and in accordance, the pricing may range from really great to really wow, but by and large, just about everyone can find what they need. For those wanting to seriously upgrade their interiors with an eye to selling, they might want to check granite or limestone tiles, as well as marble, as they are very durable and visually appealing.

One of the main selling points for tile floors is that they are super easy to keep clean, even with just a damp mop run over them now and then. If you have the kiddy patrol or pet parade happening during the day, this many mean a few more swipes daily, but it does not take long.

“The beauty of the stone tiles is that they can actually be wiped with just about any alcohol based sanitizers if you are worried about germ protection. Additionally, water will not hurt this stone, so if your kids slop water while doing the dishes, it will not harm the stone slab,” Dupre said.

There is a big move on to change wood floors to marble or stone tiles for the simple reason that not only are they easier to keep than wood, and less expense, they are also quieter. “Anyone with a herd of cats that play at 3 a.m. swears they are hearing elephants in the house when they have wood flooring. Stone tiles are so much more elegant and do a great job of cushioning the noise,” Dupre said, with a grin.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“Nowadays, people are quite concerned about their budget and want to save money in as many ways as they can. This does not mean that they do not want to also upgrade their home to give it a new look. Many of the things a homeowner can do may be done on a do-it-yourself basis, and the results will look great. For example, installing a marble countertop. Yes, you can DIY with a few tips,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

First of all, make sure the job has the right tools. Installing a marble countertop means proper safety goggles and gloves. The next thing on the list is to make sure the countertop is laid on a flat surface. In other words, position it so that it is secure, flat and there is nothing in the way to make it uneven and off balance.

“Your best bet to cut marble is on a flat table or work bench and remember, measure twice, cut once. Use a grease pencil and mark out where you want to cut as clearly as possible. If you use the grease pencil, you will be able to see where you will be cutting. The line should go from edge to edge and you need to take one extra precautionary step here, and that is line up a metal edge with the grease pencil line before you saw anything. Tape the straight edge down firmly,” Dupre said.

After the right cut has been made, take care to move the product safely to stop it from being damaged. For instance, use a pallet to move a flat piece. If this seems like too much trouble, consider what would happen if the piece were damaged or dropped. It is an expensive proposition to replace the marble. Taking infinite care right at the beginning of the project will ensure eventual success.

“With the line marked, connect the hose to the wet saw and turn the water on. Do not, and this bears repeating, do not cut marble with a dry saw. If you do not have a hose, use a spray bottle or sponge to keep the saw wet. Keep the hand steady and cut straight,” Dupre said.

From cutting to installing once the pieces have been cut is not that big a leap and many DIYers can handle things like that just fine. It is when they get into trouble that it is a good idea to have the phone number of an expert Clearwater flooring company on hand.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Clearwater tile installation done with pebble tile will add a distinct uniqueness to your home. It is worth the admiring comments you will garner.

Most people love to do something different in their homes; something to liven the place up and give it their own personal stamp. They spend a lot of time and money searching for the perfectly different and out of the ordinary thing that will brand their home as their own. Only the homeowner knows what they want to accomplish in their house and trying to tell that to a contractor, other than in general detail, usually does not work.

The best way to accomplish something different and unique in your home is to find something that really piques your interest, such as pebble tiles.Clearwater tile installation using pebble tiles is a smart move, largely because they are clean and extremely attractive. And, if they are installed properly, there are no ugly gaps and the colors are coordinated and even. These tiles really add life to your floor and, believe it or not, they add volume. The room takes on a whole new appearance.

Pebble tiles are really easy to clean and maintain too, which is definitely a major consideration if you have kids and critters. With these tiles, you do not need to clean them every day – unless you have a herd of cats that shed. Pebble tiles are also probably going to be there long after you are gone, as they are one of the most durable of tiles on the market.

If you have a daring streak lurking in you someplace, then do not just use these tiles on the floor. Try using them on your walls or for accessorizing in another room by creating a design you like. It is wild and crazy fun to play around with what you can do with these tiles. Involve the kids in design creation and make them a part of the fun. And the best thing is, you can find pebble tiles just about anywhere. Sweet!

By the way, you cannot only liven up your walls with these tiles, but you might even want to consider them on a pathway outside or, if you have a pool, try incorporating them into the poolside ambiance. Bring the inside out and the outside in. It is a great way to give your home a new lease on life.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“Living in the 21st century is exciting for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is you can do just about anything you want in your house with just about any component. Flooring choices are so varied, it’s almost overwhelming at times trying to choose what will work in your home,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

Some people gave old tired tiles in their houses. Some are not sure they can change them. “There are a lot of people who didn’t even think they could change their tiles to something newer, brighter and fresher; something more up-to-date. They didn’t think of changing them, because, most figure once the tiles are slapped in, they become a permanent fixture. Truth is, you can change them out anytime you want for anything you want. This is where the element of choice comes into play,” Dupre said.

