...And our FAQ on flooring continues because we hear it all in our showroom. Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions.
- Does a thicker carpet mean better quality? No, and there are some locations where a thick carpet is detrimental, such as on the stairs. If the carpet is too thick and it won't fit properly around railings and treads and won't support your foot, resulting in slip and falls.
It is density, how closely the fibers are tufted together, that determine quality. You can check it yourself: Bend a sample card backward; if you see a lot of white space you know the carpet is of lower quality.
- Can I install engineered hardwood flooring in the bathroom? No, you cannot. While engineered hardwood can handle water better than solid wood, it is still not 100 percent waterproof, and baths are known as the "wettest room in the house." Powder rooms and ½ baths are okay, though, as long as they are dry.
- Is quartz pure stone? While it can be, this stone is usually 95 percent quartz dust with five percent of other minerals. It doesn't detract at all from that wonderful quartz appearance, but it does make the stone completely non-porous, which is a benefit for meal preparation areas. A non-porous stone won't harbor bacteria and viruses.
- Why should I get luxury vinyl instead of genuine wood? Wood is damaged by excess water and there are some places, like the bath, where you can never install it. If you want a wood look without water worries, luxury vinyl is the flooring for you.
- Can I install ceramic tile outside? No, you cannot. Porcelain tiles are heavier than ceramic; both are made of clay, but porcelain also contains sand and maybe glass. As a result, its sturdier and can withstand weather. Porcelain tile is used outside as flooring for decks, patios, poolsides, and walkways. Ceramics can be used as basically anywhere as long as they're glazed and it's inside.
