Slate flooring is an excellent choice. Slate is an extremely durable natural stone product, and comes in many colors, textures, shapes and sizes. Slate is also stain-resistant. Installing slate floors is like ceramic tile, but the slate floor tiles should be cut with a hacksaw.
Hardwood flooring is hygroscopic. Hardwood floor absorbs and gives off moisture to become equal with the humidity in the air. Because of that, hardwood floors expand and contract, causing cracks or shrinkage. Dents in a hardwood floor from high heels are caused by the amount of pressure exerted from such a small heel.
Carpet pads, or carpet cushions, are the foundation for carpets. There are three major types of carpet padding: fiber, sponge and foam rubber. Thicker pads give softer, luxurious feels. Carpet cushions also have a wide range of insulating R values.
Laminate flooring is durable and can now be printed in many realistic patterns, making it a great flooring material. Laminate floors can be installed over almost any material and be walked on the next day. However, excessive moisture can cause a laminate floor to swell and buckle.
Disabilities may eventually make living in your home hard to accomplish. Kitchen design with barrier free planning will make things simpler. Make sure there is enough room to maneuver a wheelchair if necessary. Design heights of sinks and cabinets is important. Kitchen appliances should be user friendly for those with limited mobility.
Cork flooring is the easiest flooring material I have ever installed. Cork floors are environmentally friendly, muffles noise and can be purchased in 12 x 12 cork floor tiles or tongue and groove panels. A cork floor comes in a variety of colors and textures from which to choose.
Kitchen design should include a work triangle and throughways that allow safe passage from one room, through the kitchen, to another room. You don't want a collision while carrying a pot of chili. Studies have been done that determine minimum standards regarding cabinetry, countertops and drawer space
Clothes dryer vent installation improperly done will cause problems in your home. Condensation will cause mildew. Lint build up is a fire hazard.
Attic ventilation should not be done using a powered attic ventilator. They pull air conditioning out and may return combustion gas. Ridge vents are the answer.
Interior design can add a lot to your home if you work with the right group of people. Interior designers, architects and contractors should be part of your team. Be ready to tell your interior design team what you like and want. Interior designers will know how to work with you if you pre-plan some of your likes and wants. Take pictures and make lists.
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