Interior Design, Design News and Architecture Trends

Author: ION

  • Signs That Your Windows Need To Be Replaced

    Signs That Your Windows Need To Be Replaced

     It’s easy to tell when a lightbulb needs changing because it will start to flicker, but other parts of the home won’t have such apparent signs to let you know when to get replacements. You could have missed out on clues that your windows haven’t been functioning properly for ages.

    Like with every other home feature, a little bit of maintenance and cleaning can go a long way. If you’re not sure how to get started, you can turn to the window companies in Ottawa for advice. One incredible choice would be Golden Windows since they have been manufacturing window replacements for more than 50 years.

    Decades of experience in the field makes them an excellent resource for all of your questions and queries. They have a helpful blog filled with tips for taking care of your windows like how to add caulk and weather stripping to improve efficiency and how to keep all of the parts clean so that they can stay in good condition for a long time. Unfortunately, regular upkeep won’t do much for your windows if they are exhibiting the following problems.

    1. Cold air leaks

    One of the first clues that you need to get rid of your old windows is that they are letting cold air sneak inside. If you aren’t sure that this is happening, you can quickly learn how to find air leaks without spending money on professional services —hold your damp hands in front of the glass surface on a windy day to see if you can feel any air forcing its way indoors.

    1. High hydro bills

    Another clue that your windows are leaking is that your hydro bills are unexpectedly expensive. Sealing up those pesky leaks and getting yourself some energy-efficient replacements will lower your home heating costs immediately — it will stop you from paying an estimated extra$300 every single year for the drafts.

    1. Loud noises

    When you can hear everything happening outside of your house as if it were beside you, you should take it as one of the signs to replace your windows and to increase the level of insulation — this way you can block out noise from traffic and the neighbourhood. The sounds of dogs barking or honking cars on the street shouldn’t echo into your master bedroom.

    1. Old age

    Older versions do not meet today’s standards of thermal retention and energy-efficiency. As a general rule, if you know that their installation was more than 10 to 15 years ago, you should have them updated.

    If you notice even one of these signs, you should get high-quality upgrades installed right away. The trusted company Golden Windows can help you find the right replacement windows in Ottawa. Their options have insulating features like low emissivity glass and solid frames to ensure long-lasting results.

     Another clue that you need to switch up your windows is that you really want a refreshing change. There’s no better way that you can bring in natural sunlight, warmth, comfort and style into your home.

     

  • A New Room Is Only A Garage Conversion Away

    A New Room Is Only A Garage Conversion Away

    If you’re looking to create a man cave, woman cave, office area, or just want to add square footage to your home, converting your garage into a living space might be the option for you. Garages are often altered to cater to a specific function, like an office, den or extra bedroom. If you choose to convert your garage, you’ll typically add about 600 square feet to your home when it’s a two-car garage. This could be one of the easiest ways to add on to your home without expensive construction.

    Considerations Before You Begin

    When you decide to create your masterpiece addition, the first thing to consider is the design of the room. The great part of converting a garage is there’s already a foundation, walls, roof, etc., so the basic structure and size of the design are already taken care of.  However, there are several things you will need to consider before you begin. You’ll also want to make sure that you acquire a permit if it’s required, read up on any zoning ordinances, and double-check with your homeowner’s association if you belong to one. Next, make sure you choose the right professionals to create and carry out your wishes, and as always make sure your project in on time and on budget. Most importantly, don’t be the person who’s garage looks like it was at one time a garage. You’ll have to get rid of anything that is a reminder of a garage, such as the doors, including a design incorporating windows.

    A Few Thing On Your To-Do List

    Don’t forget you’ll have to remove the drywall and put in insulation, and you’ll need to make sure you find a way for the floor to be raised and insulate it as well. You’ll need to plan for new electrical wiring for any outlets and other necessities, and plan for plumbing if adding a bath area. Also, take into consideration heating and air by tying it into the existing system or utilize a ductless split system.  Depending on the location and size of the garage, you might consider a design which incorporates multi-function use, including still using it as a place to store your car. If you’re not sure of what to do, some companies offer pre-built garage kits, allowing you choices, and ginving you peace of mind with those design options.

