As part of Community Impact's annual Home Improvement Guide, we spoke with Cradic to learn more about flooring maintenance and choosing the best flooring option. This interview has been edited for length, style and clarity.
What type of flooring is best for flood-prone houses?
Porcelain or ceramic tile is the only surface that would survive a flood. The reason is [because] it is manufactured stone and doesn’t have any adverse reaction to extreme water exposure. Even thought vinyl plank is waterproof, it would need to be removed in the event of a flood in order to “air out” the foundation/subfloor. Otherwise the moisture will be trapped and cause mold.
Is there a cycle for how often homeowners should replace their flooring? If so, what is it and why should this be followed?
The cycles of flooring replacement will vary from surface to surface. The No. 1 factor is always wear and tear—that will vary greatly from family to family. Most flooring, whether it be tile, wood, vinyl or carpet, will last a lifetime outside of usage. But we use our floors, and they need replacing when the finish is soiling past the point of deep cleaning or damage.
What sort of maintenance can homeowners perform to prolong the life of their flooring?
Maintenance will vary from surface to surface, but, in general, to make your floors last, you have to keep them clean. With hard surfaces, I recommend a two-step process. Step one is frequently cleaning with a vacuum, Swiffer or general sweeping. Step two is deep cleaning with something like Fabuloso for tile and Bona products for hardwood and vinyl plank. Deep clean carpets as needed by a professional carpet cleaner.
Do you have any flooring recommendations for homeowners with pets?
Hard surface is always the best way to go with pets due to ease of cleanup, but if you have to have carpet, always buy a solution-dyed carpet with stain resistance built in. From there, you want to maybe spend a little more on a good grade of personal carpet cleaner. I have always recommended and used Spot Shot as a spot carpet cleaner.
Southwest Flooring Direct
1621 Lakeville Drive, Ste. 301, Kingwood
281-358-5678
www.swflooringdirect.com
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Sat.-Sun.