For warmth, texture, versatility, elegance and a way to liven up interior rooms, consider glass, granite or marble tiles. It is not that hard to find something appealing. The only problem that may arise is the difficulty choosing something from the vast array of Tampa flooring tiles on the market.

“For instance, if the bathroom is due for updating, why not think about glass tiles on the wall with granite on the floor. Think about that for a minute and imagine how beautiful that would be. The visual appeal is what you’re striving for and with granite, you can choose just about any color that your heart desires,” Dupre said. Granite has the added attraction of lasting for a very long time before it would need to be replaced.

If the living room or family recreation area needs updating, the ideal Tampa flooring would likely be marble tiles. They’re smooth, cool, durable, classy and exceedingly elegant, plus able to withstand heavy traffic. If you have pets, this is also an ideal tile to handle the pitter patter of clawed feet.

“If it’s the kitchen you want to redo, think glass tiles for a back-splash. Use different colors and create a design or family monogram. Really, the only limit to using glass tiles is your imagination and the terrific thing about glass tiles is that they will add a unique and specifically customized ambiance to the home,” Dupre said.

Kitchen countertops take on a whole new appearance when they are done with granite tiles. They’re durable and can take just about anything thrown at them. Overall, there is no end to what can be done inside a home with the innovative use of various tiles. The one thing to always keep in mind when upgrading a home’s interior is the resale value later. Strive for the simple, yet elegant touches that will enhance a home’s beauty.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“You might not know this, but the kind of installation a flooring contractor does impacts on the overall price of the job. But, don’t shop your job by price alone. Find out what type of installation will be done. This affects the tile’s ability to stand up to wear and tear. So, ultimately, you need to know that there are three types of installation. It’s up to you to figure out which one will work for you,” said Dean Dupre who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

The first type of install is referred to as mortar and wire reinforcement. Broken down, this means the contractor spreads mortar on the floor for a foundation. Mastic or glue is next, which makes the tiles stick to the mortar. This installation method takes longer that the other two methods and because of that, it is more expensive. The thing to remember is that while it may be expensive, this type of install produces a much more level and stable floor.

“Your other option would be mortarboard, which is usually classified as a mid-level option. It is almost the same as mortar and wire reinforcement, but the mortarboard is pre-cut. This saves time and money, but, ultimately, the tiles may crack where the sheetrock and framing meet,” Dupre said.

Some people opt to have the contractor stick the tiles directly to the floor with glue. This kind of installation goes very quickly and is really inexpensive. “As you might guess though, it’s risky, as it’s easier for the tiles to crack and break. Frankly, if the budget can handle it, your best install would be the mortar and wire reinforcement, but that is strictly a personal choice,” Dupre said.

Keep in mind that there are other costs to factor into a tile install job and one of the biggest considerations is how complex the job happens to be. If there are a lot of fiddly cuts and angles, this means extra time and extra money. The more intricate a design or pattern, the higher the price. The cheaper the installer, the higher the price paid later to fix any mistakes. “It’s a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to things you have to factor into a tile job, but if you take your time, choose wisely and ask an experienced contractor, your floor will do you proud,” Dupre said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Those with travertine tile flooring in their home need to know how they are supposed to keep it clean. After all, the new floor was an investment and they will want to keep it looking spiffy for a long time. The funny thing is that the best way to clean travertine tiles is with a mixture of dish soap and water. Yes, it’s that easy.

If you are like a lot of people who barely have time to say hello to their kids when they get home, because they’re working two jobs, then cleaning house is the last thing you want to do. In fact, by the time the workweek is done and you get a day off, you don’t want to clean on your day off either. Selecting lovely travertine Clearwater flooring, you get a bonus and get off easy when it comes to swabbing it down.

Most people can find a few minutes every day to D & C (dust and clean) in small areas to keep the house up and this is precisely what you can do with your flooring as well. It doesn’t need to be mopped every day and it doesn’t need to be vacuumed every day either. Just do it on the fly and touch it up. Travertine is really a stand-alone stone with a presence and beauty that will make your life a joy. It may be one of the best flooring decisions you have ever made.

For spot cleaning, use a sponge. For tough spots, use that sponge and a bit of elbow grease and perhaps a tougher dish soap. Just remember one thing, don’t use a product that contains acid, because these tiles are really absorbent. Anything with acid in it is quickly absorbed and creates stains, producing streaking on the surface of your travertine Clearwater flooring. After the expense you went to get it installed, you don’t want to mark or ruin it.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

Who could possibly resist the ethereal beauty of the right kind of hardwood floor shimmering in the sunlight on a warm day? The burnished elegance that makes a room come alive and gives it a real stamp of dignified, yet exciting stylishness. It’s hard to resist, because not only is Tampa hardwood flooring durable, but it’s reliable and the favorite choice of homeowners and interior designers.