    What To Budget

    Since the garage is an already existing structure, using it instead of creating an all-new add-on will help defray the cost by at least half. However, depending on what you’re looking for in a garage remodel you can expect the cost to be in the range of $15,000-$50,000. Costs can vary based on several factors such as location, design, materials, and contractors. Don’t forget to set aside extra funds in case of an emergency arising during the construction, or if you decide to build in anything else, like a bathroom.

    All garage conversions are unique and should play to the attributes of the garage you have, whether it’s a tall ceiling or a large enough space to create your own movie theater. It’s your space, so create something special for your family while you add value to your home. Just remember to not overthink the conversion, everyone will know it was at one time a garage. Make your garage a space family and visitors will both love and be envious of for holidays to come.

  • 8 simple ideas to upgrade your garden right now

    8 simple ideas to upgrade your garden right now

    The passing of the winter means it is time to spend more time outdoors in the garden. Walk out to your garden right now. Are you satisfied with the state it is in? Has it fallen to ruin? Or are you simply tired of the same look and desire to switch it up a bit? Here are 8 simple ideas to upgrade your garden right now:

    1. BUYING NEW FLOWER POTS AND CONTAINERS

    While flowers and trees are usually the centers of attention, flower pots and containers share much of the limelight. If they are old, discolored, broken and in disrepair, the overall appearance of the garden will be tarnished.

    Luckily, you can fix this problem by replacing the old flower pots and containers with new ones. And, even if the flower pots are in perfect condition, consider replacing them with new and unusual ones. There are many unique flower pots and containers online and in your local garden store that are sure to capture the attention of your garden guests and will certainly be a huge upgrade to your garden! Consider pots and containers of different shapes and sizes and even bright colors such as teal, red and orange!

    1. ADDING LIGHTS

    Another simple idea to upgrade your garden right now is the addition of lights. While you may have been of the belief that hanging out in the garden is a daytime activity, we are here to tell you that you are wrong.

    Adding lights can set the tone for a romantic afternoon, highlight garden features such as a pool, fountain or stone path and can even provide security if there are dark spots in your garden.

    Your lighting options can range from high voltage landscape lighting which will require an electrician to do the proper wiring (which will cost a pretty penny) to some string/fairy/pepper lights running along its perimeter, around pots and across benches, to a few solar lights which are much easier to install and doesn’t require a licensed electrician.

    1. ADDING A GAZEBO

    Before you say, “isn’t this supposed to be a simple upgrade?”, hang on just a bit. You don’t have to dig up your backyard to install a stone or wooden gazebo. In this case, you can upgrade your garden with a cheap steel grill gazebo, metal gazebo or a screened gazebo which you and a family member or two can install on your own.

    The gazebos are the great addition to any garden because it provides additional lounging space, provides shade from the sun, can be used for meals or family gatherings and you can just unwind and relax under your gazebo after a long day.

    1. TENDING TO YOUR LAWN

    Aside from flowers, your lawn is a big part of the overall appearance of your garden. Forget decorations and benches, if your lawn is unhealthy, your garden won’t look as good as it should.

    Tend to your lawn by watering frequently, removing weeds thatch and moss, seeding and mowing. Investing in a quality lawn mower can take your lawn from one level to the next. Raking to remove dead leaves and lawn clipping can also make your lawn look neat, tidy and attractive.

    1. CLEANING YOUR PATIO OR TERRACE

    While this may not seem like an upgrade to your garden, it will keep up appearances without making any drastic changes. Anything that does not need to be there, remove it.

    Any old, broken or discolored furniture must be removed or replaced. If the floors and walls are dirty, consider using a power hose or hiring someone with a jet washer to remove dirt and grime.

    You may also repaint if necessary, or change the color to something brighter, or even lighter, whatever you prefer.

    1. ADDING STEPPING STONES

    Did you know that high traffic on your lawn can be detrimental to its health? Yes, it is true. Reduce traffic by adding stepping stones or a path through your garden for you and your guests to walk.

