Key Questions to Ask When Ordering metal flooring

1. Where Is the Room Located and How Do You Use It?

Ground-level and basement spaces are more susceptible to moisture than those upstairs, so consider the impact on your flooring choice. Also, if the room will serve as an entry area for your home or a play area for pets and kids, look for flooring that can handle wear. If the floor needs to work with a wheelchair, walker or cane, make sure the flooring material will allow easy, unobstructed movement.

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2. What Is Your Climate?

Wood can warp and buckle and carpet can mold in humid environments. Tile makes a great alternative, is easy to clean and maintain, and comes in a variety of textures, colors and sizes to suit your personal style. Check out our Tile Buying Guide.

3. Will You Have to Redecorate?

Color is a major consideration when buying a new floor because it impacts the entire room. Lighter flooring can make rooms feel larger but makes stains and wear more visible. Darker flooring can make rooms feel cozy but shows dust and pet hair. Neutral tones accommodate colorful décor.

4. Will Your New and Existing Flooring Coordinate?

Consider how the new flooring will complement your overall interior style and decorating scheme. Blending materials and creating interesting transition spaces with patterns or materials may solve your design dilemmas.

5. What Level of Floor Care Is Necessary?

Are you willing to make a flooring maintenance schedule a new part of your life? Ask what is involved in cleaning and upkeep, and factor things like refinishing or steaming into your decision.

6. Does Anyone in Your Home Have Allergies?

Hard-surface flooring collects fewer dust mites and other allergens. Add warmth and visual interest to hard floors with easy-to-clean rugs.

7. Do You Have or Plan to Install Underfloor Heating?

Not all flooring options are compatible with underfloor heating. Talk to a Red Vest associate at your local Lowe’s for help exploring the best options for you.

8. Can You Install the New Flooring Yourself?

New flooring installation is more than lining up boards and tile. Determine whether you can identify and repair a faulty subfloor, if you know how to safely dispose of old flooring and if you’re willing to return unused boxes or pieces to the store. Some flooring may require professional removal.

Lowe’s can install your flooring. While some flooring is suitable for do-it-yourself installation, you may not want to commit the time or purchase the tools necessary to take on the project.

9. Have You Factored in Additional Costs?

Installing new flooring may also require you to replace existing trim and thresholds. Also, if you’re having flooring installed professionally, you’ll need to include this extra expense in your budget.

10. Can You Refinish the Existing Floor?

Research your refinishing options. You may be able to bring your floors up to date with a new stain. To find out more, read our guide on how to refinish a hardwood floor.

Other Factors to Consider When Buying New Flooring

With these 10 questions in mind, think about other factors that help you choose the right flooring for your home and family.

The Lifespan of the Flooring

New flooring is an investment. Consider the potential lifespan of the flooring you’re considering to get the most for your money.

Durability and Lifespan

While the actual lifespan of flooring depends on factors like the soundness of the subfloor, the quality of the installation, level of foot traffic and proper care, there are some general ranges for flooring durability and lifespan.

• Carpet in general lasts from 5 to 15 years, but durability varies by material. Nylon and triexta tend to have the longest lifespans. Polyester fits into the middle of the range. Olefin is a comparatively economical purchase but fits in the lower end of carpet material lifespans.
• Standard vinyl flooring is highly moisture resistant but can be more vulnerable to scratches and wear than luxury vinyl. Standard sheet vinyl can last from 10 to 20 years, while peel-and-stick tiles can last 5 to 25 years.
• Luxury vinyl planks and tiles have high resistance to moisture and stains and are durable enough for kitchens and mudrooms. Luxury vinyl flooring can last from 10 to 25 years, depending on traffic and the thickness of the flooring.
• Bamboo offers durability, but it can be vulnerable to scratches and moisture. Bamboo flooring can last from 10 to 25 years with good maintenance. Solid bamboo flooring tends to be longer lasting than engineered bamboo and you can refinish solid bamboo to give it the longest possible lifespan.
• Engineered hardwood has better moisture resistance than traditional solid hardwood, but with only a thin layer of wood, refinishing may not be an option. Engineered hardwood can last from 20 to 30 years with proper care. 
• Laminate has a high resistance to dents and scratches and is available in water-resistant and waterproof options. You can’t refinish a laminate floor, but with good care, laminate can last from 15 to 25 years.
• Tile is highly durable, and some types can last 40 to 50 years. Replacement of individual tiles and regrouting might be necessary from time to time.
• Solid hardwood flooring can last from around 50 to 100 years with proper care, but over time it’s vulnerable to moisture, dents and scratches. Oak and hickory offer the most durability. Periodic refinishing eliminates scratches and wear and can keep a hardwood floor looking great for decades.

