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Flooring and Carpeting/Questions Answered by Expert John Michaels

SubjectDate Asked
Tile floors2/8/2012
  Q: In our new home the complete 1st floor has beautiful porcelian tile laid out in the study, bathroom, ...
  A: First you should obtain the name of the EXACT manufacturer of the tiles, either by any cartons left, ...
Floor covering in room with wood-burning stove2/3/2012
  Q: I have a heavily-used room which has a wood-burner stove in one corner. The stove is fitted onto ...
  A: One of the healthiest floor covering one can have is carpet. It has a pile that traps, filters, and ...
what kind of tape can i put on a trazzo floor ?1/12/2012
  Q: I work at a school and the teachers would like to put a tape line down thaw hallway what kind of ...
  A: A tape has an adhesive that may transfer onto the surface of the tiles. If you put a strong ...
Carpet info1/9/2012
  Q: RN 72818, Style: Holland, 100% BCF Nylon, 15 Width, Color Ivory,Pattern repeat 5/8 w x 3/4 l.I know ...
  A: The RN number you list is for Carpet One, so finding out the name of the manufacturer will take some ...
San Miguel tile1/4/2012
  Q: I'm interested in buying various tile accessories for a shower to match this company's Canyon Mist ...
  A: San Miguel tiles are made in Mexico and dealers closest to Mexico may have access and/or stock of ...
installing berber1/3/2012
  Q: We recently had our cut pile carpet replaced with berber carpet in our upstairs, and are very ...
  A: Whether your carpet company insists that the seams meet industry standards or not, I would suggest ...
high traffic area1/2/2012
  Q: our kitchen has lg tile (which IS VERY COLD)& carpet that has 1 step down to the formal room and ...
  A: Remember that carpet is one of the heathiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile that ...
stair transition to floating floor12/28/2011
  Q: click-lock cork. At one point, it transitions to a downstairs, so there is a piece of nosing at the ...
  A: There are only certain adhesives that can be used that are compatable with this type of flooring, ...
subfloor under backer board12/28/2011
  Q: I have two layers of particle board subfloor in my kitchen. The total thickness is 1 1/2". I was ...
  A: By having improper subfloors, can create too much verticle flex when walked upon, so, since you ...
Black mould on skirting board12/21/2011
  Q: I'm not sure if you can help me, but I'm not sure who else to approach. I have noticed damp/mould ...
  A: As you indicate, mold is very serious health hazard and can cause serious destruction. Mold is a ...
Sound-proofing wood floors12/14/2011
  Q: I would like to put pre-engineered wood floors throughout my 2 bedroom Florida apartment but was ...
  A: Let me address your last question first. One of the healthiest floor covering one can have is ...
Hydroban water proofing11/29/2011
  Q: I recently renovated a 1940's bathroom in the New England area. The client wished to have a new ...
  A: From your question, I assume you have already completed the installation. I hope you checked with ...
Best wood flooring for dogs and existing baseboards/closets11/28/2011
  Q: We need to replace all the carpet with wood because of family allergies. Our house is a basic ...
  A: First, carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. If you are thinking of ...
carpet on stairs11/28/2011
  Q: My contractor installed the carpet on my basement stairs but he didn't use a tackless strip. He just ...
  A: Is the carpet wall to wall on the steps or is it being used as a runner (narrower than from one side ...
water damage to vinyl floor tiles11/25/2011
  Q: 10 days ago we had the unfortunate experience of a toilet blockage and a subsequent overspill into ...
  A: If the adhesive were breaking down,the tiles would probably be lifting, so the odor may not be ...
prestained vs polyurethane finish11/20/2011
  Q: I had some structural wood rot (live in SC) and I need to replace my wood flooring after ...
  A: I'm not being fresh, but if you are a health maniac, which is great, you should be using one of the ...
Installation of silicon sealer11/19/2011
  Q: I have a flooring failure (first one ever). I've been installing floors for 45 years, and never had ...
  A: It sounds as if there are other factors involved here. When those baseboards were installed, were ...
Hard wood floor11/13/2011
  Q: I am planning on building in the near future and I also am in the process in taking a interior ...
  A: The answer to your question involves a lot of issues, so I would suggest that you make an investment ...
Shaw Carpet11/7/2011
  Q: My husband and I purchased Shaw carpet for our home last fall. We purchased a 7 yr carpet and ...
  A: There could be at least 10 reasons causing your complaint issues, and since I can't see your carpet, ...
Have you ever used PortStone?10/29/2011
  Q: We were looking at putting a brick floor in our kitchen, and came across a product called PortStone ...
  A: again, Rob;I assume we are still talking about the kitchen area. Slate and grout MUST be proeprly ...
Have you ever used PortStone?10/29/2011
  Q: We were looking at putting a brick floor in our kitchen, and came across a product called PortStone ...
  A: I have not seen an installation of this particular product, however I have seen installations and ...
Ceramic Tiles over Cork Tiles10/27/2011
  Q: I read your earlier post about laying ceramic tiles over cork tiles. I have the same issue and was ...
  A: I have no idea what the questioner ended up doing, however I suggest that you find out the name of ...
Sealing laminate flooring10/27/2011
  Q: I have recently put new Nirvana flooring in my house. My problem is a new puppy who has urinted on ...
  A: again, Gayle;I assume the laminate you have, Nirvanna, was purchased from Lumber Liquidators. I ...
Sealing laminate flooring10/26/2011
  Q: I have recently put new Nirvana flooring in my house. My problem is a new puppy who has urinted on ...
  A: A laminate floor usually has a polyurethane type top protective layer. There is nothing to put on ...
Carpeting for unheated 3 seasons room10/23/2011
  Q: The contractors are just finishing up enclosing our new 3 seasons room with windows all around. It ...
  A: Concrete is absorbent, and always moves, so even if you have a moisture barrier under the concrete ...
installing floor tile10/21/2011
  Q: My son and I are installing floor tile this weekend. He put down the backer board last night and ...
  A: You didn't indicate what type of tiles you are installing (ceramic, porcelain, stone, etc.) One ...
Carpet on Basement Slab10/19/2011
  Q: getting about 50 different opinions about carpet on a basement slab and would appreciate yours. We ...
  A: First, moisture in concrete is the overwhelming greatest cause of ANY type of floor covering ...
carpet specs10/19/2011
  Q: I am recarpeting bedrooms -all downstairs. I have 3 children and 2 dogs (not often in bedrooms). I ...
  A: First, most carpet constructions containing the yarns you indicate will 'hold up' for 10 years, as ...
basement floor10/18/2011
  Q: Is there any product we can use to resurface our basement concrete floor. It originally had tiles ...
  A: Many thanks for your reply. If you sustained water damage, remember that concrete is absorbent and ...
basement floor10/17/2011
  Q: Is there any product we can use to resurface our basement concrete floor. It originally had tiles ...
  A: I would be able to give you suggestions, however get back to me with some information, so I can ...
flooring for a home office10/14/2011
  Q: We have just put an addition on our house that is essentially an in-law apartment with a second ...
  A: Hands down, carpet is, just about, the healthiest floor covering one can have. Visit the website, ...
no-wax vinyl cleaner10/13/2011
  Q: Where in the Niagara Falls area can I buy it? Home Depot, where I bought the vinyl tile doesn't ...
  A: I would suggest that you obtain the name of the EXACT manuafacturer of your tiles (from any cartons ...
Finishes for hardwood flooring and windowsills10/12/2011
  Q: Good morning. 1. We have beautiful 40 year old Bruce 3/4"oak hardwood waxed flooring coloured ...
  A: If your hardwood floors are solid, they should be able to be sanded and refinished, however it may ...
vacuuming frieze carpet9/26/2011
  Q: I am experiencing a heck of a problem finding the right vacuum for my thick frieze carpet. I`ve ...
  A: Suggestions would be a vacuum cross over tool made by Pro-Team, based in Boise, ID, and a new ...
Wall-to-Wall carpet9/23/2011
  Q: Which do you think is the better value for our money - nylon carpet or the new triexta? We have a ...
  A: Lots of things to consider when purchasing carpet. You made a good choice of floor covering, since ...
Mohawk Hardwood Flooring9/19/2011
  Q: The management company in my apartment complex uses Mohawk Hardwood Flooring of a specific type not ...
  A: If you visit the website, <mohawkind.com>, which the website for Mohawk, there is a place for ...
flooring for high traffic dining room9/17/2011
  Q: What would you recommend for a dining room that is high traffic? It comes off the small entryway and ...
  A: No matter what type of floor covering you install, you need to properly maintain it. Maintenance ...
RN#9/16/2011
  Q: Can you tell me what RN # 119298 I am looking for match this color of carpet and is private label ...
  A: Private labeling is a tough thing to trace unless you know the name of the manufacturer of the ...
laminat or floating floor on stairs9/15/2011
  Q: OK I get it that the nosing goes over the flooring and that that 1/8" rise is considered to be not a ...
  A: There are quite a few variances in the construction of laminate, and varrying constructions require ...
Carpet tiles / in in floor heat9/14/2011
  Q: I am doing a exercise room where we will be using some free weights the floor has infloor radiant ...
  A: Carpet tiles are a good choice. Contact Brian Justice in Illinois. He is a representitive of ...
Good Quality Carpet on Concrete9/9/2011
  Q: My finished garage was the showroom when my neighborhood was being established. The carpeting is ...
  A: Nice to hear from you again. I'm going to answer your question in two parts, the first part having ...
Is it normal for brand new carpet to shed profusely?9/8/2011
  Q: Even if i only spend 5 minutes walking around in the carpeted areas my pants and socks become ...
  A: You did not indicate what type of yarn the carpet pile contains (wool, nylon, polyester, olefin, ...
proper tile spacing on bathroom floor vs tub apron9/8/2011
  Q: I am putting 12/12 tile on my bathroom floor and planned on using 3/16 tile spacers. on the tile, I ...
  A: Today's tile and grout are a lot different than 'yesterday's' products. Some grouts are not ...
carpeting for a screened-in porch9/4/2011
  Q: I have a light colored indoor-outdoor carpeting over a cement floor in my screened-in porch that is ...
  A: As long as the staining and discoloration is topical, and not coming from under the carpet because ...
laying a jukeback carpet on concrete floor9/1/2011
  Q: 30 years ago I help my carpet laying friend on his jobs. We at times if I remember right applied ...
  A: 30 years ago, there was a lot of jute backed carpet being made. Jute came from India, and there is ...
floor problems8/31/2011
  Q: I need a flooring inspector for area code 70648. We just spent a lot of money redoing about 1500 sq ...
  A: You indicate the number you list is an area code. We assume you mean a zip code. There may be ...
porcelain tiles8/30/2011
  Q: I would like to lay 200 square meters of porcelain tiles over existing porcelain tiles which we laid ...
  A: The first thing you MUST do is find out the name of the EXACT manufacturer of your tiles. Then, ...
Good Quality Carpet on Concrete8/19/2011
  Q: My finished garage was the showroom when my neighborhood was being established. The carpeting is ...
  A: Your installation requires 1 of 2 choices. If you install carpet wall to wall, a loop or cut & loop ...
marble mosaic floor8/9/2011
  Q: I noticed there is a LOT of glue on the backs of the mosaics - the rear sides of the tiles are ...
  A: Sorry, but I would not install those tiles unless I am supplied with written installation ...
marble mosaic floor8/8/2011
  Q: I noticed there is a LOT of glue on the backs of the mosaics - the rear sides of the tiles are ...
  A: If there is a lot of glue on the back of the tiles then any additional adhesive you will be using ...
Crackling in new vinyl sheet flooring8/2/2011
  Q: I just had new vinyl sheet flooring installed in my large kitchen and laundry room. The floor made ...
  A: This is an installation problem and you should not let anyone involved in the sale or installation ...
Type of Flooring to Install in a Cottage8/1/2011
  Q: John, we recently bought a cottage, lake front, and are not sure what type of flooring would be best ...
  A: Carpet is, just about, the healthiest floor covering one can have. It has a pile that traps, ...
moisture barrier7/30/2011
  Q: My question is about moisture barriers. My husband and myself recently bought a place is Florida. He ...
  A: If there was mold under the vinyl floor, and it was installed on concrete, it would appear that you ...
Ceramic Tile Discoloration7/28/2011
  Q: We recently had a water leak in our home,water set for about 16 hours-the Tile only being about 2 ...
  A: I'm having a problem with my computer right now and cannot see your tile photo. I hope to have it ...
Tile installation7/26/2011
  Q: I have a small bathroom area (53 Sq. Ft) and plan to install new tile. I have found a tile I like – ...
  A: Because of the new technologies used in manufacturing of today's tiles, of any type, the old methods ...
Basboard trim molding7/24/2011
  Q: We tore out carpet and installed laminate flooring. The baseboard trim is not flat so quarter round ...
  A: When you install laminate, you MUST leave about a credit card thickness between the surface of ...
Johnson flooring7/23/2011
  Q: I like to purchase engineering hardwood floor for a new house for enviromental reasons. Johnson ...
  A: again, Sue;Let's talk environmental. One of the healthiest floor coverings one can have is carpet. ...
Johnson flooring7/23/2011
  Q: I like to purchase engineering hardwood floor for a new house for enviromental reasons. Johnson ...
  A: You mention 'environmental reasons'. What are those reasons? Next let me know the population of ...
Carpet info7/19/2011
  Q: I'm in the process of replacing 18 year old carpet in several rooms of my home. This is a huge ...
  A: again, Bertha; Don't let the labels confuse you. Some carpet manufacturers will make a product, ...
Carpet info7/19/2011
  Q: I'm in the process of replacing 18 year old carpet in several rooms of my home. This is a huge ...
  A: First, and this is my opinion and based on years of experience in the floor covering industry, since ...
Installing residential carpeting over commercial carpeting7/19/2011
  Q: I am moving into an apartment which has professionally installed, brand new, thin, commercial-grade ...
  A: When you say you understand that you may need long tack strip nails, that sounds like someone gave ...
Laying marble tiles7/15/2011
  Q: we have some Turkish marble tiles to install in our living and dining areas.Even when the floor is ...
  A: Manufacturers have very specific ways their tiles MUST be installed, so marble tiles from one ...
water leak and tile7/13/2011
  Q: I recently had a water leak and water was coming out from under the tile when I stepped on the ...
  A: again, Cate;First, concrete is absorbent and always moves, so any moisture that has reached the ...
carpet7/13/2011
  Q: Can you tell me if you think this is a decent carpet that will wear well? Or is it mediocre? Here ...
  A: Anso nylon has been around for years and years. It was first manufactured by a large chemical ...
water leak and tile7/12/2011
  Q: I recently had a water leak and water was coming out from under the tile when I stepped on the ...
  A: You didn't indicate if you have ceramic tiles or vinyl tiles, what room(s) are involved, if ...
RN #7/11/2011
  Q: Is there a book to look up RN # ?
  A: Up to several years ago, there were publications listing RN#s that would give you the product name ...
Flooring for flood zones7/11/2011
  Q: My hi-ranch house is in a flood zone. I have a stream in my backyard and occasionally it overflows. ...
  A: The odor is probably not from the floor covering. It is probably from the decaying organisms that ...
carpet7/10/2011
  Q: Can you tell me if you think this is a decent carpet that will wear well? Or is it mediocre? Here ...
  A: Nylon is, just about, the strongest wearing fiber, so wear should not be a problem. Remember that ...
carpet7/9/2011
  Q: Can you tell me if you think this is a decent carpet that will wear well? Or is it mediocre? Here ...
  A: First, I suggest that you not purchase ANY floor covering manufactured by Shaw Industries or one of ...
WATER DAMAGE FOR LEAK IN MY KITCHEN7/6/2011
  Q: MY TILES IN MY HOUSE CHANGE THE TILE COLOR FOR WHITE TO GREY AND THE GRAOUND CHANGE THE ROSE COLOR ...
  A: Do you have ceramic tiles or vinyl tiles. Was the grout put in separately, or was the grout an ...
room of vinyl flooring next to real wood flooring7/4/2011
  Q: Our foyer and kitchen are black and white (9 x 9) squares of vinyl flooring. The great room, now ...
  A: First, how old are your 9x9 vinyl squares. If they were put down in the late 16970's or before, ...
solid wood floor in Hawaii7/3/2011
  Q: Aloha, I have recently moved to the Big Island of Hawaii and have just made an offer on a home that ...
  A: Understand what you want to use. Hardwood comes from trees. It acts just like a tree. It will ...
AVAIRE FLOATING PORCELAIN6/30/2011
  Q: I AM 42 YEARS IN THE FLOORING BUSINESS. sOLD MY FIRST AVAIRE 18X18 PORCELAIN IN THE TRAY TO BE ...
  A: Visit the website, <avairefloors.com>, click on 'residential', click on faqs, scroll down to ...
Flooring for flood zones6/28/2011
  Q: My hi-ranch house is in a flood zone. I have a stream in my backyard and occasionally it overflows. ...
  A: My first advice would be to sell the house. I say that jokingly and seriously because moisture is ...
grout to match my granite6/21/2011
  Q: I have just installed a granite floor in my bathroom. The tiles are 12 x 12 and the color is Uba ...
  A: I'm not an interior designer, nor can I see you installation, so the actual color choice for the ...
floating hardwood floors6/20/2011
  Q: I had a floating hardwood floor installed, by someone he said he installed many type of floors. My ...
  A: From what you are indicating, it appears like there are installation errors. Note that I use the ...
Replace RV carpet6/8/2011
  Q: The place did not check for mold just had carpet shampooed. It seems as though mold is coming ...
  A: First, mold is a living organism and eats other living organisms. If you had the carpet cleaned and ...
Bullnose tile6/2/2011
  Q: I recently bought some Ardesia Blue 12x12 ceramic tile made by San Miguel out of Mexico from Home ...
  A: I really don't know of any dealer who carries what you need, however I will give you some ...
Non-skid pad for mats on DuraCeramic6/2/2011
  Q: Per Congoleum - non-skid pad for carpet mats should be either 100% Latex, Polyurethane, or PVC ...
  A: First the mats don't cause the yellowing. Many vinyl type floor coverings, in tile or sheet form, ...
Transition for Rhino brand laminate flooring5/30/2011
  Q: I just installed 770 ft of Rhino tough brand flooring in the African Hickory color. I went to the ...
  A: The name, Rhino Tough on carton may be a private lable line available to some dealers. It may just ...
wood floors layed over marble5/30/2011
  Q: I've read your answer to advice of laying wood over marble from '09. Great advice. I've read that ...
  A: To determine the energy consumption, a lot has to do with the type of heating and cooling system you ...
Old parquet5/28/2011
  Q: I live in a 1970's high rise, and need to replace some missing parquet. It's 6-finger parquet, and ...
  A: Try<plantationhardwood.com>, <custommade.com>, <classicwoodfloorsnorth.com>, and ...
Vitropiso (San Miguel) canyon mist tile5/26/2011
  Q: Last year I bought vitropiso (San Miguel) ceramic tile color canyon mist form home depot. I need a ...
  A: Lerma;Thanks for your question. The only suggestions I could give you are: 1. Home Depot must have ...
patching black-water berber carpet5/25/2011
  Q: My toilet overflowed in tile floor bathroom and when disposing of newspapers to absorb, I ...
  A: In the future NEVER use the spot cleaning agents you indicate were used. Visit the website of, ...
cork flooring5/25/2011
  Q: I have 2 questions about this. 1. Is it ok to use pressed wood or is plywood required, and how ...
  A: The installation specifications vary between manufacturers of cork flooring, so when you find one or ...
Transition for Rhino brand laminate flooring5/25/2011
  Q: I just installed 770 ft of Rhino tough brand flooring in the African Hickory color. I went to the ...
  A: My suggestion is for you to visit the website, <installersstore.com> and view their transition ...
Travertine flooring/walls5/22/2011
  Q: We have installed travertine 2"x2" tile in a 4'x4' Tile EZ shower base and sealed three coats with ...
  A: Travertine is a soft stone, and various manufacturers have different installation instructions, ...
Carpeting My Roof5/20/2011
  Q: I have a roof designed to be walked out on, (there is a door leading out to it and the attic is more ...
  A: There are lots of carpets and rugs designed for outdoor use. Carpet is made for sports fields, ...
hardwood vs softwood flooring5/17/2011
  Q: I have wide plank, refinished/stained softwood floors (fir, I think) throughout most of my house. I ...
  A: Wood comes from trees. It is a natural product. It contains thousands of tiny cells that absorb ...
RN 196195/16/2011
  Q: You recently answered a question about this RN number. In January I put a deposit on this carpet, ...
  A: My understanding is that Stark is a designer showroom that simply acts as an agent in representing ...
Mannington Adura LockSolid Floor Cleaning5/13/2011
  Q: We just recently purchased Mannington Adura LockSolid Vinyl floors, and I would like more ...
  A: Before bringing any product to market, such as Adura, the manufacturer did extensive testing and ...
VCT installation5/12/2011
  Q: My contractor usually does great work, but when he layed a VCT floor using Roberts 2057 adhesive, he ...
  A: I'm concerned about the answer given to you by Roberts. You did not indicate what was under the ...
VCT installation5/7/2011
  Q: My contractor usually does great work, but when he layed a VCT floor using Roberts 2057 adhesive, he ...
  A: Latent problems are problems that occur very shortly or long after the installation, if original ...
outside deck flooring4/28/2011
  Q: I have covered my deck with a screen room, so i can enjoy it without bugs but they still coming thru ...
  A: I'm concerned that are you certain the 'bugs' are not the type that are 'feeding' on the wood. Wood ...
cleaning carpet4/28/2011
  Q: Is steam cleaning the same as hot water extraction? I keep getting different answers from ...
  A: Usually, a professional cleaning that says steam cleaning and hot water extraction are assumed to be ...
Laminate over tarazzo4/26/2011
  Q: I had laminate flooring installed throughout my house over tarazzo. The installer put a black vapor ...
  A: again, Kathy;To be honest, I don't believe you have a topical moisture problem, but, I could be ...
Laminate over tarazzo4/24/2011
  Q: I had laminate flooring installed throughout my house over tarazzo. The installer put a black vapor ...
  A: Since I can't see your laminate, I can only give your some guesses. If you don't have a moisture ...
Flooring in a raised, insulated, unheated sunroom4/18/2011
  Q: We had thought about laminate but have decided against it. Different carpet stores have different ...
  A: Any hard surfaced floor covering, (vinyl, laminate, hardwood, rubber, etc.), must be installed in an ...
ceramic tile floors4/17/2011
  Q: I am installing 18"x18" ceramic tile in an 8'x9' bathroom over 3/4'OSB screwed and glued. Floor ...
  A: You first need to obtain the name of the EXACT manufacturer of your ceramic tile. 'Google' that ...
Removing 50-yr-old kitchen tiles4/14/2011
  Q: I am having the kitchen flooring redone w/wood laminate. When we had a different room done, this was ...
  A: again, Pati;Glad you were able to get those tiles looked at first. I hope your contractor can ...
Removing 50-yr-old kitchen tiles4/13/2011
  Q: I am having the kitchen flooring redone w/wood laminate. When we had a different room done, this was ...
  A: STOP EVERYTHING. If your tiles are that old, there is a good chance that they may be VAT, vinyl ...
new foam and new carpet over existing foam4/13/2011
  Q: Foam in my living room looks good after I have removed the carpet. Can i put new foam over old foam ...
  A: again, Kamal;If you are concerned about spillage, there are foams (you use that term for padding) ...
new foam and new carpet over existing foam4/13/2011
  Q: Foam in my living room looks good after I have removed the carpet. Can i put new foam over old foam ...
  A: I don't fully understand your question. Are you going to replace the carpet with new carpet. If ...
Fixing up damaged hard wood4/12/2011
  Q: I have parquet wood flooring in my half bathroom that was installed in the 70s. It is in acceptable ...
  A: Wood flooring should not be installed in areas high prone to moisture, so being in a bathroom, may ...
damp rug in finished basement4/12/2011
  Q: I have seen similar questions to mine but not exactly the same, although I think the core of the ...
  A: Hope your solution works, but be certain that there is nothing lurking behind the walls that you ...
Carpet(type) vs Tile in Remodeled Basement4/9/2011
  Q: My wife and I are currently having our basement remodeled and we're having a tough time deciding on ...
  A: again, Jay;An all looped pile carpet is just that-all the tufts are loop. A cut pile carpet is all ...
Carpet in a rental property4/7/2011
  Q: I have a rental property that I am purchasing that badly needs new carpet in the living room ...
  A: again, Gelerie;I really have no preference for any manufacturer, with the exception of telling you ...
Carpet(type) vs Tile in Remodeled Basement4/7/2011
  Q: My wife and I are currently having our basement remodeled and we're having a tough time deciding on ...
  A: Forget about shopping in one of those large home supply stores or over the internet for ANY type of ...
tile over tile installation4/6/2011
  Q: I want to install new porcelain tile in my entryway, kitchen, half bath and laundry room. This area ...
  A: There are many types of porcelain tile. There are variances in thickness, size, gloss level, etc., ...
Carpet in a rental property4/6/2011
  Q: I have a rental property that I am purchasing that badly needs new carpet in the living room ...
  A: First, a berber type carpet has an all looped pile, so if you rent the space to folks who have pets ...
Hardwood floors4/4/2011
  Q: We had carpet flayed on our laid around 3 year ago and they had to glue the carpet down can I have ...
  A: again, Trish;First remember that one of the healthiest floor covering one can have is carpet. It ...
Hardwood floors4/4/2011
  Q: We had carpet flayed on our laid around 3 year ago and they had to glue the carpet down can I have ...
  A: What room(s) are involved. What type of flooring is directly under the carpet. Why do you want to ...
hardwood floors4/4/2011
  Q: My son's floors are in the worst of condition. He is a minister and has little money, but needs to ...
  A: If the hardwood is solid hardwood and not engineered hardwood, it would be possible to have the ...
damp rug in finished basement4/4/2011
  Q: I have seen similar questions to mine but not exactly the same, although I think the core of the ...
  A: again, John;Based upon what you have told me, I believe there is a good chance that the moisture may ...
Carpet - Generic Recommendations4/3/2011
  Q: You indicate in your answers that is somebody sends you their situation that you will provide ...
  A: My suggestion would be for you to visit the website, <mohawk.com>, and follow the prompts to view ...
damp rug in finished basement4/3/2011
  Q: I have seen similar questions to mine but not exactly the same, although I think the core of the ...
  A: From what you indicate, you may have a moisture problem either in the walls, that migrates to the ...
installation of armstron stone fusion tiles4/3/2011
  Q: We want to put marble tiles on the bathroom floor, and a marble surround in the shower. We stumbled ...
  A: I see no problem with those tiles, however go to the website, <armstrong.com>, obtain their contact ...
carpet pad3/30/2011
  Q: Because of a cat urine odor problem, I had to peel back a few feet of wall-to-wall carpet and ...
  A: That type of pad is good to prevent topical liquid type deposits from penetrating through the carpet ...
OSB3/27/2011
  Q: Our business has OSB flooring that has many coats of urethane on it. It is beginning to look shabby ...
  A: again, Cheryl;The problem with painting is that the surface, to which the paint will attach may be ...
OSB3/27/2011
  Q: Our business has OSB flooring that has many coats of urethane on it. It is beginning to look shabby ...
  A: Not being able to see your OSB, I can only guess as to why the look of the urethane is beginning to ...
Laminate Floor Installation3/25/2011
  Q: I purchased 2,600 sqft of 12mm laminate and have a crew designated by the seller currently ...
  A: Lumber Liquidators is one of the suppliers that, in my opinion, and I stress, in my opinion, should ...
Laminate Floor Installation3/25/2011
  Q: I purchased 2,600 sqft of 12mm laminate and have a crew designated by the seller currently ...
  A: Based upon the information you have given me, I would suggest that you immediately stop the ...
Travertine tile and water damage3/21/2011
  Q: Our house was flooded by a fire supression system pipe that burst. It produced enough water to ...
  A: The overwhelming cause of any type of floor covering installation failure is moisture in concrete. ...
Budget flooring options3/20/2011
  Q: We recently purchased our first home, which was built in the 50's and has no sub-flooring underneath ...
  A: First, remember that the true cost of ANY type of floor covering is product, installation, and ...
indoor/outdoor carpet3/17/2011
  Q: What would be the best carpet for this area? Solution Dyed? or a sisal? Cheers Prue
  A: UV sunlight will negatively affect, just about, all types of floor coverings, hard surfaced or soft ...
porcelain tile thickness variations3/15/2011
  Q: I have found a porcelain tile at the local DIY hardware store that is half the price of other ...
  A: There are lots of reasons the tiles are a little thinner. Some of them are, the tiles are made that ...
Ataching tack strip to contrete3/13/2011
  Q: My 25 year old house is built on a concrete slab. I had to remove a few feet of carpet tack strip ...
  A: Usually, the nails in tackless are really good for a wood. There are nails made for concrete that ...
removing tile flooring3/13/2011
  Q: i am planning on removing tile floor in my kitchen as well as cartpet in the family room that is ...
  A: What type of tile do you now have in your kitchen (ceramic, vinyl, etc.)? What type of flooring will ...
Carpet fading3/11/2011
  Q: My carpet does not have a lot of traffic and without small children or pets living in the home ...
  A: UV sunlight will negatively affect the dyes used in any textile, (upholstered furniture, clothing, ...
Combining Hardwood and Wall to Wall Flooring3/10/2011
  Q: Does having a dinning room and hall floor in hardwood flooring, an adjacent living room in wall to ...
  A: I would need to know the layout of your home. In other words, I would need to see a drawing of ...
Flooring over concrete in basement3/9/2011
  Q: I want to re-floor a basement family room. I was thinking of using Mannington Allure (available at ...
  A: I am very concerned about your health. If you have a black adhesive, that adhesive may be the old ...
water damage to laminate floor & ceramic tile3/7/2011
  Q: the toilet in my condo flooded out 3/4 of our home from a toilet that over flowed and didn't shut ...
  A: Forget the insurance company. They are, in my opinion, giving you improper information. Today's ...
Carpet Adhesive3/4/2011
  Q: We just had pad and carpet installed on our basement concrete floor. The installer used Parabond ...
  A: A new carpet smell and a new padding smell used to be related to VOC's (volatile organic compounds). ...
porcelain tile2/28/2011
  Q: we just installed some porcelain tile and my wife would like to be a little shinier then it is and ...
  A: When tile is made it is fired and then prepared with a permanent gloss level. Some are manufactured ...
Leveling a floor before carpeting2/27/2011
  Q: How do you level a floor with compound that is off by over an inch? I am moving to an apartment ...
  A: It really depends upon where the high spot is, and how large is the high spot. You also should find ...
Major Problems with Carpet...Please answer ASAP2/27/2011
  Q: This question is urgent because we have to be prepared to speak with the manufacture in the next day ...
  A: There are many things that could be causing your problems. The carpet could be installed ...
Carpet to hardwood transition2/24/2011
  Q: We have a living/dining room area that is approximately 12 feet wide by 30 feet long. The entire ...
  A: again, Tammy;I strongly urge you to purchase ANY type of floor covering from a local, reputable, ...
Carpet to hardwood transition2/24/2011
  Q: We have a living/dining room area that is approximately 12 feet wide by 30 feet long. The entire ...
  A: Nothing wrong about installing a reducer strip or transition strip in that area. I would not ...
Laminate flooring2/21/2011
  Q: WE had a hot water tank leak while we were on holidays July 2010. A restoration contractor came ...
  A: The laminate flooring may not have been allowed to acclimate properly before being installed, the ...
Laminate flooring2/20/2011
  Q: WE had a hot water tank leak while we were on holidays July 2010. A restoration contractor came ...
  A: again, Theresa;From what you say the contractor stated, it appears he does not have full knowledge ...
Laminate flooring2/19/2011
  Q: WE had a hot water tank leak while we were on holidays July 2010. A restoration contractor came ...
  A: To start, I'm sorry you replaced carpet with hard surfaced flooring. Carpet is one of the ...
RE; Bathroom floor2/19/2011
  Q: We are putting a new tile floor in our bathroom. We have removed the underlayment and subfloor and ...
  A: I would suggest that you do nothing further regarding the installation. You did not indicate what ...
Carpet2/18/2011
  Q: When installing carpet should the carpet people change their dirty shoes when working on the carpet ...
  A: The installation of any carpet in the U. S. or Canada MUST be done in accordance with the diagram ...
travertinefloors2/16/2011
  Q: is travertine floor tile use in a commercial application okay...what are the pros and cons....can ...
  A: Travertine is a soft stone so placing it in a commercial installation would depend upon the type of ...
Mixing and matching tiles2/14/2011
  Q: Can I use different tiles in my formal lounge and main bedroom, to the tiles in the entrance and ...
  A: Since I can't see your layout and tile possibilities, I can only give you my suggestions, and I am ...
carpet manufacturers2/11/2011
  Q: In an answer to Rhondas question about Mohawk "Smart Strain" and Shaw "Anso Nylon" you stated that ...