If you’re aiming for hardwood flooring, then there are several things to consider, not the least of which is your budget. Hardwood floors are an investment. You might want to do just one room at a time. It can be expensive, but the results are well worth the temporary financial pinch up front. Be wary of anyone selling hardwood sheets for a low price. Chances are it’s not the real thing, and won’t perform like the real thing either. Don’t shell out hard earned dollars for fake hardwood.

The one thing about hardwood floors is that they tend to go in any room and turn it into a striking room immediately. Choose flooring that suits the rooms in your house; your personal style and your personality. Getting a hardwood floor that blends in with the ambience of your home is also a smart move for resale value later.

Your flooring should match your décor and bring harmony and balance to the room. Spend time mulling over things like the pattern, color, cut and grade and, yes, even the species. These things are important to your overall finished look. If you do not quite know what you are doing or what you need, then take some time to talk to the experts; the designers, contractors and builders who have the experience you need to advise you on what would work the best in your home.

Now that you have a yearning for Tampa hardwood flooring, there is one other thing you really need to consider. If you have dogs, what will their claws to do your floors? This is another thing you will want to ask about, as dog claw damage is almost impossible to reverse. Don’t throw up your hands in defeat. Where there is a will, there is usually a way, and the best advice on this issue will come from those with many years experience in the flooring industry.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“For homeowners who want to do something different with their existing flooring and they happen to have hardwood, a good upgrade is switching to marble. It beats the old, chipped and scarred flooring. When floors get old, they often can’t be repaired, so that’s something to keep in mind when making your flooring decision. It doesn’t have to be an expensive choice either,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

Marble tiles really have just about everything going for them; style, class, elegance, variety, durability, endless colors and designs. That’s pretty hard to beat when it comes to making choices. “For instance, marble tiles may be smooth or rough and come with a pattern. Some even have hand painted designs. The fancier the tile, the more expensive, but that’s a purely personal preference. You will also want to think carefully about what you choose, as the choice will affect how your room looks,” Dupre said.

Imagination is a grand thing when it comes to choosing tiles for the home. Let it run wild and come up with something different for the kitchen. “There are so many choices out there, you could have every room done in something different, not that I’m recommending you do that, as it would be overkill, but the point is that you have a great variety of things to choose from to suit your tastes,” Dupre said.

When shopping around for the right tile to suit a theme or idea for the home, try hardware stores, on the Internet, contact a local flooring contractor or even try a department store. Go with a set of measurements in hand, as tiles are generally sold by the square foot.

“Don’t guess at the size of area you will be working with, because nine times out of ten, you get it wrong and won’t be happy to have to make another trip to get more tiles. If they’re sold out, that won’t make your day either,” Dupre said. If anything, try to order more than may be needed, as chances are there may be chipped or cracked ones, or during installation something bad happens.

“If you’re going to do it yourself, then stick to the old adage of, ‘Measure twice, cut once,’ and all will be well,” Dupre said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“If it’s time to do something with your tired kitchen, you’ve got a lot of options to choose from, and it might seem overwhelming. The more information, the better, because you don’t want to make snap decisions when you have to live with your choices for a long time,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

“Just to save you some grief, what’s ‘in’ right now are the more natural looking tiles, like granite and travertine. That doesn’t mean you can’t opt for porcelain or ceramic though if that’s what suits your lifestyle,” he said. Synthetic tiles certainly have their benefits. If the goal is to save time cleaning, then they may be the right choice. There is also another option to consider; something called composite tiles, which Dupre says make a nice replacement for existing older Tampa flooring.

For those who want waterproof, elegant tiles with distinction and a natural look, then think about the natural stones. Often, this choice is dictated by budget.

“Natural elegance does have a higher price tag, but that might be just the thing your home needs to improve resale value, turn it into a conversation piece well worth talking about and make your home a virtual showplace,” Dupre said.

On the other side, in terms of budget considerations, is ceramic tile. This certainly is an extremely viable tile installation option. The fact that they are mass produced makes them less expensive, but no less attractive and exciting. Ceramic is very popular and really durable, which makes it a natural choice for families with children and pets. The tiles are hard and waterproof, plus easy to keep clean. They will withstand just about anything.

The natural stone tiles come in a variety of choices that include slate, onyx, marble, limestone, travertine and granite. If the idea is to give your home a touch of class, you can’t go wrong with natural stones, and the marble with the unique veining is particularly classy.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

Using rubber as a flooring material is a rather innovative idea that many people likely would not think about. Ever given some thought to changing your flooring material to rubber? It’s a green alternative and easy to clean. If you do want to give this type of flooring a spin, it’s a good idea to think about it before you build a new home or make plans to remodel an existing one.

