Velvet Carpet

Velvet carpet is a rich and dense type of carpet that adds a very elegant and formal touch to your home. It is constructed of tightly twisted tufts that create a thick and luxurious appearance and a very soft texture.

Velvet carpet comes in two pile heights - low to medium and high. Low to medium pile heights tend to wear better over time, while high pile velvet carpet is more likely to crush under foot traffic. Think of the texture of velvet carpet as the texture of a velvet dress. When the velvet is moved in different directions, a pattern can be seen. Velvet carpet displays the same effect.

While this kind of carpet is rather luxurious, be sure to consider the risks involved. Sometimes, the carpet can take on an undesirable direction after installation, creating an odd shading and that can create sections of the rug that look crushed. This is called "watermarking" or "pooling". This is not the fault of the manufacturer, but is a characteristic of this type of carpet. Make sure you know the manufacturer's warranty forward and backward before settling on this carpet, as you may not be able to have it replaced.

For more information, contact Benchmark Contracting!

Source: Carpet.org

Saxony Carpet

Saxony carpet can be referred to as both a style of carpet and a manufacturer. For the purposes of this blog, we are referring to the style of carpet.

Saxony is often referred to as the "Cadillac" of carpet. It is thought to be a superior type of carpet made from very high quality materials. This type of carpet is a cut loop style that is woven in loops and sheared to create an even surface. The fibers are very soft and create a plush texture that is very soft to the touch.

One disadvantage to Saxony carpet is that it is susceptible to showing signs of traffic and vacuums, meaning footsteps and tracks from the vacuum will show on the surface. If you desire a smooth carpet, you'll have to vacuum frequently. Newer versions of Saxony carpet are being produced to make it more resistant to these issues, but is not always manufactured with the high quality that is typically expected.

For more information on this and other types of carpet, contact us at Benchmark Contracting!

Source: Carpet.org

Carpet Types - Cut Pile Carpet

Cut pile carpet is created by cutting the top loops of of carpet fibers which results in yarn strands standing straight up. This type of carpet has a luxurious look and feel but is less resistant to crushing than other types of carpet.

Today, this type of carpet is produced using man-made fibers (a combination of polyester, olefin and polyester fibers) which helps the carpet hold up under lots of traffic. This is an improvement from natural fibers which would not be as resistant to such traffic. The synthetic blend makes this kind of carpet ideal, even in an office environment.

Cut pile carpet is available in three different designs - varying in the specific twist to the individual yarns, as well as the choice of fiber used. All three variations tend to last for several years before visible signs of aging appear.

For more information on this and other types of carpet, contact us at Benchmark Contracting!

Source: Carpet.org

Choosing Your Grout Color

Choosing your tile was hard enough. Now you've got to choose your grout color! This can drastically effect the complete look of any room.

First, thinking about the overall look you're going for with your house and each specific room. If you choose a color that closely matches the color of the tile, they will blend seamlessly together. However, if you choose a color with a hard contrast, the result will be an edgier, more dramatic look.

From rustic to sophisticated, timeless to trendy, the choice is yours! Here are a few tips to help you make this decision:

• White grout usually looks best with pure white tiles.
• If using a white or cream grout in any high-traffic area you should seal it. This will make clean up easier over time.
  
• Darker colored grout hides more dirt, though the look itself cab tend to look dirty.
• Dark grout has been known to fade from sunlight and/or harsh cleaners.
  
• Epoxy grout works better than sealer from keeping stains out. It works especially well on counter-tops, where there is a high-risk of stains.
• Areas where a tiled surface meets a perpendicular surface should be caulked and not grouted. You’ll need to re-caulk annually where the counter-top meets the back splash, for example.
• Keep grout from the original installation in case of repair. Grout from a later batch might not match exactly.
• If you choose the wrong color, you’re not necessarily out of luck. Grout can be re-stained, bleached and colored even after it has been applied.

For more information, contact us at Benchmark Contracting!

Tile Types - Agglomerate Tile

Agglomerate Tile is made from bits of marble and other rock set in a base of epoxy. It is available in a wide variety of colors and designs. Because it's man-made, agglomerate tile has very precise, predictable measurements.

This type of tile is susceptible to ultra violet rays which can peel away the sealers on the tile, so it is better suited for indoor use. The recommended uses for Agglomerate Tile are countertops, backsplashes and walls. Beware though, this tile does have a tendency to chip and dull over time, so it will require high maintenance to keep it beautiful.

For more information on Agglomerate Tile, contact us at Benchmark Contracting!

Source: HGTV

Tiles Types - Mexican/Terra-Cotta!

These low-density natural clay tiles are fired at a low temperature and are typically made in Mexico or Europe.

• Handmade or machine-formed
• Old World, handcrafted look; rustic character
• Require more maintenance than higher density, less porous tiles
• Available in a variety of shapes and sizes
• Can vary in color, texture and appearance

Mexican tile can be used in an outdoor setting, but typically in non-freezing climates. They may not be suitable for rooms with a lot of moisture, like bathrooms, at they have a high absorption and can create slippery surfaces. Terra-Cotta tiles are typically less expensive than other types of tile and can be cost efficient for those on a budget!

For more information on this and any other type of tile, visit our website!

Source: The Home Depot

Tile Types - Marble Tile

Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of calcite which is formed when limestone is compressed for long periods of time. It is more beautiful and durable than limestone and is a preferred building material.

While it can be used for kitchen counter tops, this usage is not typically recommended as marble tile can stain easily. Marble tile is also less durable than the similar granite tile and can chip more easily than granite.

Marble tile is available in a wide range of colors and patterns and is suitable for use in both residential and commercial buildings. This type of tile can add sophistication and charm to any location.

For more information on this and any other type of tile, contact us at Benchmark Contracting!