    This not only protects the lawn and plants but is also an attractive addition which adds to the overall look and feel of your garden. There are a variety of stepping stones to choose from and they come in different shapes, sizes, patterns, and even color. And, if you are a DIY person, you’ll be happy to know that you can even make them yourself!

    1. ADDING A WATER FEATURE

    Water features can include a pool, fountain, pond or bird/butterfly bath.

    • If you are on a budget, a blow-up pool is a fun and easy installation method that will have your kids and even yourself occupied all summer.
    • Outdoor water fountains are classy and are a sight for sore eyes. The sound of water can also be very soothing after a long and stressful day.
    • Adding a pond does not necessarily have to be an expensive upgrade to your garden and you can even dig one yourself with some assistance and some polyethylene liner. It doesn’t even have to be big. Just maybe a suitable size for a few water lilies, flowers some fish or even frogs and turtles.
    • There are many inexpensive bird/butterfly baths you can choose from and you can even make one yourself!

    1. BUILDING A FIRE PIT OR BOWL

    It may get chilly sometimes and if you want to enjoy your garden in the late night and afternoon hours, it is probably best you construct a fire pit.

    Fire pits provide both warmth and light can be constructed for under $50 with a few flat stones, cement or mortar. Huddle around the fire pit with friends and family and listen to stories and share jokes or sit nearby to enjoy an afternoon meal.

    You can even have a little romantic date by your fire pit or bowl with your significant other and create beautiful memories in your home garden.

    See? Upgrading your garden doesn’t have to take weeks of work or thousands of dollars. Upgrade your garden right now with these simple ideas for you, your friends and your family to enjoy.

  • 5 Ways to Decorate Your Home for Winter

    5 Ways to Decorate Your Home for Winter

    There is simply nothing like coming back after a busy day to your comfortable and an inviting living room on a cold winter’s day. The following are some hints to help you come up with a warmer look to your home during the winter season.

    • Changing the positioning of your furniture

     

    You can inspire feelings of warmth and togetherness if you move your furniture closer together in the room. Furniture that is spaced more closely together gives the room a friendly look and makes conversing more easier. The furniture can be placed in a circle or have a minimum of at least two pieces facing each other. Use large throw rugs underneath the furniture to help add more warmth to the room and as a means of defining space, particularly in a large-sized room.

     

    • Use layering to give warmth to the room

     

    When it turns cold outside, we tend to layer up our clothes to keep warm. This idea also will work effectively in the home when you layer the items such as window treatment, slipcovers tablecloth. Valances for the windows and decorative fabric toppers on the table can add a touch of the season to your space. For the bathroom, layering towels with two layers or more will also work and it will give you some extra space.

     

    • Use elements inspired by nature in your design

     

    When people think of warmer temperatures and sun, they think of nature, which is one thing we are sorely lacking during the winter season. Always try to introduce natural based elements into the design of your home when you can. Wooden furniture, small stones, area rugs made of bamboo – these are just a couple of ideas you can use. Another helpful hint is to use winter hardy indoor houseplants to fill in empty spaces.

     

    • Add Candles

     

    Candles not only add an elegant and fashionable look to your home, but they also provide an inexpensive source of heat and light. Just light a couple of candles instead of switching on a light to create an atmosphere of comfort and romance. Rooms that are smaller in size can have candles function as a centerpiece for the table. In more spacious rooms, the best placement for candles is alongside walls in order to provide a more consistent source of lighting.

     

    • Soft fabric is another option for warming your area

     

    Heavier materials in deeper colors are the answer to making your home feel warmer in winter. The most commonly used materials during the winter season for slipcovers and throws are velvet, wool, and fleece. You can also add warmth to the room with area rugs. The way in which the majority of area rugs are constructed today is with good quality, the thick pile so the only thing you’ll need to worry about is which style to choose. Cotton area rugs or rugs made of jute will be much more budget-friendly, but will still add in a whole new layer of comfort and warmth.