You don’t know what you need for your new flooring? Easy, do the research and find out what your options are. Having several options will help you choose what you need and what you want, as often those are two different things. First take some time to sort out what you want from new flooring. For instance, what about rubber floors?

While rubber floors may sound a little like something out of a madhouse, it’s honestly a great idea. This kind of flooring is usually found in schools because it’s durable and so easy to clean. Kind of makes some sense doesn’t it? Think about all the traffic a rubber floor can handle and then think about your recreation room or your basement. They’re great places for rubber floors, right? The beauty of this kind of flooring is that it can take just about anything you and your family throw at it and on it and it’s an easy keeper. No fuss, no muss and no wax or scrubbing.

Think a rubber floor might look at tad… different? Well, here’s a thought. You can always dress it up with area rugs. Many families just starting out can’t always go for the gold when it comes to flooring materials and find they have to stick to a strict budget. Rubber flooring may be a viable option for them to consider.

So, if you’re on a budget and can’t really see your way clear to buying marble tiles or other natural stone tiles, then consider all the options out there before deciding what you want to do. Changing your flooring is a big decision. You want to get it right the first time, or at least get something you know you can upgrade later when you have more money.

You will want to keep it simple to install and simple to clean, particularly if you have kids and animals. Maybe you will want to install it yourself. That’s definitely an option, but make sure you choose something that is easy to install in the first place. Think about your lifestyle. How much traffic do you have in various parts of your house? How much time do you want to spend cleaning?

When you have some answers, then you make your decision. You don’t have to be in a rush to do anything. Just take your time. After all, you have to live with your choice of flooring for many years to come. Make it a good one, but don’t stress out about it. If you have questions, call a knowledgeable local flooring contractor and ask what the latest trends are in flooring. They have their fingertips on the pulse of the industry and know what customers like.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

It’s your home and your lifestyle and you want it to reflect the very essence of you. You want something that is a signature piece; a cornerstone to the inner you on display and something that tells people you love quality and taste. Think marble flooring. Oh yes, you can do it and revel in it. What a conversation piece that would be.

Think about the features you will be getting, like the cooling effect, which makes marble flooring very popular in warm weather states. And it’s scratch resistant and keeps its looks without too much effort on your part. Sure, you do have to do some maintenance, but by and large marble flooring is the bee’s knees of beauty.

You have to also know that homeowners love the resilience of marble. It lends itself to being elegant and naturally beautiful. It’s a flooring option that interior designers adore and largely recommend to their clients for their homes, either as initial flooring or an upgrade. But don’t stop there; your kitchen countertop could use a spiffy new look. Think Tampa marble. Your walkway or your pool, if you have one, could stand an upgrade to something breathtaking and serene and yet durable and sturdy. Think marble.

If you want beauty and sophistication, then marble is the way to go. It will spruce up your bathroom, making it a nifty conversation piece. It will shimmer and shine its way into the hearts of all who see it. It’s the inner beauty of the stone that makes interior designers recommend marble. And they wouldn’t be wrong.

For a wide variety of textures, patterns, styles and colors – yes, color is in again – marble has the key to your heart’s dreams. It will blend into your atmosphere like butter melts on hot corn. Smooth deal. It will offer your home and living spaces a one of a kind appearance you won’t see anywhere else and your friends will envy. You also don’t have to worry that your next door neighbor has the same flooring as you do, because all Tampa marble is different in its presentation and sheen.

Simply put, it just can’t get much better than marble flooring for your home. Whether you choose glazed or unglazed is strictly a personal choice, but make sure a professional installs it, as it’s not really a good DIY project. Glazed tiles are smooth, with a hard water resistant surface. Unglazed tiles are scratch resistant, but you need to be wary of things that stain your tiles.

When in doubt about what to do in your home, contact a skilled flooring contractor to find out the advantages of marble flooring. It’s one of the smartest investments you will ever make.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“Often, it’s hard to know where to start when you want to improve the inside of your home. You may not know where to begin, what to do or even if you can afford it. The answer to all of those questions is that you begin with one thing at a time, take care of the floors first and research for price comparisons before buying. Investing a bit of time in thinking about what you want will pay off in the long run,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring,Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

For those finishing touches to make a room look its very best, consider Tampa marble, as there are lots of choices available on the market. It just takes some time calling around and looking online for something that fits the parameters of the job waiting to be done.

“There are times when people run into a brick wall and get confused about which materials will ideally fit their design choices and theme. This is the point where you start asking flooring contractors what the latest trend is and what they could recommend for you. They have a good grasp of all the materials out there. Chances are many of them will recommend marble for its beauty and durability,” Dupre said.