  A: It's Mohawk Smartstrand. I have been in the floor covering industry in many capacities including ...
Re-cutting and replacing tiles2/10/2011
  Q: We had DuraCeramic installed and are not happy with some of the cuts where they do not fit snugly ...
  A: again, Ingrid Cogdill;Moulding is NOT a staple in every installation. Numerous installations are ...
Re-cutting and replacing tiles2/10/2011
  Q: We had DuraCeramic installed and are not happy with some of the cuts where they do not fit snugly ...
  A: You did not indicate if the dealer's installer put the tiles down, if you contracted with your own ...
cottage floor2/10/2011
  Q: We have a cottage in northern Ontario near Blind River/Elliot lake. It is water accessible only so ...
  A: Today's floor covering is manufactured so it is 'green', friendly to our environment, as are the ...
rabbit friendly2/9/2011
  Q: i have the opportunity to refloor my apartment, but i have a bunny, and i am concerned about fibres, ...
  A: All I can tell you is that today's carpet has very low VOC's, (volatile organic compounds), so for ...
kitchen reno : flooring2/9/2011
  Q: We are ready to reno the kitchen! House is open plan bungalow. Whatever flooring is in the entrance ...
  A: No matter what type of flooring you install, maintenance is YOUR responsibility. That includes the ...
hollow spots in new wood floor2/8/2011
  Q: We had Anderson engineered wood installed on a concrete slab in South Florida in the last 3 months. ...
  A: Since I can't see your hardwood floor, I can only guess. If you hear hollow sounds that could be ...
Porclain kitchen floor tile2/6/2011
  Q: we are doing a kitchen reno. we removed the old lino flooring that was glued to particle board on ...
  A: again, Tracy;If there is no adhesive transfer to the tiles, then it appears that the most likely ...
Flooring2/5/2011
  Q: Is Bamboo flooring bad for you? Iv heard it lets of gasses due to the glue its compressed with ...
  A: Before any floor covering manufacturer brings product to market, extensive research is done ...
vinyl tile water damage2/4/2011
  Q: I had water damage in a commercial property. The vinyl tile was installed over concrete two years ...
  A: Not knowing the adjuster, or being able to see your installation, I don't think the adjuster has ...
Corn Rowing in Shaw Carpet2/4/2011
  Q: We purchased our carpet almost a year ago and had it professionally installed. We chose the most ...
  A: Corn rowing can be related to a yarn problem in mfg., however that is very rare. Corn rowing is ...
Water Damage on Tile floor2/4/2011
  Q: Greetings. My water heater on the ground floor of my home rusted through while I was gone for the ...
  A: As far as how soon problems may appear depends upon if the water did seep under the tiles. Also ...
carpet and baseboard heating2/1/2011
  Q: I bought a house in April and now that the winter is here i have been discovering that the living ...
  A: If the installer just tucked the carpet under the heater, and the carpet is installed over padding, ...
Carpet Smell1/31/2011
  Q: We had a new carpet installed approximately one month ago and have been airing out the room since ...
  A: I can see no health issue in having the carpet cleaned, however I'm not a doctor, so I can't give ...
carpet comparison1/30/2011
  Q: Trying to decide between Mohawk Smartstrand Pleasant Surprise with an 1/2" 8lb. pad and Anso nylon ...
  A: again, Laren; If there is a chance that your cats will urinate, deficate, or vomit, on the carpet, ...
Flooring1/28/2011
  Q: Why don't you recommend Shaw or Lumber Liquidators. I researched them in Consumer Report and they ...
  A: My answer to your question is based on years of experience in all facets of floor covering, ...
choice of product for basement1/28/2011
  Q: I am having to replace the 3-year old carpeting in my basement because our water heater flooded. We ...
  A: again, Eloise;Cushioned products are limited with weight loads, furniture leg sizes, roller caster ...
choice of product for basement1/27/2011
  Q: I am having to replace the 3-year old carpeting in my basement because our water heater flooded. We ...
  A: I assume that, being in a basement, the subfloor is concrete. If so, just remember that moisture in ...
Floating floor separation1/27/2011
  Q: I laid a solid bamboo floating floor over a radiant heat system. Now a 3 foot section between two ...
  A: There are at least 9 possible causes for the gapping, so since I can't see your installation, I ...
Inspection services1/27/2011
  Q: I am seeking to determine whether the finish on a maple floor in a gymnasium was properly refinished ...
  A: There may be a non-destructive way of determining if a proper refinishing was done. The paint ...
Engineered Wood Flooring1/27/2011
  Q: I have a home with Stained concrete floors and has a clear high gloss sealer over the stain. ...
  A: When you say you have had many different opinions, do you mean that you want to install an ...
engineered hardwood over in floor heat1/26/2011
  Q: About 4 months ago we had professionally installed santos mahogany engineered hardwood. It was ...
  A: When you say, 'in floor heat', do you mean radiant heat strips under a subfloor, incased in a ...
Wool carpet vs Nylon1/26/2011
  Q: We are getting ready to purchase carpet for our stairs, upper level foyer, and master bedroom. We ...
  A: again, Cindy;Carpet is manufactured to be a healthful floor covering. You mention allergies. It ...
Hardwood over concrete1/26/2011
  Q: I'm looking to install 3/4" hardwood pine planks over concrete in the 20 year old home I just ...
  A: First I'm going to 'throw you a couple of curves'. Remember that one of the healthiest floor ...
Wool carpet vs Nylon1/26/2011
  Q: We are getting ready to purchase carpet for our stairs, upper level foyer, and master bedroom. We ...
  A: Remember that carpet is one of the most healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile that ...
fixing our tile floor.1/23/2011
  Q: We recently had to remove the tiles in front of our dishwasher in order to remove it and install a ...
  A: I'm not fully understanding your question. Are you having a hard time finding 12x12's? If so, ...
Door Mat1/22/2011
  Q: We've installed a double wide front door(60") & the bldg inspector wants us to lay down a rubber mat ...
  A: First I would need to know what type of floor covering you have inside your front door, because some ...
Laminate installation between rooms1/20/2011
  Q: I installed WilsonArt laminate in my living room (20 x 24) a couple of years ago. I began the ...
  A: Remember that you should not clean laminate flooring with water, so installing it in an area prone ...
replacing partcal bd. sub floor1/16/2011
  Q: We would like to replace carpeting on second floor with a prefinished hardwood floor. However the ...
  A: Please forgive me for being a little 'long winded' in my answer, but I just want to give you some ...
flooring1/15/2011
  Q: My husband farms and we live on a gravel road. We are remodeling the kitchen and it is quite often ...
  A: Reker;Thanks for your question. No matter how tough the top protective layer is on any type of ...
water under tiles in bathroom and hallway1/15/2011
  Q: MY insurance company is saying they will not cover damages caused by water under my tile. They are ...
  A: again, Barry;All of the needed information, including your additional information in your follow-up ...
water under tiles in bathroom and hallway1/14/2011
  Q: MY insurance company is saying they will not cover damages caused by water under my tile. They are ...
  A: First, your insurance company has not, in my opinion, given you correct information. Depending upon ...
identify carpets by rn numbers1/13/2011
  Q: quality name and manufacturer of carpets ..rn# 19619
  A: The RN # you list, according to an old cross reference book, is registered to Stark Carpet, who is ...
FLOOR TILES1/13/2011
  Q: One of my officemates asked me the type of flooring our office have and I said it is vinyl but ...
  A: Vitrifying is a process of applying a glassy type glaze to a ceramic type tile before the tile is ...
a flat kitchen floor1/12/2011
  Q: I'm a DIY'er. i want to lay ceramic tile on my kitchen floor. there is linoleum down now. my plan is ...
  A: Whether you are a DIY'er or not, you are making an investment, which you want to protect. If you ...
water damaged ceramic tile1/11/2011
  Q: We recently purchased a home and before we even moved in we had a toilet on the second floor ...
  A: again, Erin;Everything should be checked. My suggestion would be for you to call in a company that ...
water damaged ceramic tile1/11/2011
  Q: We recently purchased a home and before we even moved in we had a toilet on the second floor ...
  A: Should you be concerned? ABSOLUTELY! Being on the second floor, you probably have a wood subfloor, ...
Hardwood flooring cupping1/7/2011
  Q: Our home ( bungalow ) is about 25 years old. Recently we had the parquet flooring removed in all ...
  A: First, are you sure there is cupping. Cupping is caused by one thing and one thing only, moisture. ...
aesbestos1/6/2011
  Q: Was aesbestos ever used under hardwood floors? We live in old apartment building with original ...
  A: When you say 'under hardwood floors', do you mean the underlayment on which the hardwood is ...
Entryway flooring1/6/2011
  Q: We are going to be putting a wood floor in our living room and I am looking for a recommendation on ...
  A: In my opinion, since any type of floor covering is a very involved product to manufacture, and ...
cleaning hardwood floors1/6/2011
  Q: I have recently contracted with a housecleaning company. They use micro fiber mop schmops with ...
  A: First I strongly urge you to find out the name of the EXACT manufacturer of your hardwood. 'Google' ...
Mobile home flooring1/5/2011
  Q: I am redoing my bathroom and was wanting to tile the floor.To avoid excessive height ( 3/4 ply wood, ...
  A: Usually, cement board manufacturers do not recommend their products to be used as underlayments in ...
Entryway flooring1/4/2011
  Q: We are going to be putting a wood floor in our living room and I am looking for a recommendation on ...
  A: First I just wanted to let you know that one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have is ...
Carpet12/29/2010
  Q: I have a 12' by 16' space (living room) that I want to carpet. What is your opinion on carpet with ...
  A: With carpet tiles, you must be certain you have a very flat and level subfloor. Carpet tiles will ...
laminate vinyl peel & stick mistake12/15/2010
  Q: My mom & I tried to install a laminate vinyl peel & stick floor in the living room as a Christmas ...
  A: Since I can't see your installation I can only guess as to the cause(s). Are you certain the ...
Tile -Mastic vs Thinset12/8/2010
  Q: The bathroom/laundry room is getting a ceramic tile floor this week. The contractor bought Mapei 909 ...
  A: again, Shel;It depends upon the type of ceramic tile you intend to use. Today's tiles are ...
Tile -Mastic vs Thinset12/8/2010
  Q: The bathroom/laundry room is getting a ceramic tile floor this week. The contractor bought Mapei 909 ...
  A: Mapei is one of the world's largest manufacturer of all types of adhesives, including mastic and ...
Installing 1/4 round Pergo molding12/4/2010
  Q: When installing the 1/4 round molding: 1) What size and length brad? 2) What location and angle to ...
  A: First be certain, if you are installing a laminate type plank floor, you leave a proper perimeter ...
Dance Studio Floor11/30/2010
  Q: I have recently opened a dance studio. The property use to be an old church with beautiful hardwood ...
  A: The carpet has to come up, however do you know what is under the existing wood floors (plywood, ...
Engineered wood floors11/29/2010
  Q: We moved back from the UK to the US last year. Prior to our move we updated our home in the states. ...
  A: First, STOP using water, bleach, and/or vinegar on your engineered hardwood floors. Use ONLY what ...
spots on engineered wood flooring11/27/2010
  Q: why does my newly installed engineered wood flooring have quarter sized shiny spots all over it? the ...
  A: First, I hope that any cleaning that was done to your floor was done ONLY with the cleaning products ...
idenifying carpet mill11/23/2010
  Q: I have been trying to indenify a carpet I saw in a home improvement store it said citation carpet ...
  A: again, Jim;First I suggest that you not purchase ANY floor covering manufactured by Shaw Industries. ...
idenifying carpet mill11/23/2010
  Q: I have been trying to indenify a carpet I saw in a home improvement store it said citation carpet ...
  A: When a mill makes a carpet, they give it a production name. To try and eliminate competetive ...
luan or not11/22/2010
  Q: I pulled up 1 foot square vinyl tiles in kitchen and utility room. I was going to put down luan but ...
  A: You did not indicate on what surface were the tiles you lifted installed. Forinstance, if you have ...
Floor Protection11/19/2010
  Q: I have hardwood floors in my kitchen and living room in my house, and they keep getting scratched by ...
  A: You may want to investigate that the scratches may have been present for some time, even if you ...
Dry Feet and New Carpeting11/15/2010
  Q: A few months ago I moved into a one-bedroom apartment with brand new carpeting. I typically walk ...
  A: It would be doubtful that anything in the carpet construction would cause your problem, however I ...
stone stairs11/11/2010
  Q: e how do i secure it down do i use an adhesive ? many thamks
  A: You did not mention if the carpet was to be installed over padding or glued to the stone, if the ...
nylon or smart strand?11/8/2010
  Q: I have always used nylon carpet for it's wear and durability but recently I saw the smart strands ...
  A: Smartstrand is a good yarn. However it does come in various textures, so visit the website, ...
Carpet Selection for Apartments11/8/2010
  Q: I am trying to determine the "best" carpet to install in the Multi Family Industry. I am currently ...
  A: again, Joey;I would suggest three yarn systems that are available in many different textures, price ...
Carpet Selection for Apartments11/8/2010
  Q: I am trying to determine the "best" carpet to install in the Multi Family Industry. I am currently ...
  A: I would like to suggest some products to you, but I would like to know if the locations are rental ...
carpet11/7/2010
  Q: We are wanting to replace the carpet in our family room (16X21). Our carpet is 10yrs old and looks ...
  A: Smartstrand by Mohawk is a good product. Visit the website, <mohawkind.com>, and look through the ...
Type of carpet11/7/2010
  Q: We are replacing the carpet in our living room. The room has a lot of glass facing the west which is ...
  A: First, remember that harmful UV sunlight will negatively affect ANY floor covering, including ...
which carpet to choose11/5/2010
  Q: I have seen the Smartstrand carpet they put in zoo (elephnats). Question; for a residence with a ...
  A: I'm going to start my answer to you with my opinion of a choice of manufacturers. This is my ...
vct floorin11/4/2010
  Q: If some vct tiles were installed upside down, will it look right after srtip& wax?
  A: Usually, on the back of VCT tiles there are arrows printed on to show the installer in which ...
Flooring options in filled concrete basement11/4/2010
  Q: We are getting ready to finish out our basement. Our contract/contractor specifies vinyl ...
  A: again, Jessica;All the areas you mention should have hard surfaced floor covering. When you do ...
Choosing Commercial Carpeting11/3/2010
  Q: We are in the process of replacing the first floor carpeting of our office after recent fire damage. ...
  A: again, Sylvia;If the carpet containing the olefin was manufactured at the lower density, the olefin ...
Choosing Commercial Carpeting11/3/2010
  Q: We are in the process of replacing the first floor carpeting of our office after recent fire damage. ...
  A: Strudon is an olefin fiber. Olefin has good soil and stain resistance as well as good wear, however ...
Flooring options in filled concrete basement11/3/2010
  Q: We are getting ready to finish out our basement. Our contract/contractor specifies vinyl ...
  A: To be honest, I would suggest that you not take the advice of either. Let me know for what you ...
vinyl peel and stick11/2/2010
  Q: I'm rehabbing a manufactured home with OSB sub flooring. I've pulled up 3 layers of vinyl, layered ...
  A: You need to have a subfloor that the EXACT manufacturer of the vinyl tile you plan to use states in ...
Marble floor maintenance11/2/2010
  Q: I'm getting ready to install marble on my bathroom floor. Is special maintenance required? Do I have ...
  A: Special installation specifications and special maintenance is required. BEFORE YOU ATTEMPT THE ...
Locking engineered flooring10/29/2010
  Q: I am a homeowner about to install a locking wood floor for the first time. I will need to change ...
  A: I'm in California until next Wed. when I will be back in my NYC office, so I will send you my ...
Replacing floor with tar adhered to it10/28/2010
  Q: We have torn up a old carpet to find a layer of tile and another layer of linoleum. The bottom ...
  A: I don't think it is tar. So don't do anything. I'm holding an inspection school in Los Angeles and ...
flooring10/24/2010
  Q: i have pine wood walls in my den i want to put laminate flooring down what color would you ...
  A: Unfortunately, I am not an interior designer, and I can't see your installation, so I would not be ...
wood floor repair10/16/2010
  Q: In my bedroom, I have a nice wood floor that has recently been destroyed by my desk chair. I didn't ...
  A: In order for me to give you answers, I would have to see your flooring. When you say, 'recently ...
bamboo floor10/11/2010
  Q: I have superficial very light scratches in the finish of a bamboo floor. I would not normally worry ...
  A: Since you have an intense landlord, it would probably be important to refinish your bamboo floor ...
Covering our rental unit carpet with something more appealing10/9/2010
  Q: My boyfriend and I live in a really nice rental cottage, but we don't like the carpet in the living ...
  A: When you say covering up the carpet, do you mean leaving the carpet down and putting something on ...
Shaw/Tuftex Carpet10/5/2010
  Q: This is in answer to the information you requested. There are 2 people in the home, no pets, and ...
  A: I'm in NJ as well, in the Morristown area. First let's talk about product-remember that you walk on ...
Shaw/Tuftex Carpet10/3/2010
  Q: I am considering purchasing carpeting which is Tuftex by Shaw. It is nylon and has the SoftBac ...
  A: My following answer to you regarding Shaw Industries is my opinion, based upon many years of ...
tile install9/29/2010
  Q: I have hired a company to install Travertine stone tile over shiny ceramic tile. The ceramic tile ...
  A: The multipurpose Thin-Set mortar is ok, however I really need to know what a 'mini jack hammer' is. ...
Hardwood Fooring9/20/2010
  Q: I recently purchased hardwood flooring from a local merchant. The cost of materials and ...
  A: First, who measured the job to determine the total sq. ft. needed. If the dealer did, he would have ...
Floors for Summer Camp9/19/2010
  Q: I am donating new floors to a non-profit summer camp. Budget is definitely a factor. I am looking ...
  A: I would suggest that you visit those other camps and see what type of flooring they really are ...
flooring over pressure treated wood9/18/2010
  Q: I have recently purchaased an outdoor shed with a pressure treated floor but without a smooth finish ...
  A: What you propose to use is designed for environments that must be controlled to meet certain ...
Floors for Summer Camp9/18/2010
  Q: I am donating new floors to a non-profit summer camp. Budget is definitely a factor. I am looking ...
  A: Nice gesture, however VCT, engineered flooring, and ceramic would probably be wrong choices. Those ...
Armstong Alterna Luxury Vinyl Tile9/17/2010
  Q: I am wondering if anyone has any experience with this product. Back in April a flooring business ...
  A: The product appears to have the contents of a well made tile. The aluminum oxide content of the top ...
Travertine floor tile9/16/2010
  Q: We are replacing our kitchen floor and chose a beautiful travertine tile. We have gotten several ...
  A: Travertine is a porus, soft stone, so constant, proper maintenance is important, and you should ...
Mohawk Engineered wood splintering and cracking9/13/2010
  Q: 1. Per following attached report by manufacturer's inspector, “If the environmental conditions are ...
  A: I have no suggestions as to an attorney. I would suggest that you contact your local BAR ...
Removing marble tile that was laid directly on concrete floor without the cork underlayment.9/12/2010
  Q: I bought a condo on the 60th floor in "as is" condition and the previous owner had very nice marble ...
  A: again, Kit;My questions to you were, in part, to get any feedback from you as to why you thought ...
outdoor carpet on front porch9/12/2010
  Q: I read your response to the woman who had a stain coming up through her carpet and you seem very ...
  A: Jim;You probably used lauan (pronounced loo-on). I hope you used rust resistant screws, since ...
carpet9/11/2010
  Q: I am trying to find where I can purchase carpet for a room. No insulation. I am looking for good ...
  A: A low dense pile would be a 1/10th gauge (every 1/10th of an inch across the width of the carpet, is ...
outdoor carpet on front porch9/11/2010
  Q: I read your response to the woman who had a stain coming up through her carpet and you seem very ...
  A: I am not familiar with the product you purchased. First, if it contains an olefin ...
using old carpet padding9/10/2010
  Q: we have bought some used carpet (light beige) to recarpet our old house, it is a large livingroom ...
  A: Padding will decrease in proper support of any carpet, as the padding ages, especially 20 year old ...
carpet over parquetry9/9/2010
  Q: John, the previous owners of the house have installed carpet over parquetry. We would like to ...
  A: First, just remember, that one of the healthiest floor coverings you can have is carpet. It has a ...
Carpet options - safer, greener options9/9/2010
  Q: I was amazed with your knowledge and the detailed information you shared with other people on ...
  A: Based upon your requirements, I would suggest you visit the website of, <mohawkind.com> and look ...
Shower walk off9/8/2010
  Q: We have a commercial building with locker rooms and showers that exit directly into the locker room ...
  A: First, let's talk about mildew and mold. They are living organisms that feed upon other living ...
carpet9/7/2010
  Q: I am trying to find where I can purchase carpet for a room. No insulation. I am looking for good ...
  A: again, Teri;The main thing with which you must deal is maintenance. Since you have abrasive soils ...
carpet9/7/2010
  Q: I am trying to find where I can purchase carpet for a room. No insulation. I am looking for good ...
  A: What kind of a room? I assume when you say, 'no insulation', you mean a room without any type of ...
Healthiest flooring for homes9/7/2010
  Q: We have bought a new house in Houston,Tx, which has carpet. I have health issues and do not do well ...
  A: Sorry to disagree with you, but carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It ...
design-carpets9/6/2010
  Q: I have one large room, dining room, living room - wood floors and wish to purchase area ...
  A: I'm not an interior designer, so my answer, without seeing your installation, is based upon only my ...
peel and stick tiles9/5/2010
  Q: first question-I see from your other answers that you think peel & stick tiles are the devil. ...
  A: You use two terms that are of concern. Linoleum is a totally different product than a vinyl floor. ...
floor on sonotube foundation9/4/2010
  Q: I just bought a house in Boston suburb. It has an extended room built on sonotube foundation. Right ...
  A: Just because your home is a residence does not mean you can't have carpet designed for commercial ...
floor on sonotube foundation9/4/2010
  Q: I just bought a house in Boston suburb. It has an extended room built on sonotube foundation. Right ...
  A: With some additional information I need from you, I will be happy to give you some generic ...
Shaw Carpet9/3/2010
  Q: I found a style of carpeting we are interested in. It is Shaw Estate house. We wanted to purchase ...
  A: If you have read any of my responses to folks who ask questions about all types of floor coverings. ...
floor on sonotube foundation9/1/2010
  Q: I just bought a house in Boston suburb. It has an extended room built on sonotube foundation. Right ...
  A: The coldness could be rectified by installing a radiant heat system, HOWEVER, only certain types of ...
Laying Tile on Concrete floor8/31/2010
  Q: Your answers to others helped me very much in preoaration process now I'm ready for a main part. I'm ...
  A: First I do hope you have done the proper moisture testing on the concrete before you start any ...
Floor covering for concrete8/30/2010
  Q: I live in Alberta, Canada. We have a cabin which currently has a concrete floor. It is about 15 ...
  A: The floor covering manufacturers of today's products are deeply into making 'green' products, ...
Porcelain tile floor8/25/2010
  Q: 6 years ago my husband installed porcelain tile over hardibacker, applying the grout to the floor ...
  A: There are many reasons that could be causing the problems. The age of the grout, where it was ...
Gaps after converting from carpet to hardwood8/24/2010
  Q: When we bought this house it had very old, very colorful, very 70's carpeting. We had pergo ...
  A: You didn't mention the width of the gaps. I would suggest that you visit the website, ...
loose carpey8/21/2010
  Q: I have carpet on a basement floor that is coming loose in spots.Is their anyway that this can be ...
  A: You didn't indicate if the carpet is installed over padding or glued directly down. If it is ...
commercial vinyl tile8/21/2010
  Q: I have to lay down commercial vinyl tile but the floor has 3/8 osb is there anything i have to apply ...
  A: The answer to your question depends upon the manufacturing of your vinyl tile. Some manufacturers ...
New Hardwood Floor8/20/2010
  Q: We have a 400 sq ft living room where we are considering installing Kempas Hardwood Flooring. I was ...
  A: The aluminum oxide and type of protective coat are compatable. The aluminum oxide adds hardness to ...
kitchen floor coverings for painful feet8/20/2010
  Q: My husband has a peripheral arterial disease and we're trying to keep our house looking normal. We ...
  A: I would like to see a layout of your kitchen, so if you could send me a follow-up question with a ...
Uneven concrete floors & laminate flooring8/20/2010
  Q: We pulled our carpet up in our condo apartment only to discover that the concrete floors are very ...
  A: All hard surfaced flooring needs a flat, level underlayment, especially with the variances in your ...
New Hardwood Floor8/19/2010
  Q: We have a 400 sq ft living room where we are considering installing Kempas Hardwood Flooring. I was ...
  A: again, Tom;When you say 'site' finished. If you mean that the hardwood will have its finish layer ...
Worn Wood Floors8/18/2010
  Q: My husband and I are buying our first house. We're both very excited. I can't wait to get in there ...
  A: You did not mention if the hardwood was solid hardwood (a solid piece of hardwood), or engineered ...
hardwood flooring8/17/2010
  Q: we live in a two-story row home in Philadelphia,and we're getting new hardwood flooring laid over ...
  A: The very first thing you MUST do is to obtain the installation specifications published by the EXACT ...
floor deflection8/16/2010
  Q: I have a home built in 1896 and in the dining room I think there is the original hardwood floor. We ...
  A: I am not a building contractor, so to rectify your present deflection problem you need the expertise ...
Shaw Carpet8/13/2010
  Q: Why is flooing by Shaw not recommended?
  A: My answer to you is just my opinion based on many years of experience in the floor covering ...
marble floors in a bathroom8/11/2010
  Q: I am trying to decide between honed vs. polished marble floors in a master bath remodel. Is the ...
  A: Some pros and cons. Marble flooring is porous so maintenance is constant, and the maintenance must ...
Brown stains on Permastone flootr8/9/2010
  Q: We've had a Permastone floor in our kitchen for about 6 years. For the past few years, we have ...
  A: Since I can't see your floor I can only guess as to the cause. First I hope you are using proper, ...
parquet wood flooring and mold8/9/2010
  Q: For approximately four days our central air conditioner (wall unit in an apartment building) leaked ...
  A: Mold are living organisims. They feed on other organisims. You should worry about mold and ...
parquet wood flooring and mold8/9/2010
  Q: For approximately four days our central air conditioner (wall unit in an apartment building) leaked ...
  A: again, Lucy;Even if the concrete is covered with tar, you should not clean parquet with water. Wood ...
parquet wood flooring and mold8/9/2010
  Q: For approximately four days our central air conditioner (wall unit in an apartment building) leaked ...
  A: Moisture is the greatest causes of failures in all types of floor covering installations. If I am ...
Floor covering for a cottage8/7/2010
  Q: I have a cottage in Northern Ontario that is closed up during the winter months and therefore any ...
  A: Most floor covering is meant to be installed, either by snapping together, glueing, or loose laying ...
New Hardwood Floor8/7/2010
  Q: We have a 400 sq ft living room where we are considering installing Kempas Hardwood Flooring. I was ...
  A: First, understand what you wish to purchase. Hardsurfaced flooring is non-absorbent, so harmful ...
nafco permastone8/6/2010
  Q: It is gruotless , can I waterproof it (like with a sealant) the kind we spongmop it with something ...
  A: The factory finish on Permastone may not be compatable with the type of finish/sealer you mention. ...
carbet seam on foam back carpet8/2/2010
  Q: How do you cut this when using a razor knife. ANSWER: Hi Sam;Thanks for your question. Are you ...
  A: again, Sam;I want to give you the very best information I can, however I really need to know answers ...
SOLID HICKORY UPSTAIR INSTALL BUCKLING7/30/2010
  Q: SOLDI WOOD MAKE IN LOS ANGELES TOOK ONEMONTH TO MAKE, PREFIFNISHED 20 MILES AWAY TOOKONE MONTH, LEFT ...
  A: Andrea; When the boards are installed, and the temperature and humidity levels are within the ...
SOLID HICKORY UPSTAIR INSTALL BUCKLING7/30/2010
  Q: SOLDI WOOD MAKE IN LOS ANGELES TOOK ONEMONTH TO MAKE, PREFIFNISHED 20 MILES AWAY TOOKONE MONTH, LEFT ...
  A: From what you have told me, it sounds like the boards were improperly handled and installed, however ...
basement stairs & carpet7/29/2010
  Q: We have a finished walk out basement that has carpet in need of replacement. We are considering a ...
  A: Nothing wrong with the carpet choice for the basement and stairs. I'm not an interior designer so ...
carpet7/28/2010
  Q: We are trying to decide between 2 brands and types of carpet to use to re-carpet our downstairs. ...
  A: The XT Polyester is a good fiber at a lower price, and its texture should hold up under the use of ...
underlayment for karndean vinyl plank7/28/2010
  Q: I live on the 3rd floor of a new condo construction. I want to remove the carpet and install ...
  A: again, Rebecca;Call 1-888-266-4343. That is Karndean technical services dept. Ask for their STC ...
underlayment for karndean vinyl plank7/28/2010
  Q: I live on the 3rd floor of a new condo construction. I want to remove the carpet and install ...
  A: First, various laminate manufacturers publish installation specifications which list lots of ...
quick step 800 uniclic7/27/2010
  Q: My refrigerator had a water leak and caused bubbles on the floor. Can I fix this. Roy
  A: The damage may be covered under your homeowner's insurance, so, perhaps, you may want to check that ...
heated flooring7/27/2010
  Q: Is there a special glue that is used for putting a heating mat under a wood floor that is being ...
  A: BEFORE you attempt to install, find out the name of the EXACT manufacturer of the wood floor you ...
anti-Shaw7/25/2010
  Q: I'm in the market for carpet. Looking at the anso-nylon and the triexta. I noticed that you ...
  A: Just watched the Tour-De-France, went out and ran 7 miles, then it began to pour, so I had time and ...
anti-Shaw7/25/2010
  Q: I'm in the market for carpet. Looking at the anso-nylon and the triexta. I noticed that you ...
  A: My answer to you is my opinion, and my opinion is based on years of experience in many facets of the ...
Why when comparing flooring products should I stay away from Shaw & Lumber Liquidators7/21/2010
  Q: Hi I was reading an article about which floor coverings would be best for a basement and was very ...
  A: In my opinion, which is based upon many years in most aspects of the floor covering business, two of ...
Floor Coverings7/20/2010
  Q: I live in a 40 year old condo which was built with asbestos covering on the floors to muffle the ...
  A: If you have ANY asbestos related things in your home, not only are you risking your life, but there ...
What is best flooring for basement?7/20/2010
  Q: I just bought a house that has a finished, dry, walk-out basement. We plan to use the basement as a ...
  A: again, Kevin;IF animal deposits (urine, feces, etc.), are going to be a major problem, then I would ...
What is best flooring for basement?7/20/2010
  Q: I just bought a house that has a finished, dry, walk-out basement. We plan to use the basement as a ...
  A: I would suggest carpet, however I need to know how many in your home including pets, what type of ...
Replacing stairs, hallway & bedroom carpet7/18/2010
  Q: John, We have had to replace our carpet on our stairs, landing, and bedroom upstairs numerous times ...
  A: My first question to you would be why did you have to replace the carpet numerous times. Could it ...
Carpet recommendation7/17/2010
  Q: We are looking to replace the old berber style carpet in our dining room and adjoining living room ...
  A: again, Ron;No. Solution dyed nylon is where the color is added to the nylon while the nylon is ...
Carpet recommendation7/16/2010
  Q: We are looking to replace the old berber style carpet in our dining room and adjoining living room ...
  A: Visit the website of, <mohawkind.com>, and view their carpets containing their Smartstrand fiber. ...
self levelling compound7/16/2010
  Q: Regards Surinder
  A: To answer your question I would need to know on what type of surface would you be applying the ...
The cleaning of Italian porcelain tile7/13/2010
  Q: I recently installed an Italian porcelain tile, (Torino Akad), which resembles a wood floor. I love ...
  A: It sounds like you are improperly maintaining the tile so I suggest that you IMMEDIATELY stop using ...
Den flooring7/12/2010
  Q: I'm 70 years old, living alone and have a tweed color berber wall to wall carpet in a 11x9 den. It ...
  A: The first thing you should do is catch a couple of the ants and put them in a plastic sandwich bag ...
Identify manufacturer by RN #7/7/2010
  Q: John, The carpet sample bares the RN # 72818. Can you identify the manufacturer? Thanks!
  A: The RN number you list is registered to Carpet One, who is a franchised chain of floor covering ...
installing underlayment under vinyl plank flooring7/7/2010
  Q: I am going to install a floating vinyl plank flooring system in four connecting rooms in my home. ...
  A: All vinyl plank manufacturers have done extensive testing for the manufacturing of the product, the ...
Carpet Buckles7/6/2010
  Q: My mother had her basement rec room recarpeted through an insurance claim (sewer backup)2 years ago. ...