Maximizing the Lifespan of Flooring

Whatever flooring you choose, good care and maintenance give it the best chance for a long life:

• Start with a level subfloor and quality flooring installation.
• Consider taking your shoes off at the door.
• Deal with spills quickly.
• Clean your flooring weekly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Protect your flooring with area rugs as well as furniture pads and chair leg tips.
• Periodically rearrange your furniture to even out traffic and wear patterns.
• Keep humidity levels down if you have moisture-sensitive flooring.
• Protect wood, vinyl and carpet from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
• Practice periodic maintenance, such as professional cleaning for carpets, resealing and regrouting for tile, and refinishing for hardwood.

Keep extra tiles or planks handy to replace damaged flooring.

Installation Costs for Flooring

Flooring installation costs vary widely depending on the flooring type, availability of stock, location and even the time of year.

Flooring Material and Installation Costs

Flooring purchase costs vary by type, quality and location, but in very general terms:

• Hardwood, engineered hardwood and tile tend to be the most expensive flooring.
• Laminate, luxury vinyl and bamboo flooring generally have mid-range purchase costs.
• Carpet and standard vinyl in general have lower purchase costs.

Consider installation costs. You can install some types of flooring yourself, saving on expense, particularly if you have most of the necessary tools:

• Laminate, vinyl planks, vinyl tile, carpet squares and interlocking engineered hardwood typically offer the most DIY-friendly options.
• Tiling a floor can be a DIY project, but it’s a big job that can be messy and take a long time.
• Carpet, hardwood, bamboo and some types of engineered flooring might be best left to the professionals unless you have a lot of DIY experience and skill.

Use our Flooring Project Cost Estimator to help you plan your project with different types of flooring. Plan to purchase 10% to 15% more than you think you need to cover waste, repairs, replacements, etc.

Hidden Costs for Flooring

When budgeting for new flooring, costs that might not be obvious include:

• Subflooring repairs
• Removal and disposal of your existing flooring
• Unexpected problems, such as mold, lead or asbestos, that require professional cleanup
• Specialized flooring tools
• Installation materials like padding, underlayment, moulding, transitions as well as fasteners or adhesive
• Installation in complex layouts that require more skill and create more waste

Saving Money on Flooring

While purchasing and installing flooring can be a significant expense, there are a few things you can do to save money with new flooring:

• Set a budget you can afford and stick to it.
  
• Consider DIY-friendly flooring types and tool rental for items you don’t own.
• Be diligent about cleaning and maintenance to avoid damage, repairs and replacement.
• If you use professional installers, you might be able to save money by moving furniture and disposing of your old flooring yourself. 

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What to Consider When Choosing Flooring

Ask the right questions so you choose a flooring that works for your home and family. Consider long-term costs of flooring, including the materials, the cost of installation, the amount of maintenance necessary and the lifespan of the flooring. Make sure you’re aware of potential hidden costs and opportunities to save money on your project.

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From durable, DIY-friendly laminate and vinyl planks to long-lasting tile, hardwood and more, find the flooring you need at Lowe’s. Shop Lowes.com for tools and materials if you want to take on the job yourself. Explore our flooring how-to library or learn about our flooring installation services. Or stop by your local Lowe’s and talk to a Red Vest Associate about your flooring options. They can help you find the flooring you need as well as offer DIY tips or help you set up professional installation.

