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About John Michaels
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
All questions pertaining to all indoor floor coverings regarding best products to choose, proper installation techniques, and proper maintenance techniques.

Experience
We are a nationwide floor covering inspection service. We inspect all types of indoor floor coverings in every city and town in all 50 States and in all the Provinces of Canada. We see where errors in choice of product, improper installation, and improper maintenance lead to complaints being registered and we are then called upon to inspect those products and issue certified reports indicating from where those complaint issues eminate. We have done this type of work for over 40 years.

Publications
Floor Covering Weekly & Floor Covering News

Education/Credentials
Carpet, vinyl, and hardwood manufacturing, installation, and maintenance, prior to just inspecting, and a division of our Company specifies proper floor covering choices for residential and commercial uses.

   

You are here:  Experts > Style > Interior Decorating > Flooring and Carpeting

Questions Answered By Expert  John Michaels 
In Category  Flooring and Carpeting

SubjectDate Asked

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
  Q: A relative is having a new hardwood floor installed during renovations. There have been some ...
  A: First, flooing MUST be the last trade in. It should NEVER be traversed by other tradespeople. Your ...
engineered wood planks for stairs8/26/2008
  Q: What do you think of using engineered wood planks for stairs? The planks have about 2mm thickness of ...
  A: I'm going to answer your questions based upon our experience. We do not sell, install, or maintain ...
Meritage vs. Mullican8/26/2008
  Q: I am about to purchase hardwood flooring and need to know which is better: Meritage or Mullican. I ...
  A: Are you comparing engineered hardwood products or solid hardwood products? What type of surface ...
glass tiles on wood8/26/2008
  Q: I am not doing flooring but I was hoping you could help. We have a wood table that has some glass ...
  A: Two suggestions. If you still have the container of the adhesive that you used, contact the ...
Engineered Hardwood Floor8/26/2008
  Q: We just installed engineered hardwood flooring using the recommended adhesive manufactured by ...
  A: When you say remove the adhesive, I assume you mean adhesive residue that got on something (surface ...
Crackling in Laminate Flooring8/25/2008
  Q: I'm sorry to bother you but I just wanted to make sure you got my follow-up question regarding the ...
  A: again, Muna;I answered your follow-up this morning, 8/25/08, around 6 A.M. East Coast Time. In case ...
Crackling in Laminate Flooring8/25/2008
  Q: As a follow-up to my initial question and your reply. The owner of the flooring company said he ...
  A: again, Muna;If I were you, I would allow an inspection as long as the dealer is paying for the ...
tile8/25/2008
  Q: I want to cover a bad concrete job outside about 3000 sq feet with tile. I live in Central Oregon ...
  A: What's bad about the concrete, and is it caused by a moisture problem? What kind of tile were you ...
Stairs8/25/2008
  Q: Have you ever heard of the fact that if the interior stairs have gaps at the sides that the carpet ...
  A: I don't think the air is coming through at the back side of the carpet. Thank goodness for the ...
Floor prepartion fot tiles installation8/24/2008
  Q: I have stripped my ground floor kitchen floor vinyl in order to replace with tiles, But Noticed ...
  A: again, Siva;Porcelain tiles are heavy, and with what would be under the tiles if you install them ...
Crackling in Laminate Flooring8/24/2008
  Q: Chris suggested that I email you to see your thoughts. Thank you in advance for your attention. We ...
  A: First you are making tremendous mistakes by handling this yourself and talking to people. DON'T OIL ...
Floor prepartion fot tiles installation8/23/2008
  Q: I have stripped my ground floor kitchen floor vinyl in order to replace with tiles, But Noticed ...
  A: I want to make sure I understand your question. You have a sheet vinyl floor in your kitchen that ...
foyer flooring8/23/2008
  Q: We are (or I am) considering granite tiles for our split entry foyer. My husband says it is not a ...
  A: Granite tiles are available in both a smooth and rough surface. If you are worried about slipping, ...
Linoleum as area rugs8/23/2008
  Q: Can a linoleum be laid on top of carpeting?
  A: You use the word linoleum. Do you mean true linoleum, which is a natural product made of linseed ...
fLOORING8/21/2008
  Q: Is it ok to put 12x12 vinily tile over ceramic tile in kitchen. I know we must prep the ceramic ...
  A: If the ceramic tile is installed on a cement backerboard which is on top of an underlayment, which ...
Baseboard without shoe molding8/20/2008
  Q: My house has an uneven floor, and there is gap between the bottom of the baseboard and the hardwood ...
  A: again, Wil;If the hardwood floor was recently installed, the problem may be with an improper ...
Baseboard without shoe molding8/20/2008
  Q: My house has an uneven floor, and there is gap between the bottom of the baseboard and the hardwood ...
  A: You do NOT want the bottom of the baseboard flush and tight with the surface of perimeter planks and ...
Installing 12 x 12 tile on a floor of various substrates8/20/2008
  Q: feet of porcelain tile to install on a combination wood and new cement slab floor and am wondering ...
  A: In today's world, manufacturers of all types of floor coverings and manufacturers of sundries ...
Porcelain Tile subfloor8/19/2008
  Q: I am getting 20x20 porcelain tiles installed this week. Previously, we had 12x12 ceramic laid on ...
  A: Your concerns are true. We are floor covering inspectors. We do not sell, install, or maintain any ...
landlord wants to rip up floor, concerned about asbestos8/19/2008
  Q: Our landlord would like to rip up our kitchen floor tile and re-tile. I'm concerned because the ...
  A: I am NOT an attorney and cannot give you any legal advice, however, I feel, you have every right to ...
floor reducers8/19/2008
  Q: We have just had black and white vinyl tiles installed in our kitchen. Where that floor meets our ...
  A: again, Pat;Black metal is usually painted metal. Two suggestions-First check the Johnsonite ...
kitchen flooring8/18/2008
  Q: What, in your opinion, is the absolute best flooring to install in a kitchen like ours? We get a ...
  A: Regardless what type of flooring I will recommend below, just remember that water, if it is allowing ...
floor reducers8/18/2008
  Q: We have just had black and white vinyl tiles installed in our kitchen. Where that floor meets our ...
