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Flooring Transitions-Ideas to Help Make Your Home Flow

Flooring Transitions: Ideas to Help Make Your Home Flow

Flooring transitions are a very important step in the interior design of your home. Just like living rooms set the mood to relax and make conversation, your flooring transition will bring a new personality to every space and define boundaries between rooms. The great thing about these transitions are that you can choose from numerous designs and materials to customize it to your very own style. Additionally, homes with open floor plans are becoming increasingly popular. This means that the flooring transitions are more visible and it will be easier to distinguish particular areas in your home. When getting ready to renovate your flooring, you must be aware of which transitions strips to use. Also, know which flooring materials you’ll use to make the overall transition.

Why Flooring Transitions?

When thinking of flooring transitions, relate it to a picture frame or the fence you build in your backyard. They protect the space (in this case, the expansion gap) and make it look whole. Without flooring transition strips, dust and dirt can build up between floorings, and your home will look uneven and incomplete. However, the strips will allow for a beautifully seamless transition from your kitchen to your living room, for example. Not to mention, it aids in safety by reducing the likelihood of tripping between two uneven surfaces, or stubbing your toes within the gaps (to all you bare-footers out there). Flooring transitions are perfect for multi-flooring homes. While you may want to install hardwood in the kitchen, you might find carpet to be perfect for the adjacent living room. It can be done with transition strips!

Transition Strips

If you’re new to interior design, you may be wondering what transitions strips are and how to go about choosing the right materials to install it. As far from your mind as these strips may be in the overall project, they will make your home achieve a seamless and smooth transition throughout. The main and most common transition strips include:

  • Reducer: This is used between floorings of different height to level them and provide a smooth transition.
  • T-Bar: Shaped like a “T”, these strips are used between two hard surfaces of the same height.
  • Stair Nosing: Strips that protect the edge of each stair and give it a finished, professional look.
  • Quarter Round: Create a smooth transition from floor to walls and cover the expansion gap on baseboards
  • Baseboard: A decorative feature that borders each room and creates a finished-look perimeter.

You can find transition strips in a variety of materials that fit perfectly in your home. Whether you are using them to transition from carpet to carpet, hardwood to tile, carpet to hard flooring, or simply to accentuate doorways, you will find the perfect strip. The materials for flooring transitions come in vinyl, wood, metal, and rubber (most likely for commercial spaces).

Designs for Flooring Transitions

Now that you’re aware of the purpose behind flooring transitions, where do you start with its installation? Every flooring project starts with a plan of what you want to achieve. First, know where the transition will take place. Then, decide which flooring materials will be transitioning. Finally, choose the best material and type of transition strip to fit your home. If you’re one to make a bold statement, this will be a fun task. Some homeowners will venture into the world of creativity, while others will rather keep it simple.

Irregular Transition Patterns

There’s no limit with interior design. Creativity is its forte. New trends such as parquet, herringbone, and other geometric patterns are becoming increasingly popular. As you transition from your kitchen to your family room, throw in some hexagonal or checkered tiles to make the ultimate statement. Transition borders can be done in a straight line or in whatever form you dream up.

Entryways

The very first thing you see when you open your front door is your entryway. There’s no question that it’s the perfect place to be daring! If the majority of your home will have carpet or hardwood flooring, install a unique design of tiles in your entryway. It separates the area from the rest of your home, and with enough creativity, will express the style and overall personality of your living space as soon as one steps in.

Contrast

Another popular trend and must in interior design is contrast among colors. The way green plants bring life to a white space, is the same way that contrast in flooring transitions will embolden each room. An example of this is a transition between white tiles to dark hardwood, or even carpet to hardwood.

Begin Your Next Project

Flooring is the base of every home. It is important to keep every aspect in mind whether it’s installation, colors, materials, transitions, and size preference. Every detail matters and with Go Mobile Flooring, we can help bring all those details to life. Our wonderful installation team will help guide you through the whole process. If you are unsure where to start, we bring our mobile showroom containing all our selections of hardwood, laminate, carpet, vinyl, and tile to homes in the Tampa area. Contact us today to learn more.

Interior Design Trends to Expect in 2019

Interior Design Trends to Expect in 2019

A new year inspires a lot of change. Whether it’s an inspiration in goals, mindset, or purpose, there’s never a better time to take things to the next level than during the new year. Design trends are rapidly evolving and 2019 is introducing new styles and ideas. It’s impossible to say what the greatest way to decorate and design your home is, but you can take your ideas and fuse them with the latest trends to create a home that fits you best. If you’ve been thinking about renovating your home or giving it a minor update, now’s the time to invest! Make your new year’s resolutions happen with a change in your living space. Here are some of the many styles and design trends to expect in 2019.Interior Design Trends to Expect in 2019

Interior Design Trends

Random pops of color are what bring life to a simple room. By following the 90% white, 10% color rule, you can create a peaceful environment with a hint of vibrancy to keep the space alive. For example, in a room with white walls and white couches, you can add a buoyant rug, bright lamps, or a lively frame to hang on the wall. Consider creating accent walls. An accent wall can entirely change the feel of a room. You can keep it light and bright, or dark and bold. Either alternative will highlight the personality of the area. You can also do just the opposite by keeping your home plain and simple. There is beauty in simplicity and the less color, the calmer the environment. If you’re seeking to design a peaceful and meditative setting, cut down on the colors and settle for whites or cool grays.