  A: If the carpet was inspected by a mill, was the inspector an outside, independent floor covering ...
Plywood over concrete slab7/6/2010
  Q: I'm thinking about installing an engineered wood flooring in my living room which is on a concrete ...
  A: First I'll give you another solution. You might want to rethink your choice of floor covering. ...
Carpet Heaves7/6/2010
  Q: My mother had her basement rec room recarpeted through an insurance claim (sewer backup)2 years ago. ...
  A: When you say, 'heaves', are they the same as the 'buckles' you indicate on the stairs, or do you ...
cleaning Brazilian cherry floor7/6/2010
  Q: I want to prep a home for sale that has about 2500 sq ft of wood flooring. The house is only 3 ...
  A: Don't do anything until you find out the name of the EXACT manufacturer of that wood flooring. ...
Can wood floors be equally quiet as carpet7/5/2010
  Q: Our condo building is going through the usual - can we replace our existing carpet with hardwood. ...
  A: again, Ann;It certainly depends on the construction of the carpet and pad chosen. An inexpensive ...
Can wood floors be equally quiet as carpet7/4/2010
  Q: Our condo building is going through the usual - can we replace our existing carpet with hardwood. ...
  A: Carpet quietness is not exceeded by hardwood, even if the hardwood is installed over an underlayment ...
Flooring for handicapped7/4/2010
  Q: I am in my wheelchair when cooking, but for going from room to room, I use a walker with wheels on ...
  A: I never received your prior inquiry. I need you to answer a couple of questions so I can reply to ...
Cleaning releasable glue from concrete floor7/2/2010
  Q: I am having commercial carpet tiles installed on a concrete floor in my sunroom with releasable ...
  A: Today's adhesives are vastly different than those made just a few years ago. Adhesive manufacturers ...
carpet pad7/2/2010
  Q: I did check into your suggestions about the carpet padding. I contacted Foamex and they do not sell ...
  A: Nothing is moisture proof, just moisture resistant. If the ground in your crawl space was covered ...
Carpet7/1/2010
  Q: It is very helpful! I would like to also add that we will be replacing additional carpet in our ...
  A: Regardless what carpet you choose, remember to include the installation and padding recommendations ...
Which carpet should I buy?6/30/2010
  Q: I have narrowed down my carpet choices to a Karastan BCF Nylon with scotchgard protector and a ...
  A: If the computer is in the study, just remember that any carpet will take a beating from the chair ...
millikin Carpet tiles6/30/2010
  Q: I purchased Millikin legato Dawn carpet tiles over a year ago. I would like to order a few extra ...
  A: Two suggestions. I 'googled' 'discontinued Milliken carpet tiles', and came up with a bunch of ...
konecto casa vinyl flooring6/29/2010
  Q: I am considering having konecto layed by a contractor, in my livingroom and diningroom. It will be ...
  A: You should not clean hardwood or laminate with water, so topical deposits of a liquid type, such as ...
Quik Step6/29/2010
  Q: Is the Quick Step laminate "Perspective" collection considered a decent laminate flooring (we have ...
  A: Quick Step is a fair product, but with kids, why are you choosing hard surfaced flooring? First ...
Replacing carpet in our basement6/29/2010
  Q: We are planning to replace the carpet in our basement stairs, hallway, bedroom and possibly bathroom ...
  A: Coronet Carpet Mills was purchased by Beaulieu Carpet Mills a while ago. If your basement is to be ...
feltback carpets6/27/2010
  Q: Im currently selling them on ebay which ends today so whats the best way of ripping them up with ...
  A: I don't understand your question. You say, 'felt-back' carpets. Do you mean felt-back vinyl ...
Shower Floor Tile6/26/2010
  Q: Michaels, I just had my Master Bath re-done, and I have a concern about the shower floor, which is 6 ...
  A: I feel your concerns are well founded. A hollow sound indicates a pretty good chance that the ...
Flooring for a 3 seasons room6/24/2010
  Q: I have just finished building a three seasons room as an addition to our house. It is not heated and ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry (cleaning agents, ...
Carpet tile, good or bad idea?6/23/2010
  Q: I have a dining room that is about 220sf with old carpet (maybe 10-12yrs)that is occasionally peed ...
  A: My suggestion would be to visit the website of, <mohawkind.com>, and look through their products ...
Engineered Flooring6/22/2010
  Q: I would like you opinion on which is better and engineered floor that is stapled or glued down or an ...
  A: Did you ever determine the reason for the gapping of your solid wood floor? Possible reasons could ...
3/4" versus 3/8" Floors6/21/2010
  Q: I am planning on installing hardwood floors throughout the bedrooms in my home. A contractor ...
  A: I'm going to answer all your 3 questions, however I'm going to pose a 4th question to you. In a ...
mold growing under parquet flooring6/20/2010
  Q: We installed parquet flooring over the concrete slab of our house. The parquet turned dark in a 2' ...
  A: Robert;I wish I could see your installation to possibly give you some better advice. Guesses may be ...
mold growing under parquet flooring6/19/2010
  Q: We installed parquet flooring over the concrete slab of our house. The parquet turned dark in a 2' ...
  A: again, Robert;Remember that concrete is absorbent and always moves. Nothing is moisture proof, so ...
Dirty Water Damage to Carpet & Tile6/19/2010
  Q: I need some help. We have had "dirty" water damage done to our home. Dirty water went on our ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your water damage. You have mentioned 'bacteria' several times. Bacteria is a ...
mold growing under parquet flooring6/19/2010
  Q: We installed parquet flooring over the concrete slab of our house. The parquet turned dark in a 2' ...
  A: Mold feeds on living things, and such things you will find in moisture and soils, in and under your ...
laminate over concrete in basement6/19/2010
  Q: I am going to put laminate over the concrete in the basement, which has never had a moisture problem ...
  A: Forgive me for first addressing the choice of floor covering. If your basement is a family room ...
carpet6/17/2010
  Q: We are thinking of carpetting our bedroom with Birch Hollow style carpet by Mohawk. Our bedroom is a ...
  A: Mohawk, like other manufacturers, allows a product name to be used in certain areas of the Country ...
steam cleaning frieze carpet6/17/2010
  Q: Can I use my steam cleaner, with spinning brushes on, to clean my frieze carpet or will it make the ...
  A: Don't get angry with me, but steam cleaning carpet yourself with home type equipment is not proper, ...
Shaw Industries6/16/2010
  Q: You said not to use carpet by Shaw industries. Is there a reason? We were also looking at ...
  A: One of the important things to consider when choosing any product, is that should sometning go wrong ...
finishing curved edge tile to wood6/16/2010
  Q: My tiled hallway meets the laminate wood of the living room in a curved shape and is slightly higher ...
  A: again, Terianne;The product is for molding along walls. It has a flat side that is adhered to the ...
finishing curved edge tile to wood6/15/2010
  Q: My tiled hallway meets the laminate wood of the living room in a curved shape and is slightly higher ...
  A: You need a 'free form' type of transition strip, probably in the shape of an uneven 'T', with one ...
Which carpet to purchase6/15/2010
  Q: We need to recarpet our house and have been confused as to what to buy. There seems to be a debate ...
  A: If you choose nylon, you want solution dyed nylon (the dyes are added to the nylon while the nylon ...
Which carpet to purchase6/14/2010
  Q: We need to recarpet our house and have been confused as to what to buy. There seems to be a debate ...
  A: again, Linda;Based upon your answers, Smartstrand would be a proper yarn choice, because of the ...
Which carpet to purchase6/12/2010
  Q: We need to recarpet our house and have been confused as to what to buy. There seems to be a debate ...
  A: In order for me to give you some information, I need to know something about your location, so ...
best type of flooring for me6/12/2010
  Q: I have a second story condo that has carpet. I had noise issues with my neighbors when I first ...
  A: Remember that carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile that ...
Fade Resistant Carpet6/10/2010
  Q: We are going to buy new wall-to-wall carpet for three very sunny rooms. We're retired and for the ...
  A: Nothing is fade proof. Some yarn dyeing systems are more resistant to harmful UV sunlight than ...
Concrete slab moisture6/10/2010
  Q: We had bamboo flooring installed in our home in Las Vegas 10 months ago. About 4 months ago we ...
  A: Michael;If the boards are concave, that would be cupping, and the one and only cause of cupping is ...
Concrete slab moisture6/10/2010
  Q: We had bamboo flooring installed in our home in Las Vegas 10 months ago. About 4 months ago we ...
  A: You use the word, 'buckling'. Moisture would result in the centers of boards being either convex or ...
Carpet Pad6/8/2010
  Q: We are purchasing a 10' X 12' area rug to provide more padding in our infant's playarea. Presently, ...
  A: I'll answer your question in just a minute. Remember that one of the healthiest floor coverings one ...
Carpet Crossover Help6/3/2010
  Q: I found a carpet at Home Depot in Baxter MN , I wanted to review the specs and get another price. ...
  A: First, carpet, like any floor covering, is made to be installed properly, by knowledgeable, ...
carpet installation6/3/2010
  Q: I had new frieze wall to wall carpet installed 3 weeks ago and when I vacuum it raises up. I can ...
  A: Does your sales contract indicate that there is a warranty on installation problems? If so, I would ...
CARPET PEAKS6/3/2010
  Q: John: My carpet has a large puffy seam across it. I'm starting to notice it in some of the other ...
  A: If you have a peaked seam or seams, that usually stems from an installation error, however, from the ...
carpet installation6/2/2010
  Q: I am planning on putting a bookshelf up along one wall in my office space. Do I lay the carpet first ...
  A: You metion 'office space'. If this is a commercial installation and you plan to install the carpet ...
laminate or vinyl5/31/2010
  Q: In our beach cottage that will be shut down for the winter and subject to freezing ...
  A: Anyway, hard surfaced flooring is manufactured, tested, and warrantied to be used in areas where it ...
Soft vs.Hard5/30/2010
  Q: We are trying to decide between a hard floor like vinyl planking and/or carpet or cork We are in ...
  A: The secret about any floor covering you will use is your maintenance. Today's floor covering ...
Travertine to Hardwood Installation5/30/2010
  Q: We hired a decorator that is recommending transition from travertine to hardwood without transition ...
  A: First, understand your installation. Engineered hardwood is a base, topped with a core that is ...
Why no Shaw carpeting?5/29/2010
  Q: In your response to Rhonda on 04/28/10, you stated: "First I suggest that you do not purchase any ...
  A: Any type of floor covering is a very involved product to manufacture, and, occassionally, product ...
stuff coming out of carpet constantly5/27/2010
  Q: We recently bought a home that has the original carpet (1997). We know it is original due to the ...
  A: If the 'fuzz' is the same color as your carpet, your problem could be related to several things ...
removing tiles5/26/2010
  Q: I have a large floor area covered in tiles which also has underfloor heating, if the tiles get ...
  A: again, Victoria; I want to remind you that tiles, wood, etc., are non-absorbent, so harmful ...
removing tiles5/26/2010
  Q: I have a large floor area covered in tiles which also has underfloor heating, if the tiles get ...
  A: I need to know what type of tiles (ceramic, vinyl, etc.), what room(s) are involved, how old are the ...
Black floor, brown trim5/25/2010
  Q: I am wanting to paint my floor black, but the trim in my house is a rich brown. I don't want to ...
  A: First, I want to let you know that hard surfaced flooring, no matter what you have heard or been ...
Black floor, brown trim5/25/2010
  Q: I am wanting to paint my floor black, but the trim in my house is a rich brown. I don't want to ...
  A: I'm not an interior designer, however I do get involved with designers, so I have been able to have ...
Subfloor and joist surprise5/24/2010
  Q: My house was built in mid-1960's. I am remodeling a very small half bath off main bedroom. There ...
  A: No I have never heard of that type of construction. If you were not the original owner of the home, ...
What type of flooring to use.5/23/2010
  Q: I do stained glass and want to know what would be the best type of flooring to put in my workroom ...
  A: First, maintenance is your main key issue. You need absorbent walk-off mats at all entries to your ...
What type of flooring to use.5/22/2010
  Q: I do stained glass and want to know what would be the best type of flooring to put in my workroom ...
  A: I know nothing about how stained glass is manufactured, so I need you to get back to me to let me ...
berber carpet to tile transition5/21/2010
  Q: I saw this post from Perry about a year ago (follows at end). Could you please elaborate on how to ...
  A: If you choose to use your granite saddle, you would have to trim down the door. You might consider ...
Water Damage5/18/2010
  Q: We have marmoleum click tiles installed in our laundry room, which is on a crawl space. ...
  A: If you have water seeping through the seams, that is an indication that moisture may be under the ...
flooring5/17/2010
  Q: I'm trying to figure out if I'm better off going with a laminate or cork floor for my house rather ...
  A: again, Pete;Since you didn't let me know which rooms were involved, I do hope you get this answer in ...
Follow-up5/16/2010
  Q: I now have the "independent" inspector's report hired by the distributor. It is so obviously ...
  A: again, DyAnne;I would suggest that you first try to email it to, <michael@tvrchoosefloors.com>, and ...
Odd tile transition5/15/2010
  Q: I have done tile in the past and for the most part know what i am doing (or so i hope as im doin my ...
  A: again, Russell;I'm concerned about the swelling. That could indicate you have a moisture problem ...
wood vs manufactured wood vs manufactured laminant5/15/2010
  Q: I am trying to decide which product is best. I love the look and feel of real wood. However, much ...
  A: There are three most important things you should first address for ANY floor covering you like. ...
Odd tile transition5/14/2010
  Q: I have done tile in the past and for the most part know what i am doing (or so i hope as im doin my ...
  A: If you have laminate down now, it must be installed on an underlayment such as plywood, etc. If it ...
flooring5/12/2010
  Q: I'm trying to figure out if I'm better off going with a laminate or cork floor for my house rather ...
  A: The padding should be removed no matter what type of floor covering you use. Are you certain the ...
New vinyl over old5/12/2010
  Q: I installed a no-wax floor 25 years ago in a small restroom with only a commode and is 3X6 in size. ...
  A: Various vinyl floor manufacturers, (Tarkett, Mannington, Congoleum, Armstrong, etc.), have different ...
carpet installation5/9/2010
  Q: I considering buying wall to wall carpet for my 1000 sq. foot house. The problem is most of the ...
  A: In my opinion, I strongly suggest that you not purchase ANY floor covering products manufactured by ...
carpet installation5/9/2010
  Q: I considering buying wall to wall carpet for my 1000 sq. foot house. The problem is most of the ...
  A: again, Don;I believe the plank, powerstretch, and stay tack method could be used, however I would ...
carpet installation5/9/2010
  Q: I considering buying wall to wall carpet for my 1000 sq. foot house. The problem is most of the ...
  A: Carpet is a wise choice, and carpet is designed to be installed with a powerstretcher. A knee ...
thinset5/8/2010
  Q: We just picked out a combination of iridiscent glass/stone for a border to go with porcelain tile. ...
  A: Forget about the paint. Even if a thinset is compatable with the paint, as the paint ages and ...
Prep for Porcelain Tile5/4/2010
  Q: We are undertaking a pretty large tile project in our home - about 600 square feet of work. We have ...
  A: The very first thing you need to do is find out the name of the EXACT manufacturer of the tiles you ...
Comments from a recent posting5/3/2010
  Q: Good Day John, I recently reviewed a negative comment shared with a customer about our company ...
  A: again, Brian;We have found, over the years, that when a floor covering manufacturer, floor covering ...
Comments from a recent posting5/3/2010
  Q: Good Day John, I recently reviewed a negative comment shared with a customer about our company ...
  A: Pullin; Many thanks for your inquiry. With whom are your associated? A manufacturer, big box ...
Travertine and Wood Floor Installation5/3/2010
  Q: We recently had travertine and wood floor installed in our home. There is a height differential ...
  A: Some travertine is available 'textured', so there would be a height variance between tiles. If the ...
Armstrong LUXE Plank4/30/2010
  Q: We want to install Armstrong LUXE Plank flooring in our living room, dining room, kitchen, and ...
  A: First, I really hate to hear people wanting to replace carpet in areas other than kitchens, laundry ...
Armstrong Coastal Living Laminate4/29/2010
  Q: I am having the very same problem with the relatively new Armstrong Coastal Living Laminate as ...
  A: Your problem may be caused by debris on the underlayment, or if the moisture barrier has a 'skin' on ...
Triexta vs Nylon Carpet4/29/2010
  Q: We are carpeting a front room, stairs, hallway and 4 bedrooms. 3 kids, no pets. Would like a frieze ...
  A: again, Rhonda;It has been our experience that, in our opinion, they do not handle after sale issues, ...
Triexta vs Nylon Carpet4/28/2010
  Q: We are carpeting a front room, stairs, hallway and 4 bedrooms. 3 kids, no pets. Would like a frieze ...
  A: First I suggest that you do not purchase any floor covering made by Shaw Industries or its ...
gym flooring4/27/2010
  Q: We're installing a home gym where we plan to do weights, pilates, yoga, boot camp, jump roping, ...
  A: My suggestion would be to have designated areas containing a proper flooring for your activities. ...
Floating vinyl floors like konecto,how compare to glue down?4/27/2010
  Q: I am thinking about having konecto professionally installed. I am concerned about getting any ...
  A: again, Tess;If you are installing in an area that is prone to high spillage, in my opinion, direct ...
Floating vinyl floors like konecto,how compare to glue down?4/26/2010
  Q: I am thinking about having konecto professionally installed. I am concerned about getting any ...
  A: I am not a fan of Konecto and would not suggest using it. That's my opinion based upon complaints I ...
Question about soap film on vinyl flooring.4/26/2010
  Q: I have tried everything to clean my kitchen floor, everything I use leaves a film on the floor and ...
  A: again, Amy;I don't know if any of the cleaning agents you used in the past stripped the top ...
Question about soap film on vinyl flooring.4/26/2010
  Q: I have tried everything to clean my kitchen floor, everything I use leaves a film on the floor and ...
  A: The first thing you should do is immediately stop using any cleaning agents on your floor. Next, ...
Indoor Outdoor Carpet4/21/2010
  Q: I have a small covered balcony Id like to carpet. I have a 2 pound Pomeranian and no children. Can ...
  A: Unfortunately, Shaw Industries is one of the few manufacturers offering an array of indoor/outdoor ...
carpet to laminate4/20/2010
  Q: Good day John~ I am switching to laminate. What do I do with existing base boards? Some are ...
  A: Sorry to hear you are changing away from carpet. Carpet is truly one of the healthiest floor ...
Indoor Outdoor Carpet4/20/2010
  Q: I have a small covered balcony Id like to carpet. I have a 2 pound Pomeranian and no children. Can ...
  A: Again, Tamika;Would you let me know the size of your balcony. Just measure it and give me the width ...
Indoor Outdoor Carpet4/20/2010
  Q: I have a small covered balcony Id like to carpet. I have a 2 pound Pomeranian and no children. Can ...
  A: If the balcony is subjected to the weather elements and the carpet would be struck with direct UV ...
glue or not cork under engineered maple4/18/2010
  Q: Whether or not to glue the 1/4" sheet cork (sound isolation) down to a plywood subfloor and then ...
  A: The manufacturer of your engineered hardwood makes a product for sound absorbtion called, 'Sound ...
glue or not cork under engineered maple4/18/2010
  Q: Whether or not to glue the 1/4" sheet cork (sound isolation) down to a plywood subfloor and then ...
  A: Because ALL floor covering manufacturers, and floor covering sundry (adhesives, maintenance ...
Tile floor installation4/18/2010
  Q: I recently had a tile floor installed. There was pergo flooring down that was buckling. Upon removal ...
  A: If the 2.5 lb. moisture reading is correct, and the underlayment directly under the ceramic tile is ...
vinyl plank flooring4/17/2010
  Q: We are starting a home remodel. We we will be taking up the carpet in the living room, hall, and ...
  A: Sorry to hear you are not going to recarpet. Carpet is, just about, the healthiest floor covering ...
Tile floor installation4/17/2010
  Q: I recently had a tile floor installed. There was pergo flooring down that was buckling. Upon removal ...
  A: again, Nelson;I got your follow-up question over the week-end and my investigation will take into ...
gaps between the door and hardwood floor4/16/2010
  Q: what is the gap between the door and hardwood floor? ANSWER: Hi David;The gap could be due to a ...
  A: again, David;There is no set rule published by any floor covering manufacturer. That space is ...
gaps between the door and hardwood floor4/16/2010
  Q: what is the gap between the door and hardwood floor?
  A: The gap could be due to a number of things. Was it there immediately after the installation or did ...
bathroom floor4/15/2010
  Q: I have laminated a photo collage that I would like to make as the bathroom floor. Currently under ...
  A: The surface of the Pergo is coated with a protective layer that may be a polyurethane base. You ...
Tile floor installation4/14/2010
  Q: I recently had a tile floor installed. There was pergo flooring down that was buckling. Upon removal ...
  A: I need have more information. What type of tile (vinyl, ceramic, etc.). What type of underlayment ...
self leveling compound4/13/2010
  Q: We just moved into a house that was built in 1988. The front porch and side walks are pebbles that ...
  A: If the self leveling compound was designed for outdoor use, it would be 'super' hard and would need ...
Wood and asbestos floors4/12/2010
  Q: We are in the process of purchasing an old home, and I have a few questions. There is linoleum in ...
  A: again, Beth;You need to know if the hardwood floors are engineered hardwood (layers of hardwood and ...
Wood and asbestos floors4/11/2010
  Q: We are in the process of purchasing an old home, and I have a few questions. There is linoleum in ...
  A: First, if the home inspector said the adhesive used to install the sheet flooring in the kitchen may ...
flooring for unheated cabin4/9/2010
  Q: I need recommendations for an unheated cabin with plumbing (shut off in winter, or course) in ...
  A: I would suggest that you visit the websites of, <tarkett.com>, <congoleum.com>, and <armstrong.com>. ...
flooring for unheated cabin4/9/2010
  Q: I need recommendations for an unheated cabin with plumbing (shut off in winter, or course) in ...
  A: again, Vince;Even today's mortar adhesives for ceramic must be within certain temperature ranges. ...
flooring for unheated cabin4/9/2010
  Q: I need recommendations for an unheated cabin with plumbing (shut off in winter, or course) in ...
  A: The problem you have is that the manufacturing specifications for ALL types of floor covering, and ...
cornrowing4/7/2010
  Q: The inspection report on my Stainmaster carpeting has come back as cornrowing and Invista has ...
  A: Corn rows, related to a mfg. problem, are rare, and they run in the length, of the carpet, not ...
Laminate wood over a tile floor?4/7/2010
  Q: I have a large tile floor area that runs continuously in three rooms and covers about 1000 SF. ...
  A: You use the term, 'laminate wood'. Laminate flooring is a base made of synthetic material, topped ...
Engineered wood downstairs/carpeting upstairs4/6/2010
  Q: I am having new flooring installed throughout most of our home. I am trying to have flooring ...
  A: Much of what you ask is a design issue and I am not an interior designer. I would have the ...
Smartstrand or Stainmaster?4/5/2010
  Q: We are planning to replace carpets in most rooms of our house. We tried to research online to see ...
  A: Carpet is made to be installed and walked upon. So, besides product, it MUST be installed properly, ...
damp parquet floor3/30/2010
  Q: We live in a Victorian house in UK and apart from the kitchen floor which is tiled, all the other ...
  A: again, Gillian;From what you describe it appears that the parquet may have been installed over a ...
damp parquet floor3/30/2010
  Q: We live in a Victorian house in UK and apart from the kitchen floor which is tiled, all the other ...
  A: You need to lift some of the parquet to examine the underlayment. That means, probably, destroying ...
allure laminate floor planks3/29/2010
  Q: We are looking to install the allure trafficmaster laminate floor, in two areas the floor abutts oak ...
  A: Where are you going to install the laminate floor? If you are planning to install it in areas other ...
CARPET3/29/2010
  Q: It's me again. Back in Jan., you really helped me on instructions for determining which carpet was ...
  A: Smart Strand is a good performing fiber, made partly from natural things such as corn, etc., and it ...
Flooring for screened in porch3/27/2010
  Q: When I build a screened in porch (approx 5 years ago) I put down indoor/outdoor carpet down. It was ...
  A: Why don't you want carpet again? Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It ...
Carpet Material3/25/2010
  Q: When I purchased my home, the carpet was already installed. I wanted to find out what kinds of ...
  A: again, Greg;First, remember what I said in my original answer to you, that the burn test should be ...
Carpet Material3/25/2010
  Q: When I purchased my home, the carpet was already installed. I wanted to find out what kinds of ...
  A: The Griege # is the batch of manufactured product before it was dyed. If you knew the name of the ...
1st time homeowner totally clueless where to start3/21/2010
  Q: I just bought my first house. The home inspector said everything is structurally sound, but all of ...
  A: Good luck in your new home. First, remember that one of the healthiest floor covering one can have ...
Tile adjacent to Hardwood3/20/2010
  Q: we had a friend install 5/8" hardwood bamboo floors on our entire floors including the kitchen. The ...
  A: If ANY floor covering is not installed by a knowledgeable, professional, installer who has taken the ...
Wooden Flooring in India3/20/2010
  Q: Is wooden flooring suitable in terms of thermal comfort in India where it is hot and dry?
  A: Wood flooring is not a great insulator. Wood flooring comes from trees. It acts just like a tree. ...
carpet "corn rowing"3/19/2010
  Q: I have Stainmaster carpet installed a year ago that showed a premature wear pattern in areas that ...
  A: I can't make a determination if you have 'corn rowing', which is usually a carpet manufacturing ...
Mannington Adura tile vs. ceramic tile in basement3/19/2010
  Q: We're finishing our basement and have received conflicting advice about what type of floor to ...
  A: You need to get correct information from a correct source, the EXACT manufacturer of the product you ...
luaon flooring3/19/2010
  Q: We are remodeling our house and had to replace a large section of subflooring in the kitchen. Down ...
  A: Lauan is designed to be an underlayment for floor covering that can use it as an underlayment. ...
Doorway transitions3/17/2010
  Q: My father is now in a wheelchair at home and we have several doorways that have transitions that are ...
  A: Visit the website, <installerstore.com>. You will get a red colored website page. On the left hand ...
wet basement3/17/2010
  Q: I have had moisture problems in my basement since we finished it and put marmoleum down as the ...
  A: The greatest cause of any type of floor covering installation failures is moisture in concrete. You ...
basement carpet3/16/2010
  Q: So I am/was trying to do a 10x30 section of our basement on a budget. I purchased the loop berber ...
  A: Forget what you are being told. For the price that you pad for the carpet, you may have gotten an ...
pre finished oak floor verses raw wood3/15/2010
  Q: I have an existing parquet floor that looks old and I don't like it. I want to replace it with a ...
  A: again, Kathy;You have parquet, over plywood, which is probably over a plywood type subfloor, which ...
pre finished oak floor verses raw wood3/14/2010
  Q: I have an existing parquet floor that looks old and I don't like it. I want to replace it with a ...
  A: To answer your question, it is important to know how your current parquet is installed, and what ...
Re: Plywood and VCT3/13/2010
  Q: I recently saw a floor that was done in plywood that they had painted with deck paint. They cut the ...
  A: My suggestion would be to not consider imitating that installation. Plywood is not meant to be a ...
Flooring3/12/2010
  Q: Can you put hardwood over quarry tile floor without ripping the tile out? I hate the gray color of ...
  A: 'One size does not fit all', meaning the answer to your question depends on numerous things such as ...
boardering a laminate floor3/9/2010
  Q: I removed a wall separating two rooms with laminate flooring.The product is no longer ...
  A: Since the wall is down, if the measurement from the farthest wall of the first room, to the farthest ...
Discolored granite floor tiles3/8/2010
  Q: We just installed 12 x 12 granite tiles on our bathroom floor with a premixed thin set. Within an ...
  A: I strongly doubt that something is seeping up through the granite tiles. If the discolorations, ...
bamboo3/6/2010
  Q: I’m installing a bamboo floor for a client. This is the second time I install bamboo. I’m a fan of ...
  A: First find out the name of the EXACT manufacturer of the bamboo floor. Next, visit the website, ...
replacing tile, possible deflection issues3/5/2010
  Q: We want to replace the all of the tile in the kitchen in our newly purchased home. There are ...
  A: First you need to find out why there are cracked tiles. Was it due to installation errors such as ...
INSTALL TILE OVER HARDWOOD3/4/2010
  Q: I HAVE A 300 SQ FT PORCELAIN TILE TO INSTALL,CAN I USE WIRE AND THIN SET OR DO I NEED TO PUT DOWN ...
  A: Your question indicates that you want to install the porcelain tile over an existing hardwood floor ...
adura flooring tile2/28/2010
  Q: do you recommend it butted or grouted, i like the look of it being butted up makes it look more ...
  A: I've heard nothing bad about that product. But, BEFORE you purchase, I would suggest that you get ...
ADURA MANNINGTON TILE FLR2/28/2010
  Q: I'M ABOUT READY TO HAVE THIS INSTALLED IN MY LOWER LEVEL OF HOME LIV RM, FAM RM, DIN RM, KIT. MY ...
  A: I just answered another question from you about the Adura tiles which should also some of the ...
covering a cement floor2/28/2010
  Q: what is the best way to install a floor over the cement. thank you - jerry ANSWER: Hi Jerry;One of ...
  A: again, Jerry;With all that traffic, the less costly floor covering and the most healtiest would be ...
covering a cement floor2/27/2010
  Q: what is the best way to install a floor over the cement. thank you - jerry
  A: One of the greatest causes of floor covering failures is moisture in concrete. Although you may not ...
Advantages & disadvantages of different floor finishing materials?2/26/2010
  Q: Respected Sir, I am a first year Btech student. Sir, i have doubt about "Advantages %26 ...
  A: You left out a great floor covering-Carpet and Rugs. Remember that one of the healthiest floor ...
polyurethane moulding2/26/2010
  Q: I bought some baseboard moulding made of polyurethane at home depot. I asked different sales ...
  A: First, on the laminate floor, the bottom of the moldings should NOT be tight and flush with the ...
KONECTO VINYL FLOORING2/26/2010
  Q: CAN I USE A STEAM MOP TO CLEAN THIS FLOORING?
  A: When you purchased that flooring, the dealer should have supplied you with the free maintenance ...
polyurethane moulding2/26/2010
  Q: I bought some baseboard moulding made of polyurethane at home depot. I asked different sales ...
  A: Your experience is a main reason NOT to purchase anything related to floor coverings and floor ...
purchasing porcelain tile2/25/2010
  Q: We are ready to install tile flooring in the kitchen (over radiant heat)..I found two that I love - ...
  A: First remember that a porcelain tile is installed like ceramic tiles, so , installing them in areas ...
Hardwood floors and area carpet2/24/2010
  Q: My new home has the original hardwood floors from 1920 and they are in great condition. I do have ...
  A: Remember that area rugs should definitely be used over proper rug pads and not allowed to be placed ...
What rug pad to buy (part 2) ?2/24/2010
  Q: Sorry for the part 2 but I need your help in clarifying which No-muv product to purchase. As far as ...
  A: From what I understand, the 'rubber' used in the No-Muv pads contains materials that do not cause ...
marble floor tiles2/23/2010
  Q: I have a long, narrow bathroom floor,3ftx 13ft.Will the room look bigger if I use 6x6 tiles or 12 x ...
  A: The 'look' of the room depends upon the lighting, color and texture of the tiles, colors of other ...
Which Rug Pad to Buy?2/22/2010
  Q: I am renovating an apartment with hardwood parquet floors and I am figuring out what rug pad to buy ...
  A: 'Curing time', depends upon several issues, including the environment (temperature, humidity, etc.) ...
Which Rug Pad to Buy?2/22/2010
  Q: I am renovating an apartment with hardwood parquet floors and I am figuring out what rug pad to buy ...
  A: again, Susan;I would suggest avoiding rubber rug pads, since they would inhibit the evaporation that ...
prepare old slab for ceramic tile2/21/2010
  Q: John,I have slab that appears to have a couple issues.It was originally Kentile.It looks like that ...
  A: The main reason for failures of floor coverings over concrete, is moisture in the concrete. ...
Which Rug Pad to Buy?2/21/2010
  Q: I am renovating an apartment with hardwood parquet floors and I am figuring out what rug pad to buy ...
  A: You mention an area rug containing 50% olefin/polypropylene. Remember that olefin/polypropylene is ...
stain removal2/19/2010
  Q: What do you suggest to remove stains from flemajestic flexitec majestic flooring ? Stain possibly ...
  A: Remember, when you maintain ANY type of floor covering, ONLY use the cleaning agents detailed in the ...
subfloor removal2/19/2010
  Q: My question was removal of pressboard sub-floors You responded that the answer would be on your ...
  A: Campbell;I received your question above, however I don't recall ever receiving or answering any ...
tile floor damage2/19/2010
  Q: I bought a house in October and one month after we moved in we had a huge water leak (waterfall) in ...