  A: Visit the website of Roppe.com. They make reducer strips, many in classy rubber, in various shapes. ...
Laminate floor install8/18/2008
  Q: John I have an office in my home which the previous owner took one or the garage bays and converted ...
  A: Please remember that carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile ...
Crema Marfil honed/polished8/17/2008
  Q: In my market there seems to be more selection or Crema Marfil Polished vs Honed(unpolished). The ...
  A: To reduce the polish sanding is an acceptable method as long as you use a proper rotary brush type ...
Carpet Manufacturers Mark8/17/2008
  Q: ! I have another question for you. I have a scrap piece of carpet left over from new carpet that ...
  A: When you contact Mohawk, ask them if 3468-955, which sounds like a quality and color number, is ...
Basement Flooring w/ Pets8/17/2008
  Q: John, Finishing off our basement...I expect it to be very nice. Not much of a moisture problem ...
  A: You should have NO moisture problem on your concrete to be certain any floor covering you install ...
Crema Marfil honed/polished8/17/2008
  Q: In my market there seems to be more selection or Crema Marfil Polished vs Honed(unpolished). The ...
  A: You may be making a mistake by trying to reverse a manufacturing process. Various manufacturers who ...
Carpet Manufacturers Mark8/17/2008
  Q: ! I have another question for you. I have a scrap piece of carpet left over from new carpet that ...
  A: Griege is usually a batch of yarn or a roll of white yarn that has been tufted into a primary carpet ...
installation of a wood and travertine floor8/14/2008
  Q: I am getting ready to redo the floors in my kitchen and I like the look of travertine mixed with ...
  A: Wood is a poor choice for a kitchen area. Wood comes from trees. It acts like a tree. It will ...
Floor preparation for laminate8/14/2008
  Q: Issue: Home Office room area where I ripped up carpet, then had an abatement company remove ...
  A: I have a lot of information for you, however my computer is infected with a virus so I can't send ...
re-saining floors8/14/2008
  Q: I have older wood stairs that are blotchy. The old owner told me that they were only stained with a ...
  A: If you have solid hardwood you need to have the wood sanded down and refinished, which will allow ...
stone or ceramic tiles on raised floor8/13/2008
  Q: I am remodeling my kitchen and would like durable flooring which will resist water and oil damage. ...
  A: again, Ken; I don't suggest any stone. I suggest sheet vinyl installed over an acceptable ...
porcelain/ceramic tile8/13/2008
  Q: We've just installed kitchen tile. Is there a difference between porcelain and ceramic? The box ...
  A: Porcelain is a type of ceramic. Some tiles and some grout can and should be sealed. You need to ...
gapping in newly installed Brazilian cherry hardwood floors8/13/2008
  Q: Michaels, We did indeed have an expert from the National Association of Hardwood Floors, and, ...
  A: Hardwood floors come from trees. They act like trees. They will dent, scratch, expand, contract, ...
choice of floor covering8/12/2008
  Q: We are purchasing a home in upper Ohio as a summer place. It is in foreclosure and will need to be ...
  A: Hard surface flooring such as hardwood, laminate, vinyl, stone, etc., all require environments with ...
bathroom floor8/11/2008
  Q: I want to put a piece of vinyl on the bathroom floor without having to remove the small ceramic ...
  A: Get the name of the manufacturer of the vinyl floor you intend to use and obtain the manufacturer's ...
Vinly Flooring8/10/2008
  Q: We are thinking of changing the vinyl floor in the bathroom and the laundry room because of some ...
  A: NEVER use the cleaning agents you list on any vinyl floor. ALWAYS obtain the vinyl floor ...
planning a tiled foyer/entranceway8/10/2008
  Q: I would like to tile an area in front of the main door in my home. The door opens right into my ...
  A: When planning to tile an entry, remember that you are using a hard surfaced floor covering that is ...
Porcelain shiny 188/9/2008
  Q: We put shiny porcelain 18" floor tiles in our bathroom. It looks like marble without the ...
  A: again, Sheila;There are numerous manufacturers of what you want. I really suggest that you visit ...
BAD CARPET SEAM LOCATION8/9/2008
  Q: I am in the middle of a horrible dilemma and am in desperate need your advice and the proper ...
  A: again, Mimi;Seam placement usually is done with the seam running in the direction that is into the ...
Vinly Flooring8/9/2008
  Q: We are thinking of changing the vinyl floor in the bathroom and the laundry room because of some ...
  A: Laminate flooring which is a backing, topped with some recycled products (some of which may be wood ...
Acclimating Max Windsor Engineered Flooring8/9/2008
  Q: I have installed Max Windsor Maple flooring throughout my home. Initially my contractor dropped off ...
  A: Acclimation is a very important aspect of a hardwood floor installation so you have to protect your ...
BAD CARPET SEAM LOCATION8/9/2008
  Q: I am in the middle of a horrible dilemma and am in desperate need your advice and the proper ...
  A: The visibility of a carpet seam, if properly made, is in the eye of the beholder. Seams are never ...
Porcelain shiny 18"floor tiles8/8/2008
  Q: We put shiny porcelain 18" floor tiles in our bathroom. It looks like marble without the ...
  A: My strong suggestion to you is NOT to shop at one of those large home supply stores. The best place ...
porcelain on wood decking8/6/2008
  Q: I wish to install 12"x12" porcelain tile over 1x6 wood decking on a covered porch. I am advised to ...
  A: Please do NOT think generic type of installation. In today's world where all types of floor ...
glue and maintence of original hard wood8/6/2008
  Q: We are preparing to sell, so we just lifted old carpeting and found the original hard wood floors. ...
  A: You mentioned that 'they' are telling you stuff. Who is 'they'. If 'they' are the people who do ...
travertine tile over new floor trusses8/5/2008
  Q: We are building a house and used the floor trusses, spanned 24 inches apart. We were told that we ...
  A: The information you were given was correct. Also, with that type of flex, the tiles may crack and ...
Subfloor recommendation and tips needed8/5/2008
  Q: I am going to install vinyl tile in a kitchen. I removed the old tile and subfloor. I now need to ...