Tampa marble tiles may be used just about anywhere – not just on the floor. For instance, try using them on walls, decks, table tops and in the bathroom. Part of the mystique about marble is that if it’s used in different locations, it is not only eye-catching, it also becomes a unique conversation piece. Since marble is a natural stone, it has a lot going for it. Not the least of which is the intriguing minor variations in it that make it even more appealing. As for color, there is a wide range available in marble tiles that would suit any design or theme.

“One other thing you should know about marble is that if you have it in your home, it’s one of the best materials for people with allergies, because it’s hypoallergenic. It doesn’t trap those invisible particles on your floors like other materials tend to do. Instead, the ‘crud’ lives on the stone’s surface, which makes marble tiles really easy to clean,” Dupre said.

“Need a quote? Have questions about marble tile or other flooring choices? Give me a call. We’re always happy to talk to you about home improvement,” Dupre said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“It doesn’t matter how well you take care of your floors, they will wear out over time just because of the traffic on them. While there’s no real way around that, when you upgrade your flooring, think about marble tile. It’s beautiful, strong and brings the very best out of the room. It’s amazing how much marble tile will do for a room,” said Dean Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

For those who want some spice in their life and the advantages of durability in their flooring, the latest trend is to install marble tiles. They’re easier to clean than many other surfaces, are eye-catching and can dress up a room like nobody’s business. For people who want fancy and elegant, Clearwater marble tile installation is a good bet.

“If you’re not into marble tiles, then you might want to think about glass tiles. They’re really different in that they have a fantastic presentation for areas like your shower. They’re also quite a lot of fun if you want to make special designs and get wild and crazy with colors,” Dupre said.

Updating a home is not always as easy as it may sound and often requires some thought about what colors would change the environment and what materials would work best in various locations. For instance, those with animals will not want to gravitate to soft wooden floors. They stain too easily and retain any fluids/liquids deposited on them. A good alternative to wood flooring is granite or marble.

“Here’s something to consider. If you currently have, or are about to get, a granite countertop, then why not get the floor to match? The same thing would hold true for marble as well. It’s really up to you what you choose to do, but for the best looking makeover in a room, matching countertops and floors is very elegant,” Dupre said.

While being adventurous isn’t a bad thing when it comes to trying different things to upgrade the look of a home, try not to mix tiles that need grouting with other materials that don’t. “That is what you might call ‘tacky’ and it would not look right. Sure experimentation is fine, but you have to live with the end results, so you might want to be a touch on the conventional side with a wee bit of flare thrown in to spice things up a bit,” Dupre said.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

The longer you have lived in a home or owned a business, the more worn out your floors get. It’s inevitable, given the heavy traffic, the cleaning chemicals, the spills, the dirt, the dust and your pets’ little “gifts.” If you had something else on your floors, like carpet, consider Tampa flooring tiles when the time comes to upgrade your look.

Without a doubt, floor tiles are easy to care for and are really simple to adapt to your home décor. Just call them versatile. Some choices for Tampa flooring tiles you might want to consider include, slate, Saltillo, granite, ceramic, mosaic, travertine, porcelain and stone. Your selection will largely depend on your lifestyle and what you want to accomplish in terms of updating your home or business.

There are a few things that you should be aware of when you go looking for tile flooring. You should know that there is a rating system for tiling that ranges from I to V. The most important thing here is that these types of tiles are classified as water absorbing, water resistant and non-vitreous to impervious. For example, let’s say you want to upgrade the kitchen. You would want to use impervious tiles. Ditto that on using tiles in the bathroom.

There are also various kinds of Tampa tile flooring ranked by material, meaning it also comes in a delightful range of shapes, sizes, patterns and colors – just the bee’s knees when it comes to creativity. So, think about malachite, sodalite, designer stone, red jasper, marble, porcelain, semi precious and – well, the list goes on. Just ask your contractor about the surplus of choices from which you have to choose.

Here’s something else you can do, as well. Create your own tile pattern by adding accent tiles. It’s a way to add your own personality to your project. Just by adding a few accent tiles to your main color theme, you can change the look of any room.

Tile flooring is one of the best options on the market if you have allergies, as it’s easy to care for and clean. A quick wipe with a damp mop and you’re done. As you can see, having tile in your home or business can be not only beneficial to give your location a higher resale value, but it adds personality to your surroundings.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

If you’re thinking about introducing some color into your bathroom or kitchen, or maybe even your sunroom, then why not think about using ceramic tile patterns? They’re vibrant, attractive, appealing and reasonably priced, not to mention you can get them in just about any color you want. That’s more than appealing – it’s the perfect solution to your decorating challenges.