  A: again, Lin;You may have more of a problem than you think, since water poured down. There could be ...
rectified tile - mudset vs. thinset2/19/2010
  Q: We plan to have 20" x 20" rectified porcelain tile installed over 1500 square feet. We are in a ...
  A: again, Maggie;You have a lot of options as to what type of mortar adhesives can be used. It depends ...
tile floor damage2/18/2010
  Q: I bought a house in October and one month after we moved in we had a huge water leak (waterfall) in ...
  A: Let me know if the tiles are vinyl, true linoleum, ceramic, or some other type. Better yet, if you ...
rectified tile - mudset vs. thinset2/18/2010
  Q: We plan to have 20" x 20" rectified porcelain tile installed over 1500 square feet. We are in a ...
  A: Rectified porcelain tiles, which are cut to uniform sizes after fireing, crack more easilly than ...
Grout lines showing through carpet?2/18/2010
  Q: I also want to carpet over ceramic tile and have been told the tile will have to be pulled out to ...
  A: As long as ALL of the tiles are firmly bonded to their underlayment, and ALL of the grout is firmly ...
tiling a kitchen countertop2/18/2010
  Q: I am installing a porcelain ceramic tile counter top on my old kitchen cabinets. After removing the ...
  A: There are other things that would be important to know before getting you the correct information. ...
Cleaning teak floors and travertine floors with the Pocket Steam Mop2/18/2010
  Q: Most of my house has teak flooring. I also have travertine in the bathrooms, laundry room and ...
  A: You should NOT use any other cleaning agents (steam mops, cleaners, sealers, etc.), other than those ...
avaire tile floors2/17/2010
  Q: John: I'm building a house for my grandbabies %26 I'm down to the flooring, I'mplanning on putting ...
  A: Good luck with your construction. I understand the construction specifications of Avaire and from ...
wet laminate floor/?damage?2/16/2010
  Q: I have a contractor here doing a renovation on an upstairs bathroom. Today he cut the hot water pipe ...
  A: First, laminate should not be cleaned with water, so water damage has probably voided any warranties ...
Carpeting Concrete Floor2/16/2010
  Q: I live in a ground-floor flat which has a concrete floor and ceiling. When I first moved in 10 years ...
  A: BE CERTAIN TO IMMEDIATELY WRAP THAT PIECE OF BROKEN TILE IN PLASTIC WRAP. ASBESTOS MICROSCOPIC ...
Carpeting Concrete Floor2/15/2010
  Q: I live in a ground-floor flat which has a concrete floor and ceiling. When I first moved in 10 years ...
  A: again, Jenny;I do not agree with what has been done. First the fact that there is no actual mildew ...
Carpeting Concrete Floor2/15/2010
  Q: I live in a ground-floor flat which has a concrete floor and ceiling. When I first moved in 10 years ...
  A: Is there a basement or crawl space under the concrete, or is the concrete the slab that is directly ...
removal of leveliing compound on hardwood flooring2/14/2010
  Q: We pulled up the edge of some carpet in the living room of our home recently bought home. Some kind ...
  A: First, do you have engineered hardwood or solid hardwood under the carpet. Second, remember that ...
canvas as an 'ad hoc' carpet --?2/8/2010
  Q: I realize this is a somewhat odd question. I recently visited a friend with a studio done up in a ...
  A: I've seen canvas used as an area rug, but not as an overall wall to wall floor covering. The ...
Flooring to go with dark woodwork2/7/2010
  Q: Our home was built in 1980 and has beautiful dark woodwork in the entry, dining room and living ...
  A: First remember that one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have is carpet. It has a pile ...
ceramic tile inset within linoleum floor2/5/2010
  Q: In our master bathroom, instead of replacing the entire linoleum flooring, I am considering cutting ...
  A: The underlayment for the ceramic tile is probably different than the linoleum. By the way, are you ...
carpets2/5/2010
  Q: why does my carpet ripple when it is brand new.I've been told its because of my floorboards and I ...
  A: Several reasons for rippling and, since I can't see your installation, I can only guess. First, ...
RE COLORING dingy GROUT with an OLD Honeycomb tile2/5/2010
  Q: Is it possible to RE Color (white) - the dingy grout between OLD Honey comb Tile This Tile is ...
  A: It is possible to address dingy grout, however it could be caused, in an installation as old as you ...
uneven vinyl floor2/3/2010
  Q: A small area (about 8 sq. inches) of the vinyl floor of one corner of my master bath is uneven with ...
  A: One main concern I have is that you did not indicate the age of your vinyl flooring. I just want to ...
carpet seam2/2/2010
  Q: I have 10 year old berber carpet and all of a sudden the seams (where the carpet comes together in ...
  A: I will give you, what I consider to be, the very best way to attempt to correct this condition. ...
carpet seam2/2/2010
  Q: I have 10 year old berber carpet and all of a sudden the seams (where the carpet comes together in ...
  A: When you indicate the seams are showing do you mean gapped (spaces between the cuts of carpet at the ...
Exercise Room flooring2/1/2010
  Q: We are building an exercise room where we intend to keep weights, elliptical machine and a ...
  A: From the description of the activities you indicate in your question, that your family will do I ...
remove and replace linoleum2/1/2010
  Q: I need to repair a small piece of subfloor and flooring that is rotten.My linoleum is in good shape ...
  A: You use the term linoleum. Is it true linoleum or a vinyl floor. There is a very big difference ...
Resetting floor tiles1/31/2010
  Q: We had some tiles pop from the foundation with an explosive noise a few weeks ago on a unusually ...
  A: Since I can't see your installation, I can only guess as to the causes, and even my guesses may be ...
leveling floor1/31/2010
  Q: I would like to put hardwood floors in my kitchen,living room and downn the hallway which all ...
  A: First, remember that hardwood comes from trees. It acts just like a tree. It will dent, scratch, ...
Another basement carpeting question1/30/2010
  Q: I read your answers regarding basement carpeting and I found them very informative, much more so ...
  A: Smartstrand is a good choice, however, the correct construction in a nylon fiber would be better, in ...
rug pad1/29/2010
  Q: I would like to purchase a rug pad for an area rug that I have. I would like to know of any good ...
  A: Besides the sticking problem, you also need to be concerned with a discoloring problem. My ...
indoor flooring1/28/2010
  Q: I am moving to an area that is cold in the winter (around 20 degrees %26 hot in the summer, around ...
  A: Remember that any type of floor covering is meant to be installed and walked upon, so maintenance ...
solution dyed or not1/28/2010
  Q: How can you tell if a nylon carpet is solution dyed or not?
  A: You would have to take a small piece of unused waste carpet left, from the installation, or if the ...
Karastan1/27/2010
  Q: In general, do you know if Karastan carpet (triexta) holds up as good as nylon for high traffic ...
  A: again, Dave;A knee kicker is not a stretching tool. It is used to position carpet. A ...
Karastan1/27/2010
  Q: In general, do you know if Karastan carpet (triexta) holds up as good as nylon for high traffic ...
  A: That Karastan carpet fiber is a new one, and, after testing, is supposed to have the same wearing ...
carpet padding1/26/2010
  Q: What is the best type of carpet padding for a house on a slab? I don't think it has plywood over ...
  A: Nothing is moisture proof. Moisture resistant is the proper term. Moisture in concrete is the ...
Installing bamboo floor over HardiBacker Board?1/25/2010
  Q: John, I have been asked to install a 5/8” strip bamboo floor in a second story bedroom of a ...
  A: I'm out of town and will be back into my office on Thurs., when I can send you a follow-up about ...
tile pulling away?1/24/2010
  Q: I live in Florida and we have about 60% of our home in 12 inch tile..home is about 8 years old. I am ...
  A: again, Bryan;If it is happening on the same side of the home, there is a chance of a moisture ...
indoor flooring1/24/2010
  Q: I am moving to an area that is cold in the winter (around 20 degrees %26 hot in the summer, around ...
  A: again, Lisa;I'm out of town on a business trip, so answer my questions in this reply next Thurs., ...
tile pulling away?1/23/2010
  Q: I live in Florida and we have about 60% of our home in 12 inch tile..home is about 8 years old. I am ...
  A: You did not mention what type of tiles you have. If you are using the terms, 'hollow' and ...
Konecto flooring1/21/2010
  Q: When installing Konecto in a bathroom, should the stool be removed and then reinstalled on top of ...
  A: This may not be the answer you are looking for, but I would not suggest using Konecto flooring ...
carpet choice1/21/2010
  Q: I'm looking to purchase new carpet for our house which will include the living room, family room, ...
  A: First, I suggest that you do NOT purchase ANY floor covering product made by Shaw Industries. I ...
recommendations on basement flooring1/18/2010
  Q: we just had a sump pump failure which caused water damage to carpeting in our basement. we have ...
  A: again, Bob;We find that those 'big box' stores don't have the access to a full line of proper ...
cleaning laminate floor1/18/2010
  Q: I have dark brown laminate floor in my living room and it is very hard to mantain. I don't know if ...
  A: again, Elsa;Bruce was bought several years ago by Armstrong. They are located in Pennsylvania, so ...
cleaning laminate floor1/18/2010
  Q: I have dark brown laminate floor in my living room and it is very hard to mantain. I don't know if ...
  A: IMMEDIATELY stop using what ever you are using to clean your laminate floor. You are simply using ...
indoor flooring1/15/2010
  Q: I am moving to an area that is cold in the winter (around 20 degrees %26 hot in the summer, around ...
  A: No matter which of those hard surfaced floorings you install, you will have to keep temperature and ...
roberts 2057 adhesive1/14/2010
  Q: do you have do this small sections or what? our room is 12 x30 on concrete ANSWER: Hi ...
  A: again, Marlin;Page one of the specification sheet indicates that the amount of area you can work at ...
Sobella flooring1/14/2010
  Q: I am wondering if you have seen any seam problems with the Sobella product that is a glossiness ...
  A: I have not seen or heard of any problems such as what you have described with Sobella. Could, what ...
roberts 2057 adhesive1/14/2010
  Q: do you have do this small sections or what? our room is 12 x30 on concrete
  A: Visit the website of robertsconsolidated.com and click on information for adhesive 2057, which is a ...
t molding for laminate1/13/2010
  Q: We are installing a floating laminate floor ourselves. We had the retailer come measure the floor. ...
  A: I need to answer your question by injecting other information as well. First, understand what you ...
Sobella flooring1/13/2010
  Q: I had mannington jumpstart flooring installed in June 2009, it had to be removed because of bubbling ...
  A: In order for me to give you a full answer I would have to know lots of things such as, were both ...
vinyl plank flooring1/12/2010
  Q: We are installing a vinyl plank flooring ( self-stick from Lowes) over concrete floor. Floor is ...
  A: There should have been installation specifications included with the cartons of the planks. Those ...
Reducer for Laminate1/11/2010
  Q: We just installed a Dricore subfloor in our basement with foam underlay and 12.3mm laminate on top. ...
  A: Visit the website of <installersstore.com> and look through their transition strip offerings. There ...
Carpet Substitution1/7/2010
  Q: Recently I had carpet installed in my new home and they had measured incorrectly so additional ...
  A: Griege is not a color. It is either a yarn batch or yarn tufted into just a primary backing and ...
recommendations on basement flooring1/6/2010
  Q: we just had a sump pump failure which caused water damage to carpeting in our basement. we have ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your problem. Concrete is absorbent and always moves, and moisture in concrete ...
Anti-fracture membrane to prevent porcelain tile cracking1/4/2010
  Q: I plan to replace my bathroom floor tiles (ceramic) with porcelain tiles. Since the current ...
  A: The cracks in your ceramic could be due to several movement issues. Those movement issues could be ...
laminate OR hardwood1/2/2010
  Q: can you offer some advice whether we choose laminate OR real hardwood flooring for our formal ...
  A: First remember that one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have is carpet. It has a pile ...
Engineered Hardwood12/31/2009
  Q: I have engineered hardwood floors that have developed spots and streaks. A company representative ...
  A: First, don't use a steam mop. Second, don't allow ANYONE ELSE to attempt removal. Third, find out ...
hardwood floor12/30/2009
  Q: I just bought a house with hardwood floor. The house is old and was not taken care of(very dirty). ...
  A: Remember that hardwood is a cellular material and it comes from trees. It acts just like a tree. ...
Best Installation Option In Kitchen Over Existing Vinyl Tiles12/29/2009
  Q: Please advise me how best to proceed. The floor in the kitchen currently has 35+ year old vinyl ...
  A: First, if you know the tiles are 35+ years old, they may contain asbestos, which, as you know, is a ...
carpet/trim12/28/2009
  Q: Mr. Michaels I was wondering. I'm redoing my family room and plan on having new carpet and padding ...
  A: Have the carpet and pad installed first, so the installer can properly install the tackless strip, ...
Carpet as insulation12/27/2009
  Q: I am a single woman with no pets or children who has lived in a 90 year old rehabbed condo building ...
  A: Carpet has a very high 'R' rating, meaning it is a great insulator. Put down an absorbent walk-off ...
Subfloor12/24/2009
  Q: I am not an expert in home repair. It is not my given field. I am a hard worker and enjoy doing as ...
  A: First thing I would suggest that you do is get the name of the EXACT manufacturer of the ceramic ...
What new flooring to put down?12/23/2009
  Q: I am getting everything in order for a new floor. After all the vinyl tile layers are removed and ...
  A: No matter what type of flooring you put down, your environment requires proper maintenance to ...
Removal of black cutback adhesive12/23/2009
  Q: John Michaels: Should an asbestos abatement company hired to remove vinyl tile also remove the ...
  A: The removal of asbestos containing cut back adhesive is usually done by an asbestos removal firm by ...
Universal Flooring VersaStrip12/22/2009
  Q: My neighbor moved and while cleaning out left me 5 boxes of Universal Flooring VersaStrip Oak Fawn ...
  A: I have no idea where you could purchase more of that discontinued item. However, it is an ...
Carpet12/21/2009
  Q: I had a home built less than one year ago. We had Shaw carpet installed throughout the home. ...
  A: Sorry for your problems. You may have a performance problem stemming from manufacturing and/or ...
What type flooring to replace vinyl floor tiles12/21/2009
  Q: I would really appreciate your advice. I inherited a house built in the late 60s or early 70s. The ...
  A: I do not know of any cut back adhesive that contained asbestos. Asbestos was used as a stabelizer ...
What type flooring to replace vinyl floor tiles12/21/2009
  Q: I would really appreciate your advice. I inherited a house built in the late 60s or early 70s. The ...
  A: again, Sandra;If you replace a tile, the new tile has to be anchored. That anchoring would be done ...
What type flooring to replace vinyl floor tiles12/20/2009
  Q: I would really appreciate your advice. I inherited a house built in the late 60s or early 70s. The ...
  A: STOP EVERYTHING. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO LIFT ANY MORE TILES. 12x12 tiles of that age can contain ...
Mannington ardura vinyl plank over in floor heat12/18/2009
  Q: We have installed infloor heat,used quicktrak and put a 1/4"cementboard on top. Next we put our ...
  A: The infloor heat usually must be able to maintain an indoor temperature of between 65 and 90 degrees ...
basement flooring12/15/2009
  Q: We would like to install vinyl on top of our cement in our basement bathroom and I would like to ...
  A: First, if your concrete is cold, and your basement is heated, the cold could be coming from a ...
Porcelain tile12/12/2009
  Q: We want to lay tile over concrete, but part of the concrete has vinyl over it. we tried to remove ...
  A: Your question is, 'What should we do to have this be a proper job?' Answer-have it installed by a ...
Congoleum DuraCeramic tiles lifting12/9/2009
  Q: Tiles lifting from concrete. Installed in 2004 when Congoleum moisture spec was "may be installed ...
  A: again, Doug;Again, I can't see your installation, so my answers will be educated guesses. If the ...
3 questions about stains12/9/2009
  Q: My daughter over watered some plants in a room in which the flooring is terracotta tiles %26 the ...
  A: By trying improper cleaning agents you may have used, could have permanently set the stains, since ...
Congoleum DuraCeramic tiles lifting12/9/2009
  Q: Tiles lifting from concrete. Installed in 2004 when Congoleum moisture spec was "may be installed ...
  A: First you need to find out the reason for the lifting. Possibly moisture in the concrete is causing ...
May need to regrout?12/9/2009
  Q: We installed new tiles in our bathroom about 3 years ago. We followed every instruction to the tee. ...
  A: You indicated that you installed the tiles, then the grout, and then the sealer. You should have ...
Basement Carpet - water damage12/8/2009
  Q: Our water heater tank gave out while we were out of town. Only a portion of our carpet got damaged. ...
  A: With just a greige goods number, the only suggestion I could make to you would be to visit the ...
bamboo flooring12/7/2009
  Q: i just had bamboo flooring installed in my living area about 2 moths ago on concrete. the concrete ...
  A: Since I can't see your installation, I can only guess as to what happened. I give you my guesses in ...
Carpet12/6/2009
  Q: My wife was looking at a Mohawk carpet UltraStrand BCF Nylon with Scotchguard Protector Advanced ...
  A: Mohawk is a very good carpet manufacturer. BCF Nylon (Bulk Continuous Filament) is a goo choice, as ...
Travertine flatness12/3/2009
  Q: I have 18"x18" honed and filled travertine installed in a kit and hallway area and we're not happy ...
  A: again, Bob;I didn't make myself clear enough to you. There is no blanket standard. Every ...
Felt Backed Carpet Tile12/3/2009
  Q: I would like to know the pros and cons of using felt backed carpet tiles. ANSWER: Hi Jay;It really ...
  A: again, Jay;Now that I know the product and manufacturer, Milliken is a substancial manufacturer of ...
Travertine flatness12/3/2009
  Q: I have 18"x18" honed and filled travertine installed in a kit and hallway area and we're not happy ...
  A: again, Bob;The type of tile you have should butt against adjoining tiles evenly. The tiles are ...
Felt Backed Carpet Tile12/2/2009
  Q: I would like to know the pros and cons of using felt backed carpet tiles. ANSWER: Hi Jay;It really ...
  A: again, Jay;If the concrete is that old you have several possible problems. Eventually, any ground ...
Felt Backed Carpet Tile12/2/2009
  Q: I would like to know the pros and cons of using felt backed carpet tiles.
  A: It really depends upon where you plan to use the tiles, on what type of surface they will be ...
Travertine flatness12/1/2009
  Q: I have 18"x18" honed and filled travertine installed in a kit and hallway area and we're not happy ...
  A: There could be several things causing your problem from a normal variation, to a manufacturing ...
Vinyl flooring specs11/30/2009
  Q: I'm looking for a description for what UM44c specifications are and can't seem to find them ......I ...
  A: The bulletin you mention may vary from State to State and deals with specifications for various ...
Carpet11/30/2009
  Q: I just bought a fixer upper, do I need to put a sub floor down or can I just go over the old plank ...
  A: Is the old flooring dry, with no evidence of present or past moisture problems from under that ...
ASH FLOORS11/28/2009
  Q: I recently finished building a new home. We had hand rubbed ash floors installed. Upon completion, ...
  A: There could be many causes, however since I can't see your flooring, I would only be able to guess. ...
exercise flooring11/27/2009
  Q: We have carpet in our large basement and I would like to make one area a workout area for me to do ...
  A: visit the websites of <consolidatedplastics.com), and <ironcompany.com). On the Consolidated site ...
dog friendly flooring11/27/2009
  Q: i have carpet in my living room. i also have a dog. oh dear! so many ' doggy accidents'. i now need ...
  A: You should not clean hardwood or laminate with water, so installing it in areas that are high prone ...
vinyl covering over concrete11/25/2009
  Q: We have had our basement flooded and are now in the process of redoing the flooring. Many years ago ...
  A: I'm very concerned about the term you use, 'Many years ago'. How many years ago. The reason I ask ...
Floor Steamer11/22/2009
  Q: Just put in all new Italian "Porcelain" tile in my home and had the grout sealed. Will a Floor ...
  A: Forget floor steamers. ONLY USE THEM IF THE EXACT MANUFACTURER OF THE TILES AND GROUT YOU USED SAYS ...
joint between tiles11/18/2009
  Q: When laying 'joint free' and 'vitrified' ceramic tiles, is grouting between joints necessary?
  A: Sometimes manufacturers require grouting and sometimes they don't. Also, if there may be movement ...
thinset11/17/2009
  Q: how do u remove thinset that is dry on carpet
  A: Adhesive deposits on textiles (carpet, clothing, etc.), need to be addressed before they dry for ...
Installing Tiles directly on concrete floor11/17/2009
  Q: I would like to install ceramic tiles directly on my concrete basement floor (typically not heated). ...
  A: again, Gerry;I feel the tiles would crack, and, if they lifted, it would be because the mortar ...
Installing Tiles directly on concrete floor11/17/2009
  Q: I would like to install ceramic tiles directly on my concrete basement floor (typically not heated). ...
  A: First, find out the name of the manufacturer of the tiles you like and visit their website. You ...
underlayment for carpet11/17/2009
  Q: We have been remodeling, and it is now time for carpet in our living room. 2 sides will abut tile, ...
  A: again, Carolyn;The choice of a type of underlayment is more critical under hard surfaced flooring. ...
underlayment for carpet11/16/2009
  Q: We have been remodeling, and it is now time for carpet in our living room. 2 sides will abut tile, ...
  A: vist the website of <ehow.com>. Type in 'particle board' in the top search area. Then, when the ...
Hardibacker11/16/2009
  Q: I am installing hardibacker over my bathroom floor. There is slab wood subfloor with plywood on top ...
  A: Before you use the Versabond, obtain the name of the EXACT manufacturer of the tiles. Then visit ...
Dricore sub-floor11/16/2009
  Q: I am installing Dricore panels in my basement as a sub-floor. The concrete floor is very smooth and ...
  A: again, Scott; The texture and quality of cement varrys from job to job. When you use the nails, you ...
Dricore sub-floor11/16/2009
  Q: I am installing Dricore panels in my basement as a sub-floor. The concrete floor is very smooth and ...
  A: You may not have needed all the shims you have used, however you have have used them. Predrilling ...
further to type of floor installation11/15/2009
  Q: Re 1976 3-storey woodframe multifamily building: Our strata council has an application from an ...
  A: again, Judith;I would mandate a floating installation, however you do need to address sound ...
bamboo floor installation11/15/2009
  Q: Re 1976 3-storey woodframe multifamily building: Our strata council has an application from an ...
  A: I'll get to your questions further on in this response. First I would have a 'heart to heart' ...
flooring and underlay guidelines11/15/2009
  Q: Re: a 1976 wood frame 3-storey building (a strata for 4 years); with a 1" - 2" concrete layer over ...
  A: I am not an attorney, so I really can't give you wording for your bylaws, however, since you are ...
baseboard on hardwood floor11/14/2009
  Q: I just had new baseboard installed over my hardwood floor. the house is 15 yrs old, some of the ...
  A: again, Brad;Even if the floor is not perfectly level, the installer of the baseboard should have ...
baseboard on hardwood floor11/14/2009
  Q: I just had new baseboard installed over my hardwood floor. the house is 15 yrs old, some of the ...
  A: Is the hardwood floor unlevel in various areas of your hardwood installation? Did the installer of ...
MoisturBloc11/14/2009
  Q: I am preparing to install 8mm laminate wood flooring that already has the underlayment attached. ...
  A: again, Toby;Pergo is not very clear in their installation instructions how to properly install ...
MoisturBloc11/13/2009
  Q: I am preparing to install 8mm laminate wood flooring that already has the underlayment attached. ...
  A: There are several manufacturers that make similar products, however each has its own installation ...
carpet cleaning in trailer house11/13/2009
  Q: I am moving into an old mobile home, and a previous renter at some point smoked in it. We would ...
  A: If the subfloor were particleboard, (and you can determine that by lifting a corner of the carpet ...
Float vs Glue11/13/2009
  Q: MR. Michaels, I want to install 1/2 inch deep, 5 inch wide engineered hardwood. What are the ...
  A: I'll answer your specific question in a minute. Understand fully, what you intend to purchase and ...
laminate flooring11/12/2009
  Q: i am wanting to fit laminate flooring across my living room and dining room and entrance hall in one ...
  A: Understand what laminate flooring is. There is a base for stability, topped with a core that is ...
floor tiles!11/12/2009
  Q: Last week I had an internal flood which resulted in my floor tiles in the the whole apartment being ...
  A: You did not mention what type of tiles are now installed. If they are, forinstance, vinyl or ...
Levelling concrete floors11/12/2009
  Q: I just purchased my condo which is in a brick and wood frame 70's building. I ripped out the carpet ...
  A: again, Terri;You are certainly correct. I forgot to address the sand issue in your original ...
Levelling concrete floors11/12/2009
  Q: I just purchased my condo which is in a brick and wood frame 70's building. I ripped out the carpet ...
  A: First I suggest that you visit the website of <epoxy.com> and call the number listed for their ...
maintenance levels for various materials11/11/2009
  Q: Is 12 by 12 porcelain tile or 12 by 12 travertine tile easier to maintain in a kitchen area? Will ...
  A: Porcelain tile usually requires no sealer because it is highly resistant to absorbtion from topical ...
Carpeting tiled floor11/10/2009
  Q: We have an entire lower level that is floored with 4 x 4 ceramic tiles. Can wall to wall carpeting ...
  A: again, Beth;First, one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have is carpet. It has a pile that ...
Carpeting tiled floor11/10/2009
  Q: We have an entire lower level that is floored with 4 x 4 ceramic tiles. Can wall to wall carpeting ...
  A: Carpet and pad can be installed over the ceramic. I would be happy to suggest generic ...
Urethane on porous granite surface11/10/2009
  Q: I am in the process of polishing some black granite tile that was unevenly set and then ground down ...
  A: There is some more information that would be needed to answer your question, such as the type of ...
Water damage to tile floor11/9/2009
  Q: Our condo recently had a flooding issue due to an icemaker. There was standing water in the kitchen ...
  A: If you see mildew and mold, both of which are human health dangers, the first thing I would do is ...
Laminate Flooring11/8/2009
  Q: We would like to install laminate flooring in our living room which contains a heavy piano. We are ...
  A: For a laminate floor, I suggest you visit the website of <tarkettna.com> and <mohawkind.com>. On ...
About Flooring11/8/2009
  Q: I would like to know about the combination of Vertified tiles with Granites. We selected Black ...
  A: You are asking me a partially interior design question that you should ask of an interior designer. ...
Tile to Carpet and Laminate transition11/5/2009
  Q: Good Afternoon, I recently had tile and laminate installed in my home. in one bathroom the tile ...
  A: Ali-Khan;First if I were you, I would not fix those installation errors. Just in case you decide to ...
Carpet11/4/2009
  Q: I manage an apartment complex %26 I have been receiving complaints about the fumes coming from new ...
  A: For the past several years all carpet being made in the U.S. and, I believe Canada, is free from ...
carpet to tile transition over cement after installation11/3/2009
  Q: We have a 7x3 tiled area next to our patio door with carpet on opposite side; installer did not put ...
  A: You could simply contact a reputable floor covering dealer in your area and have them send over ...
Floors unaffected by sun11/2/2009
  Q: We are going to remodel our home in Prescott, Arizona. Sunlight is a big issue, especially on the ...
  A: All floor coverings will be affected by UV sunlight. Those with a much lesser degree of being ...
Removing carpet from hardwood floors11/1/2009
  Q: I want to remove 38 year old carpet that is covering hardwood floors. After checking under part of ...
  A: I'll give you my answer to your question in just a minute. First, remember that one of the ...
Carpet over Carpet10/30/2009
  Q: So my grandmother wants to install new carpet over the old existing carpet. I have tried to tell her ...
  A: First, carpet was not designed to be padding, so installing carpet over carpet, which itself may be ...
Kitchen remodel10/30/2009
  Q: I have stripped a dining room and kitchen of two layers of lino, and one of plywood from the ...
  A: again, Susan;If the hardwood flooring is in planks, which it probably is, you would have two ...
Kitchen remodel10/30/2009
  Q: I have stripped a dining room and kitchen of two layers of lino, and one of plywood from the ...
  A: You have a lot of options, and what you appear to be asking is an interior design question. I am ...
we got wrong color of carpet10/27/2009
  Q: Long story short, we got carpet from Lowe's. After it was installed, we thought it looked lighter ...
  A: I spoke with the technical services people at Mohawk and they indicated that the carpet was ...
Rug pads for area rugs10/27/2009
  Q: I have two area rugs to place on our newly refinished floors. One is relatively expensive and the ...
  A: The reason for padding, is because padding is designed to greatly prolong the life of area rugs and ...
hardwood floor surface damage10/26/2009
  Q: I'm a hardwood floor contractor, self-employed. I finished a job 3 weeks ago (sanding, staining and ...
  A: An inspection can be arranged in that area of California, however I want to make certain I ...
Carpet installation near baseboard heaters10/26/2009
  Q: Is there a correct way to install carpeting in front of baseboard heaters. When our house was ...
  A: If the carpet is installed over the lip of the baseboard heater, how are the cut raw edges of the ...
laminate floor10/26/2009
  Q: what do I use to get deep scratches out of laminate floor
  A: There's nothing you can do to remove scratches, you can just make them less noticeable. If you know ...
Chicago Brick10/23/2009
  Q: We have Chicago brick in Kitchen It had a beautiful finish on it. We have mopped with water for the ...
  A: I was in the midst of anwering you but there was a malfunction somewhere and I got an indication ...
carpet over glued carpet10/23/2009
  Q: We need to recarpet a church. Existing is glued down carpet that seams are threading out. Vacuum ...
  A: The existing carpet MUST come up. NEVER install new carpet over old carpet. First, carpet was not ...
laminate flooring10/22/2009
  Q: We have about a 10' raised hearth with tile. We are replacing the carpet that butts up against it ...
  A: First, why are you replacing carpet with laminate? Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings ...
hardwood floor cupping10/21/2009
  Q: We purchased a new home 2 years ago, and from the outset, noticed that the wood floor is cupped, ...
  A: Since I can't see your hardwood, I can only guess about certain things and their causes. Bear with ...
Carpet10/20/2009
  Q: I have a house for sell that I have moved out of. In the basement we currently have cheap thin ...
  A: Carpet was not designed to be padding, so the old carpet must come up. Also, you may have soils in ...
asbestos tiles?10/19/2009
  Q: I was out of town for a couple of days & walked into my house to find water spewing out from under ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your health problems. My suggestions to you are to have the tiles immediately ...
Max Windsor Wood flooring10/18/2009
  Q: I am about to put wood flooring in my house . I have done quite a bit of searching to find the look ...
  A: First, think about what type of flooring you are considering for your home. Wood flooring is far ...
Help! Tile just completed, discovered that grout is in expansion joint10/18/2009
  Q: We are in the middle of remodeling both of our bathrooms. The master bath is complete, grout and ...
  A: The grout should be removed, a siliocone type caulk be used to replace it, (silicone is flexible, so ...
Foor covering over radiant heat10/17/2009
  Q: I am building a new house with in floor radiant heat. What type of covering should I avoid? ...
  A: Just about all floor covering manufacturers allow radiant heat to be used under the products, ...
Konecto Vinyl Flooring10/17/2009
  Q: we have a new floor in our basement and cannot get rid of the chemical smell. Do you have any ...
  A: again,Franceskridge; A painted concrete floor is usally an unacceptable underlayment for ANY type of ...
laminate flooring10/16/2009
  Q: I just installed some Mohawk snap together laminate flooring. We have a fireplace in the center of ...
  A: again, Mike; Two suggestions. First I would shop for silicone floor caulk and obtain the name of ...
Konecto Vinyl Flooring10/16/2009
  Q: we have a new floor in our basement and cannot get rid of the chemical smell. Do you have any ...
  A: Just about all floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry (cleaning agents, adhesives, ...
Konecto flooring10/15/2009
  Q: We are interested in having konecto flooring installed by professionals. I have read a lot of ...
  A: Many thanks for your answers. You are asking for my opinion which I am basing on years of ...
room floor VERY HOT10/15/2009
  Q: My room is an average room but next to the garage which has a water heater in it. Recently my room ...
  A: Hardwood comes from trees. It acts just like a tree. It will expand, contract, change colors, ...
Konecto flooring10/14/2009
  Q: We are interested in having konecto flooring installed by professionals. I have read a lot of ...
  A: To answer your question truthfully, I would like to know a few things. Where did you shop for that ...
laminate flooring10/14/2009
  Q: I just installed some Mohawk snap together laminate flooring. We have a fireplace in the center of ...
  A: Remember that you need to allow expansion to occur around ALL perimeters, including the fireplace, ...
Wood Flooring vs Limestone10/13/2009
  Q: I am remodeling a home on the water. I have young kids and 2 labradors that swim daily. I would ...
  A: No matter what type of floor covering you install, because of your location and home population, the ...
Discontinued carpeting10/12/2009
  Q: I had chosen Beaulieu Compassionate carpeting and found out today that there is none left anywhere. ...