Furniture Trends

There are countless style preferences to consider. Depending on the vibe you want to conceive, furniture will do the job. Geometric patterns have recently become popular. You can invest in geometric patterned draperies or rugs. If you own a solid colored sofa, a set of patterned pillows can capture some attention. Another trend is the innovative use of metal. Using gold, brass, or iron as sculptural based furnishings are one way to create a new look. Handmade custom pieces are yet another way to decorate your home. Nobody knows what you want better than yourself. Being able to design your very own decor can be a fun activity. Frames are one of the easiest ways to transform a room. In a bare space, the power of a striking art frame can make all the difference.

Kitchen and Bathroom Trends

Sometimes, you only want to make drastic changes in some parts of your home. For example, in your kitchen or bathroom. The good thing about these two rooms is their flexibility when it comes to cabinetry, flooring, and countertops. You can explore just about every option. A nice backsplash will add so much character to your kitchen or bathroom. You can even do tall backsplashes that take up an entire wall or simply one section. Another growing trend is matte countertops and cabinets. A black matte finish creates a zen-like feel for your home. You can also design a statement wall for your bathroom or half bath. Whether you use contrast or patterns, let one wall speak for the room as a whole. Some have even considered an open concept bathroom for their master bedroom.

Explore the World of Design

These are just a few of increasingly popular trends that will be brought into 2019. As important as furniture and decor are in the world of interior design, don’t forget about flooring! There are plenty of options to explore, especially at Go Mobile Flooring. We offer wonderful selections of hardwood, laminate, tile, vinyl, and carpet of the greatest quality. And these can also go well with your choice of home decor. For homes in the Tampa area, we bring our mobile showroom and allow you full access to all our flooring options. Call today and schedule an appointment with our installation team. We are proud to help you create the home you’ve always wanted!

Pros and Cons of Trendy Kitchen Countertops

Pros and Cons of Trendy Kitchen Countertops

You have many choices when it comes to your kitchen countertops. From trendy to traditional, kitchen countertops run the gamut from stone to wood to laminate. Below we’ll take a look at some of the more popular, trendy kitchen countertop options and the pros and cons of each.Pros and Cons of Trendy Kitchen Countertops

Natural Stone

Stone is a great choice due to its durability. Plus, it has natural differences in colors and texture, making it unique.

  • Pros: This trendy kitchen countertop has a classic look that doesn’t go out of style; it’s also heat-resistant and durable.
  • Cons: Most expensive of current countertop materials; porous surface that requires sealing during installation and regular maintenance.

Cultured Stone

A combination of quartz and pigment, cultured stone countertops mimic the look of stone. Natural color and texture variations are removed for a more uniform look.

  • Pros: Resistant to heat, stains, and scratches; easy to clean and maintain; does not require any special sealing.
  • Cons: Cost is comparable to natural stone; does not look as natural as actual stone.

Solid-Surfacing

While solid-surfacing countertops look similar to natural stone, they are not nearly as expensive. They also require a lot less maintenance.

  • Pros: Resistant to heat and moisture; also resistant to fading.
  • Cons: Not scratch resistant; countertops can be scorched.

Laminate

Manufacturing techniques have advanced to allow laminate countertops to ape the look of stone, metal or wood for a fraction of the cost.

  • Pros: More cost-efficient than natural countertops; easy to clean; resistant to heat, stains, and scratches.
  • Cons: Cuts from sharp knives or scorching from hot pans can affect the surface and cannot be repaired; can only be used with drop-in sinks due to the construction.

Wood

Many homeowners love the look of wood, as well as the warmth it brings to the kitchen. It is also a great surface for prepping food and meals.

  • Pros: Timeless material with a long shelf life; repetitive cutting and chopping does not dull knives.
  • Cons: This trendy kitchen countertop requires special sealing and maintenance to ensure food safety; therefore, moisture and heat may adversely affect the material.

Metal

Stainless steel is the most common metal countertop material, but copper, zinc, and pewter have been growing in popularity.

  • Pros: Resistant to heat and stains; a naturally anti-bacterial surface; long-lasting and durable.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive; some metals are more susceptible to denting and scratches; some scratches and dents in stainless steel can’t be repaired.

Concrete

Concrete countertops are particularly durable and versatile.