  A: BEFORE you do anything more, simply obtain the free installation specifcations that are published by ...
hardwood cracking8/4/2008
  Q: We were denied a claim by Shaw on our new hardwood floors. They said because it was installed over ...
  A: again, Sue; First you should demand to be given a copy of the report. If they refuse, then you may ...
hardwood cracking8/4/2008
  Q: We were denied a claim by Shaw on our new hardwood floors. They said because it was installed over ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your problem. Did you purchase engineered hardwood or solid hardwood? ...
Haze of Tumbled/Antiqued Marble Floor8/3/2008
  Q: I just had 1,700 feet of a tumbled marble in the French pattern put down and there is a haze all ...
  A: There are many manufacturers of marble tile, and, although all have published free maintenance ...
marble vs vitrified tiles8/3/2008
  Q: I am not able to decide between marble and vitrified tiles for my house flooring, I have had ...
  A: again, Rajeev; Maintenance is the secret to protecting your investment in floor covering. Make ...
Removing 12" x 12" marble tile from fireplace surround8/3/2008
  Q: As the subject line indicates, the current fireplace has a white marble surround for the fireplace. ...
  A: A grout saw is usually a proper piece of equipment depending upon what you now have installed. I do ...
marble vs vitrified tiles8/2/2008
  Q: I am not able to decide between marble and vitrified tiles for my house flooring, I have had ...
  A: What room or rooms are you going to tile? A vitrified look can result in a very 'glassy' ...
water damaged ceramic tile8/2/2008
  Q: My husband and I built our house almost 5 years ago. The alarm company drilled holes through the ...
  A: Really sorry to hear about your mess. Your insurance company is wrong. Mold and mildew are living ...
Carpet Question8/1/2008
  Q: I just got new carpet installed in a bedroom in our 23 year old house. The rest of the carpet in the ...
  A: They make transition strips that will handle your need. Some of them are 'T' shaped, and others are ...
Tile level8/1/2008
  Q: I had tile installed throughout my living room and kitchen - what is the industry standard for ...
  A: again, Nicola; Thanks for getting back to me. When they removed the two tiles were you there, and, ...
carpet7/31/2008
  Q: I have two questions. We had carpet installed and the installers seemed to do everything correctly, ...
  A: again, Michelle;The pad construction is ok. The burning smell probably came from their seaming ...
Marble cracks7/31/2008
  Q: i have installed marble slabs, ( Sunny Gold) at my home, after 6 months only it has developed cracks ...
  A: Without seeing your marble, I can only guess the causes of the cracks. Cracks usually occur because ...
New ceramic tile /Island moved further into kitchen7/31/2008
  Q: We hired a professional to remove old floor ceramic tile and replace, move an previously installed ...
  A: There are various shapes of transition strips. Visit the website of Roppe.com to see some and ...
carpet7/31/2008
  Q: I have two questions. We had carpet installed and the installers seemed to do everything correctly, ...
  A: What type of padding is under your carpet? If a rebond type, it should not be thicker than 7/16 ...
Travertine Installation7/30/2008
  Q: We are installing travertine tile in our den. We have removed all of the hard wood flooring that ...
  A: There are many manufacturers of Travertine. Some of the manufacturers have installation ...
Carpet pad noise, power stretcher question7/30/2008
  Q: I had approx. 200SY of Shaw (Evening Shadow II) plush carpet installed over 8# rebound pad. I ...
  A: Don't pay him. First, if he supplied the pad, and it is a rebond type pad, it is made up of ...
VCT prep work and Installation7/30/2008
  Q: I am looking to bid on this job that has had an old vct removed and there is still residue from the ...
  A: Be certain that the old tiles that were removed were vinyl composition tiles (VCT), and not vinyl ...
Sweating Concrete7/29/2008
  Q: We had laminate flooring and carpet installed in the dining room and living room respectively ...
  A: I'm having a little difficulty in understanding your question, so correct me if I'm wrong so I can ...
Air pockets in engineered flooring, on concrete7/29/2008
  Q: Two years ago I had engineered wood floor installed on my concrete slab home. It was glued using ...
  A: Sorry to hear about you and your daughter's problems. First you should check your sales contract to ...
Tile floor7/29/2008
  Q: Is it ok to mix travertine and ceramic tile when laying a floor in a kitchen?
  A: It is ok, however you MUST obtain the installation specifications from the manufacturers of both ...
installing a carpet runner over carpeting existing on steps7/27/2008
  Q: I had done this before in another home. Now I have new carpeting on steps and i purchased fairly ...
  A: Sorry, I don't agree putting a carpet runner over installed carpet. Carpet was never designed to be ...
Laminate wood flooring7/26/2008
  Q: We are interested in using the Konecto Prestige flooring planks in a small bathroom. We have 3 ...
  A: Sorry to give you my opinion, but I would avoid using that, and similar products. There are so many ...
installation of ceramic floor tile7/26/2008
  Q: I am in the middle of a rather big kitchen remodel. I have chosen a design company to act a project ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your problems. I suggest that you not make any more payments to the installer. ...
Acclimating engineered wood floors7/24/2008
  Q: My wife and I are building a home with a national builder, and we have selected Mannington ...
  A: Mannington engineered hardwood floors do not need to be acclimated unless they have been transported ...
Gluing Engineered Hardwood On Concrete Floors7/24/2008
  Q: Forgive me for intruding, however it is a huge mistake to glue flooring down in any situation, as ...
  A: From those answers to your bid inquiry, it sounds as if an installer who comes from the very old ...
flooring7/23/2008
  Q: I am going to replace some of the flooring in my grandparents house, granted it's 40 years old, I am ...
  A: Don't us laminate or hardwood if the area is in a kitchen, bathrooms, or laundry room areas. Those ...
flooring for an open shower7/22/2008
  Q: I am designing a compact bathroom and need advice on what flooring material to use. The shower has ...
  A: Definitely stick to tile, because the other products you list are not designed for moisture prone ...
Engineered floors7/21/2008
  Q: I just purchased Sure Source Red Oak 3 inchx 5/16 inch plank floorings. I only purchased a box to ...
  A: What holds an engineered hardwood floor down in a floating installation is the weight of the boards. ...