  A: Compassionate has been discontinued since last September. Visit the website of, ...
floating laminate10/12/2009
  Q: Is there a foot length that flooring should be installed without a transition? Our entry goes into ...
  A: Usually a transition strip is needed for lengths 30' or more, however, be certain. To be certain, ...
Carpet Installer10/11/2009
  Q: Could you tell me the approx SF cost I could expect to pay for carpet installation in Central NJ? ...
  A: In my answer to you, remember that carpet, or any floor covering, is meant to be installed. ...
laminate flooring10/11/2009
  Q: A year ago i had Mohawk laminate flooring installed in my home. It is a split level with the first ...
  A: again, Noreen;I don't know your nephews, so in my answer to you, please don't consider what I say as ...
floor care10/11/2009
  Q: I'd like to steam clean my new DuraStone floor but I'm not sure if it's considered a sealed surface. ...
  A: You should have been supplied a maintenance manual for DuraStone that details the exact and only ...
Tile installation over sheet vinyl floor10/11/2009
  Q: I have vinyl sheet flooring (25 years old?) installed in my basement over concrete floor. Unknown as ...
  A: When the home was built, the builder probably installed some type of a moisture barrier over the ...
tiles and plaster/cement10/10/2009
  Q: I am little concerned - though possibly paranoid as result of a home research on the internet. This ...
  A: Were they wall tiles, floor tiles, or tiles used on a counter? If they were ceramic tiles, I would ...
wood v. laminate10/9/2009
  Q: I live in Tampa, Florida and our home is on a concrete slab and we are looking into flooring, due to ...
  A: Let's talk about flooring and allergies first. Then we'll talk about the pet, which I assume is a ...
laminate flooring10/9/2009
  Q: A year ago i had Mohawk laminate flooring installed in my home. It is a split level with the first ...
  A: Since I can't see your flooring, I can only guess what happened. Moisture is a very major cause of ...
Tile under a woodburning stove10/8/2009
  Q: I would like to use a marble or stone as a shield under a Napoleon wood burning stove. Can I use the ...
  A: MOST natural stone, porcelain, or ceramic tiles have a limit of 2000 degrees F. So BEFORE you ...
Vinyl flooring in bathroom10/8/2009
  Q: We just bought a brand new home built in 2009. I have just found a spot in the bathroom where the ...
  A: Determine how the vinyl floor was installed (full glue, perimeter glue, etc.), and what type of ...
carpet seam coming apart10/8/2009
  Q: I saw your answer to another on my same question. The seam is coming apart on my just a little over ...
  A: Without seeing the problem I can only guess, but it sounds like you have an installation problem ...
Indoor Brick Floors10/6/2009
  Q: My husband and I just purchased a 1978 built home with 1800 sq. ft. of brick flooring on a slab with ...
  A: Since I can't see your floor, I can only guess what you have. Usually, a clay brick floor (2 and ...
laminate flooring over sheet vinyl10/6/2009
  Q: We are going to install laminate flooring (Pergo Presto beech blocked) over existing sheet vinyl ...
  A: First, BEFORE you purchase anything, know that all floor covering manufacturers are in the throes of ...
carpet cleaning10/6/2009
  Q: I just purchased the Rug Doctor. We did a very small room last night. Worked pretty good. ...
  A: I'm not happy about your choice of maintenance equipment. I assume your carpets are made from ...
Can you lay wood over marble?10/3/2009
  Q: I'm considering putting an offer on a house, but the only drawback for me is that the entire house ...
  A: Forgive me for starting my answer in this manner, but I just hate when people cover areas where a ...
Natural stone cleaning9/30/2009
  Q: Can I use a steam floor mop on slate tile, travertine, and/or marble tiles? If not, is their a way ...
  A: It really depends upon what type of protective layer you have on the surface of your flooring. What ...
Duraplank by congoleum9/29/2009
  Q: We live on an island in Puget Sound. We have a daylight basement that is below grade on one side ...
  A: What you should do is call 1-800-234-8811. That is the Congoleum Corporation who makes those Dura ...
tile test for asbestos9/29/2009
  Q: I saw your posting regarding testing tiles for asbestos. I just bought a house that was built in ...
  A: If the tile you have to send is an unused and uninstalled tile, we would accept it for testing. If ...
Carpet Cleaning9/29/2009
  Q: Our church has commercial-grade carpet throughout, glued down to the concrete slab. The carpet is ...
  A: If the carpet is glued, directly to the concrete, I would assume the pile is either all nylon, all ...
Vinyl plank flooring9/27/2009
  Q: Mr. Michaels -- Because our terrier sometimes wets in the house, we are considering putting plank ...
  A: Although some plank vinyl flooring can be installed extremely tightly, giving great resistance to ...
Follow-up9/27/2009
  Q: I couldn't post a follow-up, so I had to start a new thread... I'm located in Bridgewater NJ... If ...
  A: Actually most of that carpet is made for guest room usage (rental property designed for wear and ...
How to choose tile?9/27/2009
  Q: We are installing tile in our bathroom and have received many differing opinions from store ...
  A: Your PEI 2 rating is the Porcelain Enamel Institute's rating for wall and residential bath floor ...
Follow-up9/26/2009
  Q: I couldn't post a follow-up, so I had to start a new thread... I'm located in Bridgewater NJ... If ...
  A: First try this. Go to <northwestcarpets.net>. Click on 'specials'. Click on link ...
Installation9/26/2009
  Q: John, I just had a measure done for carpet installation. One of the rooms is 12 x 18, with a ...
  A: Yes, you can find such a product in that price range give or take 1 or 2 dollars a sq. yd. If you ...
Installation9/26/2009
  Q: John, I just had a measure done for carpet installation. One of the rooms is 12 x 18, with a ...
  A: I received the measurement documents, however the layout is not very clear as far as where the rooms ...
tileing over glued down indoor/outdoor carpet9/26/2009
  Q: When building our cottage nearly 15 yrs. ago we had a good grade of indoor out door carpet installed ...
  A: Why don't you recarpet. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor covering one can have. It has a pile ...
Installation9/25/2009
  Q: John, I just had a measure done for carpet installation. One of the rooms is 12 x 18, with a ...
  A: Have you seen the plan of the job submitted by whom ever did the measurement. If you have, make ...
rug pads9/25/2009
  Q: We are about to install hardwood floors. They are an American cherry by Mullican from their Nature ...
  A: First I would suggest that you NEVER purchase any floor coverings from those large home supply ...
Re: carpet on cement basement floor9/25/2009
  Q: On 9/15/2009, you responded to Chas concerning the above subject. I found it to be very informative. ...
  A: We feel it is very important for a manufacturer to stand behind their products should something go ...
gaps in new floor installation9/24/2009
  Q: Michaels; I had new 3" prefinished Hard Maple floors (from Mullican) installed in June and right ...
  A: again, Mechthild; Sorry, nothing attached. I would like to see the entire report, and if you don't ...
gaps in new floor installation9/24/2009
  Q: Michaels; I had new 3" prefinished Hard Maple floors (from Mullican) installed in June and right ...
  A: I also received this response from you, however nothing was attached. As far as the first ...
vinyl flooring and rolling chairs9/24/2009
  Q: We are looking to replace the vinyl flooring in my grandfather's kitchen. He has chosen a Congoleum ...
  A: Roller casters can be used on Pacesetter, however they must be of a non-staining rubber material, ...
gaps in new floor installation9/23/2009
  Q: Michaels; I had new 3" prefinished Hard Maple floors (from Mullican) installed in June and right ...
  A: Gaps of 1/32 to 1/16 inch are usually acceptable, however gaps of 1/8 inch are not acceptable. ...
brick flooring9/23/2009
  Q: We had Old Chicago brick installed in our kitchen, living, hall area during a remodel. I was never ...
  A: Without seeing your floor, I can only guess about the nature of the problems. It sounds as if the ...
asbestos9/21/2009
  Q: Do you know if its against the law for a large flooring company to remove and improperly dispose and ...
  A: again, Alberto Bracho;I suggest that you visit with your attorney and fully discuss this matter so ...
ceramic tile over cork?9/21/2009
  Q: Is it possible for me to put ceramic tile over a cork floor that is on concrete? The cork has been ...
  A: again, Mark; The cork has to come up, the adhesive that was used to install the cork has to be ...
ceramic tile over cork?9/21/2009
  Q: Is it possible for me to put ceramic tile over a cork floor that is on concrete? The cork has been ...
  A: First obtain the name of the manufacturer of the EXACT ceramic tiles you like. Visit the website of ...
Carpet and Tile - which do you do first?9/20/2009
  Q: We are converting our garage into a den/family room. The entry areas will be tile, and the main ...
  A: For the problem in your house, simply have the installer remove the tackless at that transition, and ...
Installing travertine in a 2nd floor bathroom.9/19/2009
  Q: I am so glad to have found you! I recently bought my home and am looking at replacing the white ...
  A: What you need to do is obtain from the place where you made your purchase of the tiles and grout, ...
Armstrong Hardwood Floors9/18/2009
  Q: I need to have an inspector inspect my hardwood floors by Armstrong. It is an exotic wood that ...
  A: I did not find any attached letter to your question, however I would suggest that you contact MBD ...
wood floor9/16/2009
  Q: I have an old house (90 years) with regular 2 1/4 inch oak flooring. The middle of some of the ...
  A: In today's world, ALL floor covering manufacturers are producing 'green' products, friendly to our ...
wood floor9/16/2009
  Q: I have an old house (90 years) with regular 2 1/4 inch oak flooring. The middle of some of the ...
  A: again, Michael;If you remove the low quality wood, under that is, I assume, a wood type underlayment ...
wood floor9/16/2009
  Q: I have an old house (90 years) with regular 2 1/4 inch oak flooring. The middle of some of the ...
  A: Since I can't see your floor, the advice I would give would be based on some more information I need ...
konecto flooring9/15/2009
  Q: I am ripping carpeting out of my basement and was considering replacing it with Konecto flooring. ...
  A: I would not recommend Konecto flooring for that area, or anywhere else if you are going to install ...
carpet on cement basement floor9/15/2009
  Q: John, We have an area about 12 x 30 in our basement I want to put carpet on for family room. The ...
  A: No matter how slight a dampness condition is, especially in a basement, you really need to find its ...
Crumbling particle-board9/15/2009
  Q: bought my home from my -X-..yeah, that always gets a laugh. when we built this house I rem. the ...
  A: again, Tony;Hard surfaced flooring is far from being germ free. Hospitals have to maintain their ...
"MY" " Floors Now"9/14/2009
  Q: bought my home from my -X-..yeah, that always gets a laugh. when we built this house I rem. the ...
  A: First you mention the lower level and crumbling particleboard. Is the lower level concrete on which ...
New Carpet9/14/2009
  Q: I need to purchase 1,200 SF of carpet for a townhouse I'll be renting out. The carpet I'm looking ...
  A: again, Tom;My answers to you are based on years of experience from 'my side of the table', which is ...
Outdoor carpet - screened in porch9/14/2009
  Q: I had a screened in LARGE porch built. The subflooring is plywood. This was done about 5 years ...
  A: again, Fran;You've had the carpet glued down for 5 years and have those spots just started to ...
Outdoor carpet - screened in porch9/14/2009
  Q: I had a screened in LARGE porch built. The subflooring is plywood. This was done about 5 years ...
  A: Since I can't see your carpet, I can only guess. Perhaps some spillages or sticky soils got ...
laminate flooring9/12/2009
  Q: We installed Wilsonart laminate flooring in 2002 in our kitchen and entry way. Now we tore out a ...
  A: First I'm going to suggest that you rethink your flooring choice. To maintain your laminate floor ...
New Carpet9/12/2009
  Q: I need to purchase 1,200 SF of carpet for a townhouse I'll be renting out. The carpet I'm looking ...
  A: First I would suggest that you do not purchase any product made by Shaw. It has been our experience ...
Travertine not level9/11/2009
  Q: We just had travertine installed in our kitchen and bathroom. It was done over a concrete floor ...
  A: again, Amy; Since I can't see your installation, all I can do is give you an educated guess that ...
flooring9/10/2009
  Q: My husband and I are wanting to lay hardwood in our nursery, but we lifted the carpet and the ...
  A: again, Shelly;I would say the same applies to that type of flooring. What you should do is, if you ...
Flooring over vinyl tile9/10/2009
  Q: I would like to put some new flooring in my basement. I believe the old vinyl tiles may contain ...
  A: I will answer your question as if this were my home. I would call up my homeowner's insurance ...
flooring choice for pet problem9/9/2009
  Q: I am hoping for a flooring suggestion for my perhaps unique situation. My family room is off the ...
  A: A couple of things to consider. First, if your mother has difficulty moving, you might want to ...
Travertine not level9/9/2009
  Q: We just had travertine installed in our kitchen and bathroom. It was done over a concrete floor ...
  A: If you contracted with the installer did you sign a contract or was everything verbal? If you ...
Flooring over vinyl tile9/8/2009
  Q: I would like to put some new flooring in my basement. I believe the old vinyl tiles may contain ...
  A: Why do you believe the tiles contain asbestos? That is a very important question I need to have ...
floor grout vs caulk9/8/2009
  Q: We had porcelain tile laid in our bathroom. They left a gap around the walls without grout and the ...
  A: There should have been a sealant type strip applied around the perimeter of the installation. Since ...
flooring9/8/2009
  Q: My husband and I are wanting to lay hardwood in our nursery, but we lifted the carpet and the ...
  A: I would first suggest that you rethink your flooring choice. One of the healthiest floor coverings ...
Stripping Wax from hardwood floor9/8/2009
  Q: What is a safe inexpensive and effective method to remove Wax from a hardwood floor. The Floor is ...
  A: again, Cheryl; We would suggest that you definitely use no water on hardwood. The Trewax company ...
Carpet transitions9/8/2009
  Q: I am repairing a floor in a double wide trailer house and have finished it and the carpet people ...
  A: Get on your computer and 'google' <transition strips>. You will find various sites that offer many ...
peel n' press vinyl tiles9/7/2009
  Q: I have carpeting in my spare bathroom and want to replace it with vinyl tiles. The floor underneath ...
  A: DON'T install those type of tiles in a bathroom. Moisture will seep under those tiles, even if you ...
travertine and wood floors9/7/2009
  Q: i am building a house in Melbourne, Australia and have been told by friends not to put timber floors ...
  A: Travertine is a soft stone, and it is not as hard as marble, however, a kitchen floor is subject to ...
Installing tile over vinyl floor9/6/2009
  Q: I want to install ceramic tile in a bathroom that currently has sheet vinyl flooring. The current ...
  A: First, concrete is absorbent and always moves, so just because a portion of the vinyl was removed to ...
Stripping Wax from hardwood floor9/6/2009
  Q: What is a safe inexpensive and effective method to remove Wax from a hardwood floor. The Floor is ...
  A: Before I make any suggestions to you, first make CERTAIN you are talking about wax and not a ...
oil soot dust on concrete?9/5/2009
  Q: WE had our 57 y.o. oil tank boiler and hot water heater changed out. During this process, the guys ...
  A: Visit the website of <concrete.org>. That is the concrete institute. Scroll down and on the left ...
porcelain tile in kitchen9/4/2009
  Q: I am putting porcelain tile in my kitchen. I have chosen a slate tile with green accent from Lowes ...
  A: Whether the tiles will be too dark, depends upon the amount of natural light, and the amount of ...
is it a good idea9/3/2009
  Q: im redewing my bathroom and sometimes the dogs go pee in there and we were going to lay down tile ...
  A: To answer your question, I need to know if the bathroom is in the basement on the first floor, or on ...
Floor Prep for Porcelain Tile9/2/2009
  Q: I am wanting to re-tile a small foyer area. The area is about 4' x 7'. I have taken up the old tile ...
  A: The first thing you should do is obtain the installation specifications published by the EXACT ...
How to clean polished porcelain floor tile9/1/2009
  Q: I have tried a number of products to clean my polished porcelain tile floor. My floor now has a ...
  A: First stop using anything. In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers and floor covering ...
Sisal Carpet Backing9/1/2009
  Q: I removed a sisal carpet from my hardwood floor after 8 years. The latex backing crumbled and some ...
  A: Part of your problem stems from your use of lots of improper cleaning agents, so stop using them. ...
Floor Tile8/31/2009
  Q: I am remodeling my family room and will be installing 12 inch square floor tiles which I bought at a ...
  A: In today's world, I think the best advice I would give you is to file a claim with your homeowner's ...
Bathroom floor- what the heck is under my floor!8/30/2009
  Q: I just purchased a home and a 1/2 bath has loose tiles near the toilet. I pulled a few up and am not ...
  A: Since I can't see your installation, I can only guess. If the tiles are loose around the toilet, I ...
cork floor steam cleaning8/29/2009
  Q: I have a cork floor and have just purchased a Shark Steam Mop. Can I use it on the cork floor?
  A: No, don't use a steam mop. Cork floors usually have a top protective layer that is usually a veneer ...
Two Questions on ceramic floor tiling8/28/2009
  Q: I love reading your Questions Answers. Now I have a couple. 1. Is it okay to lay ceramic tiles ...
  A: First obtain the exact manufacturer of the ceramic tiles, visit their website and download the free ...
carpet seams8/27/2009
  Q: Is there a method of achieving a tight seam using the sticky tape? I have had to cut and pull ...
  A: I don't know if you are a carpet installer or your expertise in carpet installation, so please don't ...
Limestone tiled floors8/25/2009
  Q: We purchased a 18" x 18" honed limestone tile to install in a new building for our clients. after ...
  A: Since I can't see the installation, I can only give you some guesses as to the causes of the ...
Inexpensive alternatives-flooring8/25/2009
  Q: Due to extensive water damage, the home (1972 ranch style) we purchased in December of last year has ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your family situation. Area rugs over proper rug pads would be the less ...
Tile8/25/2009
  Q: We are remodeling our bathroom and found a pretty travertine tile. I had decided on porcelain but ...
  A: Travertine would be a recommended product, HOWEVER, the tiles should be sealed BEFORE the grout is ...
Granite and wood flooring laid in same room8/22/2009
  Q: John-We are building a new home, most of which will be covered with cherry wood flooring. I ...
  A: I'm going to answer your question, but first you may want to rethink your floor covering choices. ...
Bathroom floor8/20/2009
  Q: A friend of mine has a small bathroom were the floor is tile and cracked. She would like to replace, ...
  A: Why did the tile crack? Was something dropped on it, was there an original installation error, is ...
wood floors8/20/2009
  Q: We moved into a home with dark wood floors and haven't found a product that can both clean and bring ...
  A: With what did you clean the hardwood, and what cleaning products have you been using these last 3 ...
laying peel and stick over linoleum8/19/2009
  Q: My kitchen floor gets allot of traffic as a second living space and it's hard to keep the linoleum ...
  A: First, there is a tremendous difference between linoleum and vinyl. Are you certain you have a ...
Konecto flooring does it work for us8/19/2009
  Q: We recently buy 270ft of Konecto flooring online, when our floor arrived we it only included the ...
  A: In today's world, ALL floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry manufacturers ...
footprints on hardwood floors8/18/2009
  Q: last summer we put in prefinished hardwood floors. They are a dark oak. They look wonderful but I'm ...
  A: The footprints have to be caused by either something the kids are tracking into the home, from the ...
ceramic tile8/17/2009
  Q: can carpet be applied ontop of ceramic tile? If so, how do you attach tack strips?
  A: As long as the ceramic tiles are very firmly bonded to their underlayment (underlayment being what ...
18x18 travertine installation in kitchen8/16/2009
  Q: I hope you can help me. I have a kicthen floor which I believe is 17" on center spacing (2x6). Six ...
  A: You are telling me what you have, but you have not asked any question. Are you asking if your can ...
vinyl flooring8/15/2009
  Q: We are looking at flexitec vinyl flooring. Three bids said that they float the floor and one said ...
  A: East Coast time on Monday, call 1-888-225-8287. Take option #3. That is the technical services ...
Konecto Flooring8/14/2009
  Q: We are going to put down Konecto flooring on a concrete floor, but the moisture readings are 8 on ...
  A: First 'google''Konecto Flooring' and read the bad reports of this product by those who have ...
parquet floor8/13/2009
  Q: Our 22 year old parquet floor is lifting up in too many places to glue back down. Is there ...
  A: From your description, it sounds as if one or two things have occurred. First, take a ruler with ...
parquet floor8/13/2009
  Q: Our 22 year old parquet floor is lifting up in too many places to glue back down. Is there ...
  A: Anita;You say the adhesive dried out. That I don't understand because the adhesive dried a long ...
parquet floor8/13/2009
  Q: Our 22 year old parquet floor is lifting up in too many places to glue back down. Is there ...
  A: Why is the parquet lifting. Is it because you have a moisture problem, or the adhesive used to ...
porcelin tiles 20x208/12/2009
  Q: We are in the process of installing porcelain tiles. We currently have ceramic tiles over top of ...
  A: Cathy;I'm sending you this answer at about 8 P.M., East Coast time on Wednesday. I may have some ...
porcelin tiles 20x208/12/2009
  Q: We are in the process of installing porcelain tiles. We currently have ceramic tiles over top of ...
  A: Why didn't you contract with the dealer from whom you purchased the tiles for installation as well? ...
floor in bathroom8/11/2009
  Q: I just had new floor installed after flooding from toilet and shower. I haven't used the shower ...
  A: You will probably be making a BIG error by attempting to repair defective installation issues ...
Island on laminate flooring?8/11/2009
  Q: I am going to install laminate in my kitchen and need to know if I can mount the island on top of ...
  A: First I think you should cancel the order. Obtain and thoroughly read the installation ...
"Konectco" brand flooring/area rugs8/11/2009
  Q: I recently had a Konecto brand floor installed in my kitchen and living. I LOVE the product as I ...
  A: All area rugs should be used over proper rug pads. Because of the ceramic type finish on that ...
vapor barrier below basement carpet8/11/2009
  Q: Remodeling a basement rec room. Tile in basement is 50-60 yrs old easily. Has several missing pcs. ...
  A: Concrete is absorbent and always moves. If the tiles have cracked because of a moisture problem, ...
tile floor install8/10/2009
  Q: I'm removing vinyl square tiles from a cement floor and it's leaving a sticky residue. I've been ...
  A: again, Tom; Yes, I was thinking asbestos, especially if the adhesive color was black. Asbestos is ...
tile floor install8/9/2009
  Q: I'm removing vinyl square tiles from a cement floor and it's leaving a sticky residue. I've been ...
  A: IMMEDIATELY STOP EVERYTHING. First, what color is the adhesive used in the installation of the ...
konecto vinyl flooring8/8/2009
  Q: What is the best cleaner for this. Can I use my Haan Steam Mop on it?
  A: The dealer from whom you purchased that product should have given you the free maintenance manual ...
Ceramic Tile - cracked and coming loose8/7/2009
  Q: I had new ceramic tile installed in my kitchen a little over 3 years ago. The kitchen was ...
  A: again, Scott;What you state in your response to my first answer is verbal communications which are ...
Ceramic Tile - cracked and coming loose8/7/2009
  Q: I had new ceramic tile installed in my kitchen a little over 3 years ago. The kitchen was ...
  A: All ceramic tile manufacturers publish free installation specifications, and those installation ...
18/7/2009
  Q: I'm redoing a bathroom floor (25sq ft). The floor joists are 16" o.c., span is 10'. I had to cut the ...
  A: Please remember it's NOT what the retailer recommends. It is EXACTLY what the manufacturer states ...
moisture issues w/slab floor8/6/2009
  Q: We had a Bamboo floor installed which began warping within a couple of months of the install. Their ...
  A: Moisture in a slab is the greatest reason for floor covering installation failures. You didn't ...
1" hexagonal marble8/6/2009
  Q: I'm redoing a bathroom floor (25sq ft). The floor joists are 16" o.c., span is 10'. I had to cut the ...
  A: Your question depends upon several factors including the thickness of the tiles. Any type of ...
Installing hardwood8/4/2009
  Q: I am installing hardwood in my living room and hallway. I already have hardwood intalled in the ...
  A: again, Matt; You need a transition strip because, as the installation specifications for your ...
Installing hardwood8/4/2009
  Q: I am installing hardwood in my living room and hallway. I already have hardwood intalled in the ...
  A: I am going to answer your question, however I have reservations about what you have done and what ...
Mohawk Impostor?8/3/2009
  Q: John, thank you for taking my question. Mine is almost identical to the below. I suspect my carpet ...
  A: What was the name of the dealer from whom you purchased the carpet, and in what city and State is ...
grouting ceramic tiles8/3/2009
  Q: yesterday I grouted my newly laid out ceramic tiles in my basement. I used the grout from HOme ...
  A: Without actually seeing your installation, I feel you may have some grout haze on the tiles and ...
grout shading8/2/2009
  Q: I installed a 1" x 3" x 1/8" glass tile and used a dark grey non-sanded Polyblend grout, ...
  A: Are you certain the shaded areas are not caused by the grout not being mixed properly, or a ...
Shower Tiling8/1/2009
  Q: John, I have been searching the internet for some time trying to find an answer but they all ...
  A: again, Andy; The make-up of thinset produces a product that properly adheres to a non-primed ...
Solution dyed nylon carpet8/1/2009
  Q: I have my heart set on a light coloured solution dyed nylon carpet, see here- ...
  A: Remember that you are going to walk on the carpet, so you will be tracking on some soil, and there ...
Hardwood flooring7/31/2009
  Q: Is there a specific tool used for pushing over the final piece of hardwood that is against the wall ...
  A: Before you do anything more, find out the name of the exact manufacturer of your hardwood flooring. ...
Scratched Stone Floor7/31/2009
  Q: I live in an apartment. Lease is up at the end of the month and it's time to see if I can fix a ...
  A: Without actually seeing those tiles I can only guess. From your description, they may be textured ...
Shower Tiling7/30/2009
  Q: John, I have been searching the internet for some time trying to find an answer but they all ...
  A: No primer on the drywall, and use a thinset for the walls and ceiling. HOWEVER, I suggest that the ...
Thassos White !7/30/2009
  Q: floor area, i plan to put thassos white marble from greece but some local sellers in my town ...
  A: First, visit the website of thassos.com and look through their offerings. There is the availabllity ...
Where floor meets carpet7/30/2009
  Q: I'm pulling up carpet in my bedroom and hall. The bedroom has old hardwood that I think I'd like to ...
  A: One of the healthiest floor coverings one can have is carpet. It has a pile that traps, filters, ...
Encycle Backing7/30/2009
  Q: We had a subcontractor install commercial carpet tile by Lee's Carpet last summer and we were ...
  A: I don't have any real inside scoop as to why the backing was discontinued, however industry general ...
Replacing Tile Flooring7/29/2009
  Q: In my front foyer I had a thin bluestone tile floor. It may not have been real bluestone but it ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers are producing 'green' products, friendly to our ...
VCT tile7/28/2009
  Q: I have leased a building and some of the VCT tiles were damaged. I purchased a hand full and some ...
  A: Do you know why the tiles were damaged. Was it due to topical damage or because they became loose ...
Tile over Tile7/28/2009
  Q: I have an tile floor over wood sub floor. Tiles are 8 x 8 ceramic. I had a couple of cracks due to ...
  A: First, obtain the free installation specifications published by the exact manufacturer of your new ...
Slate tile natural cleft7/28/2009
  Q: I installed California Gold slate from a kit(Vienna pattern) with a natural cleft finish, in my ...
  A: That type of 'fix' will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so obtain the name of the exact ...
DuraPlank Installation7/28/2009
  Q: Can DuraPlank be installed over existing linoleum? I recently bought a house and the builder was ...
  A: First visit the website of, <congoleum.com>, and download the free installation specifications for ...
pre-sealing honey onyx stone7/27/2009
  Q: I am involved in a bathroom renovation and have come to the grouting phase of a shower stall. We ...
  A: The stone should be sealed before grouting, and there are ways to remove the grout residue. Call ...
cork flooring7/26/2009
  Q: Can I use cork flooring on cement in my basement, I have no moisture problems? I want to float my ...
  A: again, Bob Jones; You use the term, 'berber', which you may equate to a looped pile carpet. Berber ...
Wood Floors/Carpet7/26/2009
  Q: We purchased our home newly built. The wood flooring in the foyer leads into the living room, which ...
  A: There are a few ways to do that. One would be, instead of using nails, use a proper adhesive. ...
Flexitec Flooring7/26/2009
  Q: I want to replace most of my flooring and have looked at several options some of which I found will ...
  A: again, Lisa; My strong suggestion would be for you to visit the website of <mannington.com>, and ...
cork flooring7/26/2009
  Q: Can I use cork flooring on cement in my basement, I have no moisture problems? I want to float my ...
  A: If you use your basement for a family type area, just remember that any hard surfaced floor covering ...
best Rug pads7/26/2009
  Q: I'm trying to decide between two different brands of rug pads-the first is MSM Duo Lock rug pad and ...
  A: First, understand what you have. Hard surfaced floor coverings (laminate, wood, stone, tile, etc., ...
Flexitec Flooring7/25/2009
  Q: I want to replace most of my flooring and have looked at several options some of which I found will ...
  A: I would like you to get back to me with some information so I can make some suggestions. What type ...
travertine-outside7/25/2009
  Q: I saw unpolished travertine recently and decided they would make a nice outdoor patio surface. I am ...
  A: Travertine is not the product for that use. It is too soft and will suffer in extreme environments ...
travertine tiles7/23/2009
  Q: I'm installing travertine tiles in my kitchen. I grouted half and noticed a haze on the tiles that ...
  A: again, Sophia;Without being able to see your tiles, I am assuming that haze is from the grout. When ...
travertine tiles7/23/2009
  Q: I'm installing travertine tiles in my kitchen. I grouted half and noticed a haze on the tiles that ...
  A: Don't try anything else. Travertine is a soft tile, and various manufacturers make that type of ...
Floor under wood stove7/23/2009
  Q: Over the past winter the tile under my wood stove cracked from the heat. I want to replace it with a ...
  A: Travertine is not a good tile for that use, however ALL tiles, except natural stone tiles like ...
laminate flooring vs.ceramic tile7/23/2009
  Q: we are looking at wood laminates and are considering Konecto or Alloc Original elegant walnut ...
  A: First I am not a fan of Konecto and would not suggest using that product unless it was going to be ...
ditra vs. hardie board for ceramic tile?7/23/2009
  Q: I'm having 12"x12" ceramic tile installed in an upstairs kids' bathroom which will get lot of use ...
  A: I am a fan of hardi backerboard, however, visit the website of <hardibacker.com>. That is the James ...
Polyester vs. Nylon Carpet7/22/2009
  Q: We're installing carpet in a new home & will need somewhere between 200 & 220 yards. The carpet is ...
  A: You mention PET polyester shown to you as being new in January, 2009. I think the salesperson made ...
Grout Dye7/22/2009
  Q: We have installed ceramic tile in our bathroom. We used a Chocolate Brown grout. The grout is ...
  A: Visit the website of <aqua-mix.com>, where you will find information on products to dye grout, ...
Flooring ideas7/21/2009
  Q: We pulled up carpet that the previous owners had laid and found very nice hardwood underneath. ...
  A: First remember that one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have is carpet. It has a pile ...
fix all over slc7/20/2009
  Q: My SLC pour ended up a little shy of complete. Can I use fix all over it to complete the ...
  A: All floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry manufacturers (adhesives, levelers, ...
Alloc laminate flooring7/20/2009
  Q: I'm looking to garner some feedback on Alloc laminate flooring. I found some reasonable prices, but ...
  A: again, Nick;First, I do not suggest that you purchase ANY floor covering from one of those large ...
Alloc laminate flooring7/20/2009
  Q: I'm looking to garner some feedback on Alloc laminate flooring. I found some reasonable prices, but ...
  A: Alloc was originally located in Wisconsin and was a major laminate manufaturer. Because of the ...
Polyester vs. Nylon Carpet7/20/2009
  Q: We're installing carpet in a new home & will need somewhere between 200 & 220 yards. The carpet is ...
  A: again, Jonathan;The main issue missing in those specifications is face weight (how many ounces of ...
What to replace my carpet with??7/19/2009
  Q: I am considering replacing all the carpeting in my small condo (first floor only) -i have been here ...
  A: The choice of a floor covering is yours. However you need to know that hard surfaced flooring ...
flooring over waferboard7/19/2009
  Q: We have waferboard in our barn tack room which is screwed down to an aluminum ribbed flooring (a ...
  A: Usually wafer board is an unacceptable underlayment for hard surfaced flooring. You may have to ...
Polyester vs. Nylon Carpet7/19/2009
  Q: We're installing carpet in a new home & will need somewhere between 200 & 220 yards. The carpet is ...
  A: Got your $19.50 revision. Nylon would be the better choice. Just make certain the carpet is ...
Repairing particle board subfloors7/18/2009
  Q: I just chipped out ceramic tile that covered the entire upstairs of my house. while doing this, the ...
