Why Is Bamboo Important?
1. Bamboo: Key feature: Made from the world's fastest-growing tree.
Pro: Durable; ideal for condos. "Green" material. Has antimicrobial properties. Generally good for home owners with allergies to man-made materials. Available in planks, strips, and tiles.
Con: Cannot be re-finished. Everything from tiny dust particles to high-heeled shoes can damage the surface.
Upkeep: Sweep regularly with soft broom. Entryway rugs can keep dust at bay. Protective pads on furniture limit dents. Clean up spills immediately to prevent stains. Install window shades to limit sun damage.
Surface protection: Protection made from breathable, natural textiles such as Surface Pro.
2. Linoleum: Key feature: Most popular is Marmoleum, a marbled pattern.
Pro: Naturally repels dust and …show more content…
Decorative Concrete: Key feature: Trendy, popular in condos.
Pro: Inexpensive, easy maintenance. Absorbs warmth of the sun in winter, reducing the need for heating, and keeps interiors cool in summer. Doesn't harbor dust mites; ideal for home owners with allergies or asthma. Long-lasting; never needs to be replaced.
Con: Hard on joints. Magnifies sound. Installation requires professional expertise, which can be costly.
Upkeep: Re-seal every two years. Clean with vinegar and water mix or a mild floor cleaner.
Surface protection: New concrete protection products include EZ Cover or Tuf-guard which provide impact protection and allow the concrete to cure.
8. Natural Stone: Key feature: Gorgeous.
Pro: Encompasses granite, marble, travertine, limestone, soapstone, and slate. Lasts for centuries. Great value and eco-friendly too. Stain-resistant. Expensive installation. Options include matte, shiny, and textured finishes.
Con: Tough on your joints. May need substantial subfloor. Marble absorbs dirt; slate and limestone collect it. Feels cool underfoot, which can make it an excellent choice in hot climates, but less so in cold weather.
Upkeep: Needs stain-resistant sealer. Avoid chlorine on
Pro: Durable; ideal for condos. "Green" material. Has antimicrobial properties. Generally good for home owners with allergies to man-made materials. Available in planks, strips, and tiles.
Con: Cannot be re-finished. Everything from tiny dust particles to high-heeled shoes can damage the surface.
Upkeep: Sweep regularly with soft broom. Entryway rugs can keep dust at bay. Protective pads on furniture limit dents. Clean up spills immediately to prevent stains. Install window shades to limit sun damage.
Surface protection: Protection made from breathable, natural textiles such as Surface Pro.
2. Linoleum: Key feature: Most popular is Marmoleum, a marbled pattern.
Pro: Naturally repels dust and …show more content…
Decorative Concrete: Key feature: Trendy, popular in condos.
Pro: Inexpensive, easy maintenance. Absorbs warmth of the sun in winter, reducing the need for heating, and keeps interiors cool in summer. Doesn't harbor dust mites; ideal for home owners with allergies or asthma. Long-lasting; never needs to be replaced.
Con: Hard on joints. Magnifies sound. Installation requires professional expertise, which can be costly.
Upkeep: Re-seal every two years. Clean with vinegar and water mix or a mild floor cleaner.
Surface protection: New concrete protection products include EZ Cover or Tuf-guard which provide impact protection and allow the concrete to cure.
8. Natural Stone: Key feature: Gorgeous.
Pro: Encompasses granite, marble, travertine, limestone, soapstone, and slate. Lasts for centuries. Great value and eco-friendly too. Stain-resistant. Expensive installation. Options include matte, shiny, and textured finishes.
Con: Tough on your joints. May need substantial subfloor. Marble absorbs dirt; slate and limestone collect it. Feels cool underfoot, which can make it an excellent choice in hot climates, but less so in cold weather.
Upkeep: Needs stain-resistant sealer. Avoid chlorine on