High Closs Polish7/21/2008
  Q: I have inlaid vinyl in my kitch. I am going to strip it, and I want to put a high gloss mirror like ...
  A: again, Jamie;Mannington makes their own cleaning and restoration products. Let me know if you have ...
High Closs Polish7/21/2008
  Q: I have inlaid vinyl in my kitch. I am going to strip it, and I want to put a high gloss mirror like ...
  A: From your questions, and I may be wrong, but it sounds like you have not been using the cleaning ...
Engineered floors7/21/2008
  Q: I just purchased Sure Source Red Oak 3 inchx 5/16 inch plank floorings. I only purchased a box to ...
  A: again, Brody;I really did not give you any type of generic response. I told you about the 'grab's ...
cleaning urine stains from carpet7/18/2008
  Q: Recently had carpet cleaned by Chem Dry. Carpet had been cleaned by Chem Dry on 2 previous occasions ...
  A: If what you indicate was the cleaning systems used by the carpet cleaner, then I would send a ...
konnecto sierra flooring7/18/2008
  Q: I recently had konnecto sierra flooring installed in my kitchen / dining area and bathrooms. I am ...
  A: Minor imperfections in the underlayment mirroring through, joints not meshing evenly, varrying ...
konnecto sierra flooring7/17/2008
  Q: I recently had konnecto sierra flooring installed in my kitchen / dining area and bathrooms. I am ...
  A: again, Chris;NEVER, NEVER buy any floor covering over the internet. Even if you could have ...
konnecto sierra flooring7/16/2008
  Q: I recently had konnecto sierra flooring installed in my kitchen / dining area and bathrooms. I am ...
  A: Sorry we didn't chat before you made your purchase, since I would have told you all we've heard and ...
bamboo flooring7/15/2008
  Q: I am considering bamboo flooring for my house. I have heard everything from it is the best stuff ...
  A: Got lots of information for you. First I want you to know that carpet is one of the healthiest ...
stained tiles7/15/2008
  Q: i ave just laid these matt finish italian tiles on my verandah, and discovered that the dark stains ...
  A: Are these indoor or outdoor tiles? Do the dark stains mirror the outline of the workmen's boots? ...
Flooded basement - Carpeted7/14/2008
  Q: Is there any way to save carpeting after it has been soaked with rain water? ANSWER: Hi ...
  A: again, Madeleine; The padding may not be able to be salvaged. When you say berber carpet I am ...
Flooded basement - Carpeted7/13/2008
  Q: Is there any way to save carpeting after it has been soaked with rain water?
  A: Yes, however let me know how the carpet is installed, (over pad, glued directly to the floor, etc.), ...
laminate floor choice7/13/2008
  Q: We want to install a laminate floor in a craft room area we are making in our basement. We had the ...
  A: I would not suggest any Pergo product, nor would I suggest any laminate flooring in that area. ...
Basement concrete floor7/13/2008
  Q: Today, I'm seeking advice on basement concrete flooring. I've bought vinyl flooring to put over ...
  A: This product needs to be installed in an area with a temperature range of, I believe, between 50 ...
Basement concrete floor7/13/2008
  Q: Today, I'm seeking advice on basement concrete flooring. I've bought vinyl flooring to put over ...
  A: again, Juliana;You indicate that you have a floating vinyl floor, which indicates that it should be ...
Basement concrete floor7/13/2008
  Q: Today, I'm seeking advice on basement concrete flooring. I've bought vinyl flooring to put over ...
  A: What goes on in your basement and what rooms will get floor covering. Remember that carpet is one ...
Carpet installation over dried glue7/12/2008
  Q: My husband and I installed bamboo flooring using glue a couple of years ago, and it is necessary to ...
  A: After you removed the bamboo, if the residue from the adhesive is relatively level, you can install ...
Floor maintence7/11/2008
  Q: I have a five year old bleached birch floor that has some large dark areas on it. It appears to be ...
  A: again, Justin; Laminate is not hardwood, so engineered hardwood is not laminate. If you have any ...
Floor maintence7/11/2008
  Q: I have a five year old bleached birch floor that has some large dark areas on it. It appears to be ...
  A: You should have been provided, at the time of sale, with a maintenance manual published by the ...
Hardwood floor touch up and recoading7/11/2008
  Q: I have hardwood floor basically in very good condition. Only few spots wares that need to be touched ...
  A: If you have a solid hardwood flooring, it can be refinished by sanding and applying coats of a ...
VCT in garage7/10/2008
  Q: We had old carpet in our garage taken out and VCT installed. It looked great. We waited 3 weeks to ...
  A: again, Patty;If the tile is commercial VCT, it would have been delivered with a protective coat to ...
Engineered Hardwood Flooring: Thickness?7/10/2008
  Q: 1/2" vs. 3/8" in 3" strips: Does the 1/8" difference in the thickness between the above engineered ...
  A: again, Jasmin;There are 9 sq. ft. to a sq. yd., so at $3.29 per sq. ft., you are paying almost ...
VCT in garage7/9/2008
  Q: We had old carpet in our garage taken out and VCT installed. It looked great. We waited 3 weeks to ...
  A: First, VCT is not rated for the weight of a car. Second, what type of preparation work was done to ...
Engineered Hardwood Flooring: Thickness?7/9/2008
  Q: 1/2" vs. 3/8" in 3" strips: Does the 1/8" difference in the thickness between the above engineered ...
  A: First know what you intend to purchase. Hardwood comes from trees. It acts like a tree. It will ...
Improperly applied laminate flooring7/9/2008
  Q: The installer put the product down in a symmetrical pattern. The manufacturers installation ...
  A: To answer your questions, I would need to know the name of the manufacturer, the style name of the ...
Asbestos Floor Tiles7/8/2008
  Q: I have a small room in my basement with asbestos floor tiles and would like to cover them I would ...
  A: I'm going to give you some information that may be a little long winded, however asbestos, as I hope ...
float vs. glue down engineered wood7/8/2008
  Q: I had too many replies so i had to start a new question section. Here is what happened when i bought ...