  A: Replace the particleboard with lauan or plywood. You want a nice stable surface for the carpet and ...
Saltillo floor problems7/18/2009
  Q: I bought 800 Saltillo floor tiles over the internet. The tiles were presealed with an oil based ...
  A: You are asking for my opinion. First, NEVER purchase floor covering over the internet. Floor ...
carpet recycling7/17/2009
  Q: I have checked your previous answers and would like to know more about the carpet recycling ...
  A: First, the current business climate in new construction and renovation is poor, so not much interior ...
glued down underlay7/14/2009
  Q: I have lifted the carpet in a very large hall as I wanted to stain and varnish the floorboards. ...
  A: I don't fully understand your question. Is it that you have an existing wood plank subfloor on top ...
Water damage7/13/2009
  Q: I have old vinyl tile squares in a 10x20 basement that has water damage. There are a few small ...
  A: In my answer to you, I am going to be an alarmest, because I care about your health. When you say ...
sealing & waterproofing concrete7/12/2009
  Q: What is the best paint & sealer to use to waterproof & seal concrete floor & hardi-backer walls in a ...
  A: Not a good idea to paint or seal the concrete. First nothing is water proof. Water resistant is a ...
unerlayment for hardwood7/11/2009
  Q: Is it a good idea to use cement board as an underlayment for hardwood flooring? What are the pros ...
  A: The first thing you MUST do is find out the name of the exact manufacturer of the hardwood flooring ...
floor tiles7/11/2009
  Q: We have hade a white fllor tile laid with black grout, the tiles have stained and we are unable to ...
  A: What type of tiles. Ceramic, vinyl, porcerlain?. I'm assuming they are ceramic. When you say ...
Dirty Tile7/10/2009
  Q: I had a light grey tile installed in my bedroom a few years ago and no matter how much I clean it, ...
  A: Since I can't see your installation, I can only guess. It sounds like, if the tiles were grouted, ...
Dirty Tile7/10/2009
  Q: I had a light grey tile installed in my bedroom a few years ago and no matter how much I clean it, ...
  A: What kind of tile (vinyl, ceramic, etc.). You also mention that the tiles were installed a few ...
saltillo7/10/2009
  Q: I would like my saltillo to have a high gloss shine. a wet look. is there anything that will ...
  A: Since I can't see your tiles I can't tell if their surfaces will accept a high gloss application. ...
cutback removal for travertine install7/9/2009
  Q: I am trying to prepare my concrete floor to accept a travertine floor Versailles pattern tile sizes ...
  A: You are asking for my opinion and answer. My opinion is to IMMEDIATELY STOP everything and contact ...
Installation of tile flooring in rooms where dimensions are off; walls uneven7/8/2009
  Q: What is the solution to laying tile on a floor where the walls are off by up to a few inches to ...
  A: It certainly is. The questions you raise are sending off 'red flags' to me. Don't even consider ...
hardwood flooring7/6/2009
  Q: I am moving into a pre-1920's home that has original pine hardwood floors. The floors have been ...
  A: Squeaking is normally due to the following; If the hardwood was tongue & groove, because of age and ...
Installation of tile flooring in rooms where dimensions are off; walls uneven7/6/2009
  Q: What is the solution to laying tile on a floor where the walls are off by up to a few inches to ...
  A: again, Marcella;A couple of things. First, if they are in different lots, I assume you purchased ...
Installation of tile flooring in rooms where dimensions are off; walls uneven7/6/2009
  Q: What is the solution to laying tile on a floor where the walls are off by up to a few inches to ...
  A: What type of tiles? Ceramic, vinyl, carpet, porcelain, etc., how many rooms, what type of a ...
Re: Tile installation on shower walls7/6/2009
  Q: We are remodeling a master bath, and I want to create some visual and textual interest on the shower ...
  A: Since I can't see your installation, I really don't want to give advice through this 'sight unseen' ...
1 1/8" transition between carpet & concrete7/5/2009
  Q: After removing mildewed carpet in our basement, I have installed Dricore subfloor with 1/4" carpet ...
  A: A couple of things you could do. One would be to feather the height difference down so you could ...
Replace carpeting in RV7/5/2009
  Q: Our toilet seal broke in our RV, soaking our carpet in bathroom and hall area. Area was quickly ...
  A: Forget laminate. It must be installed in an environment that is kept well above the 30's and under ...
question about flooring7/5/2009
  Q: We want to put Laminate flooring (Pergo) in are basement, and are not sure if that is a good idea. ...
  A: First laminate and hardwood can't be cleaned with water, so putting that type of flooring in a ...
Poly sheen on refinished wood floor7/4/2009
  Q: We recently had our wood floors finished with a light stain and three coats of satin ploly. The ...
  A: Since I can't see your flooring, I can only make an educated guess. It appears that the people you ...
Dark stain on wood floor.7/4/2009
  Q: Our dog had an accident in our kitchen which puddled overnight on light maple wood flooring and left ...
  A: First, if you have a solid wood floor, it can be refinished. If you have an engineered hardwood ...
Installation of Mannington Adura tile7/2/2009
  Q: A few days ago we had Mannington Adura tile (Dynasty Pearl) professionally installed. My husband ...
  A: Visit the website of <mannington.com>, and download the free installation specifications for that ...
Laminate Use7/1/2009
  Q: I have an enclosed 14x20 porch which is unheated and not used in the winter months (Pennsylvania). ...
  A: Laminate or hardwood would not be prudent choices. What ever types of floor coverings you consider, ...
Ambering of Lino7/1/2009
  Q: In my bathroom under the area rug with the rubber back it is turning yellow, now i have read that is ...
  A: Depending upon how noticeable the discoloration is, by removing the rug, it may disapate if it is ...
water stains due to flooding inside tile enemal7/1/2009
  Q: is it possible if I had a flood and the tile that is white and its been 3 months since the flooding ...
  A: You did not mention the type of tile. Are the tiles vinyl, ceramic, etc. You mention clay and ...
Walkout Basement Flooring6/30/2009
  Q: I am looking to put engineered hardwood in my walk-out basement. I pained the concrete slab to ...
  A: First remember that hardwood flooring comes from trees. It acts just like trees. It will expand, ...
cutback6/29/2009
  Q: John, I have a cutback question. We have a basement that had old tile (1952) in it, the tile has ...
  A: We answered your question in the email you sent to us on our website, however in that question, you ...
Vinyl Floorcovering Instalation6/29/2009
  Q: What is best way to glue/tape vinyl floor covering to cement floor (garage dog area) Can you ...
  A: Big or small air bubbles are usually caused by installation errors, and/or improper handling of the ...
Crackling floating laminate flooring6/28/2009
  Q: I had new Wilsonart laminate floating flooring installed over my concrete slab in March, 2008. This ...
  A: First I am answering your question before we officially receive it from allexperts.com. When we ...
Thinset Mortar6/27/2009
  Q: I have a 3X6 area with 3/4" plywood subfloor with no defects. Do I still need to use the thin set ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry (adhesives, ...
Reducer strip between tile and wood laminate6/26/2009
  Q: I've just installed backer board and tile in 3 bathrooms. In two that makes the level about 3/4 ...
  A: 'google' transition strips, and look through the websites that appear, especially ...
Ceramic over linoleum6/25/2009
  Q: A few months ago I dealt with a flooring company who installed ceramic tile without first removing ...
  A: Here's what I would do. First I would visit the website of the tile manufacturer and download the ...
cleaning engineered hardwood floors6/25/2009
  Q: I clean our floors by first sweeping and then the spray cleaner the company recommends. My problem ...
  A: An engineered hardwood floor is layers. There is a bottom layer for stability and probably some ...
Hollow Ceramic Tiles6/25/2009
  Q: Our ceramic floor was installed about 6 years ago. About 2 years ago we noticed several areas that ...
  A: First have no more verbal conversations with anyone involved in the sale and installation of the ...
Basement Carpet6/24/2009
  Q: Help! We're so confused. We have two bedrooms in our walkout basement. Two months ago we had ...
  A: Concrete is absorbent and always moves. Water damage cannot only affect one of the bedrooms, but ...
Travertine6/22/2009
  Q: I'm planning to install travertine in a 2nd floor bathroom that currently has 8" ceramic. The ...
  A: again, Chris;Go to the website of <ehow.com>. On left side, click on 'Home & Decor'. In the ...
Travertine6/22/2009
  Q: I'm planning to install travertine in a 2nd floor bathroom that currently has 8" ceramic. The ...
  A: You need to remove the ceramic and, probably the Wonderboard. By having a subfloor topped with an ...
Tile6/22/2009
  Q: After our second pinhole copper pipe leak in the pipes between our bedroom and laundry room that ...
  A: All I ever get from All Experts is your question. I don't get any addresses, so I don't know what ...
Quiet Walk versus 12mm Cork Underlayment for Laminate Floor6/22/2009
  Q: John, I am thinking of installing a 12mm thick HDF Laminate over a 12mm thick cork underlayment ...
  A: To go off-track for a moment; Just remember that one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have ...
Laminate Underlay6/22/2009
  Q: Are there industry standards for thickness of laminate underlays? I am selling retail flooring and ...
  A: again, Mark;All of the manufacturers you list have specific installation specifications that anyone ...
Laminate Underlay6/21/2009
  Q: Are there industry standards for thickness of laminate underlays? I am selling retail flooring and ...
  A: I'm going to ask you to get back to me with type of floor coverings you use that don't indicate in ...
Scratches on waxed tile floor6/20/2009
  Q: I am the EVS Supervisor for a Casino in Mississippi. We have a section of stone tile that was waxed ...
  A: Look at a section of scratched tiles with a magnifying glass to see if the scratches go below that ...
Granite discoloration6/19/2009
  Q: My husband and I just installed hardibacker cement board with Watertight waterproofing on top of it. ...
  A: I would really need to see your installation to determine the exact nature of your problems, but ...
travertine tile6/18/2009
  Q: I am considering installing travertine tile in entry/hall/kitchen area. It currently has ...
  A: Travertine is a soft stone, so you need to have furniture leg protectors on the bottom of the legs. ...
Carpeting6/17/2009
  Q: I have three bedrooms that need carpeting plus the upstairs hallway. My bedrooms are Lt Blue, Lilac ...
  A: I am not an interior designer, but I have dealt with designers for a number of years and have a ...
Old wet basement6/17/2009
  Q: My basement has a sump system, works OK, the room was originally a coal and furnace space, then ...
  A: We are not construction experts, however, you need to find the source of your moisture problem. Is ...
steam cleaning engineered hardwood flooring6/17/2009
  Q: I have heard so much about using a steam cleaner on hardwood floors, our floor is mercier engineered ...
  A: You have made an investment that, I believe, comes with a warranty. Wood flooring and water don't ...
brick floor6/15/2009
  Q: I was wondering if there is a way to lay a brick floor over a tile floor? We have already bought the ...
  A: If your current tile floor is down very solidly, you may be able to put down a cement type ...
flooring6/14/2009
  Q: I have an old vinyl floor that needs replacing. A friend is pleased with her DuraCeramic floor (by ...
  A: DuraCeramic is a good flooring product. It does require that certain products and installation ...
carpet gluing6/13/2009
  Q: I live in a condo in Victoria,b.c. We are replacing the carpet throughout the building. A ...
  A: again, Jim;Great! I'll look for your response. Don't forget to let me know what is being carpeted. ...
carpet gluing6/13/2009
  Q: I live in a condo in Victoria,b.c. We are replacing the carpet throughout the building. A ...
  A: When you indicate you are going to replace the carpet throughout the building, does that mean just ...
Basement Floor6/12/2009
  Q: My basement floor has ceramic tiles now and I would like to use floating vinyl tiles over the ...
  A: again, AG;Maintenance, again, is a major factor. Don't forget proper walk-off mats at all entries ...
new ceramic floor tile6/11/2009
  Q: John, I just had glazed, black, ceramic floor tiles installed in my kitchen and am disheartened that ...
  A: again, Lynn;You are in kind of a rural area, so I would suggest that you put pressure on Lowe's ...
new ceramic floor tile6/11/2009
  Q: John, I just had glazed, black, ceramic floor tiles installed in my kitchen and am disheartened that ...
  A: Alfa ceramic tiles are made in Egypt. They must have representation by an agent in the United ...
Carpet to concrete floor transitions6/10/2009
  Q: John, Hopefully tou can help. We are building a new home and would like to go with stained concrete ...
  A: Unfortunately, you have decided to disagree with my opinion by, instead of simply responding in your ...
flooring in basement6/10/2009
  Q: we are finishing our basement and trying to decide on flooring.We wanted to go with laminate buyt ...
  A: again, Mike;The basement area calls for a proper looped pile carpet, but since you have a dog, even ...
Carpet to concrete floor transitions6/10/2009
  Q: John, Hopefully tou can help. We are building a new home and would like to go with stained concrete ...
  A: Why do you want to go with stained concrete in general living areas and baths? Concrete is ...
Laminate Flooring Underlay6/9/2009
  Q: I am installing 12mm laminate flooring with a 2mm attached underlay. Will the 2mm underlay provide ...
  A: I would need to know the name of the manufacturer of the laminate floor, the style name of the ...
Installing sheet vinyl floor in bathroom6/9/2009
  Q: John, I am remodeling the hallway bathroom in my house. As part of the remodel, I decided to ...
  A: There are all types of information you will find that will be 'generic' type. In floor covering, ...
Basement Floor6/8/2009
  Q: My basement floor has ceramic tiles now and I would like to use floating vinyl tiles over the ...
  A: It's not the carpet backing, it's the carpet pile that keeps those harmful allergents from becoming ...
exercising on carpet6/6/2009
  Q: I have recently installed new carpet in my basement (frieze). I am a daily home exerciser, doing a ...
  A: Sorry to hear you installed a frieze texture. A different construction such as a dense commercial ...
using versabond quickset as a floor surface6/6/2009
  Q: Is it possible to use versabond quickset as a floor surface? If so, what would we use to seal ...
  A: Versabond is not designed to be a floor covering. It is designed to be a mortar adhesive on which ...
flooring in basement6/6/2009
  Q: we are finishing our basement and trying to decide on flooring.We wanted to go with laminate buyt ...
  A: If the basement is going to be used as a family type rec area, I would suggest carpet, however, even ...
Highest r-value underlayment for a floating floor6/4/2009
  Q: Can you advise me which underlayment has the highest R-value. I am putting a floating floor with no ...
  A: again, Martin;We're in Jersey so I know the exact spot where you got rear ended. I'm assuming you ...
Highest r-value underlayment for a floating floor6/3/2009
  Q: Can you advise me which underlayment has the highest R-value. I am putting a floating floor with no ...
  A: Regardless of the R value, one, some, or all of the underlayments you list may not be compatable ...
Finding Tile?6/2/2009
  Q: I live in southern Louisiana. I have acquired some glazed ceramic tiles for free. My problem is that ...
  A: The only suggestion I could give you is to contact the manufacturer and see if the product is still ...
wet carpet6/2/2009
  Q: We are having an upstairs bath remodeled. After demo work, the contractor did not cap the water ...
  A: again, Penny;Usually carpet will naturally shrink to an extent, so proper stretching may not be able ...
Sheet vinyl - crackling noise at edges6/2/2009
  Q: John, 5 weeks ago, a local flooring company installed sheet vinyl (Mannington Sobella Supreme) in ...
  A: again, Carol; Yes, call the dealer, speak to the owner, just tell the owner about the noise and ask ...
wet carpet6/2/2009
  Q: We are having an upstairs bath remodeled. After demo work, the contractor did not cap the water ...
  A: The contractor, I assume, has insurance to cover any damages. Concrete is absorbent and always ...
Sheet vinyl - crackling noise at edges6/2/2009
  Q: John, 5 weeks ago, a local flooring company installed sheet vinyl (Mannington Sobella Supreme) in ...
  A: No, it does not sound normal. Since I can't see your installation, I can only guess what's ...
Water under vinyl tile5/31/2009
  Q: We had a drain for the air conditioner leak, we do not know how long it was leaking. We noticed ...
  A: If you do not have a crawl space under the slab, then I would suggest that you contact the ...
maintaining slate floor in screened in porch5/30/2009
  Q: We have not done a thing to the slate floor in our sunroom since we moved in 3 years ago. We have no ...
  A: If you know the name of the manufacturer of your slate floor, visit their website and click on the ...
floor instalation5/29/2009
  Q: I am using tar paper as a sub floor, do I have to glue it down before I install the vinyl tile on ...
  A: DON'T DO IT! If you know the name of the manufacturer of your tiles, immediately contact that exact ...
Vinyl5/29/2009
  Q: i have to install non-adhesive tiles in my bathroom. i have gallon of Roberts #2057 VCT and need to ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry manufacturers ...
elevator5/28/2009
  Q: What type of grout and sealer do i use for the floor of an elevator? the old grout is cracking from ...
  A: It really depends upon how old the grout is. Within the past 1 to 2 years, all floor covering ...
Tile floor water damage5/27/2009
  Q: We recently had a major water leak inside our home , of about 1-1/2" to 2" of water. The question I ...
  A: You left out a lot of information, so I'm just guessing that you have ceramic tile installed over ...
Which Type of Flooring?5/25/2009
  Q: .. My home was built in 2003 and I had to have the kitchen and upstairs bathroom flooring removed ...
  A: The true cost of any floor covering is product, installation, and maintenance over its useful life. ...
Vinyl vs Fiberglass floor covering in kitchen5/24/2009
  Q: We are redoing a kitchen on the Jersey shore and have looked at vinyl by Mannington and fiberglass ...
  A: In today's world, floor covering manufacturers are in the throes of producing 'green' products, ...
laminate floor peaking and chipping5/23/2009
  Q: We purchased laminate flooring June 2006 in April 2007 had several boards replaced by company who ...
  A: again, Jan; I suggest you contact <mbdinspectfloors.com> They inspect all over the U. S. and ...
removing saltillo tile5/22/2009
  Q: I have saltillo tile with 3/4" grout in laundry room which connects to small bathroom and also in ...
  A: First understand the products you wish to use. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one ...
Cork Flooring and Pet Nails5/22/2009
  Q: How would cork flooring hold up to the daily wear and tear of a large young dog with nails.
  A: Cork flooring is available in different thicknesses and quality, and there are different standards ...
Cork flooring5/21/2009
  Q: I had Wicanders cork floating floor installed in my condo, ground floor, a few months ago. I ...
  A: again, Jane; Visit the website of <mbdinspectfloors.com>. They have over 800 inspectors scattered ...
Cork flooring5/21/2009
  Q: I had Wicanders cork floating floor installed in my condo, ground floor, a few months ago. I ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your problem. First, to protect your investment, if you haven't paid the full ...
commercial tile5/20/2009
  Q: what if the commercial grade tile is uneven causing ledges all over the floor? The floor was ...
  A: Ledging can be caused by numerous things. Rarely is it related to manufacturing, however it could ...
asbestos tile kitchen flooring5/20/2009
  Q: We love the look of this "retro" floor in our kitchen - black with a colored stripe around the edge. ...
  A: First, if you are certain the tiles contain asbestos, if it were my home, regardless of the 'retro' ...
transition strips5/19/2009
  Q: Recently installed 18" vinyl tile in the kitchen. I have two doorways where the tile meets hardwood ...
  A: again, Ed; The problem with nail or screw in transition strips is that you must make certain the ...
transition strips5/19/2009
  Q: Recently installed 18" vinyl tile in the kitchen. I have two doorways where the tile meets hardwood ...
  A: Usually at a tile/hardwood juncture, one flooring is slightly higher, requiring a transition strip ...
Porcelain tile looking dull and streaked5/18/2009
  Q: 3 years ago we had new porcelain tile installed in a vacation home. At the beginning, it took many, ...
  A: again, Joanne;Hard surfaced flooring is non-absorbent, so harmful track-in soils such as dirt, ...
Porcelain tile looking dull and streaked5/17/2009
  Q: 3 years ago we had new porcelain tile installed in a vacation home. At the beginning, it took many, ...
  A: Porcelain tile is available in different qualities, glaze levels, thicknesses, etc. If you look at ...
moisture issues5/14/2009
  Q: I have had tile floor laid professionally twice the first time my linoleum was taken up and tile ...
  A: From what you tell me, all you have received is the wrong advice. I would need to have an indepth ...
carpet on hardwood floors5/14/2009
  Q: Do I need a pad under my new wool area rug on my new hardwood living room floor? The rug is ...
  A: You should use a proper rug pad under ALL area rugs and most residential carpet. Then, since ...
Hardness of Marbonite5/12/2009
  Q: I'm building a home in rural India. I prefer a softer type of flooring for bare feet (e.g., clay ...
  A: Marbonite is closer to ceramic type tile, however its perceived softness in walk is dependent upon ...
engineered wood import price5/12/2009
  Q: my question is: the whole salers who import maple, walnut, hickory, etc.... engineered wood from ...
  A: My understanding that in a normal market, they work on about 1/3 based on selling price, not cost. ...
wood filler5/11/2009
  Q: I recently installed meritage brazilian cherry engineered wood floors. I have been looking for wood ...
  A: There are all types of products that go into the make-up of 'Brazilian Cherry' engineered wood ...
HARDY BOARD5/11/2009
  Q: CAN I INSTALL TILE ON HARDY BOARD.THE HOUSE IS NEW. OSB BE FLOORS.
  A: I believe OSB is a suitable underlayment for a backerboard however, I suggest that you visit the ...
carpet wrinkles5/10/2009
  Q: lived in house for 4 years- carpet started wrinkling after one- carpet cleaner advised that carpet ...
  A: Why didn't you contact the dealer and/or installer when you first saw the wrinkles? If your sales ...
laminate flooring installation5/10/2009
  Q: I live in IL but own a condo in Florida. I am going to install a floating laminate floor over vinyl ...
  A: First, all floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry manufacturers (underlayments, ...
Flooring Dilemma Over Concrete Slab5/8/2009
  Q: We own a 1967 ranch home built on a concrete slab in the Texas Hill Country. The house has had ...
  A: Why is the raised floor separating from the slab? If it is because you may have a moisture problem ...
tile problem5/7/2009
  Q: John. I have an ongoing issue with a tile floor that I had installed. I will try to be brief, but ...
  A: Your problem is precisely why you should have purchased the tile and installation from the dealer. ...
gypcrete or not?5/7/2009
  Q: I do not know whether to pour gypcrete or just glue down our engineered wood to the 3/4" subfloor of ...
  A: Creaking sounds are related to installation issues such as improper nails/screws, being used to ...
laminate floor peaking and chipping5/6/2009
  Q: We purchased laminate flooring June 2006 in April 2007 had several boards replaced by company who ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your problem. I am NOT an attorney, so I can't give you any legal advice. What ...
Mohawk carpet5/6/2009
  Q: I'm looking to put new carpet in my family room and den, I had a guy come to give me an estimate and ...
  A: again, Chuck; PTT is a relatively new fiber and has some maintenance related issues that are ...
Mohawk carpet5/6/2009
  Q: I'm looking to put new carpet in my family room and den, I had a guy come to give me an estimate and ...
  A: When you say poly, do you mean polyester or polypropylene. If you mean polyester, do you mean PET ...
Pergo Installation/Waterline5/5/2009
  Q: I have a kitchen with vinyl flooring and a sink across from the fridge...If i buy a fridge with an ...
  A: I'm not sure I understand your question. Are you planning to install a Pergo laminate floor over ...
Squeaky tile bathrooms downstairs/craw space5/5/2009
  Q: From Winston-Salem, NC. Our house is about 5 years old and we have a lot of movement/squeaks/pops ...
  A: Dudas;Squeaking sounds originate from many sources. It could be a moisture problem in the crawl ...
Indoor carpet for outdoor patio5/3/2009
  Q: I was wondering if I can use indoor olefin carpet on my outdoor covered porch? I was shopping for ...
  A: Don't use carpet designed for indoors, outdoors. Besides the dampness, the carpet, or any floor ...
Jute carpet - ok for outdoor?5/2/2009
  Q: I'd like to purchase a jute carpet for my front porch. Is a jute carpet that has a non-slip backing ...
  A: I'm assuming you are describing a flat weave carpet with a rubber type backing. If you are, what ...
tile installation in bathroom5/1/2009
  Q: Do you need a certain type of flooring in the bathroom room 2nd floor in order to install tile ...
  A: All floor covering manufacturers, and floor covering sundry manufacturers (underlayments, adhesives, ...
Engineered wood floor thickness4/30/2009
  Q: I've been shopping for wood floors for my wife's Mother's Day gift. Have just discovered that there ...
  A: First remember that the product for which you are shopping is a layered product. There is a ...
OVERLAY ARMSTRONG LINOLEUM WITH VINYL PEEL & STICK TILES4/29/2009
  Q: In the basement we have a white with grey pattern cushioned Armstrong Linoleum floor. An expensive, ...
  A: I need you to do me a favor. Just before I went to answer your questions, I cut my finger and had ...
QuickStep laminate flooring installed over tile and cement slab4/29/2009
  Q: I live in Tucson, Arizona in a 55 year old brick home. About 2 1/2 years ago I had my home ...
  A: again, Carol;Asbestos is a serious thing. When was it noted that the tiles and/or grout contained ...
QuickStep laminate flooring installed over tile and cement slab4/29/2009
  Q: I live in Tucson, Arizona in a 55 year old brick home. About 2 1/2 years ago I had my home ...
  A: First, concrete is absorbent and always moves. Moisture could be coming from the ground cover used ...
laminate4/28/2009
  Q: and thank you for your help in advance. I installed 200 square feet of laminate (oceanic - 8.43 mm ...
  A: With all the errors made, you appear to be compounding them by getting advice from 'others'. The ...
carpet question4/27/2009
  Q: I have been researching carpet and pad options for my concrete basement floor. The basement is dry ...
  A: Since concrete absorbs moisture and always moves, if the concrete has dampness, no matter how ...
Basement floors4/26/2009
  Q: I bought a house built in the mid 1920's. The basement floor is concrete and looks like it was ...
  A: Nothing is moisture proof. There is moisture resistant, however if you have 'damp' concrete, since ...
Marble vs Porcelain tile4/25/2009
  Q: what are the advantages and disadvantages of marble over porcelain tile for bathroom.
  A: Both are available in textured surfaces, both should be grouted, both can be sealed, both can be ...
granite tile flooring4/24/2009
  Q: When we put granite tiles (18/18) on the floor is it better to put grout or no grout between tiles. ...
  A: again, Ann; There will be some slight gaps inbetween tiles so grouting with an unsanded grout is ...
granite tile flooring4/23/2009
  Q: When we put granite tiles (18/18) on the floor is it better to put grout or no grout between tiles. ...
  A: The answers to your questions depend upon a number of things. What I suggest that you do is obtain ...
Rug to Linoleum Transitions - removal4/21/2009
  Q: Professionals installed a rug on my basement cement floor. They used a hard rubber transition strip ...
  A: again, Garth; From your photo, it appears that you have the vinyl & (probably) aluminum transition ...
granite slab flooring4/20/2009
  Q: We just finished building a new home and we have granite flooring 3x3. Flooring was installed ...
  A: Do you have grout in between the tiles? If so, that may be a grout and/or filler residue that will ...
Rug to Linoleum Transitions - removal4/20/2009
  Q: Professionals installed a rug on my basement cement floor. They used a hard rubber transition strip ...
  A: If you have a concrete floor and a transition strip was installed, it was either glued onto the ...
Installation of hardwood floors4/19/2009
  Q: We are purchasing a new home and red oak floors are being installed. There are spaces large enough ...
  A: If you have that type of gapping, do not allow any fillers to be used. That gapping is due to ...
hard floor over carpet needed4/19/2009
  Q: I have a playroom which is carpeted - I eventually plan to remove all the carpet but I cannot do it ...
  A: First, remember that carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile ...
carpet melting4/19/2009
  Q: Help!! my carpet is melting..we had a new carpet installed in the autumn of 2008, recently i came ...
  A: I would assume that any carpet sold in UK has to pass the same standards as in the U.S. In order ...
problems with wood floor splintering and crakcing4/18/2009
  Q: I have a splintering and cracking problem with my wood floor. The floor was installed in August ...
  A: I am NOT an attorney, so I can't give you any legal advice, and I don't know of any attornies in ...
Ceramic tile over concrete slab4/18/2009
  Q: We recently hired a contractor to do a large scale kitchen remodel and also to tile our entire first ...
  A: Your contractor appears to be not telling you the truth. EVERYBODY who knows how to install ceramic ...
sub-flooring4/17/2009
  Q: i work for a apartment complex and had to replace a subfloor in the kitchen. when i pulled up the ...
  A: Two things. First, if the boards were rotted, there may be a moisture problem that has not been ...
marble over cork underlayment4/16/2009
  Q: New construction for condo, post tense slab requires floating floor. Has to deal with condensation ...
  A: You MUST obtain the installation specifications published by the exact manufacturer of the marble ...
Tile flooring at enterance door w/crack4/16/2009
  Q: I have ceramic tile to lay at our back door going to the patio. I cut out the carpet and right at ...
  A: You need to know the cause of the crack. If it is a moisture related problem that you may not see ...
Carpet Installation on Stairs and Hall4/15/2009
  Q: John, I have 2 questions regarding carpet installation on our brand-new stairs and the upstairs ...
  A: Usually, the installer will either use a knee kicker on each stair tread, away from both sides of ...
underlayment / sound transmission4/15/2009
  Q: Is it possible to combine cork and floor muffler underlayment to minimize sound transmission? I am ...
  A: again, Kirk;Sorry to disagree with you, but today's carpet is totally different than carpet made ...
underlayment / sound transmission4/15/2009
  Q: Is it possible to combine cork and floor muffler underlayment to minimize sound transmission? I am ...
  A: I'm not happy with your approach to your flooring purchase. You may not fully understand what you ...
proper procedure for tile install4/14/2009
  Q: John, I installed 400 SF of 12" floor tile over 1/4" hardi backer board. That was shot down with ...
  A: again, Beau;What is under the hardibacker? If the roofing nails are not long enough to seat firmly ...
proper procedure for tile install4/14/2009
  Q: John, I installed 400 SF of 12" floor tile over 1/4" hardi backer board. That was shot down with ...
  A: You're not giving me enough information to answer your question. What type of tile VCT, Ceramic, ...
Bamboo Flooring4/13/2009
  Q: I am looking to install bamboo floors in my home in Arizona as was wondering about engineered vs ...
  A: First, remember that one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have is carpet. It has a pile ...
carpet types4/10/2009
  Q: we have a 3 season porch that is neither heated or cooled, we live in Minnesota so the temperatures ...
  A: All carpets will pack down, so you need to properly maintain any carpet, and, by the way, any floor ...
Carpet Laid in 2 Story Entrance Stairwell4/10/2009
  Q: John, We recently had carpeting laid in a 2 story entrance way. It is commercial carpeting that ...
  A: I assume the carpet is installed over padding, since you voice concerns about shrinkage. Is the ...
baseboards4/9/2009
  Q: Do you need quarter round on baseboards of a laminate wood floor?
  A: This has nothing to do with your question, but do you mean a laminate floor, which is made up of ...
removal of vinyl composite tiles, installing ceramic4/9/2009
  Q: Due to water damgage, our current vinyl composite tile flooring will be removed, and prepped for ...
  A: Concrete is absorbent and always moves. You had water damage. MAKE CERTAIN THAT THE SOURCE OF THE ...
Qu.s to Ask Carpet Installers4/8/2009
  Q: One week ago, 3 carpet dealers came to our home to measure for their bids on stair/hallway carpet ...
  A: That's certainly your decision, however, in my opinion, if I am happy with the new dealer and their ...
berber carpet suggestion4/7/2009
  Q: We are finishing our basement and I am now thinking about flooring options. The rest of our house ...
  A: The word 'berber' goes back to the berber tribespeople of Northern Africa who were nomads and made ...
vinyl tile4/7/2009
  Q: I am laying 12 inch vinyl tile in a laundry room. I am putting down luan sub floor. Can I or should ...
  A: Make sure the ground in your crawl space is fully covered with a proper plastic type moisture ...
Qu.s to Ask Carpet Installers4/6/2009
  Q: One week ago, 3 carpet dealers came to our home to measure for their bids on stair/hallway carpet ...
  A: again, Carol. Your steps can be installed in either fashion, however, depending upon the type of ...
Installing DuraCeramic Flooring4/6/2009
  Q: I am inquiring about installing Congoleum DuraCeramic tiles, with the grout option, directly over ...
  A: We have not seen any performance problems with this flooring. There have been cases where damage has ...
Qu.s to Ask Carpet Installers4/5/2009
  Q: One week ago, 3 carpet dealers came to our home to measure for their bids on stair/hallway carpet ...
  A: What I think should have happened is that, when you chose the dealers, you should have indicated ...
Stretching with a spike4/4/2009
  Q: I have heard conflicting opinions regarding the use of a carpet spike during the installation of new ...