     

    • Picking out a warm color palette

     

    The colors that you choose for your living room will create a visual feeling of warmth. The color palette for winter should mainly center on colors in the red to yellow range. You’ll need to take into consideration that warm colors are more intense looking and need to be counterbalanced with different colors in the spectrum. One example would be using blue throws or green area rugs as contrast for the strong colors or adding in earth colors such as browns and beiges to tone it down.

    Using all of these tips and suggestions in your own way, with a dash of creativity to boot, you can create your own personal winter space at home this season. Create a place that you feel good being in and that you will enjoy inviting friends and family to.

    The above are some of the ways in which you can decorate your home for winter. Try them out and be assured of getting the best results. Do it now!

  • Seven Benefits Of Minimal Bedroom Décor

    Seven Benefits Of Minimal Bedroom Décor

    A minimalistic design is not just a trend but a way of life for many people. It is about appreciating things that matter and removing objects that distract you. You can still have things in your life, but it is a collection of belongings that add value to you. Many people believe living a minimalistic life is hard, improbable tasks in a world that is so materialistic but those who try it, often, find the freedom exhilarating.

    “Minimalism is not subtraction for the sake of subtraction. Minimalism is subtraction for the sake of focus.”

    One of the biggest misconceptions of minimalism is that it restricts you. Ironically, the purpose of a minimalistic life is freedom. The minute you stop giving importance to materialistic possessions, you reject the idea of happiness all the advertisements and the media has forced upon you. You are free from worry, guilt, captivity, burden and depression. In fact, most religious scriptures emphasize not placing material possessions over the actual important things in life.

    The idea of minimalism can be put into various aspects of our lives. With a minimalistic approach in your home, you intentionally promote the space. With the approach on architecture, you intentionally make the best use of the space. In photography, fashion and art, minimalism focuses on the core rather than the superfluous.

    The minimalistic approach towards your bedroom is a good place to start. But, before you do, let’s delve into the benefits of a minimalistic bedroom and what it can do for you.

    • Your fortress of solace– A minimalistic approach towards your bedroom can create a calm, peaceful environment. Away from the clutter and chaos of the world, your bedroom becomes a place of solace. Everything in your bedroom means something to you, adds value to the quality of your life and you feel safe, comfortable and sheltered. Imagine going to a serene place after a long, tiring day. That is what you achieve with a minimalistic approach.
    • You sleep better –One of the biggest causes of many health problems including cardiac issues, diabetes, depression, obesity and many other lifestyle-centric illnesses is the lack of sleep. A cluttered bedroom and the inability to let go of the stress and emotions of the day can hamper your sleep cycle. Your minimalistic bedroom can help you sleep better, de-stress your mind and reinvigorate you with energy to handle the next day. It not only declutters your room but also your mind.
    • Your health gets better –A lot of stuff means a lot of dust. Unless you spend every day obsessively cleaning all the dust particles from your things, you are going to accumulate dust in the room. That is a one-way street to allergies and respiratory illnesses. It is well known that the air inside of your room is more polluted than the outside. A minimal bedroom is easier to clean and is less likely to accumulate dust.

    • Free up space –The minute you take out the unnecessary things from your bedroom, you find yourself marveling at the space you have. If you often find yourself hopping over things, hitting your leg against furniture, piling up clothes on the chair and so on, a minimalistic bedroom is the right way to go. Once you free up enough space, you instinctively tend to keep your bedroom cleaner.
    • You set a good example for kids –Your children look up to you and learn from your actions. They form morals and lifelong principles based on their upbringing. Observing a clutter-free, clean bedroom is an easy way to set an example for your kids. They aspire to be like their parents and the best way to teach them something is to do it yourself. Many children are diagnosed with sleeping disorders in recent times. The amount of stress and pressure parents unintentionally put on their children is also high. Using a sleep calculator for kids, parents can determine the hours of sleep their child requires and set strict schedules for them. With a clean, clutter-free bedroom, you encourage them to sleep faster with fewer distractions.
    • You get happier –We are made to believe that happiness lies in material things. At least, that is what the media tells us. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Material things bog us down, cling to us and occupy a large space in our minds. We are often worried about losing our things, damaging them and spending money on repairs. With a minimalistic life, you are releasing yourself from the clutches of worldly possessions. That is not to say, you don’t have things. It is only keeping things that make your life better.