Before you get all fired up and go looking for ceramic tiles, give some thought to what type of look you want. What kind of ambiance do you want to have in the rooms you’ve chosen to perk up? Do you want a Mexican feel? A Moroccan flavor? Perhaps a touch of the American Southwest? You are only limited by your imagination, so the sky is the limit. While you might know the exact finish you want when you’re done, you may still be checking out books, websites and design magazines to get some inspiration.

Looking around is actually a really good idea. You don’t want to rush a design project because you will have to live with the results for a long time. You better make sure you really like what you ultimately choose. For instance, let’s say you want to remodel your bathroom first. Some people prefer a monotone look, while others love wild and adventurous.

With monotone, the whole room is done in one main color, which is OK, but be careful of the colors you use, as a whole room with just monotone tiles runs the risk of reminding people of being in a hospital. Not exactly what you want to achieve. Look to add a dash of vivid color or tiles with texture, and top it off with plants or flowers.

You’ll get the hang of it pretty quickly once you get started. You might like the idea of doing a black and white tile design in the bathroom and then use black towels, accented with white face cloths and black and white pictures. You get the idea. Match as much as you can to your tiles to bring out their personality.

On the other hand, if you love vivid and brilliant colors, you might want to think about a feature wall or floor. Sometimes, having a whole room done in colors that talk back to you is a bit much to take. Luckily, working with that creative streak you have is a cinch with today’s mosaic ceramic tile patterns. Go to town and do some experimenting with color. It’s your personal space; have fun.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.

“If you’ve been reading home decorating magazines lately, you’ll notice that ceramic floor tile is becoming a super choice for just about any room in the house. Additionally, a lot of homeowners feel this is a dandy do-it-yourself (DIY) project. Well, yes and no. DIY works well if you have done your homework and understand the issues involved in laying tile; and if you lay tile over an existing lino floor, well, that’s a whole other ball of wax,” cautioned Dean Dupre who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

Generally speaking, a great number of homeowners have no problems laying tile and that can save a lot of bucks. It also saves a huge chunk of time to lay tile right over lino and it also adds an extra layer of insulation. Warning: if there is a wooden subfloor under the lino, the lino will need to be stripped off completely before installing tile. “This is due to the fact that if you don’t do that, you could get the newly laid tile cracking and buckling because of the flexibility of the subfloor. If you lino is on concrete, no problem, lay the tile over it,” suggested Dupre.

If DIY is the flavor of the day, then before installing tile take everything out of the room; e.g., if it’s the bathroom, take out the toilet, remove any existing trim on the flooring edges (think edge stripping and baseboards) and clean the floor thoroughly. “Note: do not sand older lino because a lot of it has asbestos particles in it. You do not want to be breathing that stuff in,” warned Dupre.

Next, use only the best sealant to block moisture from spots where it tends to happen and then lay out your tiles first and make sure there are enough for the job. “Ventilate the working area because the adhesive will knock you right over with the smell, not to mention the fumes are toxic and flammable. Don’t smoke while laying tile,” Dupre suggested. Do all the cutouts for places like the toilet and bathtub first, as it saves time and frustration later. Also make sure the grouting is quality and that it is worked between the tiles with a grout float. The finishing touch is silicone caulking for those pipes and fixtures.

“If this sounds like a lot of work that you don’t want to be doing on your day off, then it might be time to call an expert and have it done professionally. Installing floor tile is not a job for amateurs despite what some of the DIY magazines may suggest,” observed Dupre who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

When it comes to wanting to ensure a home is shipshape, looks great, has good resale value and is modern, many people gravitate toward new trends. Not the kind of trends that will look great for six months and go out of style, but the kind of trend that has elegance and class; something that will withstand the test of time and the critical eye of visitors or potential buyers.

“Spiffing up your home is easy if you take the time to check out the latest, greatest and hottest items on the market. Often the easiest way to do something spectacular with your home and still stay within a manageable budget is to use tiles. Pebble tiles are something you might want to consider for a variety of reasons, not to mention the fact they are very attractive and eye catching,” added Dean Dupre who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

It just doesn’t work to tell a interior renovation specialist to go ahead and do something great in the house. “That leaves a whole lot of questions up in the air, not the least of which is how much do you want to spend, do you want tile or marble, what colors do you prefer and where do you want the materials?” said Dupre.

Start at the beginning before the interior decorating journey begins and figure out what would look the best in the house and where it would create a whole different ambiance in a room. Check out colors, types of materials to use, where they would look best, and their cost to buy and to install. “During your search, either in stores or online, you may run across tile pebbles. These are nice alternatives to some of the more traditional choices and if they are laid properly, there won’t be any gaps. In addition, the pebble tiles are quite nicely color coordinated and give your floor new life,” Dupre commented.

“An added bonus with pebble tile is that they are very easy to keep clean and you don’t have to go out of your way every day to ‘do’ something with the floor to keep it looking reasonably nice; unlike marble which needs fairly constant primping,” observed Dupre.