  A: I'm conservative in my approach to installation techniques, especially stretching in carpet. I like ...
Flexitec bubbles and seam turning colors3/26/2009
  Q: We had Felxitec Atlas installed in 07. We have had bubbles come up in the vinyl starting about a ...
  A: Cummings;If you have a perimeter glue installation on concrete and darkening along the seams, ...
asbestos glue?3/25/2009
  Q: Can asbestos glue seep up and be a threat? We have an older house with tile in the basement. Today, ...
  A: I do not know of any adhesive that contains asbestos, HOWEVER, what I suggest that you do is contact ...
thinset vs quickset3/25/2009
  Q: I am having porcelein tiles installed in a commercial space (1100 sq. ft) The tile supplier has ...
  A: again, Kathryn;That does not sound correct. No matter where you live, your supplier purchased the ...
thinset vs quickset3/24/2009
  Q: I am having porcelein tiles installed in a commercial space (1100 sq. ft) The tile supplier has ...
  A: I would suggest getting another installer. Porcelain tiles have a low porosity so the importance of ...
steam room cleaning3/23/2009
  Q: we've just installed a new steam room and it's all marble. Walls, seating and floors. I'm wondering ...
  A: A good cleaner is Aquamix Concentrated Stone & Tile cleaner. That would be for routine maintenance. ...
Flooring for a concrete basement3/23/2009
  Q: We have abpout 750 sq ft of basement concrete floor to be finished. We are going to use the space ...
  A: First, remember that hard surfaced flooring, vinyl, wood, laminate, etc., is non-absorbent, so all ...
Armstrong VCT subfloor prep3/21/2009
  Q: I am converting a room as a light duty shop and considering use of the subject tile (such as that ...
  A: Nothing wrong with your choice of tiles, however just know that maintenance will be a very key ...
wood floor gap3/19/2009
  Q: I just read your advice to someone on having a credit card width space between baseboard and wood ...
  A: Hardwood flooring comes from trees. It acts like trees. It will expand, contract, dent, scratch, ...
New Floor Streaks3/19/2009
  Q: I just installed a small floor area at my front entrance way. I used Armstrong vinyl no wax tiles ...
  A: Don't try anything more. Those streaks could be due to many things. A reflection, a problem with ...
Cleaning floating laminate floors3/18/2009
  Q: I have moved into a new place with floating laminate floors. What cleaning agents can i use on ...
  A: again, Mandy; 'Supermarket' type 'generic' cleaners, NO MATTER WHAT THEIR LABELS SAY, usually are ...
Effects of bad carpet install3/17/2009
  Q: I asked you a question dated 2/5 here is the link to the discussion we had. ...
  A: I would suggest that you find your own certified floor covering inspector to view the carpet and ...
Cleaning floating laminate floors3/17/2009
  Q: I have moved into a new place with floating laminate floors. What cleaning agents can i use on ...
  A: Please do NOT try any cleaning agent. In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers, including ...
Coating a laminate floor3/16/2009
  Q: I'm building a bar in my basement and making the counter top with laminate flooring. Is there a ...
  A: A laminate floor is just that, layers, laminated together. Most laminates should not be cleaned ...
Non skid coating that doesn't yellow over time3/15/2009
  Q: Aloha, I'm helping my dad out here. He's looking for a coating to go on tiles that would make them ...
  A: Yellowing usually is due to several things. One is maintenance. 'Supermarket brand' type cleaning ...
Grass Indoor Outdoor Carpet on patio3/11/2009
  Q: I'm hoping you can help with this topic. I've had indoor/outdoor carpet with a jute back on my ...
  A: You mention that the carpet has a jute backing. Are you certain it is jute? Jute is a natural ...
MetroFlor Konnecto Vinyl Plank3/10/2009
  Q: I have purchased Konnecto vinyl plank flooring for installation in a bathroom after seeing it in a ...
  A: We are not fans of this product, especially in the do-it-yourself market. If you surf the internet, ...
Marble vs. Porcelain Tile flooring in kitchen3/9/2009
  Q: .. Can you tell me which product would be most easy care and resistant to staining, gravel scrapes, ...
  A: What you should do is obtain two publications published by the exact manufacturers of the marble and ...
Porcelain tiles3/7/2009
  Q: I just purchased a house and I want to DIY to save money. I found a real good deal on porcelain ...
  A: First stop listening to people. Second, NEVER purchase any type of floor covering from one of those ...
sealing new pavers3/6/2009
  Q: I live in central Florida. 2 months ago we had concrete"brick"pavers installed for our driveway, ...
  A: My expertise is floor covering. I really don't know about concrete pavers. What I suggest that you ...
Heaving cracks in concrete basement floor3/6/2009
  Q: Our home, built in 1970, has 60 foot pine tree about 5 feet from foundation. Previous owner finished ...
  A: Concrete is absorbent and always moves. Moisture that can be seen, such as in the crawl space, can ...
Bathroom design3/6/2009
  Q: I am remodeling the bathroom and need advice in picking colors and designs. How can i get pictures ...
  A: Go to a local store (NOT ONE OF THOSE LARGE HOME SUPPLY STORES OR ON THE INTERNET), but a retailer ...
leveling laminate flooring3/5/2009
  Q: John, This is a follow up to a question asked late last year regarding using sand as a leveler, and ...
  A: We are a floor covering inspection service. We have over 800 inspectors and we cover every city and ...
Installing VC Tile3/5/2009
  Q: I would like to install vinyl chloride tile in my bathroom. What is the best way to cut the tile, I ...
  A: VCT stands for vinyl composition tiles. Old tiles were VAT, which stood for vinyl asbestos tiles. ...
Mohawk Engineered wood splintering and cracking3/4/2009
  Q: 1. Per following attached report by manufacturer's inspector, “If the environmental conditions are ...
  A: My answers or suggestions to your questions are based solely upon the information you put forth in ...
Basement flooring3/3/2009
  Q: I have read your other input on basement flooring, but want to confirm a few things (trying to ...
  A: again, Michel; You may think, now, that you will be ok with the scratches, dents, etc., however ...
hardwood install over mixed sub-floor3/3/2009
  Q: For our kitchen remodel, I am installing 3/4" prefinished oak in the room. The sub-floor in the 500 ...
  A: Wood flooring comes from trees. It acts just like a tree. It is a cellular material that will ...
Basement flooring3/3/2009
  Q: I have read your other input on basement flooring, but want to confirm a few things (trying to ...
  A: First understand what an engineered hardwood floor is. It is a product with a base, topped with a ...
cold floor3/3/2009
  Q: and thank you for your time.. I live in the northeast, (Boston) and need new carpeting for my ...
  A: again, Jeanne; I would suggest that you shop for a carpet that contains all cut pile, is made of ...
cold floor3/3/2009
  Q: and thank you for your time.. I live in the northeast, (Boston) and need new carpeting for my ...
  A: There are several different types of carpet and padding I would suggest for you, however I would ...
novalis peel and stick planks3/2/2009
  Q: my husband and i are planning to redo our flooring ourselves. currently we have old carpet and ...
  A: First, with that many pets, no matter what type of floor covering you install, maintenance is the ...
Tiling my countertops3/2/2009
  Q: John, How hard is it to remove a sink and disposal in order to tile my countertops? I don't want ...
  A: I'm involved in floor covering only, however what I might suggest that you do is call one or two ...
konnecto sierra/prestige3/2/2009
  Q: Have had one set of installers do sierra. they took up carpet and prepped the concrete. It's a ...
  A: again, Patricia; Thanks for getting back to me. The right carpet installed and maintained ...
konnecto sierra/prestige3/2/2009
  Q: Have had one set of installers do sierra. they took up carpet and prepped the concrete. It's a ...
  A: First, I'm not happy that you took up carpet in a healthcare facility, unless that area is subject ...
floor problem3/1/2009
  Q: I live in a 25 yr. old log cabin, the sub floor is plywood with what looks like brown hard board ...
  A: First, is the vinyl flooring sheet vinyl or tiles. No matter what, if the vinyl flooring was put ...
Laminate floor separating3/1/2009
  Q: My laminate flooring has one place on the main floor that separates during the winter months and ...
  A: This could be related to several issues. 1. A moisture problem in your underlayment or subfloor. 2. ...
Floor poping sound without anyone there2/26/2009
  Q: We have a 5 year old, two story home, the master bedroom is directly over the family room. The ...
  A: again, Leon;There could be only one layer of plywood, however normal construction on second floors ...
Attaching Faux Painted Board to Stair Risers2/26/2009
  Q: I have a wood staircase leading to the second floor of my house. In lieu of tiling my stair risers, ...
  A: As nice a look that it will give to your stair risers, I don't think what you plan is a good idea. ...
Floor poping sound without anyone there2/26/2009
  Q: We have a 5 year old, two story home, the master bedroom is directly over the family room. The ...
  A: the popping sound could be coming from nails used to install the underlayment to the subfloor and/or ...
Installling carpet and wood over existing wood flooring and transitions2/24/2009
  Q: We currently have 3/4"hardwood floors installed over plywood on the entire second floor of our ...
  A: again, Jan; First you need to find out the source of the unevenness and squeaking. You may find ...
Installling carpet and wood over existing wood flooring and transitions2/23/2009
  Q: We currently have 3/4"hardwood floors installed over plywood on the entire second floor of our ...
  A: Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile that traps, filters, ...
Existing Hardwood to New Hardwood Transition2/20/2009
  Q: I am adding 3/4-inch unfinished hardwood to my den and office. I planned to lace them into the ...
  A: This is what I would do. First I know that carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can ...
asbestos2/19/2009
  Q: I would like to pull up some linoleum off of wood floors, it has been there about 30-50 years, I ...
  A: The main question is it linoleum or vinyl. They are two vastly different products. Asbestos was ...
asbestos2/19/2009
  Q: I would like to pull up some linoleum off of wood floors, it has been there about 30-50 years, I ...
  A: The testing company can take samples of the air in that room and in other rooms of your home and ...
asbestos2/19/2009
  Q: I would like to pull up some linoleum off of wood floors, it has been there about 30-50 years, I ...
  A: again, Tricia;I don't mean to be a smart alec when I answer your first question as, I'm not a doctor ...
asbestos2/19/2009
  Q: I would like to pull up some linoleum off of wood floors, it has been there about 30-50 years, I ...
  A: There is a big difference between linoleum and vinyl. Linoleum is a product made of natural things ...
tile to tile transition2/18/2009
  Q: I laid new tile in my laundry room last year. I'm about to remove old tile from the kitchen and ...
  A: I feel that you should delineate both rooms, either with a complementary tile, or a totally ...
Hardwood floors, underlayment, moisture barrier2/16/2009
  Q: We live in Hampton Roads Virginia and our ranch home is on a crawl space. We have removed the ...
  A: Bear with me for a minute. Sorry you are not recarpeting. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor ...
Proper carpet installation2/16/2009
  Q: We just had carpet installed yesterday and I have a question about seams. Evidently, two of our ...
  A: I would have the carpet inspector address all the installation issues including the laminate ...
Proper carpet installation2/15/2009
  Q: We just had carpet installed yesterday and I have a question about seams. Evidently, two of our ...
  A: again, Patty; It sounds like you purchased the carpet at a dealer who has no control over the ...
Proper carpet installation2/15/2009
  Q: We just had carpet installed yesterday and I have a question about seams. Evidently, two of our ...
  A: What you describe sounds like installation related errors. The dealer should have supplied you a ...
basement floor tile upgrade2/14/2009
  Q: I have a 1940 home with what is presumably asphalt tile over the concrete floor in the English ...
  A: You may have a major problem. Tile, way back then, may contain asbestos. When you indicate asphalt ...
Transition between vinyl floor and carpet2/13/2009
  Q: John, I recently purchased carpet from a retailer. I got home after the installation and the ...
  A: It is common practice to install the carpet without a transition strip by simply turning the raw ...
arpet over parquet flooring2/13/2009
  Q: Is it wise to install carpet over existing parquet flooring? Should tack strips be glued down or is ...
  A: If the parquet is firmly bonded to its underlayment, adhesive could be used to install the tackless, ...
subfloor for travertine2/11/2009
  Q: I had a 16 x 16 travertine floor installed in two adjoining rooms. One half of the floor is ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers are in the throes of producing 'green' products, ...
ceramic tile on kitchen floor2/11/2009
  Q: a contractor laid our ceramic tile (13" X 13") down on our existing kitchen floor ( 100sq. feet) ...
  A: From your description, it sounds as if those old tiles were held down by the old black cut back ...
Room to room transition2/10/2009
  Q: We have an older home that has carpet laid over hardwood floor. We would like to remove the carpet ...
  A: The folded over transition was probably done by just folding over the carpet to hide the raw cut ...
elevator floor2/9/2009
  Q: Good Morning: I'd like to know what is the recommended type of tile for the floor of a well used ...
  A: Tell me more about the apartment building. What type of soil conditions are tracked in from the ...
Konecto Vinyl Flooring2/6/2009
  Q: I am considering installing Konecto Vinyl Flooring strips in my basement. Currently my basement is ...
  A: again, Dara; Konecto vinyl strips, as you describe them, is exactly what I meant. Konecto is not a ...
Konecto Vinyl Flooring2/6/2009
  Q: I am considering installing Konecto Vinyl Flooring strips in my basement. Currently my basement is ...
  A: First you should 'google' Konecto and see the numerous bad reports it has gotten from people who ...
effects of bad carpet install2/5/2009
  Q: We have had our carpet installed for just short of 2 years. I have not been happy with it and have ...
  A: again, Dawn; Mohawk's number is, 800-241-4900. The name of the carpet on your sales slip may not ...
Installing vinyl over self-leveling compound2/4/2009
  Q: Problem: Kitchen, carpeting and linoleum removed from concrete floor showing long, deep cracks where ...
  A: again, Priscilla; The reason the hardibacker cannot be put over your concrete is because of the ...
Installing vinyl over self-leveling compound2/4/2009
  Q: Problem: Kitchen, carpeting and linoleum removed from concrete floor showing long, deep cracks where ...
  A: again, Priscilla;Moisture is a major problem in all floor covering installations. It should be ...
Installing vinyl over self-leveling compound2/4/2009
  Q: Problem: Kitchen, carpeting and linoleum removed from concrete floor showing long, deep cracks where ...
  A: What type of floating floor does your contractor want to install? If it is a hardwood or laminate ...
effects of bad carpet install2/4/2009
  Q: We have had our carpet installed for just short of 2 years. I have not been happy with it and have ...
  A: If you truly have cornrowing, that is a manufacturing defect, no matter how the carpet was ...
home office flooring2/3/2009
  Q: I am putting an office in my home(basement) with concrete floor. what would you recommend for floor. ...
  A: First, no matter what type of flooring you use, BEFORE you purchase anything, obtain, and thoroughly ...
Radiant Heat under Vinyl2/2/2009
  Q: I want to install electric radiant heat wire under vinyl in my bathroom. I did not consider the ...
  A: No guessing, or take advice from those who are not qualified. In today's world, all floor covering ...
floor tile over luan over T&G plywood2/2/2009
  Q: The tile has cracks in it due to a structural issue. Water or wax stripper material got into the ...
  A: again, Russell; Thanks for getting back to me. If the tiles were glued, directly to lauan, and the ...
Konecto2/1/2009
  Q: I am concerned that Konecto is getting a bad reputation. I sell the product to do-it-yourselfers as ...
  A: You must use common sense and 'read' your customer, however being able to get into their home is an ...
Konecto2/1/2009
  Q: I am concerned that Konecto is getting a bad reputation. I sell the product to do-it-yourselfers as ...
  A: again, Dave;My answer to your last question is yes. I don't agree with some of the other points you ...
Tile or hardwood2/1/2009
  Q: I live in a town house with a small living room. The living still has the cheap original carpet and ...
  A: again, Ali; My daughter teaches in Phoenix, so I'm aware of your climate. Hardwood is basically ...
Konecto2/1/2009
  Q: I am concerned that Konecto is getting a bad reputation. I sell the product to do-it-yourselfers as ...
  A: With Konecto, the DIY market is where most of the problems exist. Whomever sells that product ...
Tile or hardwood1/31/2009
  Q: I live in a town house with a small living room. The living still has the cheap original carpet and ...
  A: Remember that one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have is carpet. It has a pile that ...
Konecto1/31/2009
  Q: I see so much on Konecto right now. What is the scoop from your perspective. Good or not so good ...
  A: again, Shelby;Just about all hard surfaced floor coverings that are installed with some type of ...
Konecto1/31/2009
  Q: I see so much on Konecto right now. What is the scoop from your perspective. Good or not so good ...
  A: Where are you planning to use Konecto? Remember, it is a hard surfaced floor. Hard surfaced floors ...
floor tile over luan over T&G plywood1/28/2009
  Q: The tile has cracks in it due to a structural issue. Water or wax stripper material got into the ...
  A: I need to know what type of tiles you have, the name of the manufacturer of the tiles (both of those ...
Installing Carpet Over Tile?1/27/2009
  Q: My living room floor is finished in Saltillo Tile, with 3/4" grout between each tile. I would like ...
  A: I would suggest wall to wall carpet installed over a proper pad, or an area rug, used over a proper ...
Floor covering inspection service1/27/2009
  Q: We have porcelain floor tiles and many have a hollow sound. Where can I locate a floor covering ...
  A: We do not solicit business through this All Experts website. We are a floor covering inspection ...
What to put next to marble?1/27/2009
  Q: We are purchasing a home that has marble in the entryway, down the right side of the large living ...
  A: Yes, recarpet. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile that ...
Laminate Flooring1/26/2009
  Q: What a great site. Thanks for your time and expertise. My question isn't that earth-shattering but ...
  A: again, Mike;We are floor covering inspectors. We have over 800 inspectors scattered throughout our ...
Tile with vinyl and luan underlayment1/26/2009
  Q: I had my kitchen tiled last year and now I'm having problems with tiles and grout popping and ...
  A: again, Dave;Yes, it should be in those installation specifications. Lauan is usually an approved ...
Patio floor1/26/2009
  Q: I have a new cement floor in an enclosed patio unheated and would like to put a carpet or vinyl ...
  A: again, Carolyn; I would suggest that you obtain a carpet that has a pile of 100% solution dyed ...
Patio floor1/25/2009
  Q: I have a new cement floor in an enclosed patio unheated and would like to put a carpet or vinyl ...
  A: If you want to protect your floor covering investment and have it serve you properly, for years, you ...
Transition for hardwood to hearth1/25/2009
  Q: after the installation of a hardwood floor we have a about a 3/4 inch gap between the hardwood floor ...
  A: Couple of suggestions. First, if you go on the internet and 'google' wood transition strips, you ...
Laminate Flooring1/25/2009
  Q: What a great site. Thanks for your time and expertise. My question isn't that earth-shattering but ...
  A: I read your follow-up, so I will include those questions in my answer. Sorry to hear about your old ...
Tile with vinyl and luan underlayment1/24/2009
  Q: I had my kitchen tiled last year and now I'm having problems with tiles and grout popping and ...
  A: Your problem stems from the installation errors by your contractor, and may have been accentuated by ...
stained tile1/23/2009
  Q: I recently tiled a wall with an off white subway tile with a crackle finish, in the tile design ...
  A: There may be a chance, however this is Friday evening, and I won't be able to check into this until ...
Carpet Patching (Berber)1/21/2009
  Q: We are remodeling our basement and had a wall removed. This leaves us with two sections in the ...
  A: You can patch the area, as long as the 4' length of the remnant has its grain running in the same ...
wood/carpet flooring1/19/2009
  Q: I have been trying to find anything about installation of a wood/carpet flooring ie: bedroom with 3 ...
  A: Sure, this type of installation can certainly be done. The hardwood floor can be installed over a ...
Streaking tile floors1/19/2009
  Q: John, I clean a beauty shop that has all tile floors. I have tried everything to keep these floors ...
  A: You did not mention what type of tiles. Are they vinyl, ceramic, etc.? The products you mention ...
Bathroom Grout1/17/2009
  Q: I used a product called Mapei Premixe Grout to Grout a shower surround. I have since learmed that ...
  A: Your use of Mapei products was a good choice, since they are the premier manufacturer of adhesives ...
Is laying carpet over cemented carpet an option?1/16/2009
  Q: We are not sure what kind of carpet is cemented to our basement floor. It is very thin and the ...
  A: again, Cheryl; The key in your location is maintenance. You want to protect your investment. ...
cement slab and interior ice and mold1/16/2009
  Q: I live in a cement slab house and I noticed that I have ice and black mold on my north bedroom ...
  A: Since I can't see your problem, I could only give you guesses as to the cause and remedies. ...
plywood floor1/15/2009
  Q: I am thinking of using plywood as flooring in the second floor of our small cottage. I would like ...
  A: again, Pauline;Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile that ...
plywood floor1/14/2009
  Q: I am thinking of using plywood as flooring in the second floor of our small cottage. I would like ...
  A: You mention that the plywood is cheap, however to prepare it for usage as a main floor covering is ...
Mannington engineered hardwood floors1/13/2009
  Q: I have a complaint about manningtons engineered hardwood flooring. We had a store in Exeter ontario ...
  A: What you indicated happened on your original floor and on this floor, doesn't sound like a moisture ...
chemical reaction, vct/adhesive/concrete1/12/2009
  Q: I have VCT in my basement. The tile is starting to bubble up like something is eating through it ...
  A: Check your sales contract to see if there is any information about where the responsibility in ...
Report write-up1/12/2009
  Q: Please how do i go about writing a project on wall and floor tiling in residential buildings. i ...
  A: again, Samuel; Please let me know what you want to include in your report. I can give you some ...
project1/12/2009
  Q: Please how do i go about writing a project on wall and floor tiling in residential buildings. i ...
  A: Let me know what you want to include in your project, such as 'green products', how to install them, ...
tile flooring1/11/2009
  Q: i am currently installing tile flooring in my bathroom that somehow my grout lines have increased up ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your problem. Some possible reasons; Walls are out of square. Movement in the ...
Is laying carpet over cemented carpet an option?1/11/2009
  Q: We are not sure what kind of carpet is cemented to our basement floor. It is very thin and the ...
  A: Laying new carpet over old carpet is a bad idea. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings ...
Subfloor installation1/10/2009
  Q: We have pulled the carpet out of our master bedroom in preparation of installing solid hardwood ...
  A: First, remember that carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile ...
dog pee on laminate flooring1/10/2009
  Q: Mr. Michaels, Hello, I have a question on how to clean up dog urine properly from laminate flooring. ...
  A: Laminate flooring is just that, layers, laminated together. Usually the layers are a base for ...
laying over saltillo tile1/9/2009
  Q: We have a house built in the 80's with saltillo tile floors. We are planning on having travertine ...
  A: First, all floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry (mortar adhesives, grouts, ...
Hate our Saltillo tile but don't know what we can do about it!1/9/2009
  Q: I was reading your response to someone who asked about putting down laminate over saltillo tile, and ...
  A: I would suggest that you consider applying a leveler to the surface of the tile, and then installing ...
carpet over wood parquet1/9/2009
  Q: I have a wood parquet floor with many loose tiles. Carpeting is going over this floor. Could I ...
  A: If you are installing the carpet over proper padding, you could install the carpet and pad over the ...
ceramic tile1/8/2009
  Q: I want to replace linoleum in my laundry room, with ceramic tile. Is using thin set sufficient to ...
  A: You mention the word 'linoleum'. True linoleum is made from natural products, mainly a linseed oil ...
Choice of flooring for washer and dryer1/5/2009
  Q: I'm just re-doing the basement and I'm laying down dricore (http://www.dricore.com/en/eIndex.aspx) ...
  A: I would suggest that you use either vinyl tiles or vinyl sheet goods in that area, taking great care ...
peel and stick tile1/5/2009
  Q: I live in a 16X80 mobile home and they had carpet installed in the master bathroom, which I think is ...
  A: Look at the back of a tile that lifted and see if the latex primer lifted off the underlayment. The ...
Engineered Wood Over Vinyl Floor on concrete1/4/2009
  Q: I just bought a brand new house and the builder have vinyl floor on the 1st floor. I want to install ...
  A: First think about what you really need. First, engineered hardwood is a product that has a base for ...
engineered flooring1/3/2009
  Q: Is Thomasville 1/2" engineered hardwood flooring a good product? We will be installing it over a ...
  A: I'll give you some information and you may want to rethink your project. First, one of the ...
Family cabin flooring1/3/2009
  Q: Our family has a cabin we use on our families land. We have a woodburner for early spring and late ...
  A: All types of hard surfaced flooring, whether its able to be loose laid (stable enough to be put down ...
laminate flooring1/1/2009
  Q: I would like to install laminate flooring in my house, but I have a dog that still pees on the ...
  A: Laminate flooring is just that. Layers laminated together. There is a base for stability and some ...
Asphalt floor tiles12/31/2008
  Q: I have an asphalt floor laid out in a squared pattern in red and beige, which was very nice 45 years ...
  A: again, Helen;Carpeting is a great choice. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can ...
Asphalt floor tiles12/31/2008
  Q: I have an asphalt floor laid out in a squared pattern in red and beige, which was very nice 45 years ...
  A: Asphalt tiles are absorbent, so stains and fading probably have penetrated well below the surface of ...
wood slat flooring12/31/2008
  Q: i purchased a house that has wood slat flooring beneath the carpet. the house is 38 years old. i ...
  A: First, remember that carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile ...
cleaning/waxing Lock n Seal Laminate Flooring12/31/2008
  Q: I have had Lock n Seal Laminate Flooring about 2 years. My grandchildren and pets on the floors have ...
  A: First, immediately cease using the cleaning agents you indicate. Get the name of the manufacturer ...
Wood flooring over cement12/30/2008
  Q: We want to install a wood floor in our kitchen which currently has vinyl tiles down. The tiles are ...
  A: Hardwood flooring comes from trees. It acts just like trees. It will dent, scratch, expand, ...
porcelain tile with hollow sound when tapped12/30/2008
  Q: what causes a hollow sound on tapping a porcelain tile applied on a concrete floor 24 hours prior? ...
  A: again, Noel;We've never heard of a topical wetting of any type of tile helping a hollow sound, ...
Floor prep for tile installation12/30/2008
  Q: About 7 years ago I ripped out carpet in a den and painted (concrete stain?) the bare concrete until ...
  A: Sorry to hear tat you are not recarpeting. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can ...
Bathroom Wall Tiles12/29/2008
  Q: Seeking some matching 10cm x 10cm wall tiles for our bathroom. On the box of spares left by the ...
  A: The only cross reference material I have is for products sold in U.S., and there is no similar ...
hardwood flooring12/29/2008
  Q: We have purchased some bamboo flooring for our living-dining room. The room is 12' wide and 25' ...
  A: As a 'rule of thumb', hardwood flooring should be installed so that the boards run into, NOT across, ...
Damp Basement12/28/2008
  Q: We moved into our house about 3 years ago and our basement was not finished. We never had any ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your moisture problem. That problem needs to be solved ASAP, since it can only ...
porcelain tile with hollow sound when tapped12/28/2008
  Q: what causes a hollow sound on tapping a porcelain tile applied on a concrete floor 24 hours prior?
  A: Numerous things can cause that sound. Most are locally caused and most are installation related ...
installing laminate hardwood over saltillo tile12/27/2008
  Q: I would like to know if it would be prudent to install a quality, laminate hardwood plank floor over ...
  A: Let's talk about your family room first. I'm surprised you don't mention carpet for that room. ...
Need help buying carpet12/23/2008
  Q: How would I determine in square yards the amount of carpet necessary to cover my living room. It is ...
  A: There are 9 sq. ft. to a sq. yd., so the sizes you list would require about 26 sq. yds., however ...
leveling concrete floor for ceramic tile12/22/2008
  Q: I have applied leveling compound on my concrete floor. Some tiles rock slighty and I sand down high ...
  A: again, Daryl;I don't mean to be a 'smartee', in my answer, but we are floor covering inspectors. We ...
leveling concrete floor for ceramic tile12/22/2008
  Q: I have applied leveling compound on my concrete floor. Some tiles rock slighty and I sand down high ...
  A: Before you do anything else, if you haven't done so already, obtain and thoroughly read the ...
Dog-proof family room rug over ceramic12/21/2008
  Q: We are looking for the best floor covering choice for a family room. The rug will be positioned ...
  A: No floor covering is anything PROOF. Hard surfaced flooring will stain, dent, and scratch, even ...
mopping tumbled travertine floor12/20/2008
  Q: I have tumbled travertine throughout most of my house. It has been sealed but I have had mixed ...
  A: If the grout starts to discolor, there could be several things causing it. You are using an ...
Konecto Floating Tile Sorento Collection12/19/2008
  Q: We have had Konecto Tile installed in our home - the first time a complete failure of adhesive and ...
  A: We have heard nothing but negatives about Konnetco. If you 'google' Konnetco, you may come up with ...
pads for area rugs on hardwood floor12/18/2008
  Q: I am looking to buy padding to put under some area rugs I bought for on my hardwood floor. What ...
  A: The best advice I could give you would be for you to call the No-Muv Corp. They are in ...
Hardwood flooring12/16/2008
  Q: How do you remove or lighten dark wear mark on a hardwood floor (Oak) that has just been sanded for ...
  A: again, Woodrow;I don't think the person who told you it was caused from wear has proper knowledge ...
Hardwood flooring12/16/2008
  Q: How do you remove or lighten dark wear mark on a hardwood floor (Oak) that has just been sanded for ...
  A: Are you certain the mark is from wear, or is it due to heat caused by the sanding machine, a topical ...
Kitchen flooring recomendation12/15/2008
  Q: Would you recommend an appropriate durable flooring choice for my low-budget high-performance ...
  A: I don't suggest plank products such as Konnecto or Allure. If you will 'google' those products, you ...
ceramic tile moisture12/10/2008
  Q: We've recently installed ceramic tile on our screened back porch. Things were done properly and the ...
  A: First I need you to obtain the installation specifications published by the exact manufacturer of ...
vinyl "wood" plank floors12/10/2008
  Q: My husband and I are considering a vinyl "wood" plank floor for our living/family room. We have ...
  A: First remember that carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile ...
ceramic tiles, floor12/8/2008
  Q: I wanted to know if a diamond pattern saves more tile or a traditional jack on jack pattern is more ...
  A: again, Robert; Thanks for getting back to me. You will use more tile material installing in a ...
engineered floor over concrete12/8/2008
  Q: I'm having an engineered floor put over a concrete slab. Pros & cons of a glue down verse a floating ...
  A: again, Tom; First, especially with two dogs, no matter what type of flooring you install, you must ...
TILE/MOLD12/8/2008
  Q: MY BASEMENT GOT WATER IN IT & KNOW I HAVE MOLD UNDER MY TILED FLOOR - I AM IN THE PROCESSES OF ...
  A: The old tile floor should be totally removed, since mold and mildew, which are living organisms, ...
engineered floor over concrete12/7/2008
  Q: I'm having an engineered floor put over a concrete slab. Pros & cons of a glue down verse a floating ...
  A: Is this new construction? What room(s) are you planning to cover? In what section of what Country ...
ceramic tiles, floor12/6/2008
  Q: I wanted to know if a diamond pattern saves more tile or a traditional jack on jack pattern is more ...
  A: Please get back to me with a follow-up, letting me know the size of the tiles you plan to use, if ...
Floor Covering Weekly & Floor Covering News12/4/2008
  Q: I too am a ALL EXPERTS, expert in ceramic tile. I am new to ALL EXPERTS and find it rewarding to ...
  A: If you 'google' floor covering weekly and 'google' floor covering news, you will find their ...
tile flooring12/4/2008
  Q: I operate a child care center. We have industrial tile on the floor. Its been down for many years. ...
  A: I would need to know the name of the manufacturer and style name of the tile. With that ...
regrouting tile12/3/2008
  Q: .The house I live in has tile with grout that is popping out. the home is 2 yrs old and the builder ...
  A: again, Kristy;I agree. Even if the builder is very reputable, he probably subcontracts flooring, ...
regrouting tile12/3/2008
  Q: .The house I live in has tile with grout that is popping out. the home is 2 yrs old and the builder ...
  A: You first should determine why the grout is popping out. Could it be a moisture problem that will ...
Kids, dogs & floors12/1/2008
  Q: We have 2 kids and 3 dogs. Someone is having an accident at any given time. From simple food and ...
  A: Before you think of actual product, think of maintenance. The true cost of any floor covering is ...
carpet seaming11/27/2008
  Q: i am afitter got an inviseseamer dont know how to use it is there a dvd or video i can buy got some ...
  A: I'm not sure I fully understand your question. If it is how to use an inviseamer, I would suggest ...
wood flooring/urethane coating11/26/2008
  Q: We are building new. I had planned on tile floors because they hold up so well with pets (and their ...