    There is no right or wrong in minimalism. It isn’t a competition to see who owns less. It is owning the right things and being true to yourself while doing so. Think about the last time you went grocery shopping. You had a list in your hands and checked off the items one by one. But when you looked at each aisle, you saw things you might need that wasn’t on the list. At the checkout, you saw candy and gum that, again, wasn’t on the list. These distractions made you purchase over and above what you need. You not only had the right things but more than what you actually required.

    Minimalism means better use of your resources. You have time, energy and money to focus on the core. It is a lifestyle that changes your perspective and the way you consume. You can start with your bedroom and work your way up from there.

  • What the Cowboys Stadium Suites Have to Offer

    What the Cowboys Stadium Suites Have to Offer

    For football lovers, the only thing better than watching a game at the AT&T stadium is doing it at the exclusive Dallas Cowboys suites. All Cowboys suites come with comfy seating, amazing decor, private restrooms and lots of other exclusive amenities. Depending on the suite, you can even have your private concierge.  

    Accessing the suite level

    There are a total of 380 suites at the AT&T stadium with a seating capacity of 12,000 fans. The suites are served with 4 dedicated entrances, A, E, F and K. Irrespective of the location of your suite, you will have access to the club level for the entire duration of the game. The suites usually open two hours before the game starts and you can hang around for an extra hour after the game. However, the November 5th game allowed ticket holders to stay around for 2 more hours because they arranged an after party.

    Field level suites will give you the best vantage point because they have direct access to the field. However, these suites only have high top tables so the fans will typically be standing at the bar. Do not worry about getting tired though. Since you will be so close to the action, the adrenaline rush will keep you pumped throughout the game.

    VIP Parking

    The AT&T stadium provides ample parking for the fans. They have a total of 15 parking lots. The parking lots usually open 5 hours to kick off for purposes of tailgating. If you are a suite holder, you will get a special parking pass that will give you access to designated VIP parking slots. If you prefer to come with an Uber or a Limo, you can be dropped off at any of the two drop-off points namely; Cowboy’s way lot 6 or random mill lot 1. After the game, Lot 15 will be the designated Uber pickup area.

    Need to charge your phone?

    The Cowboys stadium suites also come with complimentary phone charging booths. These booths come equipped with well-secured lockers that have cables that can charge iPhones as well as almost any android device. A unique passcode will be provided to the suite ticket holders for accessing the lockers. If you accidentally forget the code, the friendly staff can help you retrieve it.  

    Security

    Fans are encouraged to leave their bags and purses at home or in their cars for purposes of security. Items that will not be allowed into the stadium include bottle cans, food items from outside, weapons, laser pointers, signs, sticks, flags, tripods, video cameras, stools, chairs, footballs, and bags. Cameras with a lens higher than 3” will also be prohibited during screening. Fans are also not allowed to bring any seating devices except for those that have a special medical need.

    Conclusion

    The Cowboys stadium suites provide an excellent solution for small groups who want to watch the game together. It is the perfect way to reward or inspire your close friends or even clients. The experience will remain etched in their memory long after they forget the scores.

  • Why Decluttering Is Good For Your Life?

    Why Decluttering Is Good For Your Life?

    Clutter everywhere is the cause of stress. Let it be in the form of usable and other items at your home or in the form of negative thoughts in your mind. Decluttering leads a way of positivity and joy in your home as well as your body.

    The free space always has room for innovation and peace. If you want to know why decluttering is important to your life read the entire article which details you about the pros of decluttering.

    How Decluttering Is Helpful For Healthy Living?

    Having a clutter around yourself affects your physical and mental health. So having a declutter is highly essential, just rent dumpster and initiate removing of unnecessary things from your home. Some of the advantages of decluttering are:

    • Reduced Stress:

    Disorganized, untidy and filled up spaces give way to chaos all around your place. You feel like arranging things but you yourself are not aware of where and when to start. It results in complete mismanagement all around. Decluttering gives a new way to your home and then it is easy to be managed.