If durability is an issue because there are kids and animals in the house, there are no worries with pebble tile. “It lasts quite a long time, probably longer than you will own the house, and is very durable. So if you have high traffic, busy traffic and animal traffic, this may be the flooring for you,” suggested Dupre, who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. Another added bonus is that if the look of the floor captures the imagination, pebble tile may be used on walls and to accessorize other areas.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

If brightening up your home is high on your list this year and you want to make a statement, a quiet one or a bold one, then you might want to consider using marble. Marble is so versatile that it can be used as countertops, floors, accessories or accents in your home décor. Really, the only limit to using marble is your imagination. Other than that, it does pretty much everything with real style.

One of the best and most attractive things about marble is the fact that it has a high shine or polish. It can almost gleam in the dark. When you polish Tampa marble with loving attention, it takes on the feel of smooth glass or silk. It’s quite elegant and indeed, sensual to some. Other stones aren’t formed the way marble is and so their surface isn’t capable of providing you with that special glimmer that marble gets when it’s polished to perfection.

Yes, you do need to be careful with marble, as it is soft, which does mean you may be able to chip or scratch it. If you’re careful with your marble, this should not be a problem, and many chips or cracks, provided they are not too deep, may be fixed or repaired. These are things you will want to check out before making your marble purchase. After all, it’s your lifestyle and you know best what would work for you.

If you have done any research on marble for your home, you will know by now that you need to be careful with spills, particularly anything acidic. If you don’t catch the spill right away, the Tampa marble will discolor and you run the risk of having a permanent stain. While marble may have its drawbacks, most are willing to overlook those and work with the beauty of the stone. It’s darn near irresistible and once you get the hang of caring for it, it’s a snap.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.

At some point in time, particularly if you have been in your house for a long time, you are going to want to do something with the countertops. Let’s face it, you do all kinds of things on them, including using a knife without a cutting board, putting down cups or containers with wet bottoms that stain (like red Koolaid sweating glasses) or spill something across the top that you forgot to wipe up. The countertop pays the price and over time, it starts to look like it’s been used a whole heck of a lot – because, it has.

You want to do something about new countertops, but don’t know what kind of material to use or even if you are able to afford it. Times are tough and making decorative changes in your home is expensive so many people put it off. Think resale value of your home later if it has been updated to feature more modern countertops.

There are a number of choices you could go with, including wood, granite and Tampa marble. Wood in the kitchen isn’t a wonderful choice because you can imagine the kinds of implements you use on that work space. Wood in the bathroom, while quite quaint in appearance, runs the risk of absorbing too much moisture and swelling. Wood in a workroom may be alright, but it depends on what you use the workroom for; e.g., if it’s sewing, wood might be just the right touch.

No, if you want durability, elegance and something that is eye appealing, then you might want to consider marble. It’s attractive and does an exceptional job of making your rooms look fabulous. Most often, it is the material of choice for bathroom and kitchen countertops. A marble countertop really adds a touch of charm to your home.

While marble does stain easily, you should remember that it is not hurt by heat; something you work with daily in the kitchen. If being porous is a problem, that can be solved with stone sealer and if you take a bit of extra time to wipe off acidic juices, foods or wine that spills on the countertop, you won’t get the etching associated with acid. So, if you carefully maintain your marble, it will keep its good looks, and you will save yourself some grief later.

The best tip ever, since you’re in the kitchen with your gleaming Tampa marble countertop, is to use mild dishwashing liquid mixed with warm water and rinse it off well. Really easy to do and it’s right there in front of you, and you don’t have to go get something special to do the deed. Another easy marble cleaning tip is a baking soda and water solution. Use 4 cups of warm water and mix in 3 tablespoons of baking soda. Use a soft cloth and dip it into the solution and then wipe the countertop. Leave it to dry for about two hours and wipe clean with water.

The choice is yours and the cleaning and maintenance is pretty easy too. Marble might be the best choice, depending on what you want to accomplish in your kitchen or bathroom.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.

“If you’ve got the home renovation itch, and lots of people do at this time of the year, you might be thinking ‘marble’ would be a nice touch for your home. Nice choice and honestly, you can get it for a reasonable price if you look in the right places,” added Dean Dupre who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

“Marble tiles are traditionally used in bathrooms, hallways and kitchens, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative and use it somewhere else. It’s really up to you to decide. Just do your homework first and ask a tile installation company about the pros and cons of what project you happen to have in mind,” suggested Dupre.

If budget is a concern, this news will come as a pleasant surprise; some marble is actually reasonably priced. The trick here is to figure out how much is needed for any given area and then find out where the marble came from. Those two factors generally determine the market price for cultured marble tiles.