  • Pros: Well-known for its durability; resistant to heat and stains.
  • Cons: Requires special sealing and regular maintenance; more susceptible than some surfaces to acidic liquids.

Tile

Tile is one of the most traditional countertop looks, because of its extensive color, texture and design options. It is also relatively inexpensive.

  • Pros: Relatively easy DIY project for ambitious homeowners; glazed tile is resistant to heat, stains, and scratches.
  • Cons: Tile is easy to clean; however grout is susceptible to mildew and staining and will need to be cleaned regularly; it is possible for tile to chip or crack.

For a closer look at any of these trendy kitchen countertop options, we invite you to contact Go Mobile Flooring today. Our mobile showroom serves the greater Tampa Bay Area, and we are excited to visit your neighborhood.

The Look of Marble, The Benefits of Porcelain

The Look of Marble, The Benefits of Porcelain

There is no doubt that marble floors and countertops lend an elegant look to any home. However, the costs of marble are often prohibitive for many homeowners. Additionally, traditional marble has other drawbacks, including discoloration and sensitivity to corrosive liquids. Enter a new generation of porcelain tile that mimics the look of marble without its natural disadvantages. Let’s examine more ways that porcelain tile is the better choice for you, even if you’re looking for the grandeur of marble.The Look of Marble, The Benefits of Porcelain

Marble Isn’t Perfect

Marble is mined from mountains around the world and is often considered the height of luxury. However, over time it was discovered that marble didn’t necessarily withstand prolonged use. Marble was easily discolored, for instance, when used in countertops and flooring. Accordingly, if you dye your hair in a marble shower, chances are the hair dye will be absorbed by and discolor the marble.

Other disadvantages of marble include:

  • Added Costs: Marble is heavy, making it costly to ship. Additionally, marble often needs to be specially treated for in-home use. Everything from the finish on a marble countertop to the edging to the installation can significantly increase costs.
  • Decreased Durability: While marble kitchen countertops look amazing, they are actually very susceptible to acid like that found in common foods, such as tomatoes and lemons.

Why Porcelain Is Better

New manufacturing techniques have allowed porcelain tile makers to mimic the look of marble without the above disadvantages. Here are five of the best marble-lookalike porcelain tiles:

  • Carrara Pietra
  • Marfil Pietra
  • Ice Aria
  • Calacatta Pietra
  • Statuario

Porcelain Offers More Options

The other benefit of these porcelain tiles is the number of options available. Different tile sizes make it easier to create countertops, floors, or backsplashes. Additionally, larger tiles mean there are fewer grout lines, which leads to less scrubbing.

See For Yourself From the Comfort of Your Home

To get a closer look at these different porcelain tile types, contact Go Mobile Flooring today. We are happy to bring our mobile showroom to your Tampa area neighborhood. We also serve Pinellas and Pasco Counties, Clearwater, Brandon, South Tampa, New Tampa, Wesley Chapel and Land O’ Lakes.

Best Kitchen Flooring Options

Best Kitchen Flooring Options

The kitchen is often the highest trafficked area in your home. Depending on the layout of your home, it might be the room that everyone passes through to get from the back porch to the living room to the second floor. Regardless of the layout, however, kitchens are busy; it’s where the food is, after all. Therefore, finding a durable, attractive flooring option for the kitchen is key. Let’s review some of the best kitchen flooring options available.

Best Kitchen Flooring Options

Hardwood

Hardwood flooring has many benefits, including being:

  • More stylish, easier on your feet, and longer-lasting
  • Easier to refinish and re-style to fit with changing interior home decor trends
  • Hardwood flooring often increases a home’s re-sell value

Tile

Tile flooring has similar benefits to hardwood, including durability and increased re-sell value. In addition, tile flooring also has:

  • More color options, including lighter choices like white, cream, and gray
  • Scratch-resistant and waterproof durability

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring is one of the most flexible kitchen flooring options and offers more design choices at a lower price point. Additionally, vinyl flooring offers benefits such as:

  • It is easy-to-clean and durable
  • It is stain resistant, scratch resistant and fade-resistant
  • Different forms that give more design options, such as sheets for a seamless look, tiles, and planks to emulate the look of ceramic flooring or wood

Other Considerations for Kitchen Flooring

One of the other primary concerns when choosing kitchen floors is cost. High-end, luxury flooring can be cost-prohibitive for some families. The trick is to choose flooring that will last longer and is neutral enough to fit in with your design choices even as they change.

Additionally, it’s important to consider your climate – climates with high humidity or a tendency for more rain should look for waterproof options like tile. Hardwood flooring is much more conducive to dryer climates. However, if you are determined to have hardwood and you live in a wet climate, it’s important to note that water damage is relatively easy to repair.

Explore Options with Go Mobile Flooring

To find out more about flooring options for your kitchen, contact Go Mobile Flooring today. We are happy to bring our mobile showroom to your Tampa neighborhood including  Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco county communities.