  A: Great! Glad you found the manufacturer. Just one thing they may not have told you. Adhesives have ...
laying of dura ceramic7/8/2008
  Q: We just today had dura ceramic put down in our kitchen. We chose the roman elegance( warm clay). ...
  A: When installing ANY floor covering, the installer MUST follow the instructions in that ...
porcelain vs. travertine7/8/2008
  Q: I am remodeling my kitchen and was planning to use a travertine, but found a porcelain tile that ...
  A: Travertine is a softer stone than porcelain, which is a type of ceramic. Between the two, I would ...
float vs. glue down engineered wood7/8/2008
  Q: I had too many replies so i had to start a new question section. Here is what happened when i bought ...
  A: Your floor could be floated HOWEVER, what holds the boards down is their weight. If you have a ...
engineered hardwood floating vs. glue down installation7/7/2008
  Q: i have recently purchased some very beautiful 3/8 x 3" engineered hardwood, which comes in about 5 ...
  A: Your engineered hardwood can be floated. Just be certain you put a moisture barrier over the ...
vinyl flooring7/7/2008
  Q: I have the mannington audura plank flooring. the kind that you would glue down. My question is that ...
  A: If you move heavy furniture or appliances back on the flooring immediately after installation, the ...
engineered hardwood floating vs. glue down installation7/7/2008
  Q: i have recently purchased some very beautiful 3/8 x 3" engineered hardwood, which comes in about 5 ...
  A: again, Jim;Kempas does not come from Brazil. It comes from Southeast Asia. It is a hard, course ...
engineered hardwood floating vs. glue down installation7/6/2008
  Q: i have recently purchased some very beautiful 3/8 x 3" engineered hardwood, which comes in about 5 ...
  A: First, know what you purchased. You purchased a product that comes from trees. It acts like a ...
ceramic tile7/5/2008
  Q: We are remodeling our kitchen and our intentions were to put in ceramic tile. We were told that ...
  A: I've never heard that type of complaint with ceramic. I would assume that type of complaint could ...
thinset mortar7/4/2008
  Q: I have a customer who is very sensitive to latex. Even that which is airborne. Thus, I am using ...
  A: again, Tim; Your indication that you would suggest that she leave the house for several days ...
Which Flooring?7/3/2008
  Q: We are considering replacing our carpet with hardwood type flooring. Our subflooring is ...
  A: First remember that carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings you can have. It has a pile ...
mudroom floor7/3/2008
  Q: Our mudroom carpet got wet this last winter, probably from seepage from the adjoining crawl space. ...
  A: Since some of the tiles are loose, you really don't know how the moisture has affected the adhesive ...
mudroom floor7/3/2008
  Q: Our mudroom carpet got wet this last winter, probably from seepage from the adjoining crawl space. ...
  A: again, Fieh Chan; If the tiles are loose and the adhesive is fugitive, anything you put over the ...
mudroom floor7/3/2008
  Q: Our mudroom carpet got wet this last winter, probably from seepage from the adjoining crawl space. ...
  A: Most important NOT to attempt to remove any of the tiles until you are CERTAIN that they do not ...
carpet over hardwood7/2/2008
  Q: We have oak floors that are freezing cold in winter, and it would be very difficult to insulate in ...
  A: Carpet and/or area rugs must have proper padding under them. You could consider putting area rugs ...
Floorcovering for unheated space7/2/2008
  Q: We recently started a building project for a cabin in the North Woods of Wisconsin. It is our ...
  A: again, Lisa; We do numerous inspections of vinyl floors in manufactured homes. The vast majority ...
Floorcovering for unheated space7/2/2008
  Q: We recently started a building project for a cabin in the North Woods of Wisconsin. It is our ...
  A: We do not sell, install, or maintain any type of floor coverings. We are floor covering inspectors. ...
carpet7/2/2008
  Q: Can you review these carpet specs and tell me if this is a quality carpet that will hold up to high ...
  A: again, Kellie;The weight density factor is decent. Remember that you definitely need a walk-off mat ...
carpet7/2/2008
  Q: Can you review these carpet specs and tell me if this is a quality carpet that will hold up to high ...
  A: Nylon is, just about, the strongest wearing fiber known, so wear will not be a problem. Nylon won't ...
slate tiles that popped up7/1/2008
  Q: I have a small mud room, that is heated, and the 12 inch slate tiles have pooped up. Underneath of ...
  A: again, Gretchen; Either the wrong adhesive was used, or you do have a moisture problem that you ...
slate tiles that popped up7/1/2008
  Q: I have a small mud room, that is heated, and the 12 inch slate tiles have pooped up. Underneath of ...
  A: Stay away from that installer. Too much money for what he wants to do. A couple of questions. Are ...
linoleum floor - yellow staining from bath mats7/1/2008
  Q: I read your note about the staining of linoleum from bath mats. I've just sold my home and, to my ...
  A: I don't mean to talk down to you, however you are using terms that may be incorrect. Linoleum is a ...
OSB/Carpet7/1/2008
  Q: Do you anticipate any problem with using glue down carpet on OSB used as a fire rated floor?
  A: Where is the carpet being used? In a residence or a business? If the carpet is a 'commercial' ...
stone flooring6/30/2008
  Q: can I set 18by18 marble tiles with out any spacing between them?
  A: Do you mean no grout or absolutely no room between tiles, not even a 1/64 to 1/32 inch space? You ...
choosing flooring for kitchen/dining/laundry6/30/2008
  Q: We are looking to replace the vinyl flooring in our kitchen, dining room, hall, and laundry room but ...
  A: again, Cari; Any hard surfaced flooring would need enough, proper, absorbent walk-off mats, at each ...
marble tiles6/30/2008
  Q: I am trying to find 16x16 white carrera marble tiles, but I am not having any luck. I was wondering ...
  A: Sorry, I don't know where 16x16's can be had. I know where 12x12's and 18x18's are available. If ...
choosing flooring for kitchen/dining/laundry6/29/2008
  Q: We are looking to replace the vinyl flooring in our kitchen, dining room, hall, and laundry room but ...
  A: Why do you want to replace the vinyl floor? What problems have you had? Wood, laminate, bamboo, ...
Laminate Flooring6/29/2008
  Q: We bought our home (built in 1991) last summer, and before moving in, had all the carpet on the top ...