“Once you know the prices, start asking yourself some other questions to find out if marble tiles are for ‘your’ lifestyle or not. Care of marble is very important because you want to keep it looking terrific for many years. Think about the resale value of your home down the road. Marble tile is often polished and sealed, so you don’t have to hand wax the floor. In fact, don’t even go there with wax on marble, because if it’s not done the right way, you get that horrid yellow cast to the floor,” he said.

Keep in mind that marble is porous and if something is spilled on the floor, it can definitely stain. “This means instant clean up – something that may not be possible if you have animals that aren’t potty trained or throw up or kids that have a proclivity to drop liquids,” Dupre commented. Usually, the way to clean marble floors is to use the recommended cleaning products and follow the instructions.

“If installing cultured marble tile is something that you think may be a do-it-yourself project, you might want to rethink that. It’s tedious and fiddly work because the bed for the floor must be precise; a measure to prevent the floor from being damaged later. This doesn’t mean you can’t ‘go for it,’ but there are certain things you really need to know before trying a marble tile installation on your own,” suggested Dupre.

The best priced option for those on a budget is cultured marble because it is made with binding agents and marble dust. It’s a nice way to spiff up the bathroom vanity and bathtub. The other major advantage with cultured marble is that it is much easier to care for than real marble.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

“It’s a well-known fact that porcelain tile is just about the number one favorite choice of homeowners for kitchens and bathrooms, and it has been that way for a lot of years. What sets it apart from other tile choices is the fact that is comes either glazed or unglazed which makes it head and shoulders above choosing ceramic tile for the bathroom. The main consideration here is the presence of water,” outlined Dean Dupre who runs Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company.

“The plain unglazed truth – really I couldn’t resist that line – is that if you want to tile your bathroom, you need something that is a bit more moisture resistant than ceramic tiling. In other words, porcelain would likely be the tile of choice for wet locations,” remarked Dupre.

Porcelain is made by mushing up clay and other materials and then firing the concoction at an extremely high heat. The firing process serves to harden the tile. What many people don’t realize is that depending on the length of time and the actual temperature, the results will reflect how hard the tile gets and how water repellant it will be. “The story with ceramic tiles is that they are not as hard as porcelain because they aren’t fired for as long. This doesn’t mean they aren’t a viable choice for other areas of the house though and honestly should be considered because they are attractive and add a vibrant look to your home,” Dupre added.

“In my line of work, I get asked a lot of questions and the number one query is usually what is porcelain used for besides the bathroom? Well, it’s definitely used as flooring material, but it can also be used on your walls. Most people opt for glazed porcelain in the bathroom because its absorption rate is low,” he explained.

Porcelain tiles are usually graded relating to their hardness and the ability to resist soaking up moisture. That means the porcelain scale runs from 0 to 5 and the hardest is a ranking of 5. “What that means is that the harder tiles are used on the floor; and for walls and other areas, lower ranked material is usually used as an electrical insulator for appliances etc.,” commented Dupre.

The bottom line is that for appearance, utility, maintenance, durability and class, the tile of choice for a bathroom may be porcelain.

To learn more, visit http://www.champtile.com.

You want to do something with your floors, but what? There are so many things that may be done; you’ll probably lose a great deal of hair while making up your mind. Every flooring alternative you choose will have pros and cons, and honestly, it’s a good idea to at least know what some of those are before you make a purchase.

When it comes to Tampa flooring alternatives, one of the things you might want to consider is ceramic tiles. They’ve been used for centuries in hundreds of buildings; many that you can still see today. Okay, your house is not exactly a museum or church, but if those buildings still have their floors in decent shape after all those years, you have to know that your floors (properly laid) may last that long as well.

Granted, ceramic tiles might not be the Tampa flooring of choice in their home, and for others, they may want it in every room and even outside. It’s really a very personal choice as to what you want for your living space. So having said that, let’s run a few of the good points past you about ceramic tile floors.

Well, we know it’s durable, even outside around a pool or on a patio and that’s a good point, because you won’t have to replace it that often. When it comes to maintaining ceramic tile, that’s really easy. Just grab the broom to round up those Jack Russell sized dust bunnies and then use a damp mop every week.

You won’t have any problems trying to find something you like in terms of colors, patterns, textures and designs. In fact, you might find the plethora of choices a tad overwhelming – but kind of fun nonetheless. Ceramic flooring increases the value of your home too, so think resale potential.

And the cons are? Well, I have to admit that tile is really hard, so if you have kids, and they have a habit of falling, this floor is going to hurt. Of course, you “could” use plush area rugs. Rugs will also warm up some of those cool spots, as ceramic tiles are known to be cooler to the touch than other flooring options. It’s best to also remember that ceramic tile flooring isn’t really a nifty do-it-yourself project. Having it installed professionally is virtually a must if you want it to look good and stay looking good for a long time.

Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.com.