    • Sound Sleep:

    Having a sound sleep full of peace without having any disturbance can help you achieve complete relaxation. If you have things striking your mind continuously about cleaning your bedroom, arranging wardrobe, keeping your storeroom in order or any other before going to bed you can never attain the quality of sleep. On the contrary, if you hit the bed without any worries you can have an improved sleep and it is possible only with decluttering your home. Fewer things are less stressful to manage.

    • It Can Give You More Free Time:

     

    Being a homemaker or a working woman your schedule is always tight. You cannot make up free time for yourself. Being at home all your time goes in the kitchen and then clearing up and rearranging of the clutter of things all over your place. You hardly have any time to go out or pursue your interest. If you are not happy about it, you can easily give yourself time by decluttering your home. You can work and also have leisure time for yourself.

     

    • Improved Productivity:

     

    When you are free from stress and in a happy state of mind you can focus on any work in a better way. Being at your home doing your work without any peer pressure and disturbance you can give better output but only when you are highly comfortable at home and the environment of your home is peaceful and pleasant with all the things intact at their places. Once you enter your home it should give you a complete soothing experience. Decluttering your home gives you the desired atmosphere and you can think of various solutions to a single assignment. You can be highly creative and give outstanding results.

     

    • More Cleanliness And Proper Budgeting:

     

    When there are limited things it is easy to maintain them. There is no haphazard throughout the house. The house is automatically arranged with very fewer efforts. When the house is free from clutter there will be no hugs and just have to carry on the regular basic cleaning. Your home will always possess a fresh feel. When there are fewer requirements the list of shopping is highly reduced. You are out of the habit of unnecessary purchase and filling up your home with unwanted things, it actually is a great savage to your pocket.

    Final Words:

    You may not feel the need of decluttering by just reading or knowing about it but once you experience it practically you can feel the magic. You can experience a major difference in your daily living, it is much happier and disciplined, a life that everyone wish to live.

  • How to clean your flooring (Amtico)

    How to clean your flooring (Amtico)

    It is inevitable that at some point your flooring will get dirty, but how do you go about cleaning it? Whether you have carpet, laminate, hardwood, or vinyl, this guide is here to help.

    Carpet cleaning tips

    To keep your carpet looking good as new, try to schedule a deep clean at least every six months. Before you deep clean your carpet make sure to vacuum first to lift any debris off. To deep clean your carpet, we recommend a steam cleaner.

    If you have your own carpet cleaner then you are ready to go, if not, fear not you can hire one. There are two methods of deep cleaning, wet extraction (steam cleaner) and dry extraction. Dry extraction involves spreading a dry absorbent compound over the carpet, before vacuuming it with the cleaning machine.

    Using a water extraction method involves injecting a cleaning solution into your carpet pile and putting it under the pressure of a water-jet nozzle to work it deep into the carpet. The machine then vacuums up the solution along with the dirt, oil and grease that has built up within the carpet, giving your carpet a facelift, pulling the dirty solution back into the machine.

    When steam cleaning, allow the carpet to dry for 24 hours to allow complete drying, so as to prevent mould or mildew growth in the carpet or padding. It’s important that when steam cleaning, you make sure you do not get your carpet overly wet, so as not to damage the underlay and carpet backing. Too much water can cause shrinking, odour and discolouration.

    Make sure to choose the method best suited for your carpet type and brand, as a brand may have cleaning guidelines for your carpet, especially if you’re using high-quality materials like https://www.amtico.com/commercial/.

    Cleaning Laminate Flooring

    Your laminate flooring may be hard wearing and durable, but you still need to keep it in check with a good cleaning routine. The important factor about cleaning your laminate flooring is not to go too crazy with water, as you need to keep water from getting underneath the planks as it can damage your floor.

    We recommend you dry mop to prevent any damaging of the floor, or when required, use a slightly damp mop for spot cleaning. However, you should never polish a laminate floor, should the finish of a plank look damaged the best option is to replace it.