  A: again, Shilo; If you are using area rugs, make sure you use proper rug pads under them. If you ...
Mud Setting travertine on a concrete floor6/29/2008
  Q: John, Although I am not a professional tile setter I have done many small tile projects and numerous ...
  A: Different manufacturers of tile have specific installation requirements for their products. There ...
Concrete staining carpet6/29/2008
  Q: We carpeted our basement rooms over a poured concrete slab.In one room, the carpet is turning a off ...
  A: again, Steve; First, NEVER, EVER have anything to do with ANY carpet salesperson who tells you to ...
Laminate Flooring6/29/2008
  Q: We bought our home (built in 1991) last summer, and before moving in, had all the carpet on the top ...
  A: What you need to investigate is the method of the installation of the laminate. Perhaps an air vent ...
Concrete staining carpet6/28/2008
  Q: We carpeted our basement rooms over a poured concrete slab.In one room, the carpet is turning a off ...
  A: Tell me about the type of carpet you have. Of what is the pile made. Is it nylon, olefin, ...
Flooring on a slab6/26/2008
  Q: Hey there. I have a home with an above grade concrete slab. I am looking to have prefinished ...
  A: Have a moisture test taken of the concrete, then, if there is no moisture problem, apply a leveler ...
Hardwood flooring on underfloor heating6/25/2008
  Q: pretty soon im going to be installing oak flooring throughout a new build with underfloor heating. i ...
  A: again, Rhodri;First let your girlfriend's parents know what they intend to have on their floors. ...
Random Orbital Floor Sander6/25/2008
  Q: Any recommendations for a Random Orbital Floor Sander? What should I be looking for? What don’t I ...
  A: again, Randy; If you are just going to do one room and you are planning to rent equipment, it would ...
installation of large tiles6/25/2008
  Q: My wife and I are building a new home in Ottawa, Canada and we are thinking of installing porcelain ...
  A: First know what you intend to purchase. You are purchasing a non-absorbent hard surfaced floor. ...
Choosing the best flooring for a garage which has been converted into an apartment6/24/2008
  Q: About 10 yrs. ago we converted our garage into a mother-in-law apt. We used vinyl a flooring. A ...
  A: If you had mildew and moisture, you have a moisture problem in the concrete, and/or in the walls. ...
Vinyl Floor6/23/2008
  Q: I had to start a new question. It said I had too many followups. :) The adhesive is made by ...
  A: A 'U' shaped will allow more adhesive to be applied, so you might want to have two trowels, one 'U' ...
direction question6/23/2008
  Q: My wife and are heading up to our cottage in a couple of days, and our "big project" for this year ...
  A: again, John; You mention laminate and hardwood. Two different products. Laminate is not hardwood. ...
Hardwood flooring on underfloor heating6/23/2008
  Q: pretty soon im going to be installing oak flooring throughout a new build with underfloor heating. i ...
  A: You mention, 'throughout a new build'. Is this a commercial installation or in a home? What room ...
direction question6/23/2008
  Q: My wife and are heading up to our cottage in a couple of days, and our "big project" for this year ...
  A: Pergo is not a good choice. There are other laminate products on the market that are better choices ...
flexitech flooring6/22/2008
  Q: john, hi. i'm trying to find new flooring for my kitchen. i have some pretty nice congoleum in ...
  A: When you say they leveled the floor under it, was that done on an old vinyl floor or on the ...
Wood floors6/22/2008
  Q: I own a second story condo and I want to put in wood floors but I'm concerned about the daily noise ...
  A: There are noise reduction underlayments available, but they 'ain't' cheap. You would have to take ...
Vinyl / Leveling Compound6/22/2008
  Q: We are replacing a tub / shower with a new one. The new one is not as wide as the old, so there is ...
  A: I suggest that you check with floor covering installation suppliers where floor covering installers ...
carpet over carpet6/21/2008
  Q: I have about 1600 sqft of office space that presently has commercial jute back carpet glued to the ...
  A: Carpet is not designed to be padding, so it must come up. Also, even if you have that old carpet ...
Hardwood flooring selection6/21/2008
  Q: I am looking at engineered hardwood flooring and want to go with a good, quality company, the cost ...
  A: again, Julie;I have a border collie. They normally run all over the place. Her nails even scratch ...
Vinyl / Leveling Compound6/21/2008
  Q: We are replacing a tub / shower with a new one. The new one is not as wide as the old, so there is ...
  A: again, Lee;Glad your project is working along, however, please remember to get the installation ...
Cracks on newly installed marble6/20/2008
  Q: We have our kitchen floor installed with natural marble by a professional contractor. The marble ...
  A: again, Phuong Ha;Different manufactuers of tile, no matter what type, have their own installation ...
Hardwood flooring selection6/20/2008
  Q: I am looking at engineered hardwood flooring and want to go with a good, quality company, the cost ...
  A: No matter what type of floor covering you wish to purchase, you should know what you are buying, its ...
Moisture between tiles and chip wood subfloor6/20/2008
  Q: I suspect some moisture between tiles and the chip wood subfloor underneath it in one of my ...
  A: Moisture can result in mold and mildew growth. They are living microragnisms. They are tremdous ...
Vinyl / Leveling Compound6/19/2008
  Q: We are replacing a tub / shower with a new one. The new one is not as wide as the old, so there is ...
  A: Patching, leveling, etc., are all just stop gap measures that will fail, in time, especially where ...
Cracks on newly installed marble6/19/2008
  Q: We have our kitchen floor installed with natural marble by a professional contractor. The marble ...
  A: Without personally seeing your installation, from your description it appears that there are several ...
care for hardwood floor6/18/2008
  Q: what is the best way to care and clean a meritage engineered hardwood floor.
  A: First, please DON'T use one of those 'over the counter' products. The hardwood floor has a top ...
floor tiles - maintenance6/18/2008
  Q: I have a floor tile maintenance question. We installed dark brown tiles in our kitchen/living room ...
  A: I went to that website and all I could determine that you have purchased a ceramic tile. I could ...
thickness of hardwoods6/18/2008
  Q: We are currently deciding on what hardwood flooring to put in our living/dining/kitchen area and are ...