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When it comes to industrial settings, safety is of utmost importance—especially when dealing with hazardous materials. One crucial aspect of maintaining a safe workplace is selecting the best explosion-proof flooring. This buying guide will help you navigate your options, ensuring you choose the best flooring to meet your specific needs and comply with regulations.

Understanding Explosion-proof Flooring

Explosion-proof flooring is specifically designed to withstand significant pressure, heat, and impact. It is an essential requirement for industries that handle flammable substances, such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and pharmaceuticals. Using unsuitable flooring can result in catastrophic failures that could compromise safety and lead to serious liabilities.

Key Features of Explosion-proof Flooring

When searching for the best explosion-proof floor, consider these key features:

• Material Composition: Look for materials that provide high resistance to chemicals, wear, and abrasion. Common materials include epoxy resin, vinyl, and specialized concrete.

• Thickness and Durability: A thicker flooring usually offers better durability against heavy machinery and impacts, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.

• Slip Resistance: Safety is paramount, especially in environments where spills can happen. Ensure that the flooring has an anti-slip surface to reduce the risk of accidents.

• Ease of Maintenance: Choose flooring that is easy to clean and maintain. This is crucial for hygiene standards, especially in the food and pharmaceuticals industries.

Regulatory Compliance

Make sure your chosen flooring meets local and international safety standards. Common regulations include those set by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and NFPA (National Fire Protection Association). Consult with your flooring provider to confirm that their products comply with all necessary safety guidelines.

Explosion-proof Floor

Budget Considerations

Although safety is a priority, budget constraints are also a reality in many industries. Compare different brands and types of explosion-proof flooring to find a suitable option that balances quality with affordability. Remember to factor in installation and long-term maintenance costs when making your purchase, as these can significantly influence your overall investment.

Installation Process

Proper installation is critical for ensuring the effectiveness of explosion-proof flooring. Consider hiring professional installers who are experienced with this type of flooring. They will ensure that the flooring is laid down correctly, maximizing its safety features and lifespan. Incorrect installation can lead to vulnerabilities, negating the protective benefits of the flooring.

Popular Types of Explosion-proof Flooring

There are several types of explosion-proof flooring available, each offering distinct advantages:

• Epoxy Flooring: This is often preferred for its durability and resistance to chemicals. It is customizable in terms of color and texture, allowing for a visually appealing environment.

• Vinyl Flooring: A cost-effective option, vinyl flooring is flexible and can be adhered to various surfaces. It also offers excellent slip resistance.

• Concrete Flooring: While it may be the most traditional option, modern concrete can be reinforced and treated for explosion-proof capabilities, making it versatile for industrial use.

Questions and Answers

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding explosion-proof flooring:

1. What is explosion-proof flooring made of?

Explosion-proof flooring is typically made from durable materials like epoxy resin, vinyl, and treated concrete to withstand extreme conditions.

2. How does explosion-proof flooring differ from regular flooring?

Regular flooring may not offer the necessary resistance to chemical spills and impacts, whereas explosion-proof flooring is specifically designed to minimize risks in hazardous environments.

3. Is explosion-proof flooring expensive?

While initial costs can be higher than regular flooring options, the long-term benefits in terms of safety and durability can justify the investment over time.

4. How long does explosion-proof flooring last?

With proper maintenance and care, explosion-proof flooring can last for several years, often providing a good return on investment for industrial applications.

5. Can I install explosion-proof flooring myself?

While some types of flooring may allow for DIY installation, it’s generally advised to hire professionals to ensure compliance with safety standards and to maximize performance.

Selecting the best explosion-proof flooring is a critical decision that involves understanding safety needs, budgeting, and ensuring compliance with regulations. By following this guide, you can make an informed choice that will enhance workplace safety and minimize risks.

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