  A: again, Deborah; Shop for your tile and BEFORE you purchase, obtain and thoroughly read the ...
wood flooring/urethane coating11/25/2008
  Q: We are building new. I had planned on tile floors because they hold up so well with pets (and their ...
  A: First, in today's world, all floor covering manufactuers and floor covering sundry (adhesives, ...
problems with Congoleum Duraceramic11/25/2008
  Q: I am a professional ceramic tile installer, but know very about vinyl & their proper adhesives. I ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry (adhesives, ...
Wood flooring11/25/2008
  Q: What type (essence) of wood to you recommend over a heated floor (Wirsbro system). Thank you! ...
  A: again, Helen;Thanks for getting back to me. Remember that hardwood flooring comes from trees. It ...
Wood flooring11/24/2008
  Q: What type (essence) of wood to you recommend over a heated floor (Wirsbro system). Thank you!
  A: In what room(s) are you considering installing hardwood? What is the population of your home, ...
glueless vinyl flooring on waferboard11/21/2008
  Q: Mr. Michaels. My wife purchased a sheet of glueless vinyl for our small bathroom floor. I removed ...
  A: Make sure your plywood underlayment is an approved plywood and proper thickness as indicated in the ...
Carpeting Over Existing Carpet Which Covers Asbestos Tiles11/20/2008
  Q: Our house of worship contracted with a local flooring company to recarpet. When they began the ...
  A: Sorry to hear about the asbestos tiles. Is the existing carpet installed over pad or glued directly ...
rug repair11/20/2008
  Q: The edge of my living room rug borders a long tile hallway. The rug was originally glued down. It is ...
  A: If you have any unused waste carpet left, from the installation, an installer should be called in to ...
glueless vinyl flooring on waferboard11/19/2008
  Q: Mr. Michaels. My wife purchased a sheet of glueless vinyl for our small bathroom floor. I removed ...
  A: again, Richard;Chemicals is not the issue. When loose laid, a floor covering has to be ...
glueless vinyl flooring on waferboard11/19/2008
  Q: Mr. Michaels. My wife purchased a sheet of glueless vinyl for our small bathroom floor. I removed ...
  A: First, the manufacturer of your glueless vinyl floor published installation specifications which ...
travertine vs. terrazo11/19/2008
  Q: What is the difference between travertine and terrazzo? I am trying to decide what to use in my ...
  A: Terrazzo is a combination of marble and granite ground down to a high finish level, cut into smaller ...
Radiant floor heat and tile11/17/2008
  Q: We have a new structure that has radiant heat in concrete. Is it a good choice to install ceramic ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry manufacturers ...
Engineered wood flooring11/17/2008
  Q: I have engineered hardwoods in the basement and I mopped the floor and put plastic down on the wet ...
  A: Engineered hardwood cannot be refinished since there is just a very thin piece of hardwood under the ...
Carpet PTT vs. Nylon11/16/2008
  Q: Am concerned about polyester carpet's resiliency and "bounce-back"/matting problems. The Smartstrand ...
  A: The Smartstrand, because the frieze will tend to bloom on the tips of the tufts in the trafficked ...
Carpet PTT vs. Nylon11/16/2008
  Q: Am concerned about polyester carpet's resiliency and "bounce-back"/matting problems. The Smartstrand ...
  A: again, Jane; You mention this 'whole basement thing'. Does that mean you are also carpeting your ...
Carpet PTT vs. Nylon11/16/2008
  Q: Am concerned about polyester carpet's resiliency and "bounce-back"/matting problems. The Smartstrand ...
  A: The Smartstrand yarn system is manufactured with a very tight twist level which allows recovery from ...
Radiant floor heat and tile11/15/2008
  Q: We have a new structure that has radiant heat in concrete. Is it a good choice to install ceramic ...
  A: I need to know some more information about your location to give some advice. Where do you live. I ...
PRESSURE TREATED\TILING11/14/2008
  Q: I JUST TOOK OVER AN ABANDON PROPERTY.I HAVE PRESSURE TREATED FLOOR IN UPSTAIRS BATHROOM,I BELIEVE IT ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers and floor covering sundry manufacturers ...
Carpet?11/13/2008
  Q: I plan to put down laminate tile in my entry which steps up one step into the living room which is ...
  A: I would suggest keeping the carpet wrapped over the nose of the step. I don't think your choice of ...
underlayment11/12/2008
  Q: I am installing a floating engineered wood floor over concrete and would like to use a high quality ...
  A: In today's world, most floor covering manufacturers are in the throes of making 'green' products, ...
painted concrete floor covering11/9/2008
  Q: We are redoing the cleanroom gowning area where I work. The floor is painted concrete. There have ...
  A: I need to know a little more about the location, so I can recommend something for you. What occurs ...
Saltillo Tile removal11/9/2008
  Q: I have approximately 800 sq ft of saltillo tile to remove from my home. What is the best method of ...
  A: again, Alyson;I'll answer your question on Monday with a follow up. I have to leave now and won't ...
Saltillo Tile removal11/8/2008
  Q: I have approximately 800 sq ft of saltillo tile to remove from my home. What is the best method of ...
  A: I need to know in what room is it installed, what type of underlayment is directly under the tile, ...
travertine tile height variance11/6/2008
  Q: What is the allowable height variance for adjoining tiles? We had travertine tile installed in an ...
  A: If your underlayment was prepared properly, the mortar adhesive applied properly and allowed to set ...
konecto country flooring11/6/2008
  Q: John, Can konecto country be layed over concrete slabs with a moisture reading of 5.1 lbs per 1000 ...
  A: We are not fans of Konecto products and do not recommend them. We just see too many complaints on ...
carpeting11/6/2008
  Q: I shampooed a wall to wall carpet in an unoccupied home that I recently purchased but have not moved ...
  A: Without being in that home and smelling the odor, I can only guess. Perhaps the cleaning solutions ...
Insulation 1950s Apartment building floor11/3/2008
  Q: I have an unusual problem! Hope you can give me some GREAT advice! I've lived in an older ...
  A: First, carpet was not made to be padding, so by placing a rug on top of installed carpet may produce ...
Kitchen floor11/2/2008
  Q: We are redoing our kitchen. In pulling up the flooring, the old flooring (installed 1969) separated ...
  A: Two underlayments and a subfloor nailed to the joists would create flex (bounce), even if you don't ...
Removing stair railing11/2/2008
  Q: I read somewhere that there is no need to remove the posts and railing when installing hardwood on ...
  A: In today's world, most hardwood manufacturers have their own installation specifications for their ...
Carpet and Vapour Barrier11/1/2008
  Q: I was hoping to pick your brain to try and help me solve my problem. I have read a couple answers ...
  A: I think you should entertain the idea of putting down radiant heat strips under the pad. Both the ...
duraceramic installation10/31/2008
  Q: We are looking at installing duracmeramic in a bathroom and are wondering if it is necessary to use ...
  A: Go to Congoleum.com and click on installation. Up will pop Duraceramic. There is a 20 page ...
two questions about hardwood floors10/30/2008
  Q: 1stHave you heard of lighter colored streaky areas when a water based finish is used on walnut ...
  A: When you say 'they' are blaming you. Do you mean the company that applied the finish or did you ...
Carpeting to cover wood floor10/30/2008
  Q: I am looking to purchase carpeting to cover a wood floor in a theater and community center. But I ...
  A: I would suggest a commercial type carpet, all loop pile in a very dense, low pile height, and made ...
two questions about hardwood floors10/30/2008
  Q: 1stHave you heard of lighter colored streaky areas when a water based finish is used on walnut ...
  A: I need to know more about the finish. Do you have solid hardwood or engineered hardwood. Was the ...
selecting colors for molding and hard wood floring10/30/2008
  Q: I need information on how to chose colors for molding and hard wood flooring that will look good ...
  A: again, Leslie; First understand what you intend to purchase. Hardwood comes from trees. It acts ...
selecting colors for molding and hard wood floring10/30/2008
  Q: I need information on how to chose colors for molding and hard wood flooring that will look good ...
  A: Color choice on hardwood, or any other flooring is a personal like thing or should be addressed by ...
solving a real problem with concrete slab floor in kitchen reno10/29/2008
  Q: PLEASE help with direction or advice on the following: I have initiated the renovation of our ...
  A: Unfortunately moisture is a threat to you and your family's health and any flooring you plan to ...
flooring10/28/2008
  Q: Renovating home and adding space. Want to go "green" and be durable/cost-effective. Have two young ...
  A: again, Dex Roberts; Hardwood, engineered or solid, comes from trees. It acts like a tree. It will ...
Direction of Hardwood Floor10/26/2008
  Q: We have a split entry home and are installing hardwood on the landing by the stairs (the entrance ...
  A: Of course it is a matter of preference, however it is nice to change direction, or even install the ...
flooring10/25/2008
  Q: Renovating home and adding space. Want to go "green" and be durable/cost-effective. Have two young ...
  A: Carpet where you can. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor covering one can have. It has a pile ...
unfilled bathroom shower travertine tiles10/24/2008
  Q: I love the holes in the tiles. I want to keep them or some of them. how do i accomplish and is it ...
  A: Contact the manufacturer of your specific tiles. Obtain the maintenance manual that will detail ...
Konecto Sierra Jackson Plank Flooring10/23/2008
  Q: Please help. I think you are the 26yearsinflooring on DIYCHATROOM but would like to ask anyway. We ...
  A: Jenny; I'm now visiting my son in Hollywood, CA. He works in the movies and tv production. If you ...
Konecto Sierra Jackson Plank Flooring10/23/2008
  Q: Please help. I think you are the 26yearsinflooring on DIYCHATROOM but would like to ask anyway. We ...
  A: I've read your history and do not fully understand if your problem is happening on both ...
Bruce Lock&Fold® Hardwood Collection10/23/2008
  Q: I was wondering about Bruce Lock&Fold® Hardwood Collection. Can it be refinished? How well does this ...
  A: again, Tracy; Your Dr. is totally incorrect. He appears to be from the 'old' school. He really ...
damaged marble flooring by acids10/23/2008
  Q: how to maintain damaged marble flooring by acids. what material should be used on it to prevent the ...
  A: Your question did not come through complete. It appears you want to know how to maintain acid ...
Bruce Lock&Fold® Hardwood Collection10/23/2008
  Q: I was wondering about Bruce Lock&Fold® Hardwood Collection. Can it be refinished? How well does this ...
  A: The product you mention is an engineered hardwood floor. It is made in layers. There is a bottom ...
your website10/22/2008
  Q: How do I get into your website: www.mbdinspectfloors.com? I try to locate an inspector in Irvine, ...
  A: We had no idea our website was down. I found out this evening (we're in New Jersey), by calling our ...
Konecto floating floor10/22/2008
  Q: Two weeks ago, I had a Konecto floating tile floor installed in my basement. The next day, the ...
  A: There could be numerous things causing your problem, including installation errors, improper ...
Carpet Installation10/22/2008
  Q: Today we had an entire floor of Coronet Sausalito Frieze(B6962)with Odor Ban II pad installed by ...
  A: The installer should be using his iron to make the old glue soft so he can EASILLY remove the old ...
Hardwood floor - repair or replace?10/21/2008
  Q: Our hardwood floor is popping up in all areas just not where the floor meets the wall. Is it ...
  A: If the hardwood is an engineered hardwood (a bottom layer, topped with a core, topped with a thin ...
Carpet Installation10/20/2008
  Q: Today we had an entire floor of Coronet Sausalito Frieze(B6962)with Odor Ban II pad installed by ...
  A: I am assuming you have a 'nose' on each step. If you don't, let me know. The carpet and pad should ...
Very high (45mm) tile transition to carpet10/20/2008
  Q: In our Hall we have laid porcelain tiles (11mm) over amorphous tape underfloor heating and thermal ...
  A: Transitions can be done by either building up the subfloors under the carpet and pad installation to ...
hardwood acclimation time10/17/2008
  Q: We are installing amendoim 3/4"thick (2 1/4" wide) real hardwood in our new construction home. The ...
  A: Forget what your builder says. He may be right or he may be wrong. First, hardwood must be ...
MSM Duolock Rug Pad10/16/2008
  Q: my floors are scored, stained concrete and I have just purchased an 8/10 wool rug w/cotton backing. ...
  A: Usually pads, rubber backed mats, or latex backed mats, are not the cause of 'staining'. Some ...
Cement vs hardwood flooring with Radiant heat10/15/2008
  Q: I am trying to find info on the pros and cons (including cost) of using stained cement vs. ...
  A: First you MUST make certain, after the construction is finished that you have absolutely no moisture ...
flooring is it marble or granite or vetrified10/15/2008
  Q: i want to know which flooring is good is it marble or granite or vetrified pl send details , is ...
  A: Either marble or granite is fine, if you must have hard surfaced flooring instead of carpet ...
Tile floor ASAI standards10/14/2008
  Q: I recently had a tile floor layed out in our new construction. The tile is uneven, my dinette ...
  A: If you have any verbal communication with anyone but your attorney, and the matter does end up in ...
Tile floor ASAI standards10/14/2008
  Q: I recently had a tile floor layed out in our new construction. The tile is uneven, my dinette ...
  A: again, Kathy;Sorry to hear about your problems. It sounds like you definitely have an installation ...
Cleaning white haze on newly installed tile10/14/2008
  Q: A friend and I recently started a post construction cleaning company. We have several jobs, most ...
  A: again, Terry;The haze is usually caused by the installer leaving residues from the grout. Obtain a ...
Tile floor ASAI standards10/14/2008
  Q: I recently had a tile floor layed out in our new construction. The tile is uneven, my dinette ...
  A: I need some more information. What type of tiles do you have-ceramic, slate, etc., are they ...
Plywood flooring10/13/2008
  Q: I'm interested in using plywood as a finished floor in my kitchen, laundry and dining room (approx ...
  A: again, Beth; As far as the carpet is concerned, you need to check to see if that filth was due to ...
Flooring in unheated Breezeway10/12/2008
  Q: I live in CT and have a closed in, but unheated breezeway. What type of flooring would work best? ...
  A: Those people are correct. You might want to consider outdoor stone, like pavers, etc., and, during ...
ceramic tile saeler10/12/2008
  Q: We just bought a new house and have tile in it. I have heard different opinions if I should seal the ...
  A: If it is a new house, you shouldn't have a problem finding out the name of the manufacturer of the ...
Cleaning white haze on newly installed tile10/12/2008
  Q: A friend and I recently started a post construction cleaning company. We have several jobs, most ...
  A: There is no 'magic bullet'. In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers are in the throes of ...
Plywood flooring10/12/2008
  Q: I'm interested in using plywood as a finished floor in my kitchen, laundry and dining room (approx ...
  A: If you have a moisture problem in the crawl space, the ground, in that crawl space should be covered ...
Rubber flooring for an office10/9/2008
  Q: I need to relay the floor in abour 2/3 of my office space. The 1/3 that isn't to be relaid is wood ...
  A: The adhesive is usally put down with a 1/32 in. x 1/32 in. x 1/32 in trowel so the adhesive is very ...
Rubber flooring for an office10/9/2008
  Q: I need to relay the floor in abour 2/3 of my office space. The 1/3 that isn't to be relaid is wood ...
  A: again, Duncan;You can choose rubber flooring in commercial tiles that have options of choosing ...
Vinyl or Linolium?10/9/2008
  Q: We own a house built in 1978. In our kitchen, I want to replace the floors but I don't know if it ...
  A: If you have 2, maybe 3 layers of flooring, that is an unacceptable underlayment for new vinyl or ...
Rubber flooring for an office10/8/2008
  Q: I need to relay the floor in abour 2/3 of my office space. The 1/3 that isn't to be relaid is wood ...
  A: First, let me know why you want a rubber floor. Is it because you MUST have certain static levels ...
carpet installation10/8/2008
  Q: I recently had new carpet (berber) installed in the upstairs of my home. Great job - except - in a ...
  A: I need to see the plan of the job. After it was measured, someone drew up a plan that determined ...
Dip in floor10/8/2008
  Q: I am remodelling the kitchen, and want to put down cork flooring. The flooring I have bought is the ...
  A: You need to call in a general contractor to look at that dip and determine its cause and how to ...
Basment Finishing10/8/2008
  Q: John, I appreicate your help and expertise. I live in a new home that had some water problems in ...
  A: again, Adam;The moisture resistant 'skin' on a pad is designed to prevent topical spills on the ...
Basment Finishing10/8/2008
  Q: John, I appreicate your help and expertise. I live in a new home that had some water problems in ...
  A: After reading your story, it has possibilities for a movie script. Just kidding. If you have ...
rubber flooring10/5/2008
  Q: Do you recommend rubber flooring for a basement bathroom? What about for a basement rec room? I'm ...
  A: Several things to consider. First, do you have a moisture problem in your basement floor and/or ...
area rugs on wood laminate flooing10/4/2008
  Q: I recently had wood laminate flooring installed in my kitchen and I would like to put a non skid ...
  A: The rugs did not cause the discoloration on your old vinyl floor. Hard surfaced flooring-vinyl, ...
Engineered flooring adhesive10/3/2008
  Q: I am going have about 1100 sq ft of 3/8 inch pre-finished Australian Cypress engineered wood over ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufactuers and sundries (adhesives, grouts, underlayments, ...
Polishing an old floor10/3/2008
  Q: I am thinking of re polishing back my living and dining room floor. What is the best polish that I ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers and sundry manufacturers (polishes, polyurethane ...
Subfloor in basement10/2/2008
  Q: I live in Canada and have a question concerning subfloor on a concrete basement floor. I have read ...
  A: If you have purchased your laminate, so be it. If you haven't purchased your laminate remember that ...
Pet accidents and floor selection10/2/2008
  Q: We want to replace the pile carpeting in our family room. The area is 12"x17". I like carpet in ...
  A: The odor from urine is caused by the salts. That odor can be very quickly eliminated with a proper ...
loose tile over radiant heat9/29/2008
  Q: I have a house that has radiant heat in the bathroom, covered with concrete, then floor tile was ...
  A: again, Robert; You need to remove all the old thinset. One major problem may be that ALL floor ...
loose tile over radiant heat9/29/2008
  Q: I have a house that has radiant heat in the bathroom, covered with concrete, then floor tile was ...
  A: If none of the thinset adhered to the tile, then it sounds like the installer allowed too much open ...
Konecto9/29/2008
  Q: As a All Experts advisor I am concerned about your knowledge base concerning Konecto by Metroflor.I ...
  A: You don't know us and we don't know you. We are not questioning your expertise, since we don't know ...
Konecto9/29/2008
  Q: As a All Experts advisor I am concerned about your knowledge base concerning Konecto by Metroflor.I ...
  A: To compare carpet to Konetco, or any other floor covering to carpet complaints you indicate, we ...
uneven travertine tile9/28/2008
  Q: I recently had about 900 s.f. of travertine tile installed and the flooring ended up very uneven ...
  A: Don't do it. No quick fixes. It may or may not work. You need to have your floor inspected by a ...
Konecto9/28/2008
  Q: As a All Experts advisor I am concerned about your knowledge base concerning Konecto by Metroflor.I ...
  A: Glad you have had success with this product. We have heard and seen, good and bad things about it. ...
Basement Cement Floor9/28/2008
  Q: What is the best flooring and underlayment to put in the basement ? I have very little dampness and ...
  A: You say you have very little dampness. I assume by 'water problems', you don't see standing water. ...
Konecto Prestige floor covering9/27/2008
  Q: A flooring company recommended Konecto Prestige plank to overlay our vinyl tile flooring inj our day ...
  A: I strongly urge you NOT to use Konecto. If you will 'google' Konecto and read consumer's feedback, ...
PTT poly carpet vs nylon9/27/2008
  Q: I am ready to recarpet my home. I was about to select a 50 oz. Stainmaster Frieze when I came across ...
  A: again,Joe;I hope you know that Stainmaster does not make carpet. Stainmaster is a coating that ...
PTT poly carpet vs nylon9/26/2008
  Q: I am ready to recarpet my home. I was about to select a 50 oz. Stainmaster Frieze when I came across ...
  A: Let me know the population of your home, including pets, and what rooms you will be carpeting, ...
Congoleun Vinyl floor9/26/2008
  Q: I had a Congoleun Vinyl floor (with a life time warranty) put down over a old Vinyl floor with luan ...
  A: You definitely have recourse, however I need to fully understand your installation. You have a ...
Carpet Installation9/25/2008
  Q: Today we had an entire floor of Coronet Sausalito Frieze(B6962)with Odor Ban II pad installed by ...
  A: If you have not paid for this purchase, don't pay. If you paid by credit card, notifiy the credit ...
USB subflooring9/24/2008
  Q: I want to pull up the carpet in my upstairs office and paint the floor. What do I put over the USB ...
  A: Why do you want to pull up the carpet? If its worn or horribly stained, or if you are going to use ...
Ceramic Tiles9/24/2008
  Q: I am installing a ceramic tile floor. I tore up the old linoleum and started to scrape the old glue ...
  A: First, STOP EVERYTHING NOW! There is a huge difference between linoleum and vinyl. Linoleum is NOT ...
travartine shower9/24/2008
  Q: How can I best keep my travartine shower clean and mold/mildew free?
  A: I need you to let me know if you have travertine on the walls, ceiling, and floor, or only on the ...
Hardwood - Ceramic Tile Connection9/23/2008
  Q: Where these two surfaces meet the builder want to install a T-molding (speed bump). I don't like ...
  A: The 'T' molding is the best idea, however 'T' moldings are available in all sorts of styles. ...
putting flooring down on a concrete slab.9/22/2008
  Q: Our utility room is an unfinished room and there is no flooring on the concrete slab. We have ...
  A: Just be CERTAIN you don't have any moisture problem in the concrete. Concrete is absorbent and ...
Cement floor in basenent9/22/2008
  Q: Can I put a floating laminate floor down in my basement? I don't have any water problems and very ...
  A: Padding is very important, since it will prolong the life of the carpet. I would suggest a very ...
Cement floor in basenent9/21/2008
  Q: Can I put a floating laminate floor down in my basement? I don't have any water problems and very ...
  A: again, Bob;engineered hardwood, solid hardwood, and laminate would be an improper flooring to ...
Cement floor in basenent9/20/2008
  Q: Can I put a floating laminate floor down in my basement? I don't have any water problems and very ...
  A: First, get back to me as to why you want laminate and for what are you going to use the basement ...
Basement flooring choices9/18/2008
  Q: We just removed carpet from our basement b/c of a water damage claim (hurricane IKE heavy rain). We ...
  A: Whomever is telling you those things about carpet is greviously incorrect when it comes to carpet ...
Wet Basement Carpet9/18/2008
  Q: I live in Northwest Indiana, where we got the tail end of Hurricane Ike. Our street was flooded and ...
  A: again, Carol; I'm glad you told me it came from the walls. Moisture will be retained in those ...
Wet Basement Carpet9/18/2008
  Q: I live in Northwest Indiana, where we got the tail end of Hurricane Ike. Our street was flooded and ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your moisture problem. Unless you had a felt type pad under your previous ...
Basement flooring choices9/18/2008
  Q: We just removed carpet from our basement b/c of a water damage claim (hurricane IKE heavy rain). We ...
  A: Remember that one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have is carpet. It has a pile that ...
Travertine installation - Pedestal sink9/17/2008
  Q: We replaced H/W with Travertine in our downstairs bath room. The contractor removed the pedestal ...
  A: again, Ming; I'm concerned about resetting the sink in that matter, when you get water spilling ...
asbestos tile over radiant heat retrofit9/17/2008
  Q: We purchased a used office trailer with old asbestos tiles, most in good shape, but some broken or ...
  A: Sorry to say that I think you are putting your life at risk working in an enviornment containing ...
Travertine installation - Pedestal sink9/17/2008
  Q: We replaced H/W with Travertine in our downstairs bath room. The contractor removed the pedestal ...
  A: The contractor's responsibility is to properly re-install the sink, and not for you to call in a ...
"THROW RUGS"9/17/2008
  Q: My wife is very concerned about dirt being tracked into our house and on to the fairly new carpet so ...
  A: I'll try to save your marriage. First, to protect your investment of the installed carpet, remember ...
Flooring Question9/16/2008
  Q: You mentioned in one of the past replies that you would not suggest porcelain tile, specifically the ...
  A: Sometimes, if a salesperson is not properly educated about the products he or she is selling, then ...
Flooring Question9/15/2008
  Q: You mentioned in one of the past replies that you would not suggest porcelain tile, specifically the ...
  A: again, Christi;You can be educated enough, but you have to remember that many installers who do ...
Which flooring to choose9/13/2008
  Q: Our house (3000 sq ft) was built in 1992. We bought it in 2001. The entry and great room had tile ...
  A: Why were you desperate to get rid of the carpet. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings ...
Flooring Question9/13/2008
  Q: You mentioned in one of the past replies that you would not suggest porcelain tile, specifically the ...
  A: Where are you planning to put the tile? Also, I feel I would have mentioned in my reply that I ...
marbonite vs. vetrified9/11/2008
  Q: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THESE TWO?
  A: It's vitrified, not vetrified. Marbonite is a vitrified tile. Marbonite simulates italian marble. ...
water barrier on a slab after mold9/11/2008
  Q: My 85yo mom lives in Vermont house, built on slab, in damp area. Furnace is hot-water, and pipes ...
  A: again, Mary;No paint. If you have a problem on the surface of the concrete, the paint will come up, ...
water barrier on a slab after mold9/10/2008
  Q: My 85yo mom lives in Vermont house, built on slab, in damp area. Furnace is hot-water, and pipes ...
  A: Hopefully, the moisture came from the burst pipes, and not because it seeps up from the ground, ...
floor substrate with hydroponic radiant heat?9/10/2008
  Q: can you tell me which sustrate would be best to use over hydroponic radiant heat? For example could ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers and sundry(underlayments, levelers, adhesives, ...
embossing leveler with self adhesive tiles9/10/2008
  Q: I purchased self adhesive armstrong tiles for my kitchen.My home is older:I sanded and cleaned the ...
  A: There are numerous manufacturers of peel and stick tiles. The various adhesives used are not ...
Pet odor damaged carpet9/9/2008
  Q: We have a very small (~2 feet X 3 feet) area of Berber carpet that had cat urine damage 2 years ago. ...
  A: You probably have tried numerous incorrect remedies to remove the odor. First you should use clear ...
rectified porcelain floor tiles9/9/2008
  Q: We are having electric underfloor heating fitted in our kitchen and have chosen a beautiful ...
  A: Don't listen to anyone who is telling you something. BEFORE you purchase the tile or have the ...
plywood9/8/2008
  Q: I'm putting down a full spread vinyl floor. I'm looking at multiply/ halex as an underlayment. It ...
  A: On the back of the vinyl should be stamped with the manufacturer's name, and, probably the style ...
Faux Wood Floor Over Existing Commercial Carpeting9/8/2008
  Q: I own a photography studio that has 3 year old, thin commercial grade carpeting in the area that I ...
  A: You have to remove the carpet and, probably the underlayment to which it is glued. If it is glued ...
Travertine installation, cleaning and sealing9/7/2008
  Q: We recently had travertine tile installed in the lower level of our home which is just under 2000 ...
  A: again, Linda; There are many travertine manufacturers. Travertine, a soft stone, comes from ...
Travertine installation, cleaning and sealing9/7/2008
  Q: We recently had travertine tile installed in the lower level of our home which is just under 2000 ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers are in the throes of producing 'green' products ...
help with concrete slab basement floor options9/7/2008
  Q: I have a half basement that I want to redo. The basement floor is rectangular approx. 40' - 0" x ...
  A: First, I would not choose any of the options you contemplate. If you have vinyl tiles that are that ...
installation of carpet on concrete floors9/7/2008
  Q: John, I just spent $14,000 in floor covering for my new yoga studio. The part that was carpet was ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your installation problem. Also, sorry to hear that you contracted with the ...
Travertine over old glue9/6/2008
  Q: I am doing my first install in my house and I know its a hard one. (2000 SQ FT of 18" travertine ...
  A: Travertine is a soft stone. Some manufacturers add 'hardning' agents. Travertine also comes from ...
Travertine over old glue9/6/2008
  Q: I am doing my first install in my house and I know its a hard one. (2000 SQ FT of 18" travertine ...
  A: Sorry, I thought I did answer your questions. You must obtain and thoroughly read the installation ...
carpet next to Schluter's9/5/2008
  Q: I am laying marble tile with a Schluter's edge around the perimeter. I will be laying carpet next ...
  A: Glue down carpet is ok, but you MUST be certain of several issues. First make sure the installer ...
Travertine over old glue9/5/2008
  Q: I am doing my first install in my house and I know its a hard one. (2000 SQ FT of 18" travertine ...
  A: Phil;I'm going to be very honest with you. You are making a large investment and you are taking a ...
carpet next to Schluter's9/4/2008
  Q: I am laying marble tile with a Schluter's edge around the perimeter. I will be laying carpet next ...
  A: again, Ro; I understand what you mean, however it is improper to 'roll' the carpet. You need a ...
Removing Gyp-crete over hardwood floor9/4/2008
  Q: Just tore up the carpet in the living room, the hardwood under the adjacent hallway is in great ...
  A: I hope you removed the carpet and pad because the animals were urinating or deficating all the time ...
carpet next to Schluter's9/4/2008
  Q: I am laying marble tile with a Schluter's edge around the perimeter. I will be laying carpet next ...
  A: When the carpet gets installed, depending upon the measurement of the area, you will probably have ...
damp basement floor9/3/2008
  Q: About 7 years ago, I installed vinyl flooring in a section of my finished "dry" basement in my 100 ...
  A: In today's world, all floor covering manufacturers and sundry manufacturers(underlayments, sealers, ...
subfloor for tiling9/2/2008
  Q: I'm preparing my bathroom floor to tile. There is particle board which I gather needs to be ripped ...
  A: In today's world, ALL floor covering manufacturers and sundry(underlayments, adhesives, mortars, ...
amendoim wood flooring9/2/2008
  Q: What color is amendoim flooring,not the engineered type, before the boards are finished. I know ...
  A: Amendoim hardwood comes from Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. It will vary, in color, depending ...
PORCELAIN TILE9/2/2008
  Q: I JUST PLACED OVER 200 SQ.FEET OF ITALIAN PORCELAIN TILE BUT IT LOOKS REALLY DULL, AND WHEN I TRIED ...
  A: Porcelain tile is available in a high gloss or low gloss (matte) fininsh. Check your sales receipt ...
carpet to tile transition9/1/2008
  Q: Carpet was installed in our new house then we had tile fitted in the wet areas. The tile guys cut ...
  A: Depending upon the width of the gap, I assume just a transition strip is needed. Visit the website ...
home gym over garage space9/1/2008
  Q: Your answer to the man putting a home gym in his basement was very helpful, but does the answer ...
  A: Certainly you can use carpet. Have the carpet installed over a proper pad, and make sure the ...
Installing ceramic floor tile over vinyl floor8/30/2008
  Q: Installing ceramic floor tile over vinyl floor I am a general contractor, mostly self taught. I am ...
  A: again, Anthony; Even if the leveler changes the height of one floor to another, you will still need ...
home gym flooring over concrete8/30/2008
  Q: Converting an unfinished 1st floor space with concrete flooring into a large home gym. Lots of ...
  A: You simply contact the manufacturer of the rubber tiles you wish to purchase BEFORE YOU PURCHASE ...
carpet or ceramic tile for basement floor8/30/2008
  Q: We recently experienced a sump pump burnout resulting in flooded finished basement. A contractor ...
  A: In today's world, ALL floor covering manufacturers and sundry(adhesives, underlayments, levelers, ...
underlayment for laminate floor8/29/2008
  Q: The concrete subfloor is not within 3/16inch in 10 foot span in flatness and laminate floor ...
  A: again, Jim; You MUST eliminate any chance of moisture and any chance of flex. You may not even ...
underlayment for laminate floor8/29/2008
  Q: The concrete subfloor is not within 3/16inch in 10 foot span in flatness and laminate floor ...
  A: We do not sell, install, or maintain any floor covering. We are floor covering inspectors. We are ...
dirty travertine tiles8/27/2008
  Q: I am looking at purchasing an older home with a very dirty (decades of ground in grit and dirt) ...
  A: I think you are using the wrong word-solvent. Solvent is a petrochemically based product. It ...
regarding marble or marbonite8/27/2008
  Q: iam living in india its rainy and humidity place, no pets on my house,we will walk around the house ...
  A: again, sheik;I would suggest marble, however, make sure the marble has a slightly rough surface, ...
hi reagrding marbonite8/27/2008
  Q: iam constructin amy house i need to know which is suitable for home either marble or marbonite?
  A: Where in your home are you planning to use either marble or marbonite as a floor covering? How many ...
Installing ceramic floor tile over vinyl floor8/27/2008
  Q: Installing ceramic floor tile over vinyl floor I am a general contractor, mostly self taught. I am ...
  A: You should determine how old that vinyl floor is. It may be a product that contains asbestos, so ...
'soft' hardwood flooring8/26/2008