  A: Several things you need to consider. First, know what you are purchasing. You are purchasing a ...
Hardwood floor installation question6/14/2008
  Q: Can I install an engineered hardwood floor by gluing it down over a floating laminate floor? I'd ...
  A: First-you are dealing with hard surfaced floors, the laminate and engineered hardwood. Hard ...
Hardwood floor installation question6/14/2008
  Q: Can I install an engineered hardwood floor by gluing it down over a floating laminate floor? I'd ...
  A: No, you must remove the floating floor because it is not an acceptable underlayment for an ...
ditra underlayment6/13/2008
  Q: My builder installed my ceramic tile on my post tension slab using a product similar to ditra as an ...
  A: The very first thing you need to do is obtain, from your builder, the name of the manufacturer of ...
fixing tiles6/13/2008
  Q: what is a VC shield on tiles? what is the best way to install a ceramic tile with VC shield on to ...
  A: again, v;Don't stick the tiles to the surface of the mosaic. Remember that adhesive has two ...
fixing tiles6/13/2008
  Q: what is a VC shield on tiles? what is the best way to install a ceramic tile with VC shield on to ...
  A: In my unanswered follow-up questions, I received the same follow-up question I answered. I just ...
fixing tiles6/13/2008
  Q: what is a VC shield on tiles? what is the best way to install a ceramic tile with VC shield on to ...
  A: Sorry, I've never heard of a VC shield. Ask whom ever is giving you that terminology, its meaning. ...
floating Kahr wood6/12/2008
  Q: We had Kahr floating wood install over cement in our basement. We are having odors and wet spot in a ...
  A: The odors need to be identified, however, if you see a wet spot, you may have mold or mildew. From ...
Best Underlayment6/11/2008
  Q: I have two questions regarding underlayment for tile: 1) When is it appropriate to install cement ...
  A: You mention the word, 'tile'. What type of tile? Vinyl, ceramic, porcelain, travertine, carpet ...
Waterproofing under Hardwood Flooring6/9/2008
  Q: I am working on an apartment renovation and we are being required to waterproof the hardwood floor ...
  A: First nothing is water proof. There is water resistant, however you are dealing with wood. Wood ...
Vinyl removal from concrete before laminate6/9/2008
  Q: We just purchased a condo built in 1982 and are remodeling the kitchen. It is on a concrete slab and ...
  A: again, Sue;You need more than a paint scraper. You might want to try a paint scraper, however the ...
Vinyl removal from concrete before laminate6/8/2008
  Q: We just purchased a condo built in 1982 and are remodeling the kitchen. It is on a concrete slab and ...
  A: First, I would not suggest you use laminate in a kitchen. Laminate is a polyurethane type ...
Installing over tile6/7/2008
  Q: We currently have 12x12 Italian Tile in a dark Terra Cotta color installed in a kitchen & dining ...
  A: To install over the tile, you would have to install another underlayment such as plywood, lauan, or ...
floor6/7/2008
  Q: we live in Texas - our house foundation is slab - there is an area of our interior floor ...
  A: When you say buckle, do you mean that the boards have a convex shape (crowning), or do you mean that ...
flooring for Sunday School rooms6/6/2008
  Q: Would a vinyl flooring such as Konecto be good to replace carpet in Sunday School rooms?
  A: First, remember that carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings one can have. It has a pile ...
travertine floor6/5/2008
  Q: i just had travertine floor install in my living room and kitchen (french pattern). Grout already ...
  A: Travertine is a soft stone, and the grout could be a mortar based or an acrylic based. The shine ...
VCT that is textured and has a grout?6/4/2008
  Q: I was visiting a business the other day and I commented on how beautiful their tile was. It was a ...
  A: The grout line just may be a 'fake' grout line that is manufactured in the tiles. We have that same ...
previous plywood preparation6/4/2008
  Q: What should I use to prepare(smooth) the plywood for replacing previous lino with "peel and stick" ...
  A: The adhesive on the peel & stick tiles, as well as any other adhesive, has two grabs. One grab ...
tile on slab6/3/2008
  Q: I just removed carpet and have 20x20 tiles to install. Left on the slab was paint, and the stuff ...
  A: You mention 20x20 tiles. What kind of tiles-ceramic, vinyl, etc. A several things to ...
hardibacker install6/3/2008
  Q: can i use bostiks best to install 1/4 inch haribacker over osb to strengthen floor
  A: Contact the James Hardi Company who makes Hardibacker. They will let you know if osb is an ...
Staining woodworking6/2/2008
  Q: We hired a reliable contractor to build our new home. He recommended a painter and the same person ...
  A: Cudos to your painter/stainer. He is totally correct and knows that floor coverings MUST be the ...
Best flooring with 2 active cats6/2/2008
  Q: I currently have 8 year old builder installed carpeting throughout my 1200 sf slab foundation house ...
  A: No wishful thinking. It's all do-able. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor coverings you can ...
carpet on top of carpet-fire dangers6/2/2008
  Q: recent CSI episode showed new carpet over older carpet with flammable matarials construction, ...
  A: First, carpet was not designed to be padding. Any carpet that is installed must be installed over ...
marble tile around fireplace5/31/2008
  Q: I have a project in need of your assistance please.the fireplace has marble tile on the floor in ...
  A: Sorry, I'm not understanding your question. Do you mean you have marble tiles on the floor, in ...
carpeting floating stairs5/31/2008
  Q: What is the best installation technique for carpeting floating stairs. I took over a job that is ...
  A: I would need to know more information as of what type of floor are the steps made, what type of pad, ...
preparing floor to lay laminate5/31/2008
  Q: There was originally indoor-outdoor carpet, throughout our house. The subflooring is particleboard, ...
  A: First, why are you putting down laminate. Carpet is one of the healthiest floor covering one can ...
Squeaky tile floors5/29/2008
  Q: We have ceramic tile floors which are squeaking in one are. We have tried screwing and nailing from ...
  A: I truly hope that solution will work, because the dimensional stability of the grout may have been ...
laminate floor5/28/2008
  Q: We recently installed a laminate floating floor in a customers laundry room, since then her washer ...