    When it comes to spillages, make sure you act fast. Use a clean, dry towel or sponge to soak up the moisture and dry well. It is important to act as quick as you can, as leaving the spill there for too long can stain your flooring as well as wear away the protective coating.

    The best way to keep your laminate in pristine condition, is to make sure you regularly vacuum. Daily maintenance can prevent scratching, even if your flooring was promoted as scratch resistant, it can still be at risk of floor debris making a mark. Make sure the vacuum is on tile mode, as opposed to carpet, so the beater bar is raised and can’t scratch the floor that way.

    Keeping a well-vacuumed floor can help maintain the floors feel and finish, but if you’re not using a vacuum it is best to use a soft brush. A standard floor brush has hard bristles which can gradually cause scratching.

    Of course, at some point, you may feel your laminate needs a thorough clean, particularly when no amount of dry mopping, brushing or vacuuming can remove the stains. Thorough cleaning is best carried out every few months, requiring a bucket with clean, warm water and a delicate floor cleaner or specialist laminate cleaner. Make sure you find a cleaning product to fit your brand of laminates care rules, especially if you have high-quality flooring from companies like Amtico.

    Make sure when doing this you wring the mop out well and mop lightly so as not to drown the floor in moisture. Avoid puddles by regularly soaking the mop and wringing it out, ensuring it is just-damp throughout.

    Cleaning a Hardwood Floor

    Before cleaning your hardwood floor, make sure you know what finish it has. If you’re unaware of your floor’s finish, rub your finger across the surface, if a smudge appears the floor should be waxed.

    If you have waxed wood floors, do not mop and sweep instead. Waxed flooring can be damaged by water, even small amounts. Vacuum regularly to ensure you maintain a clean floor.

    A great tip for wood flooring scratches is to use a crayon. Simply get a crayon the colour of your floor and rub it on the scratch to fill the gap, before using a blow dryer to heat the area. This will heat the crayon and allow you to buff it with a soft cloth, blending it in to conceal the scratch.

    Sealed wood floors tend to have a protective coating of urethane, polyurethane, or polyacrylic, to prevent stains and water damage. If your flooring has such a finish, you can create a cleaning solution to keep it in prime condition.

    Mix a quarter cup of mild soap with water in a bucket to mop with, and thoroughly wring out your mop before use. After you have mopped, use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe up any excess moisture. We recommend cleaning high-traffic areas such as your kitchen once a week, but areas with low footfall need only be cleaned once a month.

    To get an amazing shine on sealed wood floors, use boiling water and two teabags. Tea possesses tannic acid, a key ingredient in achieving a beautiful shine for hardwood floors. Let two teabags steep in the boiling water for a few minutes before pouring into a bucket. Wring out a soft cloth with the tea and start washing the floor to get a fantastic sheen. Make sure you steer clear of acidic vinegar solutions, as these can dull your flooring finish.


    Cleaning a Vinyl Floor

    Vinyl floorings worst enemies are dirt and chemicals. The first way you can combat these from getting into your home is with a doormat. Any grit that gets tracked into your home is like sandpaper to your floor. Chemicals from asphalt can be invisibly trekked in on your shoes to your floor, causing it to yellow.

    For any debris that does get in, make sure you act fast and get it cleaned up before the dirt gets ground in. It’s paramount you sweep frequently, making sure to use a soft broom.

    Make sure when you do give your vinyl a wash, you use the most delicate cleaning methods. Using a damp mop with lukewarm water will do the job, but if soap is required make sure you choose a cleaning product suitable for your vinyl, whether it be Polyflor vinyl or Karndean.

    For example, no-wax vinyl and wax vinyl need different cleaning products. If you have a wax vinyl clean it with warm water, watching not to rub off the wax, as you will have to reapply it. Always rinse your vinyl after washing with clean, cool water, again on a well-wrung mop, or you’ll leave a residue on the floor.

    Like laminate, make sure you don’t drown your vinyl. Over soaking your mop and cleaning will a surplus of water can lead to water getting into the cracks, seams, and edges of your vinyl. If water gets in, the glue bonds that hold the vinyl in place can be destroyed, causing curling corners and for it to become loose.