  A: again, Megan; First I wanted to let you know who we are. We do not sell, install, or maintain any ...
laminate floor5/28/2008
  Q: We recently installed a laminate floating floor in a customers laundry room, since then her washer ...
  A: Not a good choice to install a laminate in a laundry room, especially floating. I assume you have a ...
rectified porcelin tiles5/27/2008
  Q: I have installed 1 ceramic tile floor, but I have a home owner that wants me to do a 18" rectified ...
  A: If your customer insists that you do it, and you told him you were not qualified, if I were you I ...
carpeting5/26/2008
  Q: My husband and I are remodeling and are at the point of choosing carpeting for our bedroom. I told ...
  A: You are certainly more than welcome. If you have any other questions please feel free to contact me ...
carpeting5/26/2008
  Q: My husband and I are remodeling and are at the point of choosing carpeting for our bedroom. I told ...
  A: again, MaryLee;Olefin has a low melting point. When the colored olefin chips are melted down and ...
carpeting5/25/2008
  Q: My husband and I are remodeling and are at the point of choosing carpeting for our bedroom. I told ...
  A: We suggest that you not consider Shaw products. We do not sell, install, or maintain any floor ...
Squeaky tile floors5/24/2008
  Q: We have ceramic tile floors which are squeaking in one are. We have tried screwing and nailing from ...
  A: Without doing an on-site inspection, I can only guess. Usually squeaking is due to an installation ...
Floating Floor5/24/2008
  Q: Could you please tell me why one should not apply wax to a floating floor? I love shiny floors, and ...
  A: When you say floating, what type of floor do you have-Laminate, engineered hardwood, vinyl, etc. If ...
Best Carpet pad for Area Rug5/24/2008
  Q: My question is regarding the best carpet pad to use with my area rug. I have an 8x10 wool area ...
  A: When you place an area rug on top of carpet remember that you somewhat inhibit natural evaporation ...
tile removal5/23/2008
  Q: John, I'm removing old 9" ceramic tile that were set in mortar over a plywood subfloor (circa ...
  A: You do need to have a smooth plywood underlayment, so you can either obtain a grinder that can ...
Carpet to carpet transition5/21/2008
  Q: We are remodeling the stairs by replacing the carpet with oak stained wood caps and carpet in the ...
  A: The transition strips could be vinyl, rubber, or wood. The wood cap manufacturer may also make ...
OSB board5/21/2008
  Q: I have ripped out my carpet in hallway. I have OSB board as subfloor. I have no money. Can I stain ...
  A: again, Rosemary;If you have a moisture problem that is 'hidden' under any of your floor coverings, ...
L shaped room5/21/2008
  Q: We have an L shaped room that we are putting carpet down in. My husband and I are debating about ...
  A: I don't mean to be rude, but if you want to get it right, have it professionally installed by a ...
Wide gaps in Wood Floor5/21/2008
  Q: I need information on who to call to fix this problem. We've been told that when the wide plank, ...
  A: I don't think the information you received about the wood being 'green' is accurate. From your ...
OSB board5/21/2008
  Q: I have ripped out my carpet in hallway. I have OSB board as subfloor. I have no money. Can I stain ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your financial position. I would not suggest staining or sealing the OSB ...
vinyl tile5/19/2008
  Q: Should I avoid peel and stick vinyl tile (1.2mm thickness) if the manufacturer says that stiletto ...
  A: Just about ANY hard surfaced floor covering (vinyl, hardwood, laminate, and some stones and grout ...
travertine tile5/18/2008
  Q: what is the best way to install 3' x 3' travertine tile on a mortar bed?
  A: Your question leaves many unanswered items such as what type of underlayment do you have, what type ...
Basement flooring5/18/2008
  Q: John- We recently purchased a house. In the basement they covered all of the floors with ...
  A: That gooy, sticky substance may have been adhesive that was used to install an old floor covering ...
Patio enclosure floor covering5/17/2008
  Q: I have a patio enclosure with a smooth trowel concrete floor. I'm considering a porcelain tile ...
  A: First you must obtain the porcelain tile manufacturer's installation manual to see what type of ...
tile removel5/16/2008
  Q: how many square feet per hour can I remove with airhammer ANSWER: Hi Liz;Forget the air hammer. ...
  A: again, Liz;I know of no table that would give a sq. ft. per hour listing, however, it really depends ...
Wood Flooring Gaps5/14/2008
  Q: Mr. Michaels, I just purchased a new home. We have wood floors throughout the main floor. ...
  A: Acceptable gapping is usually 1/32 to 1/16 inch, however it really depends upon the type of wood, ...
floor painting5/13/2008
  Q: I have an odd problem with my floors. When we built our house, we ran out of construction mortgage ...
  A: again, Florence; The plywood will also absorb paint and it may take several coats to cover. It ...
basement flooring options5/13/2008
  Q: what is the best flooring for a basement that occasionally takes in water...we've done evrything we ...
  A: I suggest that you don't use the vinyl tiles. They are hard, and if you have kids running around, ...
basement flooring options5/13/2008
  Q: what is the best flooring for a basement that occasionally takes in water...we've done evrything we ...
  A: Moisture is a major problem with any floor covering and it needs to be corrected before you install ...
floor painting5/13/2008
  Q: I have an odd problem with my floors. When we built our house, we ran out of construction mortgage ...
  A: If you seal the hardwood after you have sanded and thoroughly vacuumed so there is no saw dust under ...
tile to carpet transition5/13/2008
  Q: I just had some ceramic tile installed in a portion of my family room (at the entrance area from the ...
  A: again, Sue; Z bar is fine, however I think you should have your installers show it to you before ...
tile removel5/12/2008
  Q: how many square feet per hour can I remove with airhammer
  A: Forget the air hammer. That is no way to remove tiles. First, how old are the tiles. Are they ...
poshing marks on new polished porcelain floor5/12/2008
  Q: We recently had our whole house tiled in a 600x600 polished porcelain tile. We engaged a ...
  A: A couple of things come to mind. First, there are porcelain tiles that contain a 'glazed' surface ...
Removing Vinyl Sheet Flooring Laid Over Hardwood5/12/2008